Every food business operating in India requires a 14-digit FSSAI number to operate legally. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or a food product consumer, an online FSSAI license verification is the only option to ensure that the food products you handle are safe and compliant with food law. This blog will act as a guide on how to do an FSSAI license check using the government’s official FoSCoS portal. It will provide you with information on how to verify a food license and check its authenticity, validity, and scope.
The Anatomy of a 14-Digit FSSAI License Number
An FSSAI number is a coded number that reveals its legal status even before verification.
| Section | Digits | What it reveals |
| Section 1 | Digit 1 | Status: 1 indicates a License; 2 indicates a Basic Registration. |
| Section 2 | Digits 2 to 3 | State Code: Identifies the state of registration |
| Section 3 | Digits 4 to 5 | Year: The last two digits indicate the year of issuance. |
| Section 4 | Digits 6 to 8 | Enrolling Master: The internal code for the issuing authority. |
| Section 5 | Digits 9 to 14 | Unique ID: The specific serial number for that business unit. |
Helpful Guide:- How to Download FSSAI License Certificate Online (Step-by-Step)
FSSAI license check Online (Step-by-Step procedure)
To check FSSAI number online, you will need to access the official FoSCoS website.
Follow these steps for an accurate FSSAI license verification:
- Visit the Official Portal: Visit the official FoSCoS website.
- Access FBO Search: Click on the FBO Search option, located on the homepage.
- Enter the Number: Enter the 14-digit license number as it appears on the label or invoice.
- Complete Captcha: Complete the Captcha as shown on the screen.
- View Results: You will be able to view the live status, business name, and address.
Pro Tip: To ensure you are getting the correct information, check if the status is Active. If it says Expired or Suspended, then the business is operating outside the law.
Critical Red Flags for B2B Buyers
A valid number does not always mean a compliant vendor. Do remember to check these specific points:
- Kind of Business Mismatch: If a vendor lists their business as a manufacturer in their profile but their search result lists them as a distributor only, they are not legally cleared to manufacture food.
- Address Discrepancy: The physical location of the manufacturing unit and the physical location of the vendor as stated in their license must match. A vendor cannot function out of a premise not listed in their license.
- Missing Endorsements: In the year 2026, certain products, such as plant-based milks and functional beverages, require endorsements. If the product you are purchasing is not listed in their category breakdown, the vendor is not licensed for that product.
Why FSSAI license verification is Mandatory in 2026
Under Section 26 of the FSSAI Act, it is a legal requirement for every food business operator to ensure that food materials or products are procured from a supplier who is licensed or compliant with regulations.
- Legal Liability: As a result of the FSSAI Act, you are legally liable for the safety of the raw material you are using. If you source from an unverified source, you are essentially a party to the non-compliance.
- Market Entry: If you are a food brand and want to get on board with a major retailer, you need a clean verification report from FoSCoS.
- Consumer Safety: With the Food Safety Connect App, a person can scan a QR code and get the hygiene rating and license validity of a restaurant instantly.
Penalties for Non-Compliance in 2026
Lacking a valid license to operate the business or displaying a false number can result in severe legal consequences. FSSAI has tightened regulations in 2026 to address the increasing number of food frauds detected during the FSSAI license verification process.
- Operating Without a License: A penalty of imprisonment for 6 months, along with a fine of up to ₹5 Lakhs, is applicable.
- Providing False Information: Providing misleading details through packaging can result in an imprisonment of 3 months, along with a fine of up to ₹2 Lakhs.
- Late Renewal Fees: A penalty of ₹100 is charged for late renewals. If the delay is for more than 180 days, the license is considered suspended, and business operations must immediately come to a halt which requires a repetitive process of application to be followed.
Get your FSSAI License now
Don’t let the registration process and compliance issues hold you back from entering the market. Whether you need a basic FSSAI registration online for a startup or are looking to apply for an FSSAI license for a large-scale manufacturing business, Legal4sure provides end to end support
Click here to apply FSSAI license and speedrocket your business now!
Read more >> FSSAI License Fees Structure 2026 (State vs Central vs Basic)
Key Insight for Founders
- A valid license is the most important credential for high-ticket B2B business.
- Verify that the license you hold includes all the product categories you sell.
- Ensure that the 14-digit FSSAI number is prominently displayed on all packaging and invoices.
- Use the FoSCoS portal to stay informed and avoid the 180-day suspension trap.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to apply for an FSSAI license online in India?
Submit your application and complete the FSSAI registration via the FoSCoS portal by selecting your business type and uploading documents.
What is the FSSAI license registration process?
Create an account, submit form A/B, and upload your documents for review. After fee payment and potential inspection, your certificate is approved and issued.
What is the FSSAI license cost in India?
Government fees range from ₹100 for Basic to ₹7,500 per year for Central licenses. Total costs may increase based on project complexity and consultant fees.
How can I check FSSAI license status online india?
Enter your 17-digit Application Reference Number in the Track Application tab on the FoSCoS portal. It shows if your request is currently pending, issued, or rejected.
How to verify FSSAI license number india for a supplier?
Use the FBO Search tool on the official website and enter the 14-digit number. This reveals the vendor’s live status, registered address, and business name.
Do restaurants need a separate FSSAI license for business?
Yes, every restaurant and cloud kitchen must hold a specific license. The category (Basic, State, or Central) depends on annual turnover and operational scale.
How to do FSSAI license certificate download after approval?
Log into your FoSCoS dashboard and navigate to the Issued licenses section. Click the reference number to retrieve and save your official certificate PDF.
