India’s food and beverage industry is booming, and starting a food chain business today offers massive growth potential. Whether it’s a quick-service restaurant (QSR), a fast-casual café, or a cloud kitchen, entrepreneurs are capitalizing on the growing demand for hygienic and quality food. However, one important aspect of running a compliant and successful food chain is obtaining the right FSSAI license and ensuring timely FSSAI License Renewal.
This article covers everything you need to know about starting a food chain business in India, including FSSAI registration, types of licenses, renewal procedures, and how to apply online using the FoSCoS FSSAI portal.
What is FSSAI?
FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, responsible for regulating and supervising food safety across the country. FSSAI ensures that food products go through quality checks, minimizing the risk of adulteration, contamination, and unsafe food practices.Having a valid FSSAI license is mandatory for any food business, especially if you’re planning to start a food chain with multiple outlets or manufacturing units.
Why FSSAI License is required for Food Chain Businesses?
- Builds customer trust by showcasing safety and hygiene practices
- Legally authorizes your food business operations
- Is mandatory for product packaging and labeling
- Is required to expand operations across states or enter retail chains
- Helps in getting funding or partnerships with aggregators like Swiggy, Zomato, and Amazon
Types of FSSAI Licenses
Depending on the size, turnover, and area of operation of your food chain business, FSSAI offers three types of licenses:
1. FSSAI Basic Registration
- For small food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh
- Applicable to petty food vendors, home kitchens, and local retailers
2. FSSAI State License
- For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore
- Suitable for chains operating within a single state
3. FSSAI Central License
- Mandatory for large-scale operators with turnover above ₹20 crore
- Required for chains operating in more than one state, importers, exporters, and large food manufacturers
FSSAI License Registration Process (Online via FoSCoS)
To streamline and digitize food safety compliance, FSSAI launched the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal, replacing the older FLRS platform.
FSSAI Registration Online – Step-by-Step:
- Visit the official portal: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
- Create your account or use your FSSAI Login credentials
- Select the license/registration type (Basic, State, or Central)
- Fill in your business details, food category, and location
- Upload documents such as identity proof, address proof, business details, and safety plan
- Pay the applicable FSSAI registration fees
- Submit your application and await inspection and approval
FSSAI License/ Registration Fees
| License Type | Annual Fees |
| Basic Registration | ₹100 |
| State License | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Central License | ₹7,500 |
You can choose a license validity from 1 to 5 years. Longer durations reduce the frequency of renewal.
FSSAI Renewal: Why It’s Important
An FSSAI license is valid only for the period selected at the time of registration (1–5 years). Once it expires, the food business operator (FBO) must apply for FSSAI license renewal to continue operations legally.
Failure to renew on time can lead to:
- Penalties of ₹100 per day
- Deactivation or cancellation of license
- Suspension of operations
FSSAI Renewal Online – How to Do It
Just like registration, FSSAI renewal online can be done via the FoSCoS portal.
Steps to Renew FSSAI License:
- Visit https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
- Log in using your credentials
- Click on the ‘Renew License/Registration’ option
- Select your existing license number
- Update details if necessary and upload required documents
- Pay the FSSAI renewal fees based on license type and duration
- Submit the form and track the status online
Important: Apply for renewal at least 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties.
Key Documents for FSSAI Registration & Renewal
- PAN Card & Aadhaar Card of business owner/directors
- Proof of business premises (electricity bill, rent agreement)
- Business entity proof (Partnership Deed, COI, etc.)
- Food safety management plan
- Product list and food category
- Photos of premises and machinery (for manufacturers)
FoSCoS FSSAI Portal: One Nation, One Compliance Platform
The FoSCoS portal brings everything under one roof, offering a centralized system for:
- FSSAI registration and licensing
- Renewal and modification of licenses
- Online inspection management
- Food product approval and compliance tracking
- Public search for FBOs and licenses
Conclusion
Starting a food chain business in India involves a well-thought-out strategy, operational planning, and strict adherence to food safety laws. Getting your FSSAI license and maintaining it through timely FSSAI renewal is not just a legal necessity but a brand-building asset.Whether you’re planning a small delivery kitchen or a pan-India restaurant chain, ensure that your business is FSSAI compliant from day one. Online registration through FoSCoS FSSAI makes it quick and efficient.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure which license to apply for or need support with FSSAI license/ registration, renewal, or documentation, our team at Compliance Calendar LLP is here to assist you end-to-end. You can also reach out to us at 9988424211 or mail us to [email protected]
