In case there would be multiple outlets in different cities in India, you will require to apply for a Central License for the registered office of the company/ firm and individual and state licenses for each unit in every state where you have FBOs.

Yes, the process for applying until approval is 100% online. This is under the FSS Regulations, 2011. It should be noted that there are a lot of documents required – Board resolution, Authority letter, and self-Declaration for Proprietorship etc., which should be drafted by an experienced professional. Moreover, the license takes time and regular follow up with the department is very important. State license generally takes more than 50-60 working days. To get a hassle-free license, one should choose A2Z Tax Pro experts who can help you get the certifications without any problems.

No, there are certain basic conditions regarding license approvals. Suppose there is export included in the business, even if for a very small portion of the business, one should directly get a Central license from the FSSAI Department.

The FBO (Food Business Operator) requires filing a renewal application within 30 days before the expiry of the license. The renewal application filed after the expiry of 30 days will attract a penalty of Rs. 100/- per day till the submission of the renewal application. The renewal option will be available to FBO 120 days prior to the expiry of the valid license.

Yes – FSSAI Licensed FBOs who manufacture (including repacking and manufacturing of food products by third party manufacturers) and import food products need to submit Annual Returns in Form D1 by 31st May of every preceding financial year. Manufacturers of Milk and Milk products should submit Half-yearly returns in form D2 within one month of completion of previous half-year. Formats of D1 and D2 can be availed from the homepage of FSSAI licensing website. Merchant Exporter can file Quarterly annual report online.

You can apply for or renew FSSAI license for 1 year up to maximum 5 years at a time.

FSSAI license is mandatory for both – export and import of food products. Hence the FSSAI Central License is required for the export unit.

FoSCoS is an online portal developed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to simplify the process for food and beverage businesses in India to apply for licenses, renewals, and registrations related to food safety and standards.

All food and beverage businesses in India, including manufacturers, processors, storage units, transporters, distributors, and retailers, are required to register on the FoSCoS portal for FSSAI registration and license.

The documents required for FoSCoS registration and license are the same as the documents needed for FSSAI registration and License since FoSCoS is simply a portal created to facilitate the process.

Yes. Any and all catering establishments, need license. Including those under central Government such as Railways, Airport, Seaport, and Defence etc… are required to obtain a license from FSSAI

A Central License is required for the Registered Office or Head Office for a Food Business Operator (FBO) operating a food business premises located in two or more than two States – this is in addition to license/registration for each unit/premise. These Separate license or registration will need to be obtained from the Central or State licensing authorities, depending upon that unit’s capacity or turnover.

No, not required. Utensils/packaging materials are not covered under the definition of food as per Section 3(n) of FSS Act, 2006 – so FSSAI License/Registration is not required.

Please note, the online FSSAI license is based and granted on premises – hence every kind of food business being operated from the same premise can be applied in a single FSSAI license.