FSSAI License for Bakeries & Restaurants: An Operator's Guide
By Shona, Founder of LME
A practical guide to FSSAI licensing for food businesses in India — registration types, documentation, costs, and common mistakes to avoid.
If you're running a food business in India — whether it's a home bakery, a restaurant, a cafe, or a cloud kitchen — you need an FSSAI license. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the regulatory body that oversees food safety, and operating without proper registration is both illegal and risky.
Yet FSSAI compliance remains one of the most confusing aspects of starting a food business. The categories are unclear, the documentation requirements seem overwhelming, and the process feels bureaucratic. This guide cuts through the confusion with practical, actionable information.
Three Types of FSSAI Registration
FSSAI has three tiers based on your business size:
Basic Registration — For businesses with annual turnover under ₹12 lakhs. This covers most home bakeries, small catering operations, and food stalls. The application is straightforward and can be done online.
State License — For businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores. Most restaurants, bakeries with storefronts, and mid-size food businesses fall here. This requires more documentation and an inspection.
Central License — For large operations with turnover above ₹20 crores, or businesses operating across multiple states. Most small to mid-size food businesses won't need this.
Documents You'll Need
For basic registration, you need: identity proof, address proof of the business premises, and a passport-size photo. For a state license, add: a food safety management plan, a list of equipment, a water test report, a layout plan of the premises, and details of food categories you'll handle.
The Application Process
1. Create an account on the FSSAI Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal
2. Fill in the application form for your applicable category
3. Upload required documents
4. Pay the fee (₹100/year for basic registration, ₹2,000-5,000/year for state license)
5. For state licenses, an inspection may be scheduled
6. Receive your license number (typically within 30-60 days)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not applying before starting operations. Many food businesses start selling first and plan to "get the license later." This is risky — a complaint or inspection can shut you down.
Choosing the wrong category. If your turnover exceeds ₹12 lakhs and you only have basic registration, you're non-compliant. Review your category annually.
Ignoring renewal dates. FSSAI licenses must be renewed before expiry. Late renewal incurs penalties and can result in the license being cancelled.
Not displaying the license. Your FSSAI license number must be displayed on your premises and on all food labels and packaging. This is a legal requirement.
Labelling Requirements for Bakeries
If you sell packaged products (boxed cookies, jarred preserves, packaged bread), FSSAI mandates specific labelling information: product name, ingredient list (in descending order of quantity), net quantity, date of manufacture, best before date, manufacturer name and address, FSSAI license number, nutritional information, and allergen declarations.
Maintaining Compliance
Getting the license is step one. Maintaining compliance means following food safety practices daily — proper storage temperatures, cleaning protocols, pest control, personal hygiene for staff, and accurate record-keeping.
Need Help?
FSSAI compliance doesn't have to be overwhelming. Our food safety and hygiene consulting service handles everything — from determining your license category to completing the application, preparing for inspections, and setting up daily compliance practices. We've helped dozens of food businesses in Bangalore get and stay compliant.