Common Mistakes to Avoid During the FSSAI Licensing and Renewal Process

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the FSSAI Licensing and Renewal Process

FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) licensing is a mandatory compliance requirement for all food business operators (FBOs) in India, including manufacturers, marketers, retailers, wholesalers, restaurants, and food startups. As per the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, operating without a valid license or registration is a punishable offense under Section 31 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Despite increasing awareness, many FBOs make avoidable mistakes during the licensing or renewal process, leading to unnecessary delays, penalties, or rejections. This blog outlines the common mistakes to avoid during the FSSAI licensing and renewal process, supported by regulatory references.

1. Choosing the Wrong Type of FSSAI License

FSSAI offers three types of licenses:

  • FSSAI Basic Registration – For businesses with a turnover < ₹12 lakhs per annum
  • State License – For turnover between ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores
  • Central License – For turnover > ₹20 crores or businesses involved in import/export, e-commerce, or operating in multiple states

Mistake: Many FBOs apply for the wrong category, leading to rejection.

Regulatory Reference: As per Schedule 1 of the FSS (Licensing and Registration) Regulations, 2011, different categories of businesses are clearly defined for Central and State licensing.

Tip: Always assess your business model and scale before selecting the license type.

2. Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation

FSSAI requires detailed documentation, including identity proof, address proof, layout of premises, food safety management plan, and proof of turnover.

Mistake: Submitting outdated documents, missing mandatory declarations, or uploading unclear scans.

Regulatory Reference: Regulation 2.1.4 of FSSAI Licensing Regulations mandates that applications without the required documents shall not be considered and will be returned.

Tip: Cross-check the official FSSAI checklist before submission. All documents must be self-attested and in the prescribed format.

3. Delay in License Renewal Application

FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years. The renewal application must be submitted at least 30 days before the license expiry.

Mistake: Waiting till the last date or missing the renewal deadline, leading to license expiry or late fees.

Regulatory Reference: Regulation 2.1.7(4) clearly states that failure to renew in time results in the license being deemed expired. A late fee of ₹100/day is charged beyond the due date.

Tip: Set automated reminders for license expiry 45–60 days in advance.

4. Failure to Update Business Information

If an FBO changes address, product category, or ownership structure, the license must be updated accordingly.

Mistake: Continuing operations with an outdated license or failing to apply for modification.

Regulatory Reference: Regulation 2.1.9 mandates license modification in case of any change in details submitted during the application.

Tip: File for modification on the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal to reflect current business facts.

5. Operating with an Expired License

Running a food business with an expired FSSAI license is a legal offense and can result in severe penalties, including business closure.

Mistake: Continuing operations with an outdated license or failing to apply for modification.

Regulatory Reference: As per Section 63 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, operating without a valid license is punishable with imprisonment up to 6 months and/or a fine up to ₹5 lakhs.

Tip: Always verify your license status on the FoSCoS portal or through the official FSSAI mobile app.

6. Not Displaying the FSSAI License Number

Every FBO must prominently display its 14-digit FSSAI license number on premises and product packaging.

Mistake: Failing to display the license number, especially in e-commerce listings, websites, invoices, or retail signage.

Regulatory Reference: FSSAI Advisory dated June 2014 and November 2020 make it mandatory to display license numbers to enhance transparency and consumer trust.

Tip: Print the FSSAI number on menu cards, delivery boxes, invoices, and websites.

Final Takeaway

Obtaining and renewing your FSSAI license is not just a regulatory formality-it's a sign of credibility, hygiene, and consumer trust. By avoiding these common mistakes in the FSSAI licensing and renewal process, FBOs can ensure uninterrupted operations and build a compliant, sustainable food business.

References:

1. Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.
2. Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
3. FSSAI Circulars and Advisories https://www.fssai.gov.in