How to Check if an FSSAI License Number is Real or Fake?

The FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) makes sure all food businesses in India follow safety rules by requiring them to have a valid license. Sometimes, businesses may use fake or expired FSSAI numbers, which can be risky for consumers. To make sure the food business you’re dealing with is legit, it’s important to check if their FSSAI license number is real. This is a simple process and can be done quickly online through the FSSAI website.

What is FSSAI License Number?

An FSSAI license number is a 14-digit number that is given to food businesses in India by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This number shows that the business is following the rules for food safety. It’s required for all types of food businesses, like restaurants, food manufacturers, and even small food sellers.

How the FSSAI License Number is Structured:

1. First Digit (Type of License):
   • The first digit tells you if it’s a Basic, State, or Central license.
2. Next Two Digits (State Code):
   • The next two digits represent the code of the state where the business is located.
3. Remaining Digits:
   • These are unique to the business and help identify it.

Types of FSSAI Licenses:

1. Basic FSSAI Registration: For small businesses with a yearly turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
2. State FSSAI License: For medium-sized businesses with a yearly turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
3. Central FSSAI License: For large businesses with a turnover of more than ₹20 crores or businesses operating in more than one state.

How to Check an FSSAI License Number

1. Go to the FSSAI Website:
   • Open your browser and go to the official FSSAI website: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in.
2. Find the “FBO Search” Option:
   • Look for the “FBO Search” section on the website. This tool helps you check details of a business using their FSSAI license number.
3. Enter the License Number:
   • Type the 14-digit FSSAI license number into the search box. Be sure to enter the number carefully without any mistakes.
4. View the Results:
   • Click the “Search” or “Submit” button. The website will show details about the license, like:
     • The name of the business
     • Their address
     • The type of license (Basic, State, or Central)
     • Whether the license is still valid or has expired
5. Check the Information:
   • Compare the details shown on the website with the information the business has given you. If everything matches, the license is real.

What to Expect

• If the License is Real: The details you see on the website will match the business information, confirming the license is genuine.
• If No Information Shows Up: If nothing comes up, it might mean the license number is fake, expired, or entered incorrectly. Double-check the number, and if it still doesn’t show, ask the business for clarification.

Conclusion

Verifying an FSSAI license number is a quick and easy way to make sure a food business is following the law and providing safe food. The official FSSAI website gives you all the tools you need to check if a license is real. By doing this, you can protect yourself from businesses that don’t follow proper safety standards.