FSSAI Registration for Selling Homemade Products in India

Starting a homemade food business can be a rewarding experience, especially if you love cooking and want to turn that passion into a source of income. However, to legally sell food products in India, one of the essential steps is to register with FSSAI. This ensures that your food is safe and meets the required standards.

What is FSSAI?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a government body responsible for regulating the safety and quality of food products across the country. If you plan to sell homemade food, no matter how small your business, FSSAI registration is mandatory. It’s not just about legal compliance but also about showing customers that your products meet hygiene and safety standards.

Who Needs FSSAI Registration?

Anyone selling food needs FSSAI registration, including home-based businesses. Whether you’re selling through social media, local markets, or to friends and neighbors, you must register. There are three main categories of FSSAI registration:

1. Basic Registration: This is for small-scale businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakh. Most homemade food businesses fit into this category.
2. State License: This applies to businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
3. Central License: This is for large-scale businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crore or those involved in imports and exports.

How to Get FSSAI Registration for Homemade Products

Here’s a quick guide to help you register your homemade food business with FSSAI:

1. Determine Your Business Category:
   First, assess your business size based on your expected annual income. Most home-based food businesses will need basic registration.
2. Access the FSSAI Portal:
   The registration process is online. Visit the official FSSAI website (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/) and select the type of registration that suits your business.
3. Complete the Registration Form:
   Fill out the form with necessary details, including your business name, address, and the types of products you plan to sell.
4. Submit Necessary Documents:
   You’ll need to provide supporting documents, such as:
   • Passport-sized photographs
   • Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
   • Proof of business location (such as an electricity bill or rent agreement)
   • Declaration form
5. Pay the Registration Fee:
   Basic registration fees are quite low – typically around ₹100 per year.
6. Await Approval:
   After submitting your application, approval usually takes between 7 to 10 days. Once your registration is approved, you will receive an FSSAI registration number, which must be displayed on your product labels.

Why FSSAI Registration is Important

1. Trust and Credibility:
   Displaying the FSSAI logo on your products shows that your food complies with safety standards, increasing customer confidence in your products.
2. Legal Compliance:
   Operating without FSSAI registration can lead to fines and other legal issues, making registration essential to avoid penalties.
3. Business Growth:
   With FSSAI registration, you open doors to new opportunities, such as selling through larger platforms or entering new markets.

What if You Don’t Register?

Failing to register with FSSAI while selling food can result in legal consequences, including fines up to ₹5 lakh (about $6,000) or, in severe cases, imprisonment. It’s crucial to comply with this requirement to keep your business safe and legal.

Conclusion

FSSAI registration is an essential step for anyone looking to sell homemade food in India. It not only ensures that your business meets legal requirements but also builds trust with your customers. The process is easy and affordable, making it a smart move for any budding food entrepreneur.