FSSAI License for Online Food Business | How to Get It & Apply Online

Introduction to FSSAI Licensing for Online Food Sellers

With the rise of digital platforms and social media marketing, more people are starting **online food businesses** — from home bakeries to packaged snacks and ready-to-eat meals.

If you're selling food products online through **Instagram, WhatsApp, Swiggy, Zomato, or your own website**, you must comply with **Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)** regulations.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• Do you need FSSAI license for your online food business?
• Difference between Basic Registration, State & Central License
• Documents required
• Step-by-step online application process
• Labeling, packaging & hygiene rules
• Latest FSSAI updates for 2024

💡 Tip: Even if you’re selling homemade food online, you still need at least an FSSAI Basic Registration to operate legally.

Is FSSAI License Required for Online Food Business?

Yes, every person involved in manufacturing, processing, packaging, storing, distributing, or selling food in India must obtain an FSSAI license or registration — regardless of whether the business is online or offline.

This includes:

• Home-based bakers selling cakes and cookies
• Online tiffin services via WhatsApp or apps
• E-commerce sellers of packaged foods
• Cloud kitchens delivering only via food aggregators

⚠️ Note: Selling food without FSSAI approval is illegal and can result in fines up to ₹5 lakh or imprisonment.

Types of FSSAI Licenses for Online Food Businesses

The type of FSSAI license depends on your annual turnover and the nature of your business:

Type	Annual Turnover	Issued By
Basic Registration (Form A)	< ₹12 lakhs	Local Municipal Authority
State License (Form B)	₹12 lakhs – ₹20 crores	State FSSAI Office
Central License (Form B)	> ₹20 crores or export	FSSAI HQ (Delhi)

Documents Required for FSSAI License for Online Food Business

Depending on your license type, here’s what you’ll need:

Document	For Basic	For State/Central
Aadhaar Card	✔️	✔️
PAN Card	✔️	✔️
Proof of Premises	✔️	✔️
NOC from Local Authority	❌	✔️
Kitchen Layout Plan	❌	✔️
Water Quality Report	❌	✔️

How to Apply for FSSAI License Online for Your Food Business

Follow these steps to register your **online food business** under FSSAI:

1. Visit the FSSAI Portal: Go to https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in/
2. Create an Account using your mobile number and email ID
3. Select the appropriate form: Form A (Basic) or Form B (State/Central)
4. Fill out the application form with personal and business details
5. Upload scanned copies of required documents
6. Pay the license fee online
7. Submit the application and take a printout
8. Wait for verification and approval (7–30 days)

✅ Pro Tip: Always keep a printed copy of your FSSAI certificate at your kitchen or office during inspections.

Special Requirements for Online Food Businesses

Since your customers won’t see your kitchen, FSSAI has additional rules for online food operators:

• Labeling: All product packaging must carry FSSAI license number and food details
• Traceability: Maintain batch-wise records of production and sales
• Hygiene: Follow same cleanliness and safety norms as physical restaurants
• Platform Rules: Most platforms now require FSSAI proof before listing your menu
• Delivery Packaging: Use clean, safe, and leak-proof containers

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🔹 Secondary Keywords

• FSSAI license for e-commerce food sellers
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🔹 Long-Tail Keywords

• Do I need FSSAI license to sell homemade food online?
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• Can I start an online cake business without FSSAI registration?
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Penalties for Not Having FSSAI License for Online Food Business

Operating without proper FSSAI certification can lead to severe consequences:

• Late Fees: ₹100/day after expiry
• Suspension or Cancellation of license
• Fines up to ₹5 lakh per violation
• Product seizure and legal action

🛑 Warning: Social media food sellers are now being targeted by local authorities for compliance checks.

Labeling and Packaging Rules for Online Food Sellers

All packaged food items sold online must include the following on the label:

• Name of product
• List of ingredients
• Nutritional information (if applicable)
• Vegetarian / Non-Vegetarian mark
• Date of manufacture and expiry
• Net quantity
• Contact details of manufacturer
• FSSAI logo and license number

How to Renew FSSAI License for Online Food Business

All licenses must be renewed before they expire (validity: 1–5 years). The renewal process is simple:

1. Log in to the FSSAI portal
2. Go to “Renew Application” section
3. Click on “Apply for Renewal”
4. Update any necessary business information
5. Re-upload documents if changed
6. Pay renewal fee
7. Submit and download acknowledgment

FAQs About FSSAI License for Online Food Business

Q1. Do I need FSSAI license if I sell homemade food on WhatsApp or Instagram?

Yes, even small sellers must have at least FSSAI Basic Registration (Form A).

Q2. Can I run an online food business from home?

Yes, but you must follow hygiene standards and display your FSSAI license number on packaging.

Q3. What happens if I don't renew my FSSAI license on time?

You may face a late fee of ₹100/day and risk suspension or cancellation of your license.

Q4. Where should I display my FSSAI license number?

On product labels, website, app listings, and social media profiles where food is promoted.

Q5. Can I use the same FSSAI license for multiple brands?

No, each brand or location requires separate registration or license.

How to Market Your Online Food Business After Getting FSSAI License

Once you're registered, use these tips to grow your business:

• Post daily updates on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp
• Join local food groups and communities
• Use hashtags like #FSSAIRegistered, #LegalKitchen, #HomemadeWithCare
• Collaborate with influencers and bloggers
• Get listed on food delivery apps

Conclusion

Getting an **FSSAI license for your online food business** is not just a legal requirement — it's also a trust-building step for your customers.

Whether you're running a small home-based bakery or a multi-city delivery-only operation, understanding your licensing needs will help you avoid penalties and grow your brand safely.

Make sure to renew your license regularly and follow all labeling and hygiene guidelines to stay compliant with FSSAI regulations.

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Related Articles

• FSSAI Penalty List 2024
• FSSAI Renewal Process Guide
• FSSAI Star Rating System for Online Food Operators
• FSSAI NOC Application Process

Need Help With FSSAI License for Your Online Food Business?

Contact us today or visit the official FSSAI website to learn how to apply and stay compliant with Indian food safety laws.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always refer to the official FSSAI website or consult a licensed professional for accurate guidance.