Food safety is a top priority for businesses in the food industry. Whether you run a restaurant, a food manufacturing unit, or a cloud kitchen, having an FSSAI license is mandatory in India. However, with the rise in fraudulent activities, it’s crucial to verify the authenticity of an FSSAI license before proceeding with any business dealings.
If you are an entrepreneur or a startup in the food business, verifying an FSSAI license online ensures that you are dealing with a legally registered entity. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of checking an FSSAI license online and understanding the different types of FSSAI registrations.
What is an FSSAI License?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for regulating and supervising food safety in India. Any business involved in food production, distribution, storage, or sales must obtain an FSSAI license.
There are three types of FSSAI registrations:
- FSSAI Basic Registration – For small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
- FSSAI State License – For medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- Central FSSAI License – For large-scale businesses with an annual turnover above ₹20 crores or those involved in import/export.
Why is FSSAI License Verification Important?
Verifying an FSSAI license ensures:
- The food business is legally registered and complies with safety standards.
- Protection from fraudulent businesses using fake FSSAI registrations.
- Trust and credibility when dealing with suppliers, vendors, or franchise partners.
- Consumer safety by ensuring food quality is maintained.
How to Verify an FSSAI License Online?
The FSSAI has made it easy to check the authenticity of a food business license online. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Visit the FSSAI Official Website
Go to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) portal by visiting https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/.
Step 2: Click on ‘Verify FSSAI License/Registration’
On the homepage, you will find an option labeled ‘Verify FSSAI License/Registration’ under the ‘Verification’ tab. Click on it to proceed.
Step 3: Enter the FSSAI License Number
Every registered food business has a 14-digit FSSAI license number printed on its certificate and food packaging. Enter this number carefully in the provided field.
Step 4: Submit and View Details
After entering the FSSAI license number, click on the ‘Submit’ button. The system will display the license details, including:
- Business name
- License number
- Type of FSSAI Registration (Basic, State, or Central)
- Address of the registered business
- License validity status
- Food category in which the business is registered
Step 5: Verify the Details
Cross-check the displayed details with the information provided by the business. If the details do not match or the license status shows invalid, the FSSAI registration could be fraudulent.
What to Do If an FSSAI License is Fake?
If you suspect that an FSSAI license is fake, take the following steps:
- Recheck the license number – Ensure you have entered the correct 14-digit FSSAI number.
- Contact FSSAI support – Reach out to the FSSAI helpdesk via email or phone for verification.
- Report fraudulent activity – If the license is confirmed as fake, file a complaint on the FSSAI website.
- Avoid dealing with unregistered businesses – Do not collaborate with businesses that fail to provide authentic FSSAI registration details.
Types of Businesses That Need FSSAI License Verification
Several food businesses must undergo FSSAI license verification, including:
- Restaurants and cafes
- Food manufacturers and processors
- Caterers and cloud kitchens
- Retail food outlets
- Food exporters and importers
- Dairy and meat processing units
- Packaged food and beverage brands
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Verifying an FSSAI License
- Not checking the license number properly – Ensure you enter the correct digits without any spaces or errors.
- Ignoring expired licenses – Always verify the validity of the FSSAI registration before proceeding.
- Trusting businesses without online verification – Never assume a business is registered just because they claim so. Always cross-check on the FSSAI website.
- Failing to report fraudulent licenses – If you encounter a fake license, report it to prevent others from being misled.
Benefits of Verifying an FSSAI License
- Ensures legal compliance – Your business stays aligned with food safety laws.
- Builds trust and credibility – Customers and partners trust registered businesses.
- Reduces legal risks – Protects you from fines, penalties, or business closure due to non-compliance.
- Enhances brand reputation – Having an authentic FSSAI registration adds to your business's goodwill.
Conclusion
FSSAI license verification is an essential step for entrepreneurs and startups in the food business. It ensures that your business or your business partners are operating legally and following food safety guidelines. By following the simple steps mentioned above, you can easily verify an FSSAI registration online and protect your business from fraud.
If you are starting a food business, ensure you obtain the correct FSSAI registration, whether it is a Basic FSSAI registration, FSSAI State License, or Central FSSAI License registration. This not only ensures compliance but also builds customer trust and business credibility.
FAQs
- Can I verify an FSSAI license without a 14-digit number?
No, the 14-digit FSSAI license number is mandatory for verification. Without it, you cannot check the authenticity of the license online.
- What happens if my FSSAI license is expired?
An expired FSSAI license means your business is non-compliant. You need to renew it immediately to avoid legal penalties and business disruptions.
- How long does it take to verify an FSSAI license online?
The process is instant. Once you enter the license number and submit it, you can view the details immediately on the FSSAI portal.
