How to Get FSSAI Registration for Your Catering Business in India

Introduction

If you’re planning to start or already run a catering business in India, obtaining an FSSAI Registration is not just a legal requirement—it’s a smart business move. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates the food business sector to ensure the safety, quality, and hygiene of food being served to consumers. For caterers, who deal directly with large volumes of prepared food, this registration is essential to build trust and operate without legal hassles. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the importance of FSSAI registration, its benefits, and a step-by-step guide on how to obtain it for your catering business.

Why FSSAI Registration is Important for Catering Businesses

Catering businesses are responsible for serving food to large groups at events, offices, weddings, and more. Given the high consumption risk, ensuring food safety is critical. Here’s why FSSAI registration is a must:

Legal Compliance: It is mandatory under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Operating without a valid license can lead to penalties or business shutdowns.

Consumer Trust: Customers are more likely to hire a caterer who is licensed and follows food safety standards.

Brand Reputation: FSSAI registration signals quality and professionalism, helping you stand out in a competitive market.

Business Expansion: Many corporates and event organizers only work with FSSAI-licensed food vendors.

Types of FSSAI Licenses for Catering Businesses

FSSAI offers three types of licenses, depending on the size and turnover of your catering operation:

Basic FSSAI Registration:

For small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
Ideal for home-based caterers or small local service providers.

State FSSAI License:

For businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores annually.
Suitable for mid-sized catering companies operating in one state.

Central FSSAI License:

For businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crores or those operating in multiple states.
Required if your catering business supplies food to government offices, railways, or airports.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

Here is a list of common documents you’ll need:

Passport-sized photo of the business owner.
Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card).
Business address proof (rental agreement, utility bill, etc.).
Food safety management plan (for State and Central licenses).
Kitchen layout or premises plan (for medium to large businesses).
List of food items you plan to serve or produce.
Partnership deed or incorporation certificate (if applicable).

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FSSAI Registration

Here’s how to get your catering business FSSAI registered:

Visit the Official Portal – Go to the FSSAI registration website to begin the process.
Complete the Application – Provide your name, business information, food category, and upload necessary documents like your PAN card.
Review and Submit – Double-check all the entered details for accuracy before submitting the application.
Make the Payment – Pay the applicable fee online based on the type of license you’re applying for.
OTP Verification – Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number or email to verify your application.
Premises Inspection (If Needed) – In some cases, authorities may conduct an inspection of your food business location.
Download Your License – Once your application is approved, download the FSSAI license directly from the portal.

How to Display the FSSAI License

Once you’ve received the FSSAI certificate:

Display the license number and FSSAI logo on your food packaging or serving materials.
Keep a copy of your FSSAI certificate at your catering premises for verification.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Running a catering business without a valid FSSAI license can lead to:

A fine of up to ₹5 lakhs.
Business suspension or closure.
Legal proceedings or imprisonment in extreme cases.

Staying compliant ensures not only business continuity but also long-term customer trust.

Renewing Your FSSAI License

FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years. It’s essential to renew your license before expiry to avoid penalties. The renewal process is similar to the application process and can be done online.

Note: You can also Apply for Tatkal FSSAI Registration from our website

Conclusion

Getting an FSSAI registration is not just a legal requirement—it’s a step toward building a safe, professional, and scalable catering business. It gives your clients peace of mind and opens up opportunities to grow your brand, participate in tenders, and expand into new markets. If you’re serious about your catering business and want to ensure compliance, quality, and customer satisfaction, don’t delay—get your FSSAI registration done today!