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- Mandatory Compliance: FSSAI certification is a must if a food product is to be exported from India as it guarantees the product complies with the safety and hygiene standards of India.
- Export Eligibility: Only food businesses that have been granted a FSSAI license are allowed to export Indian food products to foreign markets legally.
- Regulatory Authority: The FSSAI (Food Safety, and Standards Authority of India) under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare is the issuing and supervisory agency.
- Business Credibility: An FSSAI certificate is a source of international buyers’ and importers’ trust and therefore it goes a long way in enhancing a business’s reputation.
- Streamlined Documentation: Makes customs clearance easy and eliminates the regulatory obstacles that may come up during the export process.
Introduction | FSSAI Certificate for India
The FSSAI certificate for export in India is not just a paper; it is a representation of conformity to India’s strict food safety standards. FSSAI (Food Safety, and Standards Authority of India)For companies that want to enter international markets, knowing the way to acquire and keep this certification can be a great factor of success for their export business instead of facing repeated regulatory obstacles. Here we are explaining the steps, the requirements, and other details of the process.Meera was the founder of a small organic snack company in Gujarat and when she decided to export her products to the UAE, she assumed that the process would be easy. However, she found out that her shipment would not clear customs if she did not have an FSSAI certificate. Like many Indian food businesses, they have a tendency to overlook how important this license is, not only as a mandatory regulatory requirement but also as a token of trust from international buyers.
What is a FSSAI certificate? | FSSAI Certificate for India
Required for Food Businesses: Any business that involves the activities of manufacturing, processing, storing, or distributing food in India is mandated to have an FSSAI license or registration. The condition is also applicable to those engaged in food trading.
Key Features of FSSAI Certificate:
- Mandatory for Food Businesses: Any company involved in manufacturing, processing, storing, distributing, or selling food in India must have an FSSAI license or registration.
- Types of Licenses:
- Basic Registration: For small businesses
- State License: For businesses of medium scale
- Central License: For large businesses, importers or exporters
- Reason: The main concern of the food laws which are regulated is the safety of food.
- Validity: Typically valid for 1–5 years depending on the type of license and business scale.
Real-World Context:
It is a must for exporters to have an FSSAI certificate. Without it, quality food products cannot gain access to foreign markets. Exporters usually argue that obtaining a license not only eases the process of getting the trust of buyers abroad but also makes customs clearance fast and simple.
Importance and Benefits of FSSAI Certificate
| Importance of FSSAI Certificate | Benefits of FSSAI Certificate |
| Ensures compliance with food safety and hygiene standards | Fosters consumer loyalty and elevates brand reputation |
| Is compulsory for all food businesses in India, i.e., closed and open market sellers, manufacturers, and processors | Eases the process of customs clearance for international shipments |
| Improves health conditions of the general public by alleviating unsafe food products | Minimizes the chances of being in trouble with the law and facing penalties or fines |
| Highlights business professionalism and accountability | Allows the brand to access local and international markets and thus become competitive |
| Necessary for the legal selling, distribution, or exporting of food | Functions as a quality assurance tool for global buyers and importers |
| Makes it possible to keep the quality of food production consistent | Facilitates sustainable business development and a positive reputation that lasts over time |
Why FSSAI Certification is Necessary for India ?
FSSAI certification goes beyond being just a regulatory formality; it is a vital element for any food business that operates in India, particularly the ones that wish to export their products. It is necessary because of the following reasons:
1. Legal Compliance
According to the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, any type of food industry (either as producer, wholesaler, or exporter) must comply with the provisions of that Act; therefore, anyone operating a business in any type of food industry without a valid FSSAI certification is running an illegal business, subject to the possibility of fines, penalties, or the closure of that business.
2. Food Safety Assurance
The main objective of the certification is achieved when the food products meet the safety standards and hygiene practices in India. This is done by reducing the risk of contamination, adulteration, or the use of unsafe processing methods which results in the overall protection of public health.
3. Attracting More Consumers
Domestic and foreign consumers are becoming more aware of certified products and choose them more often. An FSSAI license is a good sign that the product is trustworthy, of good quality, and that the manufacturer has taken the necessary safety measures thereby creating more brand loyalty.
4. Making Exports Easier
In order to export products legally, FSSAI certification is a must for exporters. Before placing any orders from India, many international buyers need assurance that the products comply with Indian food safety standards. This certification not only serves as proof that is required but also makes shipping easy and minimizes regulatory problems.
5. Gaining a Competitive Edge
In a market full of competitors, FSSAI-certified products have the advantage of being more visible. By doing so, it gives buyers and partners the confirmation that the business is following standard procedures, thus creating a positive effect on the purchase decision and longer partnerships.
6. Ensuring Business Sustainability in the Long Run
One of the methods to maintain a business that will be able to survive the test of time is through the continuation of good internal processes, quality control and regular checkups which can be promoted by keeping FSSAI standards and this ultimately results in growth that is not only sustainable but also consistent with product quality.
Example: An organic snack business in Delhi experienced a 35% international order rise after getting FSSAI certification because buyers were more assured of the product’s safety and standards adherence.
Types of FSSAI Certifications
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) provides different categories of licenses and registrations depending upon the scale and the nature of the food business. In order to be in accord with the law and to have the export operations going smoothly, one must understand the right type.
1. FSSAI Basic Registration
Small businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh are the ones for which it is most suitable.
Examples: Small food stalls, home-based food producers, small retail outlets.
Key Features:
- Easy application process.
- Gives an answer to the application very quickly, it is mostly done within 7–10 days.
- Perfectly suits food entrepreneurs on a micro-scale.
2. FSSAI State License
Those medium-sized food businesses, which are not very complex, are the ones, for which it is the most suitable.
Examples: Restaurants, small manufacturing units, bakeries, dairy units.
Key Features:
- Documentation, as well as the process of getting inspected, is quite detailed here.
- Duration of validity is from 1 to 5 years.
- Issued by The State Food Safety Authority.
3. FSSAI Central License
Large businesses, importers, and exporters are the ones that can get the most out of this license.
Examples: Large food processing units, exporters shipping internationally, multi-state businesses.
Key Features:
- A thorough validation and inspection procedure is a must.
- The license. Duration of validity is from 1 to 5 years.
- By the Central Licensing Authority.
Additional Notes: The internal control mechanism for choosing the right type of license will prevent troubles with the legal authorities from happening. Moreover, there will not be any fines imposed on you because of it. Just as a result of it, the operation will be running smoothly without any stops at all.
Real-world Example: The snack exporter from Hyderabad, who at first filed for a state license and then when increasing trades to the GCC countries transitioned to a central license, making customs clearance and international buyer relations effortless.
Process Steps for FSSAI Certification
The steps for getting an FSSAI certificate is a structured process through which your food business is verified to be in compliance with India’s food safety standards. Following the right steps helps keep away from the waiting time and ensures a smooth compliance process, especially for exporters.
Step 1: Determine the Type of License
Find out if your business requires any of the following:
- Basic Registration State License
- Central License
Choosing the right license is critical to avoid non-compliance penalties.
Step 2: Get Docs Ready
- Typically, these are your basic documents:
- A document that shows the registration of your business (Company PAN, GST certificate, Partnership deed, etc.)
- The owner’s identity and address proof
- A declaration of the food products that are to be manufactured, stored, or exported
- Health management system or plan for food (e.g. HACCP or GMP certification)
- Information about the factory or warehouse
- If available, a NOC from the local municipal corporation or the health department
Step 3: Submit Online Application
- Go to the FSSAI Food Licensing Portal.
- Complete the appropriate application form that matches your license type.
- Attach all the necessary documents.
- Make the payment for the license fee that is applicable to you (differs by license type and business scale).
Step 4: Facility Inspection (If Applicable)
- In case of State and Central Licenses, officials can come for a surprise inspection at your location.
- Inspectors ensure the hygiene, safety, storage conditions, and adherence to food safety standards are strictly maintained.
Step 5: License Approval and Issuance
- The FSSAI certificate is provided digitally after the verification.
- The license will remain valid between 1 and 5 years depending on the category and can be renewed before the expiry date.
- Having the copies of both the digital and the physical ones for your personal records, export clearances, and buyer verification would be great.
Step 6: Renewal and Compliance Maintenance
- Without a doubt, a prompt renewal of your license will be a smart move as it will keep your business running without any interruptions resulting from the expiration of your license.
- It is necessary to keep production records, hygiene audits, and quality checks in a proper manner.
- In case the business structure, product list, or location has changed, do not forget to update the FSSAI portal also.
Pro Tip: Some exporters prefer to have a dedicated compliance officer or consultant who would ensure that all FSSAI requirements are met at all times, thus no delays in customs clearance and trust being maintained with international buyers.
Client Example: A food startup in Delhi faced difficulties at the beginning due to incomplete documentation. After the hiring of a compliance consultant, they managed to get the FSSAI central license within 45 days, which was the reason for a smooth export to the Middle Eastern markets.
Documents Required for FSSAI Certification
Only following the presentation of the right documents substantiating the legality of your food business, the safety measures, and the compliance with Indian food regulations, an FSSAI certificate can be issued. The exact documents differ depending on the type of license (Basic, State, or Central).
1. Basic Documents for All Businesses
- A valid proof of registration for your business: a GST certificate, PAN for your company, Partnership Deed, or Proprietor’s Certificate.
- Evidence of identification for the Owner/Proprietor: a copy of their Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter Identification Card, or Driving License.
- Proof of your business’s address: an electricity bill, rental agreement or NOC from the local authority.
- The manufacturers and/or exporters of the following food items must be clearly identified with an item-by-item list of the Food Products processed, manufactured, stored or exported.
- Photographs of the business premises and production facility.
2. Additional Documents for State and Central Licenses
- Food Safety Management Plan: An official system such as HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) or GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) documentation.
- NOC from Local Authorities: NOC from a municipality, local health department, or fire department (if applicable) certifying that there are no objections to the operation of the establishment in the area.
- Lab Test Reports: A test report, in the case of certain products, showing that the products comply with food safety standards.
- List of Equipment & Machinery: The details of the food processing and storage equipment.
- Water & Sanitation Certificates: The evidence of a safe water supply and hygienic sanitation facilities.
3. For Export-Oriented Businesses
- Import/Export Code (IEC): Local Foreign Trade Director General (DGFT) issues the registration.
- Extra Quality Certifications: Overseas buyers may require ISO, Organic, or HACCP certificates.
Real-World Tip: The snack manufacturing firm in Gujarat had put off the export of their products for some time owing to their incomplete HACCP plan. After it was updated, FSSAI approval was obtained, and the whole process of customs clearance went smoothly.
Fees / Cost for FSSAI Certification for India
| License Type | Who Needs It | Why the Cost Differs |
| Basic Registration | Very small food businesses | Minimal compliance and simple documentation |
| State License | Medium-scale food operations within a state | Detailed documents, inspections, and category-based compliance |
| Central License | Large businesses, importers, exporters, multi-region operations | Stricter compliance, advanced inspection, higher regulatory requirements |
| Renewal (All Categories) | Businesses renewing Basic, State, or Central License | Renewal follows the same fee level and must be completed before expiry |
| Additional Compliance Costs | Depends on business type | Influenced by product category, business size, number of locations, hygiene requirements, and professional documentation support |
What Is an FSSAI Exporter Licence?
An FSSAI Exporter Licence is not a separate licence type.
It is essentially a Central FSSAI Licence specifically marked for export activities.
When exporting food products, FSSAI mandates that the business holds a Central Licence (not State or Basic) with the export category selected and product categories correctly listed.
This licence is used for:
- Exporting packaged or processed foods
- Obtaining Export NOC from FSSAI at ports
- Satisfying buyer or international compliance demands
- Clearing consignments through customs and port health authorities
- Lab testing of food batches meant for export
When you apply through the FoSCoS portal, you select “Manufacturing / Processing – Export” or “Food Exporter” as a business activity. This makes it an Exporter Licence.
In short:
Exporter Licence = Central Licence + Export Activity Approval + Correct Food Categories.
How Diligence Certification Helps Exporters
At Diligence Certification, we support exporters from licence application to export clearance. Our services include:
- We draft and check the whole set of required documents.
- We meet with local officials and arrange the inspection of your facility.
- We guide you to achieve and maintain the food safety management system standards (HACCP/GMP).
- We look after the license validity, renewals, and export-related updates.
So, if you engage our services for professional support instead of struggling with complex compliance by yourself, we can be a great help to you in avoiding delays and getting export-ready.
Contact us now to get started — or visit our homepage for more details: Diligence Certification
Conclusion
Getting an FSSAI export certificate in India is a must for any food business that wants to go global. It is a requirement to the safety standards of the country, it is a guarantee to the foreign buyers about the quality of the product and it is a way of avoiding the delays in the clearance of goods. No matter if you are a small manufacturer or a big processing unit, a correct licence, in particular, the Central Licence with export approval, is the basis of your export operations being smooth and legally compliant. By having the right paperwork and continuously following FSSAI rules, Indian food exporters will be able to gain trust, lessen the chances of facing regulatory hurdles and make a step-by-step expansion to enter foreign markets.
Frequently asked questions
What is FSSAI Certification for Export
The Central FSSAI licence (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) is required by law for exporting food from India.
Is it mandatory to have an FSSAI licence to Export?
Yes, an FSSAI (Central) licence with the specific approval for export is necessary.
Can I use my State or Basic FSSAI licence to Export?
No, a Central FSSAI licence is the only acceptable licence for Export-related activity.
How many years is an FSSAI export licence valid for?
An FSSAI Export licence can be valid for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 years, however, the exact number of years will be chosen at the time of application.
What documents does an exporter need?
Proof of Business, Product list, FSMS Plan, IEC Code and details of Premises.
How can an Exporter obtain an FSSAI Export licence?
You must register on the FoSCoS Portal to apply for an export FSSAI licence.
Does a facility Inspection need to take Place?
Yes, a hygiene and safety Inspection may be necessary for Central Licences.
How Much Does it Cost to Obtain an Export FSSAI Licence?
Costs for obtaining an FSSAI Export licence vary based upon the size of the Business and documentation requirements.
Does my Export Product need to be Lab Tested?
For some products, FSSAI requires an Approved Lab Test Report.
Can an Exporter Renew an Expired Licence?
An Exporter must renew an expired FSSAI licence before it runs out, or penalties may be incurred on the Business Owner.
