Food License for General Stores
FSSAI registration is a mandatory requirement for anyone involved in the food business in India including a General store. It ensures compliance with food safety regulations and builds customer trust.
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If you run a general store that sells packaged or unpackaged food items, obtaining an FSSAI food license is not just a legal requirement—it’s essential for building trust with customers. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mandates this license to ensure food quality, safety, and hygiene standards. Without proper registration, businesses may face heavy penalties and legal actions.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the FSSAI license for general stores, including its types, eligibility criteria, fees, and validity. You will also learn about the required documents, the step-by-step online application process, how to check your registration status, and the benefits of obtaining an FSSAI license. Additionally, we will cover the renewal process and highlight the penalties for non-compliance to help you avoid legal troubles.
Securing an FSSAI food license not only ensures compliance with food safety laws but also boosts your store’s reputation, improves customer confidence, and enhances business growth. Let’s dive into the details of how to get your general store FSSAI-certified hassle-free!
Types of FSSAI License
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues three types of licenses based on the size and turnover of a business:
FSSAI Basic Registration – For small businesses and startups with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs. Suitable for small general stores and local retailers.
FSSAI State License – For businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores. Medium-sized general stores and supermarkets fall under this category.
FSSAI Central License – For large businesses with an annual turnover above ₹20 crores. Required for big retail chains and stores involved in food imports or exports
Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI License
The eligibility for an FSSAI license depends on business size, revenue, and operational scope:
Basic Registration: Small general stores with limited food sales.
State License: Medium-sized stores operating in a single state.
Central License: Large stores operating in multiple states or engaged in food imports/exports.
Other factors include type of food products sold, storage capacity, and supply chain involvement.
Fee for Food Licence for General Store
The cost of obtaining an FSSAI license varies based on the type of registration:
| License Type | Annual Turnover | Government Fee (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Up to ₹12 lakh | ₹100 |
| State License | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Central License | Above ₹20 crore | ₹7,500 |
Validity of FSSAI License
FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant’s preference at the time of registration. To avoid penalties, General Stores must renew the license before 30 days of expiry.
Documents Required for FSSAI or Food Licence for General Stores
General Stores applying for an FSSAI license must submit the following documents:
Photograph of the Applicant
Identity Proof (Aadhar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.)
Business Address Proof – Utility bill (Electricity, Gas, etc.) and rent agreement or NOC from the owner if rented.
Business Registration Certificate – This may include a Partnership Deed, Certificate of Incorporation, Shop and Establishment License, or any other relevant registration document.
Procedure for Obtaining FSSAI Food Licence for General Stores Online
Follow these steps to apply for a new FSSAI License or Registration:
Visit the FoSCoS Website – Go to the dashboard and click on “License/Registration” in the left-side menu.
Start a New Application – Select “Apply for New License/Registration.”
Choose Your State – Read the provided instructions carefully before proceeding.
Select Business Type – Under the Trade/Retail Business Group Head, choose Retailer as your business category.
Determine Eligibility – Select the appropriate option based on your business’s annual turnover.
Fill Out Form B – Complete all mandatory fields with accurate details.
Provide Contact Information – Enter your Mobile Number, Email ID, etc. as all official communication will be sent to these contacts.
Upload Required Documents – Ensure all necessary documents are submitted as per the guidelines.
Make Payment – Complete the fee payment using the available options and click “Apply.”
Save Your Reference Number – Once the payment is processed, a receipt with a 17-digit reference number will be generated. Keep this for future reference and tracking.
FSSAI Registration Status
Benefits of Procuring FSSAI Food License
Obtaining an FSSAI food license is more than just a legal requirement—it provides several advantages that can help your general store grow and establish credibility. Here’s why getting an FSSAI license is beneficial:
Legal Compliance – Avoid penalties, fines, and legal actions by ensuring your store meets food safety regulations.
Enhanced Customer Trust – Customers prefer stores with an FSSAI-certified tag, as it guarantees food quality and safety.
Business Expansion Opportunities – An FSSAI license allows you to expand into wholesale, online sales, and bulk supply.
Better Brand Reputation – Boosts credibility, making it easier to gain customer loyalty and attract new buyers.
Marketing and Labeling Advantage – You can legally use the FSSAI logo on packaging and advertisements, strengthening your store’s image.
Easier Business Loans and Investments – Financial institutions and investors are more likely to support businesses with proper licenses.
Smooth Government Approvals – Getting approvals for business expansion, import/export, and government tenders becomes easier with an FSSAI license.
Improved Food Safety Standards – Ensures that your store follows hygienic practices, reducing the risk of food contamination and regulatory issues.
Renewal of FSSAI License
FSSAI licenses must be renewed 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties. The renewal process is similar to the initial registration:
Log in to the FoSCoS portal
Select the Renew License option
Submit updated documents (if required)
Pay the renewal fee
FSSAI Penalty and Offenses
Non-compliance with FSSAI regulations may result in the following penalties:
| Sl. No. | Offense | Penalty (Fine in Rs.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Food quality not in compliance with the Act | 2 Lakh (Petty Manufacturer – 25,000) |
| 2 | Sub-standard food | 5 Lakh |
| 3 | Misbranded food | 3 Lakh |
| 4 | Misleading advertisement or false description | 10 Lakh |
| 5 | Presence of extraneous matter in food | 1 Lakh |
| 6 | Failure to comply with Food Safety Officer’s directions | 2 Lakh |
| 7 | Unhygienic processing or manufacturing | 1 Lakh |
Failure to comply with food safety regulations can lead to serious consequences, including fines, license cancellation, or legal action. FBOs must ensure strict adherence to FSSAI guidelines to maintain compliance and avoid penalties.
Conclusion
Obtaining an FSSAI food license is essential for any general store that sells food products, ensuring compliance with food safety laws and boosting customer trust. Whether you are a small retailer or a large supermarket, choosing the right FSSAI license type (Basic, State, or Central) based on your turnover and business size is crucial. The application process is now fully online, making it easier to obtain and renew your license without hassle.
Apart from legal compliance, an FSSAI license offers multiple benefits, including enhanced credibility, business expansion opportunities, and improved food safety standards. Failing to register or renew your license can lead to heavy penalties, affecting your store’s reputation and operations.
By securing an FSSAI registration, you not only meet legal requirements but also gain a competitive edge in the market. If you haven’t applied for one yet, now is the perfect time to do so and ensure your general store operates smoothly and legally.
You can contact us at +91 9769647582 for any query or if you require our services to apply for FSSAI licence anywhere in Bharat.
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