In the rapidly growing food industry, ensuring food safety and hygiene is paramount. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) plays a crucial role in regulating and supervising the food safety standards across the country. One of the key aspects of FSSAI compliance is obtaining the FSSAI License, which is a mandatory requirement for all food businesses in India. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the importance of the FSSAI License Number, its format, guidelines, and how you can easily check it online.

What is a FSSAI License Number? The FSSAI License Number serves as a unique identification code issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to food businesses operating within the country. It signifies that the business has complied with the safety and quality standards prescribed by FSSAI. This license is mandatory for manufacturers, traders, restaurants, and all entities involved in food processing and distribution.

FSSAI License Number Format: The FSSAI License Number follows a specific format that helps in easy identification and verification. It typically consists of a 14-digit alphanumeric code. The format of the FSSAI License Number is as follows:

• The first five digits represent the registration or license number of the manufacturer or business entity.
• The next two digits signify the state code where the business is registered.
• The next five digits denote the year of issuance of the license.
• The last two digits represent the number of licenses issued in the respective state during the given year.

For example, if a business in Maharashtra is issued the FSSAI License Number 12345678901234, it can be broken down as follows:

• License Number: 12345
• State Code (Maharashtra): 21
• Year of Issuance: 67890
• Number of Licenses Issued: 12

Guidelines Related to FSSAI License Number:

1. Display Requirement: It is mandatory for food businesses to prominently display their FSSAI License Number on all food packages and at their premises.
2. Renewal: FSSAI License must be renewed periodically as per the guidelines provided by the authority.
3. Validity: The validity period of the FSSAI License varies depending on the type of license and the nature of the business.
4. Compliance: Food businesses must adhere to the guidelines and regulations set forth by FSSAI to maintain their license validity.

How to Check FSSAI License Number Online: Checking the validity and authenticity of an FSSAI License Number is crucial for consumers and regulatory authorities alike. Fortunately, FSSAI provides an online portal where individuals can easily verify the authenticity of the license. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check the FSSAI License Number online:

1. Visit the FSSAI official website or use authorized third-party portals.
2. Enter the FSSAI License Number in the designated search bar.
3. Click on the “Search” or “Verify” button.
4. The portal will display the details associated with the FSSAI License Number, including the business name, address, and validity status.
5. Ensure that the displayed information matches the details provided by the food business.

Types of FSSAI License: FSSAI offers different types of licenses based on the scale and nature of the food business. The main types of FSSAI licenses are:

1. Basic FSSAI License: Suitable for small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover below a specified threshold.
2. State FSSAI License: Issued to medium-sized food businesses operating within a single state.
3. Central FSSAI License: Mandatory for large-scale food businesses operating in multiple states or engaging in import-export activities.