FSSAI License Registration in Maharashtra

The FSSAI license in Maharashtra is a compulsory certification granted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to all food-related businesses. Learning how to obtain an FSSAI license ensures that every stage of the food chain, from manufacturing and packaging to distribution and sale, meets strict safety and hygiene benchmarks set by the government.

With Maharashtra being one of India’s largest hubs for restaurants, food manufacturers, and exporters, holding a valid FSSAI license is a legal formality and a mark of trust. Whether you’re running a food truck in Mumbai, a dairy unit in Pune, or a packaged snack brand in Nagpur, the license proves your products are safe and compliant for public consumption.

The FSSAI registration and licensing process is facilitated through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. It is a centralized online platform that allows food businesses to apply, track, and manage their licenses efficiently. Local authorities, including the Food Safety Officers (FSOs) and the State Food Safety Department of Maharashtra, play a crucial role in verifying documents. They conduct inspections and ensure that all food businesses comply with the state and national food safety standards.

Why Food Businesses Need an FSSAI Number in Maharashtra?

An FSSAI number serves as the official approval to operate a food business anywhere in Maharashtra. According to Section 31 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, it is legally required for all entities involved in food production, processing, catering, or retailing. Displaying the number on packaging, menus, or shop premises demonstrates accountability and boosts brand credibility.

Holding an FSSAI license helps businesses in Maharashtra:

• Operate legally under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
• Build consumer confidence with certified food quality and hygiene
• Register with delivery platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Dunzo
• Expand to interstate and export markets with recognized compliance
• Avoid heavy penalties or suspension for non-compliance

Every food-related business in Maharashtra, from small street vendors to large-scale manufacturers, must obtain an FSSAI license to operate legally. The license ensures that food is prepared, handled, and sold under safe and hygienic conditions as per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Maharashtra’s dynamic food ecosystem includes a vast network of restaurants, cloud kitchens, food processors, and exporters. Each of these entities requires an FSSAI registration or license based on their business scale, turnover, and operational reach.

Here’s who needs an FSSAI license in Maharashtra:

• Food Manufacturers & Processors: Units engaged in producing, processing, or packaging food items such as snacks, beverages, dairy, or bakery products.
• Restaurants, Cafes & Cloud Kitchens: All food service businesses in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik must have a valid FSSAI license before serving customers or listing on platforms like Zomato and Swiggy.
• Food Traders, Wholesalers & Distributors: Businesses dealing in bulk food items, raw materials, or packaged goods across Maharashtra need a State or Central license, depending on turnover.
• Retailers, Grocery Stores & Supermarkets: Shops selling edible goods, confectionery, or beverages must display their FSSAI number for consumer assurance.
• Food Transporters & Warehousing Units: Entities involved in the storage or transportation of perishable or packaged food products.
• Exporters & Importers: Businesses exporting food through Mumbai Port or importing food ingredients are required to hold an FSSAI License.
• Home Bakers & Small Food Startups: Even home-based entrepreneurs selling cakes, pickles, or snacks online or offline must register under FSSAI to ensure legal compliance and customer trust.

Businesses can check the FSSAI license number online for verification and transparency to ensure legal compliance and customer safety.

The FSSAI issues three categories of licenses based on a food business’s size, annual turnover, and operational scale. Maharashtra, being one of India’s largest food production and consumption hubs, follows this three-tier licensing system to ensure uniform safety and compliance across all food businesses.

Every Food Business Operator (FBO), from home-based bakers in Pune to large FMCG producers in Mumbai, must register under one of the following categories:

• Basic Registration: For Small Food Businesses

The Basic FSSAI Registration is meant for small and local operators with a turnover below Rs. 12 lakh per year who run low-scale food businesses within a limited area.

• • Who Needs It
    • Home-based bakers, tiffin services, and small snack units
    • Local juice corners, tea vendors, or petty retailers
    • Street food stalls and small confectionery sellers
  • License Highlights
    • Simple documentation and fast online approval through FoSCoS
    • A 14-digit FSSAI number must be displayed on packaging and shop premises
    • Valid for 1–5 years and renewable online

Example: A home-based modak seller in Pune or a small vada pav stall in Nagpur would need a Basic Registration.

• State License: For Medium-Sized Food Units

The State FSSAI License applies to mid-sized food businesses with a turnover between Rs. 12 lakh and Rs. 20 crore operating within Maharashtra’s boundaries.

• • Who Needs It
    • Restaurants, cafés, and catering units in cities like Mumbai, Nashik, or Aurangabad
    • Small and medium food manufacturers or packagers
    • Retail chains, wholesalers, and food distributors within the state
  • License Overview
    • Issued by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
    • Requires documents such as business proof, plant layout, and food safety plan
    • Validity: 1–5 years, renewable before expiry
    • Ensures compliance with both state and national food safety norms

Example: A packaged snack unit in Thane or a restaurant chain serving across Maharashtra would require a State License.

• Central License: For Large, Multi-State, or Export-Oriented Businesses

The Central FSSAI License is compulsory for businesses engaged in large-scale operations, interstate trade, or international food export/import.

• • Who Needs It
    • Major FMCG manufacturers and food brands
    • Exporters and importers of food products via Mumbai Port or Nhava Sheva
    • Large restaurant chains and food delivery platforms operating in multiple states
    • E-commerce food aggregators and suppliers to railways or airports
  • License Overview
    • Issued directly by the FSSAI headquarters in New Delhi
    • Requires detailed documentation on production capacity, machinery, and quality control
    • Ideal for enterprises with facilities in Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) zones like Navi Mumbai, Aurangabad, or Kolhapur

Example: A spice export company operating from Navi Mumbai or a dairy brand supplying across India would need a Central FSSAI License.

Each license level ensures that Maharashtra’s food businesses maintain high standards of safety, hygiene, and compliance under the FSSAI framework.

To obtain an FSSAI License in Maharashtra, Food Business Operators (FBOs) must provide specific documents that verify their identity, business authenticity, and adherence to hygiene and food safety norms. The documentation requirements vary depending on whether the business applies for a Basic, State, or Central FSSAI License.

Here’s the complete list of documents required for FSSAI registration in Maharashtra:

• Passport-size photographs and ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID) of the business owner or partners.
• Proof of business address, such as an electricity bill, a rental agreement, or a property ownership document.
• Business registration proof, such as a GST certificate, partnership deed, MSME certificate, or certificate of incorporation.
• Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan detailing hygiene and safety protocols.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local municipal corporation or gram panchayat (such as BMC, PMC, or NMC).
• Proof of premises ownership or rent agreement for the food unit, shop, or kitchen.
• List of food products to be manufactured, stored, distributed, or sold.
• Layout plan or blueprint of the food processing or storage unit (for manufacturers or large businesses).
• List of machinery and equipment used in food production or packaging.
• Water testing report from a government-approved or NABL-accredited laboratory (if water is used in processing or cooking).
• Form IX, with the nomination of persons by the company authorized to be responsible for food safety.
• Self-declaration form confirming compliance with FSSAI regulations and product standards.
• Proof of annual turnover to determine whether Basic, State, or Central license applies.
• Import Export Code (IEC) License if the business imports or exports food products.
• Employee list with medical fitness certificates for those handling food directly.
• Declaration Form B, duly signed by the proprietor, partner, or authorized signatory.
• Certificate of hygiene and sanitary conditions (for food manufacturing or storage premises).
• Authority letter authorizing the responsible person to file the FSSAI application.
• Central license copy of the head office, if the application is for a branch or unit in Maharashtra.
• Waste disposal and pest control arrangement details (for restaurants, processors, or manufacturers).

Ensuring all FSSAI license documents are complete and accurate is essential for a smooth registration process.

Note: Depending on your business type and location, additional permits such as a Shop and Establishment Certificate, Pollution Control Board consent, Fire NOC, or Trade License from the local body (like BMC or PMC) may be required before completing the FSSAI registration process in Maharashtra.

Getting an FSSAI License in Maharashtra is a simple online process managed through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. Here’s how to complete your registration step by step:

Step 1: Identify Your Business Type and License Category

• Identify your business type, such as restaurant, cloud kitchen, home-based unit, or manufacturing setup.
• Determine the scale of operations and annual turnover to know which FSSAI license applies (Basic, State, or Central).
• Collect information about your food products, ingredients, and processing methods.
• Note the full address and contact details of your business premises in Maharashtra.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

• Keep essential documents ready. Refer to the “Documents Required for FSSAI License Registration in Maharashtra” for more details.
• Ensure all documents are clear, updated, and match your business details.

Step 3: Apply Online on the FoSCoS Portal

• Visit the official FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in).
• Create an account and select the relevant FSSAI license type.
• Fill in all required details carefully, upload your documents, and pay the prescribed government fees.
• Save the acknowledgment receipt for future tracking.

Step 4: Application Review and Inspection

• The Designated Office or Food Safety Office from the FDA Maharashtra reviews the application for your district (e.g., Pune, Nagpur, Mumbai, etc).
• For small-scale businesses, approval is usually based on document verification.
• For larger food manufacturing or hotel units, a site inspection may be required to verify hygiene and equipment standards.

Step 5: Get Your FSSAI License Number and Certificate

• Once approved, a 14-digit FSSAI License Number will be issued.
• You can download your digital certificate from the FoSCoS portal and display it at your outlet, kitchen, or packaging unit as proof of compliance.

Step 6: Renew and Stay Compliant

• The FSSAI license remains valid for 1 to 5 years, based on your chosen duration.
• Renew at least 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties or suspension.
• Maintain hygiene, record-keeping, and food quality standards to ensure continued compliance during periodic inspections.

Food businesses in Maharashtra can also easily download an FSSAI certificate to remain fully compliant with state and national food safety regulations.

RegisterKaro simplifies this process by managing documentation, application filing, and follow-ups with Maharashtra’s Food Safety Department. This helps your food business get licensed quickly and hassle-free.

The cost of obtaining an FSSAI license in Maharashtra depends on the type of registration and the scale of your food business. Each category has different government fees based on turnover and operations. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Basic Registration Cost

For small and home-based food businesses, the FSSAI Basic Registration is the most affordable option. It covers small food operators with limited turnover and simple operations.

• Rs. 100 per year for small food businesses.
• Applies to businesses with a turnover of up to Rs. 12 lakhs per year.

2. State License Cost

Medium-sized food businesses operating within Maharashtra need a State License. The cost varies depending on the scale and nature of operations.

• Rs. 2,000 per year for small/medium state-level food businesses.
• Rs. 3,000 per year for medium-scale operations.
• Rs. 5,000 per year for large businesses functioning within the state.

3. Central License Cost

Large food manufacturers, importers, exporters, and multi-state operators must obtain a Central FSSAI License. The fee is higher as it covers large-scale and interstate operations.

• Rs. 7,500 per year for manufacturers.
• Rs. 15,000 per year for large manufacturers.
• Rs. 10,000 per year for importers.
• Rs. 7,500 per year for large food retailers.

Note: While the FSSAI license cost in Maharashtra listed above is the standard government charge, it may slightly differ based on local food authority regulations. Always check the latest state-specific rules before applying.

• In some districts, inspection fees or additional surcharges may apply based on food category and business size.
• Capacity-based charges or special-category business fees can also influence the total cost.

Renewing or updating your FSSAI License in Maharashtra is a mandatory step for every food business to ensure uninterrupted operations and continued compliance with food safety laws. Timely renewal and modification protect your business from fines, inspection issues, or suspension by the FSSAI.

1. Renewal Required Every 1–5 Years Before Expiry

Every FSSAI license in Maharashtra is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the term chosen during registration.

• Apply for renewal at least 30 days before the expiry date through the FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in).
• Renewal requires submission of updated details, supporting documents, and payment of the renewal fee.
• Late renewal can result in daily fines or even license suspension.

Tip: Businesses in Mumbai, Pune, or Nagpur should initiate the renewal process early to account for possible local inspection delays.

Timely FSSAI license renewal ensures uninterrupted operations, legal compliance, and continued trust with customers across Maharashtra’s food industry.

2. Apply for Modification if Address, Business Type, or Capacity Changes

Any major business changes must be reflected in your FSSAI license through the modification process, not a fresh application.

• Modify your license if there’s a change in address, business ownership, or product category.
• Update your license when you expand capacity, introduce new food items, or begin operations in a new city within Maharashtra.
• Submit the relevant supporting documents and apply online via the FoSCoS portal.

Keeping your license up-to-date prevents compliance issues during inspections.

3. Penalties for Late Renewal in Maharashtra

Failure to renew your license on time can lead to financial penalties and disruption of business activities.

• A Rs. 100 per day penalty applies for each day after license expiry.
• Licenses not renewed within the allowed period become invalid, requiring a new application.
• Operating with an expired license can result in suspension or cancellation under the FSSAI Act, 2006.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance in Maharashtra

Maharashtra’s food safety department strictly enforces FSSAI rules, particularly in high-density food markets and urban areas.

• Fine up to Rs. 5 lakh for operating without a valid FSSAI license (Section 63 of the FSSAI Act, 2006).
• Seizure of products or closure of business for non-compliant establishments.
• License suspension or cancellation in case of repeated violations or unsafe food practices.

Maintaining timely renewals and accurate records ensures smooth operations and protects your food business from regulatory action.

In Maharashtra’s thriving food landscape, from Mumbai’s iconic street vendors to Pune’s artisanal cafes and Nagpur’s packaged food startups, FSSAI registration is a mark of trust. It tells customers that what they’re consuming meets India’s highest food safety standards.

• Legal Protection and Credibility: FSSAI registration shields your business from penalties while reinforcing its legitimacy. Licensed food operators gain recognition from both authorities and consumers, allowing them to operate confidently within Maharashtra’s competitive markets.

• Builds Consumer Confidence: Displaying the 14-digit FSSAI number on packaging, menus, or stalls assures customers of product quality and hygiene. It creates transparency, an essential factor for trust in cities like Mumbai and Thane, where food choices are endless.

• Expands Market Opportunities: An FSSAI license is mandatory for e-commerce listings, wholesale supply, or export, opening doors to national and global markets. Many major retailers and aggregators refuse to onboard unlicensed vendors.

• Ensures Food Quality and Hygiene Standards: Registration ensures adherence to food safety norms, from raw material sourcing to storage, preparation, and distribution. Regular audits help identify and correct lapses before they affect consumers.

• Avoids Heavy Penalties and Business Closure: Operating without an FSSAI license can lead to fines up to Rs. 5 lakh, product seizure, or even business suspension. Renewal and compliance prevent costly interruptions.

In essence, FSSAI registration in Maharashtra is not just a rule; it’s your business’s reputation, safety assurance, and growth rolled into one.

Maharashtra hosts a vibrant mix of food enterprises, from Mumbai’s bustling restaurants to Pune’s cloud kitchens and Kolhapur’s dairy producers. Every business that manufactures, sells, distributes, or handles food must obtain an FSSAI license to operate legally and ensure consumer safety.

Here’s how FSSAI registration applies to some of Maharashtra’s most common food businesses:

• Restaurants, Cafés, & Hotels: All dine-in outlets, cafes, and hotels in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik must secure an FSSAI State or Central License based on their turnover and chain size. It ensures food served to customers meets hygiene and quality standards.

• Cloud Kitchens & Tiffin Services: Home-based food operators, tiffin centers, and delivery kitchens booming in urban areas need at least a Basic FSSAI Registration (if turnover < Rs. 12 lakh). Larger setups supplied through platforms like Swiggy or Zomato require a State License.

• Packaged Food & Beverage Manufacturers: Businesses producing snacks, beverages, dairy, or bakery items for retail or wholesale must obtain State or Central FSSAI Licenses. This includes proper labeling, ingredient disclosure, and adherence to packaging standards.

• Food Traders, Distributors, & Retailers: Supermarkets, wholesalers, and grocery distributors operating across Maharashtra need the appropriate FSSAI license depending on their turnover. It guarantees that stored and transported food remains safe and uncontaminated.

• Street Food Vendors & Small Eateries: Local street vendors and hawkers are also required to register under Basic FSSAI to ensure food safety in public spaces. The Maharashtra government promotes this to maintain hygiene in local food hubs.

• Importers & Exporters of Food Products: Businesses involved in the import or export of food commodities from ports like Mumbai or Nhava Sheva must hold a Central FSSAI License, along with an Import-Export Code (IEC).

Whether you run a home bakery in Nagpur or a restaurant chain across Maharashtra, getting the right FSSAI food license is the first step toward building credibility.

To streamline business operations and ensure transparency, every FBO in Maharashtra can approach the State Food Safety Commissioner’s Office or its regional branches for assistance with FSSAI licensing, inspection, and compliance-related queries.

State FSSAI / Food Safety Commissioner’s Office

The Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Maharashtra, oversees all FSSAI registration, licensing, and enforcement activities across the state.

Address: Commissioner of Food and Drug Administration, Maharashtra State, Survey No. 341, Bandra-Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai – 400051

Phone: 022-26122652

Email: comm.fda-mah@nic.in

Website: fda.maharashtra.gov.in

Working Hours and Helpdesk

The Maharashtra Food Safety Department provides support for FSSAI applications, renewals, and grievance redressal during working hours — Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except government holidays).

You can contact the department through the official email or use the online grievance system available on the FDA Maharashtra website (fda.maharashtra.gov.in).

Regional Offices

Maharashtra’s FDA has regional offices in Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur, and other districts to handle local food safety enforcement, inspections, and verifications. Businesses can reach out to their respective regional office for faster processing or field-related assistance.

Note: While most small food operators can complete their FSSAI registration online through the FoSCoS portal, large manufacturers and exporters may require on-site inspections before license approval. Food Safety Officers verify hygiene, premises layout, and production quality to ensure compliance with FSSAI standards in Maharashtra.