FSSAI License Registration in West Bengal

The FSSAI license in West Bengal is a mandatory certification granted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) through the Department of Food Safety, Government of West Bengal. It authorizes Food Business Operators (FBOs) to legally operate while ensuring proper hygiene and safety as per set standards.

Whether you own a sweet shop in Kolkata, a tea café in Siliguri, or a large food processing unit in Durgapur, it’s essential to obtain an FSSAI license before starting operations. FSSAI licensing is done online through the central FSSAI system via the FoSCoS portal. Applications are not submitted directly through the state department. This ensures streamlined processing, verification, and license issuance for all FBOs.

This registration ensures that every food item produced, stored, distributed, or sold adheres to the safety and hygiene norms under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. In short, an FSSAI license in West Bengal is not just a legal requirement; it’s a mark of trust and quality for consumers and a key to building a credible food business in the state.

Why Do Food Businesses Need an FSSAI Number in West Bengal?

Obtaining an FSSAI registration certificate in West Bengal is more than a legal formality; it represents trust, quality, and compliance. Under Section 31 of the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), displaying the FSSAI number on packaged food and at business premises is mandatory. Here’s why every food business in the state needs it:

• Builds customer confidence: Customers prefer food outlets that display their FSSAI number, as it assures them of hygiene, quality, and safety standards.
• Mandatory for legal operation: Running a food business without an FSSAI license in West Bengal can attract penalties ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹5 lakh, lead to suspension of operations, or even imprisonment under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Supports business expansion: The FSSAI number is mandatory for listing your food business on online delivery platforms such as Swiggy, Zomato, and Amazon Pantry, enabling growth in cities like Kolkata, Asansol, and Siliguri.
• Simplifies exports and partnerships: Distributors, wholesalers, and exporters in West Bengal often require a valid FSSAI registration certificate before entering into supply or distribution agreements.

At RegisterKaro, we simplify the entire FSSAI registration process, from document preparation to certificate delivery. Our experts ensure 100% compliance with FSSAI norms, saving you time and avoiding costly delays.

Talk to our experts today and get your FSSAI number quickly and affordably.

The Role of the FSSAI in West Bengal’s Food Safety Ecosystem

FSSAI, under the Ministry of Health, works with West Bengal’s Food Safety Department to regulate and monitor food safety. It plays a key role in ensuring that every food business in West Bengal, from local sweet shops in Kolkata to large food processing units in Haldia, complies with national food safety and hygiene standards.

The major responsibilities of FSSAI in West Bengal include:

• Setting scientific food safety standards for the manufacturing, storage, distribution, and sale of food products within the state.
• Issuing and renewing FSSAI licenses and registrations to ensure that all food business operators (FBOs) in West Bengal operate legally and maintain hygiene standards.
• Conducting periodic inspections and audits through authorized food safety officers to verify compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Promoting awareness and training food handlers through programs such as the Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) initiative, ensuring that businesses follow best practices in food safety.

By regulating, certifying, and monitoring food businesses, the FSSAI strengthens consumer confidence, ensures fair trade practices, and contributes to building a safe and transparent food ecosystem.

In West Bengal, every individual or business engaged in the preparation, sale, distribution, storage, or transportation of food must obtain an FSSAI license, as outlined in the roles and responsibilities of Food Business Operators in India.

Here are the individuals and businesses required to apply:

• Restaurants, Cafes, and Bakeries in West Bengal

West Bengal’s rich food culture, from iconic Bengali restaurants in Kolkata to small cafés in Durgapur and home-style bakeries in Salt Lake, requires every eatery to hold a valid FSSAI license. Even famous sweet shops in Chandannagar or dessert outlets in Behala must register under FSSAI to maintain hygiene standards and earn customer trust.

• Food Manufacturers, Repackers, and Processors

Businesses involved in manufacturing, packaging, or processing food, such as snack makers, spice repackers, dairy producers, and confectionery manufacturers, need an FSSAI license registration in West Bengal. This certification ensures that all food products meet the prescribed quality, labeling, and safety norms before being sold to consumers.

• Online Food Delivery and Cloud Kitchen Businesses

With the rapid rise of food delivery services through platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Blinkit, every cloud kitchen and online food business in West Bengal must obtain FSSAI registration. These setups operate without dine-in facilities, making FSSAI licensing crucial for ensuring hygiene and building customer confidence.

• Home-Based Food Businesses

Across West Bengal, many home chefs, tiffin service providers, and home bakers sell food via social media or online marketplaces. Even small-scale entrepreneurs in towns like Asansol, Bardhaman, or Kharagpur must apply for an FSSAI registration certificate to operate legally and gain credibility among customers.

• Street Food Vendors, Food Trucks, and Canteens

From Kolkata’s famous puchka and kathi roll stalls to food trucks and canteens in industrial areas, every mobile or roadside food vendor is required to register under FSSAI in West Bengal. This ensures food hygiene and protects public health, as outlined in this guide about starting a food truck business.

• Importers, Exporters, and Storage Units in West Bengal

Any business involved in importing, exporting, or storing food products, such as cold storage operators in Haldia or wholesale suppliers in Howrah, must obtain an FSSAI state license in West Bengal. This ensures that all food items handled for trade or export meet proper safety, labeling, and traceability standards.

You can download an FSSAI certificate by following the detailed steps mentioned in the linked blog.

The FSSAI registration in West Bengal operates under a three-tier licensing system based on the scale and annual turnover of the food business. Every Food Business Operator (FBO), whether small, medium, or large, must apply for the appropriate type of FSSAI license to operate legally.

• Basic Registration – For Small FBOs (Turnover Below ₹12 Lakh/Year)

The Basic FSSAI Registration in West Bengal is designed for small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakh. This includes home-based kitchens, small eateries, petty retailers, and local food stalls. The registration is done by filing Form A, and the issued 14-digit FSSAI number (starting with ‘1’) must be displayed at the place of business or printed on packaged products.

Example: A home-based snack business in Howrah or a small tea and snack stall in Asansol would require a basic FSSAI registration in West Bengal.

• State License – For Businesses with Turnover Between ₹12 Lakh and ₹20 Crore

The State FSSAI License applies to medium‑sized food businesses operating within a state (such as West Bengal) that have an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore. These are typically restaurants, mid‑scale manufacturers, distributors, and storage/warehousing units. The application is submitted via Form B. A key detail: the 14‑digit FSSAI number always begins with the digit “1” (which indicates it is a license rather than a basic registration, which begins with “2”).

Example: A restaurant in Park Street, Kolkata, or a packaged food manufacturing unit in Durgapur would need a state FSSAI license in West Bengal.

• Central License – For Large Businesses, Import/Export, or Multi-State Operations

The Central FSSAI License is required for large-scale food businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crore or those engaged in import/export or multi-state operations. These licenses are issued directly by the Central Licensing Authority. The 14-digit license number typically starts with ‘1’.

Example: A large FMCG manufacturer in Haldia exporting packaged foods, or a company operating restaurants across multiple states from its Kolkata head office, would require an FSSAI central license in West Bengal.

It’s extremely crucial to know about different types of FSSAI licenses to understand which license best suits your needs.

For FSSAI registration in West Bengal, applicants must submit accurate documents to ensure smooth approval from the Food Safety Department. Below is the list of essential documents required:

1. Owner’s Identity and Photographs: Every applicant must provide proof of identity and photos for verification purposes.

• • Recent passport-size photographs of the owner
  • Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID)

2. Proof of Business Address: Proof of your business address establishes the legal location of your food operations.

• • Electricity bill, rent agreement, or property tax receipt
  • Landlord’s No Objection Certificate (NOC), if applicable

3. Business Registration Proof: These documents confirm the legal existence and structure of your food business.

• • GST Registration Certificate

  • Partnership Deed (for partnership firms)
  • Certificate of Incorporation (for companies)
  • Udyam/MSME registration (for small units)
  • Form IX: Nomination of a person by companies (mandatory for company applicants)

4. Food Safety and Compliance Documents: Food safety documents ensure your business meets hygiene, quality, and operational standards.

• • Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan or self-declaration
  • HACCP or ISO 22000 certification (for medium/large-scale businesses)
  • List of food products to be handled, manufactured, or sold
  • Layout plan/blueprint of the processing unit (for manufacturers and storage)
  • Water testing report from an NABL-accredited lab (for manufacturers or food packers)
  • An authority letter if the application is made by an authorized representative

5. NOC from Local Municipality or Health Department: A municipal or health department No Objection Certificate (NOC) ensures compliance with local hygiene and safety norms.

• • Mandatory for restaurants, cloud kitchens, and food units

In areas governed by Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) or other local bodies such as Durgapur Municipal Corporation (DMC) and Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC), businesses may also need to obtain a Trade License or Shop and Establishment Act License either before or along with their FSSAI registration in West Bengal.

Obtaining an FSSAI license in West Bengal is now simple, quick, and completely online. You can apply for your FSSAI registration through the FoSCoS portal with expert guidance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your FSSAI food license in West Bengal:

Step 1: Share Your Business Details

Begin by contacting RegisterKaro and providing your basic business information, such as the business name, type (restaurant, café, home kitchen, etc.), and annual turnover. Our experts will determine the appropriate category of FSSAI registration in West Bengal, Basic, State, or Central, based on your scale of operations.

Step 2: Verifies Eligibility and Prepares Documents

Once eligibility is confirmed, the RegisterKaro team helps you collect and verify all necessary documents, including:

• ID and address proof of the business owner
• Business registration proof (GST, incorporation certificate, MSME, etc.)
• Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan
• NOC from local municipal or health authorities (if applicable)

This ensures that your FSSAI application in West Bengal is complete, accurate, and ready for approval without unnecessary rejections.

Step 3: File the FSSAI Application Through the FoSCoS Portal

After preparing the documents, our team files your FSSAI license application online through the official FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal at ‘foscos.fssai.gov.in’.
We fill out the appropriate form, Form A, B, or C, depending on the type of license required, and upload all verified documents for faster processing.

Note: Applicants can track their application status anytime through the FoSCoS dashboard for updates on approval and processing stages.

Step 4: Local Food Safety Officer in West Bengal Reviews and Inspects (If Required)

After submission, the local food safety officer from the Department of Food Safety, Government of West Bengal, reviews your application. In some cases, a short inspection of your food premises may be conducted to ensure hygiene and compliance with safety standards. Upon successful verification, the officer recommends license approval.

Note: If any deficiencies are found, the officer may issue a query through the FoSCoS portal, which must be rectified within 30 days to proceed with approval.

Step 5: Receive Your FSSAI License Number and Certificate Digitally

Once approved, your 14-digit FSSAI license number and digital certificate will be issued through the FoSCoS portal. You will receive it via email, and it can be downloaded and displayed at your business premises or printed on food packaging.

Example of an FSSAI license number: 11234567001234

Step 6: Start Your Food Business Legally in West Bengal

After obtaining your FSSAI registration certificate, you can legally begin operations, list your food business on platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, or Amazon Pantry, and use your FSSAI number on menus, packaging, and advertisements.

With RegisterKaro, the entire FSSAI registration process in West Bengal, from consultation and documentation to final approval, is handled efficiently, ensuring complete compliance and peace of mind for your business.

The cost of obtaining an FSSAI license in West Bengal depends on the type and scale of your food business, the license category (Basic, State, or Central), and the validity period (1–5 years).

Below is a detailed breakdown of FSSAI registration fees in West Bengal for different business categories.

• Basic Registration Cost

For small-scale food businesses such as home kitchens, tiffin services, street vendors, or petty retailers with an annual turnover below ₹12 lakh, the Basic FSSAI registration fee in West Bengal is:

• • ₹100 per year (valid for up to 5 years)

This category is ideal for small local setups or individual food entrepreneurs, such as home bakers in Howrah or snack sellers in Asansol.

• State License Cost

For medium-sized food businesses operating within West Bengal and having an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore, the State FSSAI license fees in West Bengal are as follows:

• • ₹2,000 per year for small businesses
  • ₹3,000 per year for medium-scale units
  • ₹5,000 per year for large state-level manufacturers or distributors

Restaurants in Kolkata, food processing units in Durgapur, or storage facilities in Siliguri typically fall under this license category.

• Central License Cost

For large-scale food businesses, import/export operations, or those running across multiple states, the Central FSSAI license fees in West Bengal are:

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

This license is issued directly by the Central Licensing Authority and is mandatory for FMCG brands, exporters, and multi-state operators based in West Bengal. Opting for a longer validity helps reduce future renewal expenses.

Renewing and updating your FSSAI license in West Bengal on time ensures that your food business remains legally compliant and avoids penalties from the Food Safety Department. Since the license is valid for 1 to 5 years, every FBO must complete the FSSAI license renewal in West Bengal before expiry to continue operations smoothly.

1. Renewal Required Every 1–5 Years Before Expiry

Your FSSAI license in West Bengal must be renewed before its expiry date to keep your business legally active.

• Submit the renewal application at least 60 days before expiry through the FoSCoS portal.
• If you apply within 30 days after expiry, you’ll have to pay a late penalty.
• If you miss the renewal window by more than 30 days, you’ll need to apply for a fresh FSSAI registration in West Bengal.

Steps for Renewal:

1. Log in to the FoSCoS portal.
2. Open the “Renewal” section.
3. Review and update your business details.
4. Upload the required documents (previous FSSAI certificate, annual returns, etc.).
5. Pay the renewal fee and apply for processing.

Once approved, download your renewed FSSAI license certificate and display it prominently at your food establishment or outlet.

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

If there are any changes in your food business, such as a new address, a change in ownership, business type, or production capacity, you must update your FSSAI license. The modification application can be submitted online through the FoSCoS portal. This ensures your license details remain accurate and compliant with regulations in West Bengal.

This ensures that your license accurately reflects your business details and prevents future compliance issues.

Example: If a sweet shop in College Street, Kolkata, shifts its location to Salt Lake or expands into food packaging, a modification must be filed immediately.

3. Penalties for Late Renewal in West Bengal

Failing to renew your food license in West Bengal within the prescribed time can lead to financial penalties or even license cancellation. The FSSAI Act mandates strict compliance to ensure consumer safety and business accountability.

• Renewal after expiry but within 30 days: Requires payment of a late fee.
• Renewal beyond 30 days: The license lapses, and a new registration must be obtained.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance in West Bengal

Operating a food business without a valid FSSAI license in West Bengal is a punishable offense. Authorities such as the Food Safety Officer under the Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of West Bengal, can take strict action, including fines, product seizure, or temporary closure of your business.

• Fine for Operating Without FSSAI License (Up to ₹5 Lakh): Businesses found manufacturing or selling food without a valid FSSAI license can be fined up to ₹5 lakh under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Product Seizure or Business Closure: The local Food Safety Officer can seize unsafe or unlabelled food products or temporarily shut down your establishment until compliance is achieved.
• Legal Consequences and License Cancellation: In severe cases, such as selling adulterated or misbranded food, your FSSAI license in West Bengal may be revoked, and the owner can face legal prosecution.

Timely FSSAI license renewal is crucial to ensure uninterrupted operations, avoid penalties, and maintain legal compliance for your food business in West Bengal.

Obtaining an FSSAI registration in West Bengal is not just a legal requirement; it represents a commitment to food safety, hygiene, and quality. It ensures compliance with regulations, protects public health, and strengthens consumer trust in your food products or services.

1. Legal Recognition to Operate a Food Business

An FSSAI license in West Bengal provides official authorization from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to manufacture, process, distribute, and sell food items legally.

Operating without this license can result in heavy penalties, legal actions, or closure of your establishment by the local food safety authorities under the Health & Family Welfare Department, Government of West Bengal.

2. Enhances Goodwill and Customer Confidence

Displaying your FSSAI license number on food packages, menus, or delivery apps assures customers that your products meet safety and hygiene standards.

In cities like Kolkata, Durgapur, and Asansol, where consumers are increasingly aware of food safety, having a valid FSSAI registration builds strong trust, brand credibility, and customer loyalty.

3. Makes Expansion and Funding Easier

Investors, financial institutions, and government authorities prefer dealing with FSSAI-compliant food businesses.

A valid FSSAI license in West Bengal simplifies your access to business loans, franchise approvals, government tenders, and export opportunities, enabling faster growth across multiple districts and even interstate expansion.

4. Enables Listing on Swiggy, Zomato, and Other Marketplaces

Popular food delivery platforms such as Swiggy, Zomato, and Uber Eats require every food business in West Bengal to have a valid FSSAI registration before onboarding.

Without it, your restaurant or cloud kitchen cannot operate on these platforms, significantly limiting your online customer reach in cities like Kolkata and Siliguri.

5. Ensures Long-Term Sustainability of Your Food Business

Complying with FSSAI norms ensures that your products are safe, hygienic, and traceable throughout the supply chain.

This reduces the chances of food contamination, product recalls, or legal disputes, helping your business maintain a solid reputation and ensuring long-term sustainability in the dynamic food industry of West Bengal.

Tip: To simplify the process, consult experts at RegisterKaro for hassle-free FSSAI registration, renewal, or modification services in West Bengal. They ensure your business stays compliant while you focus on growth.

Obtaining an FSSAI license is essential for all types of food businesses in West Bengal, as it ensures compliance with hygiene and safety standards and builds credibility with customers.

• FSSAI for Restaurants and Cafes in West Bengal

West Bengal, especially Kolkata, is home to a thriving café and restaurant scene in areas like Park Street, Salt Lake, and New Town. Every restaurant, café, or bakery must have an FSSAI State or Central License, depending on its annual turnover.

This license certifies that your establishment follows proper food hygiene, storage, and handling standards, which is crucial when serving large numbers of customers daily.

• FSSAI for Home-Based Food Businesses and Tiffin Services

If you run a home-based food business, such as tiffin services, snack-making, or catering from places like Behala, Howrah, or Siliguri, you must obtain a Basic FSSAI Registration.

It ensures that your products meet food safety standards even when prepared at home. Moreover, it helps build credibility with customers and supports business expansion through local delivery apps or online orders.

• FSSAI for Cloud Kitchens and Food Delivery Outlets

With the fast-growing trend of cloud kitchens in West Bengal, especially in Kolkata and Durgapur, FSSAI registration has become mandatory for all delivery-based food businesses.

Whether you operate from a shared kitchen in Salt Lake or an independent setup in Bidhannagar, you must obtain an FSSAI State or Central License to list your business on Swiggy, Zomato, or Uber Eats and stay compliant with food safety laws.

• FSSAI for Food Manufacturers and Distributors in West Bengal

For food processing units, packaged food producers, or distributors in industrial areas like Dankuni, Barasat, or Howrah, an FSSAI Central License is compulsory.

This license ensures compliance with national-level food safety norms, supports product labeling and export approvals, and enhances your brand’s credibility in both domestic and global markets.

If you’re applying for FSSAI registration in West Bengal, you may need to get in touch with the local Food Safety Commissioner’s Office for queries, inspections, or verification. This office is responsible for monitoring food safety compliance, issuing licenses, and handling renewals for food businesses operating across West Bengal.

• Office Details

Address: Office of the Commissioner of Food Safety, Swasthya Bhawan, Wing-B, GN Block, Sector-V, Salt Lake City, Kolkata – 700091

Phone: 033-2357 7930

Email: foodsafetywb@gmail.com

Website: southregion.fssai.gov.in

• Working Hours & Support

Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

For online support or grievance redressal, visit foscos.fssai.gov.in.

• Inspection Note

Most FSSAI registration and license applications in West Bengal are processed online. However, businesses applying for State or Central licenses may be required to undergo a local inspection before approval.