How to Get an FSSAI Registration for a Spice Company?

Getting an FSSAI registration is a must when you are starting a spices business or company. It ensures that your spices meet the food safety and quality standards which makes the brand trustworthy and legally compliant. Customers prefer products that are FSSAI registered as it guarantees the hygiene and purity of the ingredients.

It also helps you sell the spices in online platforms, and supermarkets and even export it globally without any legal hassles. With the help of FSSAI registration, your spice business can gain credibility, avoid penalties, and ensure smooth growth in the industry. This detailed guide will discuss the process of getting an FSSAI registration for a Spice Company.

Process of Obtaining an FSSAI Registration for a Spice Company

Let us discuss the steps taken to obtain an FSSAI registration for a spice company:

Step 1: Visit the Official FSSAI Website

You need to visit the official website of the FoSCoS portal and this website is where all food businesses whether it is big or small, need to apply for registration.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Registration

The type of FSSAI registration depends on the size of your spices business:

• Basic Registration: For small spice businesses with yearly turnover up to Rs. 12 lakhs per year.
• State License:  For medium-sized businesses with yearly turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs – Rs. 20 crores.
• Central License: For large spice manufacturers and exporters with yearly turnover above Rs. 20 crore or selling in multiple states.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form

Once you choose the appropriate registration type, you need to fill out Form A for basic registration or Form B for state and central licenses which include the following:

• Business Name and Address
• Type of Food Business
• Annual Turnover
• List of Food Products

Step 4: Upload the Required Documents

To complete your application, you must submit the essential documents:

• Identity Proof
• Address Proof
• Business Registration Proof
• Food Safety Management Plan
• Importer-Exporter Code  
• NOC from Local Authorities

For different sized business or for specific criteria of business, the document may be different. Contact experts to learn more.

Step 5: Pay the Registration Fees Online

The cost of registration depends on the license type:

• Basic Registration: Rs. 100 to Rs. 500 per year
• State License: Rs. 2000 to Rs. 5000 per year
• Central License: Rs. 7500 per year

Step 6: Submit the Application and Wait for Approval

After filling out the form and attaching the necessary documents, review everything and submit your application. The approval process usually takes 7 to 30 days which depends on your business size and location. If your application is approved, you will receive your FSSAI Registration Certificate via email or you can download the certificate from the portal by logging in with your credentials. This certificate includes a unique FSSAI number, which must be displayed on your product packaging and labels.

Documents Required for FSSAI Registration

The following details include the list of documents required for different types of FSSAI registration:

Documents for Basic FSSAI Registration

The list of documents needed for basic registration

• Identity Proof
• Address Proof
• Passport Size Photos
• Food Product List
• Self-Declaration of Food Safety Measures

Documents for FSSAI State License

The list of documents needed for state license:

• Copy of identity proof
• Copy of address proof
• Business Registration Proof
• Detailed List of Spices & Products
• Annual Turnover Proof
• Water Test Report
• Food Safety Management Plan

Documents for FSSAI Central License

The list of documents needed for central license:

• Copy of identity proof
• Copy of address proof
• Business Registration Proof
• Annual Turnover Proof
• Water Test Report
• Food Safety Management Plan
• Importer-Exporter Code
• NOC from Local Authorities
• FSSAI Product Approval Certificate
• Company Registration Documents

To learn the complete set of document, you can contact Online Legal India. Their experts will assist you to inform all types of documents you require for FSSAI central license filing.

Cost and Validity

The cost and validity of FSSAI registration depend on the type of license you apply for which is mentioned as follows:

• Basic Registration: The turnover is up to Rs. 12 lakhs and the cost is between Rs. 100 per year with a validity of 1 to 5 years.
• State License: The turnover is between Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores with a cost of Rs. 2000 to Rs. 5000 per year and a validity of 1 to 5 years.
• Central License: The turnover is over Rs. 20 crores and the cost is Rs. 7500 per year with a validity of 1 to 5 years.

To learn complete guide to the cost of FSSAI registration, contact Online Legal India. They will inform you all.

Types of FSSAI Registration

The types of FSSAI registration are mentioned in the following details:

• Basis Registration: If you are starting your spices business or running it on a small scale, you will need a basic FSSAI registration. This is ideal for home-based spice sellers, small retailers, or startups.

• Who Needs Basic FSSAI Registration?

• Annual Turnover is Below ?12 Lakhs
  • If your food business has an annual turnover of ?12 lakhs or less, Basic FSSAI Registration is required.
• Small-Scale Food Businesses
  • Petty food manufacturers, home-based food businesses, small retailers, hawkers, and small food vendors.
• Startups & Small Operators
  • If you are just starting a food business and your operations are limited in size.
• Small Food Units & Transporters
  • If you run a small food processing or repackaging unit with limited production.

When Should You Apply?

• Before starting any food-related business to comply with FSSAI regulations.
• If you plan to sell food items, whether online or offline.
• If you're expanding and expect your turnover to exceed ?12 lakhs, you'll need to upgrade to a State FSSAI License later.

• State License: When your spice business is growing and expanding you will need an FSSAI state license.

When Should You Apply for a State FSSAI License?

You should apply for a State FSSAI License if your food business meets the following criteria:

Who Needs a State FSSAI License?

1. Annual Turnover Between ?12 Lakhs and ?20 Crores
   • If your food business generates revenue in this range, a State FSSAI License is required.
2. Medium-Sized Food Businesses
   • Includes small to medium food manufacturers, storage units, transporters, wholesalers, distributors, and suppliers.
3. Food Businesses Operating Within a Single State
   • If your business operates within a specific state and does not expand to multiple states.
4. Hotels, Restaurants & Catering Services
   • Medium-sized restaurants, hotels, and caterers serving food commercially.
5. Dairy Units & Food Processing Plants
   • If your dairy production is between 500–50,000 liters per day or your food processing capacity is below 2 metric tons per day.

When Should You Apply?

• Before starting or expanding your food business within a state.
• If your turnover exceeds ?12 lakhs but remains under ?20 crores.
• If you are upgrading from Basic Registration due to business growth.
• Central License: If you are a large-scale spice manufacturer, exporter, or running operations in multiple states, or doing online business.

When Should You Apply for a Central FSSAI License?

You should apply for a Central FSSAI License if your food business meets the following criteria:

Who Needs a Central FSSAI License?

1. Annual Turnover Above ?20 Crores
   • If your food business has a turnover exceeding ?20 crores, a Central FSSAI License is mandatory.
2. Businesses Operating in Multiple States
   • If your food business operates in more than one state, you must obtain a Central License for the head office.
3. Large-Scale Food Manufacturers & Exporters
   • If you are engaged in large-scale food processing, manufacturing, or exporting food products.
4. E-Commerce & Importers
   • Online food businesses, food aggregators (e.g., Swiggy, Zomato), and importers of food products must have a Central License.
5. Large Dairy Units & Food Processing Plants
   • If your dairy production exceeds 50,000 liters per day or your food processing capacity is above 2 metric tons per day.
6. Big Hotels, Restaurants & Catering Chains
   • Large hotels, restaurants, and catering businesses that cater to large volumes of customers.

When Should You Apply?

• Before starting operations if your business falls under the above categories.
• If you expand from a State License and cross the ?20 crore turnover threshold.
• If you are involved in international food trade (import/export).

Why is FSSAI Registration Important for a Spices Business?

The following details include the importance of FSSAI registration for a spices business:

• Ensures Hygienic and Safe Food Production: Spices are an everyday part of cooking and people will always expect them to be pure, fresh, and safe. FSSAI registration ensures that your spices are produced under strict hygiene standards that are free from contamination, adulteration, and harmful chemicals. This will help you maintain quality and safety at every stage from raw materials to packaging.
• Increases Credibility and Trust Among Customers: Consumers today are more aware and cautious about the quality of food products they purchase. Having an FSSAI certification on your spice packaging will assure the customer that your product is safe, authentic, and meets the government food safety standards. This trust will lead to better sales, repeat customers, and a strong reputation.
• Required for Selling Supermarkets, Online Platforms, and Exports: An FSSAI license is mandatory if you want to sell your spices in big retail stores, supermarkets, or online platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, and Big Basket. It is also important to export spices internationally as most countries require food safety certification before allowing imports.
• Avoids Legal Troubles and Penalties: Running a food business without FSSAI registration can result in heavy fines or even business closure. With a valid FSSAI license, you can operate legally and avoid unnecessary legal hassles which ensures smooth business growth.
• Exporting Spices: You can get reliability in foreign marketplace if you have export-import business. So, go for FSSAI registration/license if you have a spice business.

Terms and Conditions for Getting an FSSAI Registration for a Spice Company

Here is the list of terms and conditions for getting an FSSAI registration for a Spice Company:

• Compliance with Food Safety Standards

 Your spices must be free from contamination, adulteration, and harmful additives. The FSSAI strictly prohibits the use of artificial colors, chemicals, or preservatives beyond the approved limits.

• Proper Packaging & Labeling

Every spice product must have a clear and readable label displaying the following details such as FSSAI license number, ingredients list, manufacturing & expiry date, net weight & price, storage instructions, and company name & address.

• Hygiene & Manufacturing Practices

Spices must be processed in a clean and hygienic environment. Workers handling food must follow sanitary guidelines such as wearing gloves, and hair covers and maintaining proper hand hygiene.

• Business Premises & Water Quality

If you are manufacturing spices your premises should meet FSSAI hygiene standards. If water is used in processing, you need to submit a water test report from a certified lab.

• License Renewal & Updates

FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years and must be renewed before expiry. Any changes in the business such as a new address or product addition must be updated in the FSSAI records.

• Prohibited Spices in India

Spices are an essential part of cooking but not all spices and additives are safe for consumption. The FSSAI has banned and restricted certain spices because they can be harmful to health. Here is the list of spices prohibited in India:

• Khesari Dal: This lentil was once commonly used but is now banned because regular consumption can damage the nervous system and even cause paralysis.
• Argemone Seeds: These seeds are sometimes mixed with mustard seeds to increase weight but they contain toxic chemicals that can cause swelling and serious health issues.
• Artificial Food Colors: Some spice sellers add synthetic dyes like Sudan Red, Rhodamine B, and Metanil Yellow to make spices look more vibrant. These colors are harmful and can lead to liver damage and even cancer.
• Aflatoxins in Spices: Spices like chili, turmeric, and nutmeg can sometimes contain aflatoxins, a toxic substance that, if present in high amounts can cause liver damage and other health problems.

Getting an FSSAI registration for your Spice Company is an essential step to ensure food safety, legal compliance, and customer trust. Whether you are a small spice seller or a large manufacturer having an FSSAI license will help you sell in markets, online platforms, and even export globally. It also protects your business from legal issues and penalties. The registration process is simple and can be done online which makes it easier to get started.

By following the FSSAI guidelines you can ensure that your spices are pure, safe, and of high quality which will help your business grow successfully. This guide provided all the necessary information on obtaining an FSSAI license for a Spice Company. Visit Online Legal India and get assistance FSSAI Registration for a Spice Company from our experts.