Introduction

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is a mandatory certification for food business operators in India. It ensures that the food products comply with the safety standards set by the government. Checking the FSSAI license number is an essential step for consumers, regulators, and businesses to verify the authenticity and validity of the license. This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on how to check the FSSAI license number accurately and efficiently.

Understanding how to verify an FSSAI license number is crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring food safety compliance. Whether you are a consumer wanting to confirm the legitimacy of a food product, a business owner verifying your supplier, or an authority monitoring food safety, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to perform this verification.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Obtain the FSSAI License Number

Before you can check an FSSAI license, you need the license number. This number is typically found on the product packaging, the food business premises, or official documentation provided by the food business operator. The license number is either 14 digits (for a license) or 15 digits (for a registration) and usually starts with the state code.

Step 2: Visit the Official FSSAI Website

Open your web browser and navigate to the official FSSAI website at https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in. This is the primary portal for all FSSAI-related services, including license verification.

Step 3: Access the License/Registration Verification Section

On the homepage, locate the “FSSAI License/Registration Number” verification option. This section allows you to enter the license number for validation. It is usually found under the “Food Safety” or “License” menus.

Step 4: Enter the FSSAI License Number

Input the 14 or 15-digit FSSAI license or registration number exactly as it appears. Double-check to avoid any typos, as even a single incorrect digit can result in an invalid search.

Step 5: Complete the Captcha Verification

To prevent automated abuse, the website will prompt you to complete a captcha. Enter the characters shown in the image carefully.

Step 6: Submit the Query

Click on the “Search” or “Verify” button to submit your request. The system will process the query and fetch details associated with the license number.

Step 7: Review the Verification Results

The website will display detailed information about the license number entered. This typically includes:

• License holder's name
• Business name
• License status (Active/Expired/Suspended)
• Validity period
• Business address
• Type of license or registration

Carefully review this information to confirm the authenticity and current validity of the FSSAI license.

Step 8: Save or Print the Verification Details

For record-keeping or future reference, download, save, or print the verification details available on the website. This documentation can be useful in case of disputes or regulatory checks.

Best Practices

Always Use the Official Website

Only verify FSSAI licenses through the official FSSAI portal (foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in). Third-party websites may provide inaccurate or outdated information.

Check License Validity Regularly

FSSAI licenses have a fixed validity period. Regularly verify the license status, especially when dealing with new suppliers or during routine audits.

Verify Multiple Details

Don’t rely solely on the license number. Cross-check the business name, address, and license type with the details provided on the product or business premises.

Keep Records Updated

If you are a food business operator, ensure your FSSAI license details are updated and renew your license before expiry to avoid compliance issues.

Be Aware of Fake Licenses

Fake or counterfeit FSSAI licenses are a concern in the food industry. Always perform license number verification to protect consumers and maintain industry standards.

Tools and Resources

Official FSSAI License Verification Portal

https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in – The primary resource for verifying FSSAI license and registration numbers. It provides real-time data directly from the FSSAI database.

FSSAI Mobile App

The FSSAI mobile app, available for Android and iOS, allows users to verify licenses on the go. It offers convenience and quick access to license status information.

FSSAI Database API (For Developers)

Developers and businesses can integrate the FSSAI license verification API into their systems for automated checks. This is especially useful for supply chain management and compliance software.

Government Food Safety Portals

State-level food safety departments often provide additional resources and portals linked with FSSAI data for local license verification and updates.

Real Examples

Example 1: Verifying a Restaurant License

A consumer visits a restaurant and wants to confirm the authenticity of the displayed FSSAI license number: 11234567890123. The consumer visits the official FSSAI website, inputs the license number, completes the captcha, and submits the query. The website returns the business name “Tasty Bites Pvt Ltd,” license status “Active,” and validity until “31/12/2024.” This confirms the restaurant is legally certified to operate.

Example 2: Supplier License Check for a Retail Business

A retail store owner receives a shipment of packaged snacks from a new supplier. To ensure compliance, the owner checks the supplier’s FSSAI license number printed on the packaging: 21345678901234. Using the FSSAI portal, the owner verifies that the license is valid and belongs to the supplier’s registered address, confirming product safety and regulatory adherence.

Example 3: Identifying a Fake License

A consumer finds suspicious food products with an FSSAI number: 99999999999999. Upon verification, the FSSAI website shows “No Records Found.” This indicates that the license number is fake, warning the consumer against purchasing the product and allowing authorities to take action.

FAQs

What is the difference between an FSSAI license and registration number?

An FSSAI license is a 14-digit number issued to medium and large food businesses, whereas an FSSAI registration number is a 15-digit number provided to small food businesses. Both serve to regulate food safety but differ based on business scale.

Can I verify an FSSAI license number offline?

Verification is primarily done online through the official website or app. However, food safety officers may verify licenses offline during inspections by checking physical certificates.

How often should I verify an FSSAI license number?

License verification should be done at the start of business relationships and periodically during ongoing operations to ensure continued compliance.

What should I do if the FSSAI license number appears invalid?

If a license number is invalid or not found, avoid purchasing or consuming products from that source and report the issue to local food safety authorities for investigation.

Is it mandatory for all food businesses to have an FSSAI license?

Yes, all food business operators in India must obtain either an FSSAI license or registration based on their business size and nature, as mandated by the Food Safety and Standards Act.

Conclusion

Checking the FSSAI license number is a critical step toward ensuring food safety and regulatory compliance in India’s food industry. This process protects consumers from unsafe food products and helps businesses maintain credibility. By following the detailed steps outlined in this tutorial and using the official tools and resources, you can verify FSSAI licenses confidently and efficiently. Always prioritize verifying license authenticity to foster trust and promote safe food practices.