Quick Answer
Cold storage units that store food products at controlled temperatures for commercial purposes are classified as food storage businesses under FSSAI. Whether you provide cold storage services to farmers, processors, or retailers, FSSAI License is mandatory for commercial operations.
Who Needs FSSAI License for Cold Storage Unit?
- Commercial cold storage facilities
- Refrigerated warehouse operators
- Cold chain logistics service providers
- On-farm cold storage cooperatives
💡 The 14-digit FSSAI License number must be displayed at your premises and printed on all packaging, bills, and menus.
Which License Type Do You Need?
| Annual Turnover | License Type | Issued By |
|---|
| Below ₹12 Lakh | Basic FSSAI Registration | State Food Authority |
| ₹12 Lakh – ₹20 Crore | State FSSAI License | State Food Authority |
| Above ₹20 Crore | Central FSSAI License | FSSAI Central Office |
⚠️ If your business operates across multiple states, a Central FSSAI License is required regardless of turnover.
Documents Required
- PAN & Company documents
- Cold storage facility premises proof
- Refrigeration capacity and temperature zones details
- Food categories to be stored
- FSMS plan including temperature monitoring records
- Energy and standby power documentation
- NOC from pollution control board
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Determine License Type — Based on annual turnover decide Basic, State, or Central License.
- Register on FoSCoS Portal — Visit foscos.fssai.gov.in and create an applicant account.
- Fill Application Form — Complete Form A (Basic) or Form B (State/Central) with your details.
- Upload Documents — Attach all required documents in prescribed formats.
- Pay Government Fee — Pay online via UPI, net banking, or debit/credit card.
- Await Inspection — An FSSAI officer may inspect your premises within 30 days.
- Receive License — Download your FSSAI License certificate from the FoSCoS portal.
Get Your FSSAI License for Cold Storage Unit Fast
ClearlyComply experts handle the entire process. Most businesses receive their license in 15–20 working days.
Talk to an Expert
💳 Apply & Pay — ₹2,499
Fees & Timeline
| License Type | Government Fee | Processing Time |
|---|
| Basic Registration | ₹100/year | 7–10 working days |
| State License | ₹2,000–₹5,000/year | 15–30 working days |
| Central License | ₹7,500/year | 30–60 working days |
FSSAI Licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years. Renewal must be done at least 30 days before expiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What food categories can be stored in a single cold storage?
Different food categories require different temperature zones. Fruits and vegetables (0-8°C), dairy (0-4°C), meat (-1 to 2°C), and frozen items (-18°C or below) ideally have separate chambers to prevent cross-contamination.
Do cold storage operators need FSSAI if they only store food for others?
Yes. Cold storage operators providing commercial food storage services require FSSAI State License. They are responsible for maintaining food safety standards for all stored products.
What temperature monitoring records must cold storage maintain?
FSSAI requires continuous temperature logging, daily records of temperatures in each chamber, records of power failures, and corrective actions taken. These records must be available for FSSAI inspection.
What liability does a cold storage operator have for spoiled food?
If food spoils due to cold storage failure (power failure, equipment malfunction), the cold storage operator may be held liable. FSSAI may investigate if the spoiled food reaches consumers and causes illness.
Need help with FSSAI License for Cold Storage Unit?
Our compliance experts will handle everything for you.
📱 WhatsApp Us
✉️ Email Us