Quick Answer
Ready-to-eat (RTE) food manufacturing is a fast-growing sector in India as urban consumers seek convenience. RTE products including meals, snacks, and packaged foods require FSSAI License and must comply with stringent food safety standards given that these products are consumed without further cooking.
Who Needs FSSAI License for Ready-to-Eat Food Manufacturing?
- Ready-to-eat meal manufacturers
- Packaged snack food producers
- Instant food and convenience meal brands
- RTE vegetable and fruit product manufacturers
💡 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
- Production facility proof
- Complete product formulations
- Shelf life and stability test reports
- FSMS/HACCP plan
- Packaging type and materials list
- Labelling samples
- Water test report
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Determine License Type — Based on annual turnover decide Basic, State, or Central.
- 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).
- 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.
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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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What HACCP requirements apply to RTE food manufacturers?
FSSAI requires RTE food manufacturers to implement HACCP-based food safety management systems. Critical Control Points (CCPs) must be identified and monitored. For Central License, documented HACCP is mandatory.
What are the most critical food safety risks in RTE food?
Since RTE food requires no further cooking, any contamination entering the final product poses direct risk. Key risks include post-process contamination, inadequate pasteurisation or cooking, improper packaging, and temperature abuse during storage.
What shelf life testing is required for RTE products?
Manufacturers must conduct stability testing under normal storage conditions to determine accurate shelf life. Results must support the Best Before date declared on packaging. Third-party NABL-accredited lab testing is recommended.
What packaging standards apply to RTE food products?
Packaging must prevent microbial contamination, extend shelf life, and be tamper-evident. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is commonly used. All packaging materials must be food-grade and comply with FSSAI packaging regulations.
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