FSSAI License Renewal is one of the most important compliance steps for anyone running a food business in India — whether it’s a café, processing unit, bakery, or packaged food brand. Beyond quality and taste, every food entrepreneur must ensure their business stays legally approved and food-safe through a valid FSSAI License. Yet, many small business owners, including myself once, made the same mistake — forgetting to renew the license on time, which turned into a costly reminder of how crucial timely renewal really is..

My Experience: A Costly Lesson on forgetting FSSAI License Renewal

A few years ago, I learned the importance of timely renewal the hard way. My FSSAI license had expired just 15 days past the renewal date, and I hadn’t noticed. When I tried to renew, I was shocked to discover that I had to pay a heavy penalty fee simply because I missed the window by two weeks.

It was frustrating — especially since I had been running my business diligently. But rules are rules.

Since then, I’ve made it a point to regularly check my email for FSSAI updates. Thankfully, FSSAI now sends reminder emails well before renewal dates. Those alerts have saved me from ever repeating the same mistake again.

Lesson learned: Never neglect FSSAI renewal. It’s one of the simplest yet most important compliance tasks for any food business.

You may also like to read: FSSAI Food Product Testing in India: A Guide with MSME Experience

Understanding FSSAI License Renewal & license

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues licenses to all food business operators (FBOs). Every restaurant, manufacturer, or trader dealing in food products must have a valid FSSAI license or registration.

But the license isn’t permanent — it’s issued for 1 to 5 years, and you must renew it before it expires.

Why FSSAI License Renewal Matters

1. Legal Requirement
   Operating with an expired FSSAI license is a legal offense. Authorities can issue fines or even suspend business operations.
2. Business Continuity
   Renewal ensures your license number remains active — without it, your business may face issues during audits, inspections, or exports Avoid Penalties
   FSSAI imposes a ₹100 per day late fee if renewal is delayed. In my case, a small 15-day delay became a costly affair.
3. Timely Updates from FSSAI
   The system now sends email reminders to registered addresses, so always keep your contact details updated.

Step-by-Step:FSSAI License Renewal Online

1. Visit the FoSCoS Portal:
   Go to https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
2. Log in:
   Use your existing license credentials.
3. Click on “Renewal of License/Registration.”
   Eligible licenses will appear automatically.
4. Review & Confirm Details:
   Update any changes in address, products, or contact info.
5. Upload Documents (if required):
   Renewal is simpler if no major modifications are made.
6. Pay Fees:
   The renewal fee is the same as your original registration cost (plus any applicable late fee).
7. Download Acknowledgment:
   Once processed, download the new certificate with updated validity.

FSSAI License Renewal Timeline & Late Fee Rules

• You can apply for renewal 180 to 30 days before expiry.
• If you renew after expiry but within 180 days, you must pay a late fee or reapply afresh.
• Missing renewal completely means you must file for a new FSSAI license, which resets your registration number.

Tips for MSMEs & Small Food Businesses regarding FSSAI License Renewal

✅ Set a calendar reminder 90 days before your license expiry.
✅ Always check your email and SMS for reminders from FSSAI.
✅ Renew early — it takes just a few minutes online.
✅ If your business details change (address, product range), apply for modification, not just renewal.
✅ Keep your FSSAI certificate visible at your premises — it builds customer trust.

Conclusion

FSSAI License Renewal is not just a legal formality — it’s a promise to your customers that your food is safe and your business is compliant.

I learned my lesson by paying a heavy penalty once. Now, I treat renewal as a priority task — just like paying rent or filing GST.

So, if your FSSAI renewal date is approaching, don’t delay — log in, renew, and stay compliant. Your future self (and your business) will thank you!

🧾 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is an FSSAI license?

It’s a mandatory registration issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India for all food-related businesses in India.

2. When should I renew my FSSAI license?

You should renew within 180 days before expiry and at least 30 days before the due date to avoid penalties.

3. What happens if I miss the renewal date?

You’ll be charged a ₹100 per day late fee. After 180 days, you must apply for a new license.

4. Can I renew my FSSAI license online?

Yes, the entire process is online through FoSCoS Portal.

5. How long is the renewed FSSAI license valid?

It’s valid for 1–5 years, depending on the option chosen at renewal.

6. Does FSSAI send reminders before renewal?

Yes, FSSAI sends email and SMS reminders to registered businesses — so always keep your contact details updated.

🔗 Useful References

• FSSAI FoSCoS Portal – Official Renewal Link
• FSSAI Renewal Guidelines PDF (Official)
• IndiaFilings: FSSAI License Renewal Explained
• MSME Ministry