In recent years, food-based side hustles have become increasingly popular in India. Whether it’s homemade pickles, cakes, tiffin services, or health drinks, people are turning their cooking skills into small businesses. But what many don’t realize is that even small or home-based food businesses need to follow certain food safety rules, starting with getting an FSSAI Registration.
So, what is FSSAI, and why should you care about it if you’re just running a small side hustle? Let’s break it down.
What Is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is the government body that ensures food sold in India is safe and of good quality. If you’re preparing, packaging, storing, or selling food—even from your home—you need approval from FSSAI in the form of an FSSAI License or Registration.
There are three levels of FSSAI licensing:
- FSSAI Basic Registration – For small businesses or startups with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs per year.
- FSSAI State License – For businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
- FSSAI Central License – For large food businesses with turnover over ₹20 crores or who operate in multiple states.
Most side hustles fall under the Basic Registration category.
Why You Need FSSAI Registration for Your Side Hustle
Even if you’re selling to a few local customers or only through Instagram, you’re still handling food. That means you have a responsibility to make sure your food is safe, hygienic, and legally compliant. Here’s why FSSAI registration is a must:
1. It’s the Law
FSSAI registration isn’t optional—it’s mandatory for anyone involved in food-related activities. Not having a license or registration can lead to penalties, legal trouble, and even business shutdowns. Whether you’re selling at weekend markets or from your kitchen, you need to follow the rules.
Penalty for Non-Compliance: Operating a food business without FSSAI registration can lead to a fine of up to ₹5 lakhs and even imprisonment.
2. Builds Trust with Customers
In today’s market, customers are becoming more cautious and aware of food safety. If they see that your food business is registered with FSSAI, it adds credibility. Displaying your FSSAI number on labels, packaging, or social media builds trust and shows you take hygiene seriously.
A certified business always feels more professional than one without any approvals.
3. Expand your Opportunities
Planning to expand your side hustle one day? Maybe sell on platforms like Amazon, Zomato, Swiggy, or in retail stores? All of these platforms require you to have a valid FSSAI license.
Getting your FSSAI registration early means you’ll be ready to scale up your business whenever the opportunity comes.
4. Ensures Food Safety and Quality
To get an FSSAI registration, you need to follow basic hygiene practices, storage guidelines, and food safety standards. These aren’t just formalities—they help you make safer, cleaner, better-quality food.
By following FSSAI guidelines, you reduce the chances of contamination, foodborne illnesses, and customer complaints.
5. Helps in Branding and Marketing
Imagine this: You’re trying to promote your home bakery or food startup online. What makes your business stand out from others? An FSSAI registration gives you an edge—it shows your business is legal, safe, and reliable.
When you write “FSSAI Registered” in your ads or packaging, it adds a stamp of professionalism that impresses buyers.
6. Required for Loans, Partnerships & Investments
Want to grow your food business with funding? Planning to partner with others or take a business loan? Banks and investors look for legal compliance, and an FSSAI license is one of the first things they check.
If you already have your registration in place, you’ll be taken seriously as a business owner.
How to Get FSSAI Registration
- Go to the Website: Visit the official website of fssai registration.
- Fill Your Details: Type in your name, mobile number, email, business name, address, and what kind of food you deal with.
- Upload PAN Card: Take a photo and upload it
- Check & Submit: Double-check your info. If all looks good, click Submit.
- Pay the Fee: Pay online using UPI, card, or net banking. The amount depends on your business size.
- OTP Call: You’ll get a call to confirm your number with an OTP (one-time password). Just tell them the code.
- Inspection(If Needed): For some businesses, an officer might visit your place to check cleanliness.
- Get Your License: After approval, you can download your FSSAI license from the website.
Also Read: FSSAI Registration Renewal Process in India
Conclusion
Turning your food passion into a profitable side hustle is exciting, but it also comes with responsibilities. Getting FSSAI registration isn’t just about following the law—it’s about showing that you care about your customers’ health, your business’s reputation, and your future growth.
It doesn’t matter if you’re baking cookies at home, running a cloud kitchen, or selling pickles online—if you handle food, you need FSSAI registration.
