How to Apply for an FSSAI License for Ice Cream & Frozen Desserts?

Starting an ice cream or frozen dessert business in India? You must get an FSSAI license before selling your products. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) ensures that food businesses follow hygiene and quality standards. Without an FSSAI registration, you cannot legally manufacture or sell ice cream and frozen desserts.

This guide will explain everything about the FSSAI food registration process, the types of licenses, the documents required, and how you can apply.

Why Do You Need an FSSAI License for Ice Cream & Frozen Desserts?

An FSSAI License is mandatory for any food production, distribution, or retail business. Since ice cream and frozen desserts come under the dairy category, strict quality standards apply. Having an FSSAI registration ensures that your products are safe for consumption and comply with government regulations.

Benefits of getting an FSSAI license:

• Legally operate your ice cream or frozen dessert business
• Build customer trust by ensuring food safety
• Avoid legal penalties and fines
• Get easy approvals for business expansion
• Improve brand reputation and market reach

Types of FSSAI Licenses for Ice Cream & Frozen Dessert Businesses

Depending on your business size and turnover, you must apply for the right type of FSSAI food registration. There are three types:

1. Basic FSSAI Registration

• For small businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakh
• Ideal for local ice cream vendors and small-scale frozen dessert manufacturers
• Registration is issued as an FSSAI Registration Certificate with a 14-digit registration number

2. FSSAI State License

• Required for businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore
• Suitable for medium-sized ice cream manufacturers, suppliers, and cold storage units
• Issued by the State FSSAI Authority

3. Central FSSAI License

• Mandatory for large businesses with an annual turnover above ₹20 crore
• Required for ice cream brands operating in multiple states or exporting products
• Issued by the FSSAI Central Authority

If your ice cream business falls under large-scale manufacturing, distribution, or international exports, you must apply for an FSSAI central license registration.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an FSSAI License

Step 1: Determine the Type of FSSAI License

First, check your business turnover and operations to decide whether you need a Basic, State, or Central FSSAI License.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

To apply for FSSAI food registration, you need the following documents:

For Basic FSSAI Registration:

• Passport-size photo of the applicant
• Identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, or voter ID)
• Business address proof (rent agreement, utility bill)
• Food safety management system plan

For FSSAI State License:

• Identity and address proof of business owner
• Business registration certificate (GST, MSME, or company registration)
• List of food products and ingredients
• Food safety management system plan
• Layout of the manufacturing unit
• Water quality test report (if applicable)

For Central FSSAI License:

• All documents required for the FSSAI state license
• Import-export code (if applicable)
• NOC from local authorities
• Details of machinery and equipment used in production
• Source of raw materials for ice cream manufacturing

Step 3: Submit the Application Online

Visit the FSSAI official website (https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/) and register your business. Select the appropriate license type and fill out Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State and Central License).

Upload the required documents and pay the application fee based on your license type.

Step 4: Inspection and Verification

After submission, the FSSAI authorities will review your application and may conduct a physical inspection of your manufacturing unit. Ensure that your facility follows hygiene and safety guidelines.

Step 5: Receive Your FSSAI License

Once the verification is complete, your FSSAI license will be issued. The validity period is 1 to 5 years, depending on the license type.

How Much Does an FSSAI License Cost?

The cost of an FSSAI registration varies based on the license type:

• Basic FSSAI Registration: ₹100 per year
• FSSAI State License: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year
• Central FSSAI License: ₹7,500 per year

These charges may vary based on the business type and state regulations.

Renewal and Compliance of FSSAI License

Your FSSAI license is valid for 1 to 5 years, after which you must renew it. The renewal process is similar to applying for a new FSSAI registration. If you fail to renew before the expiry date, penalties may apply.

It’s also important to follow FSSAI guidelines, such as:

• Maintaining proper hygiene and cleanliness in the manufacturing unit
• Using high-quality ingredients for ice cream and frozen desserts
• Conducting regular food safety audits
• Properly labeling products with FSSAI license number and manufacturing details

Conclusion

Getting an FSSAI license is essential for anyone planning to start an ice cream or frozen dessert business in India. It ensures food safety, builds consumer trust, and helps you run your business legally.

Whether you need a Basic FSSAI Registration, FSSAI State License, or FSSAI Central License Registration, following the right process will make your application smoother. Make sure to renew your FSSAI food registration on time and follow all compliance requirements.

If you need assistance in applying for an FSSAI license, feel free to reach out to us for expert guidance!

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get an FSSAI license?

The processing time depends on the license type:

• Basic FSSAI Registration: 7-10 days
• FSSAI State License: 30 days
• Central FSSAI License: 45-60 days

2. Can I start selling ice cream without an FSSAI license?

No, it is illegal to sell ice cream or any frozen dessert without an FSSAI registration. If caught operating without a license, you may face heavy penalties or business closure.

3. Do I need a separate FSSAI license for each manufacturing unit?

Yes, if you have multiple manufacturing units in different states, you need a separate FSSAI state license for each location. However, if you operate at a national level, you need an FSSAI central license registration.