Organic food is becoming more popular as people are choosing healthier and safer options. Whether it's organic fruits, vegetables, pulses, or ready-to-eat products, consumers want clean and chemical-free food. If you run an organic food business in India, FSSAI Registration is a must. It ensures that your products meet food safety standards and gain customer trust.
What is FSSAI?
FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is the top government body that ensures food safety and hygiene across the country. Any business involved in producing, processing, packaging, distributing, or selling food must have an FSSAI registration or license.
For organic food businesses, FSSAI registration is even more important because customers expect high standards of purity and safety.
Why Organic Food Businesses Need FSSAI Registration
1. Legal Requirement: According to the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, all food businesses must get fssai registration. This rule applies to organic farms, food processors, packagers, retailers, and online sellers.
2. Builds Customer Trust: Customers buying organic food are very careful about quality. Having an FSSAI number assures them that your food is certified, hygienic, and follows all government norms.
3. Improves Market Access: With FSSAI registration, you can sell your products in supermarkets, organic stores, and e-commerce platforms like Amazon or BigBasket. Most distributors and retailers will not stock your product without an FSSAI number.
4. Enables Export: If you plan to export your organic food products, FSSAI registration is a basic requirement. It shows that your product meets India’s safety guidelines.
5. Avoids Legal Penalties: If you sell food without an FSSAI license, you could face fines up to ₹5 lakh or even jail. Getting registered helps you avoid such issues.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration in the Organic Sector?
Organic farmers or farming cooperatives
Organic food processors and manufacturers
Packers and labellers of organic food
Distributors and wholesalers
Retail grocery stores or supermarkets
Online organic food stores
Exporters of organic products
Types of FSSAI Registration for Organic Businesses
There are 3 types of FSSAI registrations based on the size of your business:
1. Basic Registration
For small businesses with a turnover of less than ₹12 lakh per year.
Best for small-scale farmers or local sellers.
Simple online form and minimal documents required.
2. State License
For businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
Suitable for medium-sized processors, retailers, and manufacturers.
Requires food safety documents and inspections.
3. Central License
For businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crore or selling in multiple states.
Also needed for food export businesses.
Involves more paperwork and strict checks.
FSSAI Guidelines for Organic Foods
FSSAI has separate rules for organic food under the Food Safety and Standards (Organic Foods) Regulations, 2017. According to this:
Organic products must be certified under NPOP (National Programme for Organic Production) or PGS-India (Participatory Guarantee System).
Labels must include the certification logo and FSSAI number.
No use of synthetic pesticides, GMOs, or chemical additives.
All records of production and sales must be maintained.
So, along with fssai registration, your organic food business must also follow these extra guidelines.
Step-by-Step Process to Get FSSAI Registration
Here’s how you can register your organic food business:
Visit the FSSAI Website: Go to the official FSSAI registration portal online.
Fill in Basic Details: Enter your personal and business details—like your name, phone number, email, business name, type of food you deal with, business type, and full address.
Upload Your PAN Card: Add a scanned copy or photo of your PAN card as part of the application.
Double-Check and Submit: Review all your information to ensure it’s correct, then click the "Submit" button.
Pay the Registration Fee: Pay the applicable fees online using UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking. The fee depends on your license category.
OTP Verification Call: Our team will call you to verify your mobile number or email using a one-time password (OTP).
Inspection (If Needed): In some cases, FSSAI officers may visit your premises for a quick inspection.
Get Your License: Once everything is approved, your FSSAI license will be available for download from the official website.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration for Organic Businesses
Here are the benefits of FSSAI registration for organic food businesses in simple, easy-to-understand language:
1. Builds Consumer Trust: When customers see the FSSAI logo on your organic food products, they feel confident that it's safe and genuinely organic. It proves your food meets quality and safety standards.
2. Legal Requirement: If you’re selling organic food—whether it's fruits, grains, juices, or snacks—you must have FSSAI registration. It keeps your business legal and helps you avoid penalties or shutdowns.
3. Wider Market Access: Many big supermarkets, online grocery apps, and organic marketplaces only buy from FSSAI-registered sellers. With registration, you can sell your products in more places.
4. Better Packaging & Labelling: FSSAI guidelines help you use proper labels and packaging. This shows clear details about ingredients and safety, which customers appreciate, especially when buying organic.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Selling uncertified food as organic
Not renewing the FSSAI license on time
Not following packaging and labelling guidelines
Failing to maintain hygiene in processing or storage
These mistakes can result in license cancellation and bad publicity. It’s better to stay compliant and protect your brand.
Note: You can also Apply for FSSAI Annual Return Filing
Conclusion
Organic food is the future—and if you're part of this green revolution, make sure you're doing it right. FSSAI registration is your first step to building a legal, trusted, and successful organic food business. It not only keeps your operations safe and transparent but also helps you win over health-conscious customers.
Whether you are a farmer, seller, or exporter, don’t wait. Get your FSSAI registration today and take your organic food brand to the next level.
