FSSAI Status Check 2025: The Ultimate Guide to FoSCoS License & Registration Verification

FSSAI Status Check and FoSCoS Verification Guide

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur starting a home kitchen, a restaurant owner managing multiple outlets, or a conscious consumer who wants to know if their favorite snack brand is compliant, understanding the status of an FSSAI license is crucial. In India's booming food industry, the FSSAI number is more than just a formality; it's a mark of safety, quality, and trust.

But navigating the government portal to find this information can feel overwhelming. What do the different statuses mean? How do you track an application? What if you only have the company's name?

This is your ultimate, all-questions-answered guide for 2025. We will walk you through every single step of checking an FSSAI license or registration status using the official FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. We'll cover everything from a quick status check to understanding the intricate rules, fees, and application processes.

Disclaimer (August 2025): This guide is based on the most current and comprehensive information available on the FSSAI and FoSCoS portals as of today. While the core processes are stable, government websites can undergo updates. Always refer to the official FoSCoS FSSAI portal for the absolute latest changes and announcements.

Your definitive guide to mastering the FSSAI status check in 2025.

Part 1: Why Checking an FSSAI Status is Non-Negotiable
Part 2: Decoding FSSAI - License vs. Registration
Part 3: The Core Guide: How to Check FSSAI Status on FoSCoS (3 Methods)
Part 4: What Your Application Status Means (And What to Do Next)
Part 5: A Deep Dive into Applying for a New FSSAI License/Registration
Part 6: The Complete FSSAI Fee Structure for 2025
Part 7: Key FSSAI Rules and Regulations Every FBO Must Know
Part 8: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Troubleshooting
Part 9: Conclusion - Compliance is Key

Part 1: Why Checking an FSSAI Status is Non-Negotiable

Before we dive into the "how," let's establish the "why." Checking an FSSAI status isn't just a bureaucratic task; it's a vital activity for two main groups:

For Food Business Operators (FBOs):

Compliance & Legal Safety: Operating without a valid FSSAI license is illegal and can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and even imprisonment. Regularly checking your status ensures you are always compliant, especially when it's time for renewal.
Building Customer Trust: Displaying a valid FSSAI license number on your packaging and premises tells customers that you adhere to safety standards. It’s a powerful marketing tool.
Business Expansion: To partner with online food aggregators (like Swiggy, Zomato), sell on major e-commerce platforms (like Amazon), or export your products, a valid FSSAI license is the first document you'll be asked for.
Application Tracking: If you've just applied, tracking the status is the only way to know if the authorities require more information or if your application has been approved.

For Consumers:

Ensuring Food Safety: The FSSAI license is a consumer's first line of defense. It indicates that the business is registered with the food safety authority and is subject to its regulations and inspections.
Making Informed Choices: You can quickly verify the claims of any food brand, restaurant, or street vendor. If they claim to be licensed, you can check.
Filing a Grievance: If you have a complaint about a food product's quality, you can use the FSSAI number to file a formal grievance against the correct registered entity.

Part 2: Decoding FSSAI - License vs. Registration

The term "FSSAI License" is often used as a catch-all, but there are actually three different types of FSSAI food licenses. The type you need depends on the size and nature of your business. Understanding this is key to interpreting the status correctly.

Type	Who Needs It?	Governing Body
FSSAI Basic Registration	Petty Food Business Operators. This includes small retailers, hawkers, temporary stall holders, home-based canteens, and any business with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 Lakh.	State Government
FSSAI State License	Mid-sized businesses. This includes manufacturers, processors, restaurants, and hotels with an annual turnover between ₹12 Lakh and ₹20 Crore.	State Government
FSSAI Central License	Large businesses. This includes large manufacturers, 100% export-oriented units, importers, operators in Central Government agencies (like airports, seaports), and businesses with an annual turnover above ₹20 Crore.	Central Government (FSSAI Head Office)

All three types are managed through the single, unified FoSCoS portal.

Part 3: The Core Guide: How to Check FSSAI Status on FoSCoS (3 Methods)

This is the heart of our guide. We will show you exactly how to check the status using the three primary methods available on the FoSCoS website.

The Official Website Link: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/

Method 1: Checking with an Application Reference Number (For New Applications)

This method is for FBOs who have recently applied for a new license/registration or a renewal and want to track its progress.

Navigate to the FoSCoS Website: Open your web browser and go to the official portal: foscos.fssai.gov.in.
Locate the "Track Application" Feature: On the homepage, you will find a prominent section or a clickable button labeled "Track Application". Click on it.
Enter Your Application Reference Number: After applying, you would have received a 17-digit Application Reference Number (it usually starts with the year, e.g., 2025xxxxxxxxxxxxx). Carefully enter this number into the provided field.
Enter the Captcha Code: For security, you'll need to enter the captcha code shown in the image. It's case-sensitive, so type it exactly as you see it.
Submit and View Status: Click the "Submit" button. The page will refresh to show you the detailed current status of your application, including which stage it is at (e.g., "Application submitted," "Under scrutiny by Registering Authority," "Approved").

Method 2: Verifying an Existing License/Registration Number

This method is for consumers or business partners who have a 14-digit FSSAI number and want to verify its authenticity and details.

Go to the FoSCoS Website: Again, start at foscos.fssai.gov.in.
Find the "FBO Search" Tool: On the homepage, look for a link or tab named "FBO Search" or "Food Business Operator Search." This is your primary tool for verification.
Enter the 14-Digit FSSAI Number: Type the 14-digit FSSAI license/registration number into the search box. This number is usually printed on the food product's packaging.
Complete the Captcha: Enter the security captcha code displayed.
Click "Search": The system will fetch the data associated with that number. If the license is valid, you will see details such as:
- Company/Business Name
- Registered Address
- Type of License (State, Central, Registration)
- Products the license covers
- License Status (e.g., "Active," "Expired," "Cancelled," "Suspended")
- License Issue Date and Expiry Date

If the search returns no results, the number may be fake or incorrect.

Method 3: Searching by Company Name or Address (When you don't have the number)

This method is useful but can be less precise. It's great for when you know the name of a restaurant or company but not its FSSAI number.

Access the "FBO Search" Tool: As in Method 2, navigate to the "FBO Search" section on the FoSCoS portal.
Switch to Advanced Search: Instead of entering an FSSAI number, look for an "Advanced Search" or similar option. This will open up more search fields.
Enter Business Details: You can now search by:
- Company Name: Enter the name of the business. Be as precise as possible.
- State and District: You MUST select the State and District where the business is located. This is mandatory to narrow down the search.
- Address (Optional but helpful): If you know the pin code or part of the address, enter it to get more accurate results.
Enter Captcha and Search: Complete the captcha and click "Search."
Analyze the Results: The system will show a list of all FBOs that match your search criteria. You may need to sift through the results to find the exact business you are looking for. Once you find it, you can click on its FSSAI number to view its full details and status as described in Method 2.

Part 4: What Your Application Status Means (And What to Do Next)

Seeing a status is one thing; understanding what it means is another. Here’s a breakdown of the common statuses you'll encounter when tracking a new application and the action required from you.

Status Message	What it Means	Your Next Step
Application Submitted Successfully	Your application and payment have been received by the FoSCoS system and are in the queue for processing.	No action needed. Wait for the application to be assigned to an officer.
Application reverted from authority	The inspecting officer has reviewed your application and found some information to be missing, incorrect, or requiring clarification. They have sent it back to you.	URGENT ACTION REQUIRED. Log in to your FoSCoS account, check the officer's comments, upload the required documents or correct the information, and resubmit the application. You usually have 30 days to do this.
Under Scrutiny by Registering/Licensing Authority	An officer has been assigned your file and is actively reviewing your documents and application details. They may schedule a physical inspection if required.	No action needed, but be prepared for a potential inspection call or visit.
Registration/License Issued	Congratulations! Your application has been approved. Your FSSAI Registration Certificate or License is now generated.	Log in to your FoSCoS dashboard to download the certificate. Print it and display it prominently at your business premises.
Application Rejected	Your application has been denied. This could be due to major non-compliance, failure to respond to a revert, or unsatisfactory inspection results.	Check the rejection reason provided. You can file an appeal with the relevant authority or rectify the core issues and file a completely new application.

Part 5: A Deep Dive into Applying for a New FSSAI License/Registration

For those starting their side biz, knowing the application process is the first step. Here's a detailed walkthrough.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

First, use the "Check Eligibility" tool on the FoSCoS homepage. By answering questions about your business type, capacity, and turnover, the system will tell you whether you need a Basic Registration, State License, or Central License.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

This is the most critical step. Having all your documents ready in digital format (JPG, PNG, or PDF) will make the process smooth. The required documents vary by license type.

Document	Basic Reg.	State License	Central License
Photo of the Applicant	✓	✓	✓
Government Issued ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID)	✓	✓	✓
Proof of Business Premises (Rent Agreement, Electricity Bill)	✓	✓	✓
Business Constitution (Partnership Deed, Certificate of Incorporation)	-	✓	✓
Blueprint/Layout Plan of the Processing Unit	-	✓	✓
List of Directors / Partners with full details	-	✓	✓
List of Food Categories to be manufactured/sold	✓	✓	✓
Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan	-	✓	✓
Water Analysis Report from a recognized lab	-	✓ (For manufacturers)	✓ (For manufacturers)
Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT	-	-	✓ (For importers/exporters)

Step 3: The Online Application Process

Sign Up on FoSCoS: Create an account using a valid mobile number and email ID.
Apply for License/Registration: Log in and select the appropriate license type.
Fill in the Form: Carefully fill in Form A (for Basic Registration) or Form B (for State/Central License). This includes your business name, address, food categories, etc.
Upload Documents: Upload the scanned copies of all the documents you gathered in Step 2.
Pay the Fee: Pay the requisite government fee online via the available payment gateways (credit/debit card, net banking, UPI).
Note Your Reference Number: Once the payment is successful, the system will generate your 17-digit reference number. Save this number! You will use it to track your application.

Part 6: The Complete FSSAI Fee Structure for 2025

The government fees are charged per year. You can apply for a license for a period of 1 to 5 years.

License/Registration Type	Government Fee (Per Year)
FSSAI Basic Registration	₹100
FSSAI State License (based on production capacity/type)	₹2,000 to ₹5,000
FSSAI Central License	₹7,500

Note: The fee for a State license can vary. For example, a 3-star hotel will have a different fee than a mid-sized dairy processing unit. The FoSCoS portal automatically calculates the exact fee for you during the application process.

Part 7: Key FSSAI Rules and Regulations Every FBO Must Know

Getting the license is just the beginning. Maintaining compliance is an ongoing process governed by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Here are some critical rules:

Display of License: All FBOs must prominently display the FSSAI Registration Certificate or License at their premises during business hours. For packaged food, the 14-digit FSSAI number and logo must be printed on the label.
Hygiene and Sanitary Practices (Schedule 4): All FBOs must adhere to the hygiene standards related to premises, equipment, water supply, pest control, and personal hygiene of food handlers.
Product Standards: All food products must conform to the standards laid out in the FSSAI regulations. Using banned substances or exceeding permitted additive levels is a serious offense.
Food Handler Training: FSSAI mandates that at least one person in every food business should be a certified Food Safety Supervisor under the FoSTaC (Food Safety Training and Certification) program.

Renewal of License:

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Penalties can range from ₹25,000 for unhygienic conditions to ₹10 Lakh and imprisonment for selling unsafe food that causes death.

Part 8: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Troubleshooting

Here are answers to some of the most common questions and problems users face.

Q1: I lost my 17-digit application reference number. How can I track my application?: A: If you've lost the reference number, you cannot use the "Track Application" feature directly. You will have to wait for the license to be issued. Once issued, you can search for it using your company name and location via the "FBO Search" tool (Method 3 above).
Q2: The FoSCoS website is slow or not working. What should I do?: A: Government portals can sometimes experience heavy traffic. Try accessing the site during off-peak hours (e.g., late at night or early in the morning). Clearing your browser's cache or trying a different browser can also help.
Q3: My application has been "reverted." How much time do I have to respond?: A: You typically have 30 days from the date of revert to respond to the officer's query. If you fail to respond within this timeframe, your application will be automatically rejected.
Q4: My license is showing as "Expired." What should I do?: A: You cannot operate a food business with an expired license. It is illegal. You must immediately stop all food business activities and apply for a completely new license. You cannot renew an expired license.
Q5: Can I modify my FSSAI license after it has been issued?: A: Yes. You can apply for a "Modification" through the FoSCoS portal to change details like your address, add new food products, or update director information. This process also requires a fee and approval from the authority.
Q6: Does a home baker selling cakes on Instagram need an FSSAI license?: A: Absolutely. This falls under a "home-based canteen" or "petty retailer." If the annual turnover is less than ₹12 Lakh, they must obtain an FSSAI Basic Registration.

Part 9: Conclusion - Compliance is Key

The FSSAI framework, powered by the digital FoSCoS portal, has streamlined food safety compliance in India. For any side biz or large enterprise in the food sector, understanding how to check, verify, and maintain your FSSAI status is not just a legal requirement—it's a fundamental pillar of a successful and trustworthy business.

Use this guide as your reference, bookmark the FoSCoS portal, and make compliance a priority. By doing so, you not only protect your business from legal trouble but also contribute to a safer food ecosystem for all of India.

About the Author

Venugopal.G is the founder of Build Your Side Biz and a 25-year marketing veteran. After a long career launching products and building brands, his mission is now to empower aspiring entrepreneurs with the practical knowledge and confidence needed to succeed. Read his full story here.

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