Food safety is a serious concern in India, especially with the rise of packaged foods, cloud kitchens, home bakers, and online food delivery platforms. Many people want to confirm whether a food product or outlet is genuinely licensed before consuming or doing business with it. This is where checking an FSSAI license number online becomes important.
A quick online check can help you verify if a food business is authorised, whether its license is active, and what products it is approved to sell.
⭐ Why People Check FSSAI License Numbers
People usually search for FSSAI license verification when:
- Buying packaged food and wanting to confirm authenticity
- Ordering from restaurants, bakeries, or cloud kitchens
- Partnering with food vendors or suppliers
- Avoiding fake or expired food licenses
- Ensuring compliance during inspections or audits
An FSSAI license check protects both consumers and food business operators (FBOs).
⭐ What Is an FSSAI License Number?
Every registered food business in India receives a 14-digit FSSAI license or registration number issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
This number must be:
- Printed on food packaging
- Displayed at the food business premises
- Mentioned on bills and invoices
It acts as proof that the business follows food safety laws under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
⭐ Understanding the 14-Digit FSSAI License Number
The FSSAI license number is not random. Each section carries specific information about the food business.
Breakdown of the FSSAI Number
- 1st digit – Type of registration (basic, state, or central)
- 2nd & 3rd digits – State code where the business is registered
- 4th & 5th digits – Year of license issuance
- 6th to 8th digits – Registering authority code
- Last 6 digits – Unique business identification number
This structure helps authorities trace the origin and legitimacy of the food operator.
⭐ How to Check FSSAI License Number Online (Step-by-Step)
Anyone can verify an FSSAI license online within a minute. No login or registration is required.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Visit the official FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal
Step 2: Click on the FBO Search option
Step 3: Enter the 14-digit FSSAI license number
Step 4: Fill in the captcha and submit
Step 5: View complete license details instantly
This works for restaurants, manufacturers, distributors, cloud kitchens, and packaged food brands.
⭐ Details You Can See After Verification
When you check an FSSAI license number online, the system shows:
- Name of the food business or company
- Registered address of premises
- License or registration type
- License validity status (active or expired)
- Approved food product categories
If any of these details do not match what is displayed on packaging or premises, it may indicate non-compliance.
⭐ Why FSSAI License Verification Is Important
For Consumers
- Avoids unsafe or illegally sold food
- Confirms product authenticity
- Helps report fake food businesses
For Food Businesses
- Builds customer trust
- Prevents penalties during inspections
- Required for online food platforms and aggregators
Many online platforms refuse onboarding if the license status is inactive or incorrect.
⭐ Common Mistakes People Make While Checking FSSAI Numbers
- Entering incorrect digits from faded packaging
- Confusing GST number with FSSAI number
- Assuming expired licenses are still valid
- Trusting fake logos without verification
Always rely on official portal verification, not just printed details.
⭐ FSSAI Logo and Display Rules You Should Know
Food businesses must follow strict display rules:
- FSSAI logo and license number must be clearly visible
- Font color should contrast with the packaging background
- License number must be displayed at all food premises
- Food Safety Display Board is mandatory for many businesses
Improper display can lead to fines or license suspension.
⭐ Validity and Renewal Rules for FSSAI License
- License validity ranges from 1 to 5 years
- Renewal must be done at least 180 days before expiry
- Selling food with an expired license is illegal
- Renewal delays can attract penalties
Businesses must ensure uninterrupted compliance to avoid disruption.
⭐ Can You Check FSSAI License Without Packaging?
Yes. You can verify a license if:
- The restaurant displays it at premises
- The seller provides it on invoices
- The food outlet shares it on menus or websites
If a business refuses to share its license number, it is a red flag.
🔚 Conclusion
Checking an FSSAI license number online is a simple but powerful step to ensure food safety and legal compliance in India. Whether you are a consumer, supplier, or business owner, this verification helps you avoid fraud, health risks, and regulatory trouble.
For easy-to-understand guides on government certificates, licenses, and compliance processes, visit Sarkari Bakery.