How to Verify an FSSAI Food License Online
A complete compliance and due-diligence roadmap for food distributors, B2B wholesale buyers, and commercial kitchens. Learn how to verify 14-digit FSSAI numbers on FoSCoS, audit product category scopes, and ensure food safety compliance.
Understanding FSSAI Food Safety Licensing
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates all commercial food manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, distribution, and wholesale trading in India. Any business manufacturing or supplying food items must hold a valid 14-digit FSSAI Registration or License.
For commercial B2B procurement, verifying your supplier's FSSAI credentials protects your organization against adulteration risks, regulatory penalties, and product recalls. FSSAI verification should always be paired with official GSTIN verification to ensure complete commercial authenticity.
The 3 Types of FSSAI Authorizations
1. Basic FSSAI Registration (14 Digits)
Eligibility: For small-scale food business operators (FBOs) and petty food manufacturers with annual turnover under ₹12 Lakhs.
Verification Priority: Verify operating address and proprietor name on the official FoSCoS public search portal.
2. State FSSAI License (14 Digits)
Eligibility: For medium-scale manufacturers, processors, storage units, and distributors with turnover between ₹12 Lakhs and ₹20 Crores.
Verification Priority: Confirm authorized food category groups (e.g., Dairy, Spices, Bakery, Processed Foods) listed under license scope.
3. Central FSSAI License (14 Digits)
Eligibility: For large manufacturers, importers, 100% export-oriented units (EOUs), and multi-state operators with turnover exceeding ₹20 Crores.
Verification Priority: Validate import-export clearance codes and central government compliance filings.
Step-by-Step FoSCoS Verification Protocol
Navigate to the official Food Safety Compliance System portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in) and click on “FBO Search”.
Input the supplier's 14-digit FSSAI number printed on invoice headers, packaging artwork, or official quote sheets.
Confirm that the company name, plant address, and license status show “Active” with a valid expiry date.
Verify that the exact food items being procured are explicitly listed under the manufacturer's approved product schedule.
Food Supplier FSSAI Red Flags
SaudaNama is an independent B2B business discovery and verification network. SaudaNama is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an official agency of GSTN, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), FSSAI, DGFT, or the Ministry of MSME.
Official Primary Sources
For verification procedures and the latest regulatory information, refer directly to the relevant official authority:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify an FSSAI license number online for free?
You can verify any 14-digit FSSAI license or registration number on the official FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in) using the public "FBO Search" tool. No portal login is required.
What is the difference between GST verification and FSSAI verification?
GSTIN verification confirms tax registration, filing history, and corporate entity status. FSSAI verification confirms food safety compliance, hygiene standards, food category authorizations, and operating plant approvals.
Is FSSAI verification mandatory for B2B food procurement in India?
Yes. Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, purchasing food items from unregistered or unlicensed suppliers creates severe legal liability and health safety risks for commercial buyers, distributors, and retailers.
How long is an FSSAI license valid?
FSSAI licenses are issued for a duration of 1 to 5 years. Food business operators must submit renewal applications at least 30 days prior to license expiry.
Does SaudaNama verify food supplier licenses?
SaudaNama cross-checks food sector suppliers against government GSTIN and trade records. Buyers procuring food products can inspect verified supplier credentials and access official verification resources on SaudaNama.