Why the FSSAI License Matters
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the country's primary regulatory body for food products. Its mandate is to ensure that the food you consume is safe, hygienic, and unadulterated. Any entity involved in the manufacturing, processing,
storage, or sale of food must obtain an FSSAI license or registration. This license is not just a legal requirement for businesses; it is a mark of accountability. The presence of a valid FSSAI number signifies that the food business operator (FBO) is registered with the authorities and is subject to the food safety standards and regulations laid out by the FSSAI. For consumers, it is the first line of defence against substandard or unsafe products.
Locating the FSSAI Number
On any packaged food product, you should find the FSSAI logo along with a 14-digit number. This is typically printed near the nutritional information or the manufacturer's address. According to FSSAI's labelling rules, this information is mandatory. If a product is manufactured or marketed by different companies, you might see more than one license number. The key is to locate this 14-digit code, as this is what you will use to verify the product's credentials. The absence of this number on a packaged food item is a significant red flag.
Decoding the 14-Digit Number
That 14-digit number is packed with information. According to the FSSAI, the digits are structured to provide key details about the food business at a glance. The first digit tells you if it's a license (starts with '1') or a basic registration (starts with '2'). The second and third digits are the state code, indicating where the business is registered. The fourth and fifth digits represent the year the license was issued. The next three digits are the code of the licensing authority. Finally, the last six digits form the unique license number for the specific food business operator. Understanding this structure helps you become a more aware consumer even before you go online.
How to Verify Online in 2 Minutes
Verifying the FSSAI number is a quick and straightforward process using the official FSSAI portal. The system is called the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS). Here’s how you can do it: 1. Visit the official portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in. 2. On the homepage, find and click on the 'FBO Search' tab. This search feature is publicly accessible and does not require a login. 3. Enter the complete 14-digit FSSAI number you found on the packaging into the search box. 4. Complete the captcha security check and click 'Submit'. If the number is valid and active, the portal will display details like the business name, address, license type (Basic, State, or Central), date of expiry, and the status of the license (e.g., Active, Expired, or Suspended).
When Details Don't Match
What if the information on the portal doesn't match the product, or worse, the search returns a 'No records found' message? This could indicate several issues: the license might be fake, it could have expired, or it may belong to a different company entirely. An expired license is invalid, even if it was once genuine. In such cases, you are dealing with a non-compliant or potentially fraudulent product. It is advisable to avoid purchasing or consuming the product. You have the power to report such discrepancies and help ensure a safer food ecosystem for everyone.
How to File a Complaint
If you come across a fake license, an expired product, or any other food safety issue, you can and should report it. The FSSAI has a dedicated grievance redressal system. You can file a complaint through various channels, including their toll-free number (1800-11-2100), via WhatsApp (9868686868), or through the 'Food Safety Connect' app. When filing a complaint, it's helpful to provide as much detail as possible, including photos of the product, packaging, and the FSSAI number in question. The app allows you to upload evidence and will generate a tracking ID to monitor the progress of your complaint.
