Lifetime validity for food licence, update on turnover limits in amendments to FSSAI rules

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced amendments to its licencing framework, granting permanent validity to food licence, and revising turnover limits, in a move aimed at easing regulatory compliance for food businesses across the country.

Welcoming the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Amendment Regulations, 2026, the Mysuru Hotel Owners’ Association said the long-awaited decision would substantially reduce bureaucratic burden, particularly eliminating the need for periodic licence renewals for small and medium food business operators.

Under the revised norms, which came into effect on April 1, 2026, FSSAI licences and registrations will remain valid indefinitely unless suspended, cancelled, or voluntarily surrendered. Earlier, food business operators were required to renew their licence every year, the association stated.

With the revised limit, businesses earning up to ₹1.5 crore annually will no longer need a licence, but must register with FSSAI, the association stated.

Existing food business operators will be allowed to migrate to the new system through the FoSCoS portal, while the jurisdiction of licencing authorities remains unchanged.

Association President C. Narayanagowda described the amendment as ‘much-needed relief’ that will improve ease of doing business in the food industry.