FSSAI Repacking License: Requirements and Application Process for Food Repackers in India

Food repacking is a regulated activity under India's food safety framework. Businesses that purchase food products in bulk and repackage them under a different label or in smaller quantities for retail or distribution are classified as food repackers and must obtain an FSSAI License before commencing operations. Whether you operate a small-scale repacking unit or a larger commercial repackaging facility, understanding the applicable license type, eligibility conditions, and documentation requirements is essential to staying compliant with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's regulations.

What is a Repacking Food Business Under FSSAI?

A food repacking business is one that receives bulk food products — such as grains, spices, pulses, edible oils, or packaged goods — and repackages them into smaller units or different packaging formats for sale under a brand name or private label. FSSAI treats repacking as a food business operation because the activity involves handling, labelling, and commercial distribution of food products intended for human consumption.

Unlike food manufacturers who produce items from raw ingredients, repackers do not alter the fundamental composition of the food. However, because they are responsible for product labelling, packaging integrity, hygiene conditions, and shelf life claims, they are subject to FSSAI's licensing and compliance requirements. Even if no processing or transformation occurs, the repacking activity triggers mandatory food safety authorisation.

Understanding the difference between FSSAI registration and license is the first step before choosing the right category for your repacking unit.

Which Type of FSSAI License Do Repackers Need?

FSSAI categorises food businesses into three tiers — Basic Registration, State License, and Central License — based on annual turnover and scale of operations. Repacking businesses fall into one of these tiers depending on their revenue:

Most small and medium repacking units will qualify for a FSSAI State License. Larger commercial repacking operations — especially those supplying across multiple states or exporting goods — may require a FSSAI Central License. Always choose the applicable tier based on your projected or actual annual turnover to avoid compliance gaps.

Eligibility Criteria for the FSSAI Repacking License

Any individual, partnership firm, private limited company, LLP, or other legal entity operating a food repacking unit in India must obtain FSSAI authorisation. The key eligibility conditions are:

• The repacking unit must have a fixed business premises with adequate infrastructure for food handling and storage.
• Packaging materials used must comply with FSSAI's packaging and labelling standards.
• The business must maintain hygienic conditions in the storage and repacking area.
• Products being repacked must come from licensed/registered food suppliers or manufacturers.
• The annual turnover determines which license category applies — Basic, State, or Central.
• Repackers involved in import, export, or operations across states are generally required to obtain a Central License regardless of turnover thresholds.

Reviewing the FSSAI license requirements in detail helps you determine which conditions apply to your specific repacking setup before filing an application.

Documents Required for FSSAI Repacking License

The documentation requirements vary slightly depending on whether you are applying for a State or Central License. The following is a general list applicable to most repacking businesses:

• Duly filled and signed Form B (State/Central License application)
• Blueprint or layout plan of the repacking premises
• List of food products to be repacked
• Details of packaging materials and their compliance certifications
• Proof of ownership or rent/lease agreement for business premises
• Identity and address proof of the proprietor, partners, or directors
• Certificate of Incorporation / Partnership Deed / LLP Agreement (as applicable)
• NOC from local municipal authority or panchayat
• Water testing report (for potable water used in the unit)
• Declaration form signed by the Food Safety Management System (FSMS) in-charge
• Details of authorised signatory with photograph and ID proof

A comprehensive checklist of required documents and forms is available to help repackers prepare their application accurately before submission.

How to Apply for an FSSAI Repacking License

Applications for FSSAI licenses are processed through the FOSCOS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal. The process involves the following stages:

1. Determine License Type: Identify whether your repacking unit qualifies for Basic Registration, State License, or Central License based on annual turnover and operational scale.
2. Register on FOSCOS: Create a business account on the FOSCOS portal and select the appropriate application form.
3. Fill Application Form: Complete Form B with accurate details about your repacking premises, products, business entity, and authorised signatory.
4. Upload Documents: Attach all supporting documents in the required format and size specifications.
5. Pay Application Fee: Submit the applicable government fee online through the portal.
6. Inspection (if applicable): A food safety officer may conduct a physical inspection of your repacking premises before the license is granted.
7. License Issuance: Upon successful verification, the FSSAI license is issued and can be downloaded from the portal.

You can apply for the license online with step-by-step professional assistance to avoid delays caused by documentation errors or incorrect form selection.

Repacking businesses operating in cities like repacking businesses in Mumbai or repacking units in Delhi should also check local body requirements that may be relevant alongside the FSSAI application.

Compliance Obligations for Licensed Repackers

Obtaining the license is only the beginning. Repacking businesses must adhere to ongoing compliance obligations to retain their FSSAI authorisation:

• Labelling Standards: All repacked products must carry labels meeting FSSAI's Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, including product name, ingredient list, net weight, batch number, manufacturing date, best-before date, and FSSAI license number.
• Hygiene and Sanitation: The repacking premises must maintain cleanliness standards as prescribed in FSSAI's Schedule 4 guidelines for food business operators.
• Record-Keeping: Repackers must maintain purchase and sale records, batch traceability logs, and supplier compliance documentation.
• Annual Returns: Licensed food business operators are required to file annual returns through the FOSCOS portal.
• Renewal: FSSAI licenses are valid for 1–5 years and must be renewed before expiry to avoid penalties.

Repacking is closely related to food manufacturing compliance in many respects — especially when the repacking unit also performs minor processing or blending activities.

Why Choose IndiaFilings for Your FSSAI Repacking License

Applying for an FSSAI license as a repacking business involves navigating form selection, document preparation, portal registration, and inspection readiness — all of which can be time-consuming without professional support. IndiaFilings provides end-to-end assistance to repacking businesses seeking FSSAI authorisation.

With a team of experienced compliance professionals, IndiaFilings helps you identify the right license type, prepare documentation accurately, and manage your application on the FOSCOS portal from submission through approval. The platform's fully online process eliminates the need for in-person visits and reduces the likelihood of application rejection due to errors.

Whether you are setting up a new repacking unit or bringing an existing one into compliance, professional assistance ensures the process is handled correctly the first time, allowing you to focus on your food business operations with confidence.

Get assistance with your Repacking License application and ensure your food business meets all FSSAI requirements from day one.