If you're planning to start a food business in India—whether it's a restaurant, cloud kitchen, food truck, catering service, or packaged food brand—there’s one thing you absolutely can’t afford to ignore: government approvals. Without the proper licenses and registrations, your business could face penalties, shutdowns, or loss of customer trust. Regulatory compliance may seem daunting at first, but it's essential for a smooth launch and long-term success.

In this article, we’ll break down the most critical government approvals you need before starting your food business—and how Agile Regulatory can help you every step of the way.

1. FSSAI License (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India)

This is the most crucial license for any food-related business. The FSSAI license ensures your products meet safety and hygiene standards under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. There are three categories of FSSAI licenses depending on your business size:

1. Basic Registration (for turnover up to ₹12 lakh)

2. State License (for turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore)

3. Central License (for turnover above ₹20 crore or if operating in multiple states)

Failing to get an FSSAI license can result in hefty fines and loss of credibility. At Agile Regulatory, we guide you in determining the right category and handle end-to-end filing and documentation.

2. Trade License

Issued by the local Municipal Corporation, a trade license allows you to legally operate your food business in a particular area. The requirements vary from city to city, and often inspections are conducted to ensure sanitation and infrastructure standards are met.

Agile Regulatory helps you liaise with local authorities and file your application accurately to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.

3. GST Registration

If your annual turnover exceeds ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for special category states), you must register under the Goods and Services Tax (GST). It is mandatory for billing, tax compliance, and input tax credit claims.

Agile Regulatory ensures that your GST registration is processed efficiently and accurately—whether you’re running a dine-in restaurant, food delivery chain, or packaged goods operation.

4. Fire Safety Certificate

Applicable particularly for restaurants and food courts, the fire safety certificate is issued by the Fire Department to ensure the premises comply with fire prevention and safety norms. Proper ventilation, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits are usually required.

We help coordinate with the fire department and get your application approved with minimal hassle.

5. Health Trade License

Another requirement for food establishments, especially in urban areas, this license is issued by the local health department to ensure your operations won’t pose any public health risks.

Our team at Agile Regulatory ensures that all sanitary and hygiene-related documentation is correctly prepared and filed for prompt approval.

6. Shops and Establishment License

This is required to register your commercial food premises under the local labor laws. It ensures you're compliant with employee welfare, working hours, and leave policies.

We simplify the process by managing all backend documentation and follow-ups.

7. Environmental Clearance (if applicable)

If your food manufacturing unit or large-scale kitchen discharges waste or pollutants, you may need permission from the Pollution Control Board under the relevant environmental laws.

Agile Regulatory also supports businesses in obtaining consent to establish (CTE) and consent to operate (CTO) from the State Pollution Control Board, especially for food processing plants.

How Agile Regulatory Helps

Setting up a food business involves navigating through complex government procedures, understanding licensing requirements, and avoiding regulatory pitfalls. That’s where Agile Regulatory comes in.

With years of experience in regulatory consulting, we provide end-to-end support for:

1. FSSAI License Registration (Basic, State & Central)

2. Trade & Health Licenses

3. GST & Shop Establishment Registrations

4. Environmental Clearances

5. Fire & Food Safety Certifications

We handle documentation, authority coordination, timely renewals, and any follow-ups—so you can focus on growing your business, not paperwork.

Contact us today at www.agileregulatory.com or call us at 081787 31176 to ensure your food business gets off to a fully compliant and successful start.