Due to the increasing demand of healthy drinks, a large number of entrepreneurs are beginning home-based ready-to-drink (RTD) juice enterprises. Under the Indian food safety laws, an FSSAI License is required in case you are planning to manufacture, pack, or sell RTD juices within your home. This paper describes the process of obtaining FSSAI License of a home-based RTD juice company, the eligibility, documents, and charges, and the overall procedure.
What Is an FSSAI License?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food businesses in India to ensure food safety and quality. Any business involved in food manufacturing, processing, packaging, or distribution must obtain an FSSAI Registration or License, depending on its scale of operations.
For a home-based RTD juice unit, FSSAI approval is compulsory even if sales are small or limited to local customers.
Is FSSAI License Mandatory for Home-Based RTD Juice?
Yes. RTD juices fall under manufactured and processed food products. Since you are producing beverages for sale, FSSAI compliance is required, irrespective of whether the business operates from home or a commercial unit.
Selling RTD juices without an FSSAI License can lead to penalties, business closure, and legal action.
Type of FSSAI License Required
The type of FSSAI approval depends on your annual turnover:
1. FSSAI Basic Registration
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Annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh
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Suitable for small home-based RTD juice sellers
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Issued by the State FSSAI Department
2. FSSAI State License
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Annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore
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Required if you expand production or supply across districts
In most cases, a Basic FSSAI Registration is sufficient for home-based RTD juice businesses at the initial stage.
Eligibility Criteria for Home-Based RTD Juice Business
To apply for an FSSAI License, you must meet the following conditions:
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Clean and hygienic food preparation area at home
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Safe drinking water source
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Proper waste disposal system
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Use of permitted food additives only
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Compliance with FSSAI hygiene and safety standards
Documents Required for FSSAI License
Here is a list of commonly required documents:
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Aadhaar Card or PAN Card of the applicant
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Passport-size photograph
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Address proof of home kitchen
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List of RTD juice products
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Food safety management plan (basic)
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Declaration form (Form A or B)
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Rent agreement or ownership proof (if applicable)
Additional documents may be requested during inspection.
Step-by-Step Process to Get FSSAI License
Step 1: Determine the Correct License Type
Assess your expected turnover and select Basic Registration or State License accordingly.
Step 2: Apply Online
Visit the official FSSAI FoSCoS portal and create an account. Fill in the application form with business and personal details.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of required documents and submit the application.
Step 4: Fee Payment
Pay the applicable government fee online.
Step 5: Inspection (If Required)
For RTD juice manufacturing, the food safety officer may inspect your home kitchen to verify hygiene standards.
Step 6: License Issuance
Once approved, the FSSAI Registration Certificate is issued with a unique 14-digit FSSAI number.
FSSAI License Fees
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Basic Registration: ₹100 per year
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State License: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per year (depending on category)
The license can be taken for 1 to 5 years, with fees payable accordingly.
Labelling Requirements for RTD Juice
FSSAI has strict labeling norms for packaged beverages. Your RTD juice label must include:
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Product name
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FSSAI logo and license number
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Ingredients list
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Net quantity
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Manufacturing and expiry date
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Nutritional information
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Manufacturer’s address
Incorrect labeling can lead to license suspension.
Renewal and Compliance
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FSSAI License must be renewed before expiry
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Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
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Maintain hygiene and quality records
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Avoid using banned colors or preservatives
Failure to comply may attract heavy penalties.
Benefits of FSSAI License for Home-Based RTD Juice Business
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Legal authorization to sell RTD juices
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Builds customer trust and brand credibility
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Enables online and retail sales
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Helps in business expansion
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Avoids legal penalties
Conclusion
Starting a home-based RTD juice business is a profitable opportunity, but obtaining an FSSAI License is mandatory for smooth and legal operations. With proper documentation, hygiene compliance, and online application, you can easily get your FSSAI Registration and grow your beverage business confidently.

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