FSSAI License Guide for Packaged Drinking Water Businesses

If you're planning to start a packaged drinking water business in India, one of the first and most important steps is getting anFSSAI license. This license is mandatory by law and shows that your water is safe, clean, and fit for human consumption.

In this guide, well explain everything you need to know about getting an FSSAI license for your packaged drinking water business step by step.

What is FSSAI?

FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is a government organization that ensures the safety, hygiene, and quality of food and beverages in the country. If you are involved in making, packaging, selling, or distributing packaged drinking water, getting an FSSAI license is mandatory. This license proves that your water meets national safety standards and is safe for public consumption. Without it, your business can face legal issues, fines, or even closure. Its a crucial step to run your water business legally and responsibly.

Why Do You Need an FSSAI License for Packaged Water?

Packaged drinking water is a highly sensitive product. Since it is directly consumed by people, it must meet strict safety and quality standards.

Heres why the FSSAI license is important:

• Its legally required by the government
  
  

• It shows customers that your water is safe and clean
  
  

• It helps you build trust with distributors, retailers, and consumers
  
  

• It allows you to market and sell your bottled water anywhere in India
  
  

• It makes you eligible for tenders, contracts, and partnerships
  
  

Without this license, your business can face legal action, heavy fines, or even shutdown orders.

Types of FSSAI Licenses

There are three types of FSSAI licenses, based on the size and scale of your business:

1. Basic Registration

For very small businesses with a turnover below ?12 lakhs per year.
Note: Not recommended for packaged water businesses, as they usually need more capacity.

2. State License

For businesses with a turnover between ?12 lakhs and ?20 crores per year. This is suitable for most medium-scale water bottling businesses that operate within a single state.

3. Central License

For businesses with a turnover above ?20 crores or those that operate in more than one state. It is also required if youre exporting water or producing packaged mineral water.

FSSAI License Requirements for Packaged Drinking Water

Before applying, make sure you have the following in place:

1. Proper Infrastructure: You must have a clean processing unit, filtration system, RO plant, and bottling facility that follows hygiene norms.
   
   

2. Water Testing Report: You need to test the water in an FSSAI-approved lab and submit the results.
   
   

3. ISI Mark (BIS Certification): For packaged water, you also need a BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certificate with an ISI mark (IS:14543).
   
   

4. Qualified Staff: Employ trained personnel for handling, processing, and packaging water.
   
   

5. Sanitation and Safety: Your unit must follow FSSAI guidelines for cleanliness and worker safety.
   
   

How to Apply for an FSSAI License

1. Go to the Website: Visit the official website of fssai registration.
   
   

2. Fill Your Details: Type in your name, mobile number, email, business name, address, and what kind of food you deal with.
   
   

3. Upload PAN Card: Take a photo and upload it
   
   

4. Check & Submit: Double-check your info. If all looks good, click Submit.
   
   

5. Pay the Fee: Pay online using UPI, card, or net banking. The amount depends on your business size.
   
   

6. OTP Call: Youll get a call to confirm your number with an OTP (one-time password). Just tell them the code.
   
   

7. Inspection(If Needed): For some businesses, an officer might visit your place to check cleanliness.
   
   

8. Get Your License: After approval, you can download your FSSAI license from the website.

Tips for Smooth Approval

• Keep all documents ready and updated
  
  

• Make sure your unit is clean and well-maintained
  
  

• Do a self-audit based on FSSAI hygiene guidelines
  
  

• Get BIS certification before applying
  
  

• Take help from a professional consultant if needed

Also Read: FSSAI license for restaurants - Documents and process

Conclusion

If you are in the packaged drinking water business, getting an FSSAI license is not optional; its required by law. More importantly, it helps you build customer trust, get legal protection, and access more business opportunities.

It may feel like a lot at first, but once you complete it, your business will be official, credible, and ready to grow.