In India, food safety is a serious concern. With thousands of food products available in the market—ranging from homemade pickles to packaged snacks—it’s natural to wonder whether everything we consume is safe. A common question that comes up is: Can I eat a product that doesn’t have FSSAI certification?
Let’s understand the answer, the risks involved, and why FSSAI registration is crucial.
What is FSSAI Registration?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a government body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It sets standards to ensure that food products sold in India are safe, hygienic, and suitable for consumption.
FSSAI registration is mandatory for all food-related businesses—whether you're a street vendor, home-based seller, restaurant owner, or food manufacturer. This registration gives a unique 14-digit FSSAI license number, which is often printed on product packaging or displayed at food outlets.
Can You Eat Products Without FSSAI Certification?
Technically, you can eat a food product without FSSAI certification, but you shouldn’t—and here’s why:
No Assurance of Safety: Products without FSSAI registration have not been verified for basic hygiene, quality, or safety standards.
Unregulated Ingredients: There’s no control over the type and quality of raw materials used, which could lead to foodborne illnesses.
No Accountability: If something goes wrong—such as contamination, food poisoning, or allergic reactions—you won’t be able to file a complaint because the food business isn’t officially recognized.
Legal Violation by the Seller: Selling food without FSSAI registration is a punishable offense under Indian law. If someone is selling food without it, they are already ignoring basic rules and ethics.
So, even if the food “looks” or “tastes” okay, consuming a product without FSSAI registration comes with real risks.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Some very small-scale or home-based food businesses may not have full FSSAI licenses but may operate under a basic FSSAI registration, which is also legally valid. This is different from no registration at all.
When buying from a new seller, especially online or at local markets, you can ask for their FSSAI registration number. Responsible sellers usually mention this in product labels or their social media bios.
How to Check FSSAI Registration?
You can verify any FSSAI license number using the FSSAI’s official portal:
FSSAI License Check
Enter the 14-digit number to view the validity, business type, and other details.
If a seller refuses to provide the number, it’s a red flag.
Conclusion
To stay safe and healthy, always prefer food products that are covered under FSSAI registration. Eating something without this certification may not lead to immediate harm, but it increases the risk of contamination and health issues.
In India, FSSAI registration is more than just a formality—it’s a promise of food safety. As a responsible consumer, your best protection is to stay informed, ask questions, and choose wisely.
