How to Check FSSAI License Number Real or Fake?

A FSSAI License Number confirms that the business that sells food complies with standards for food safety and follows the highest standards of hygiene. However, cases of fake or misused licensed numbers are on the rise. Some businesses use fake or expired license numbers on product packaging, restaurant menus, or online listings. It is harmful for consumers and may allow unsafe or unregulated food products to enter the market. Thats why it’s really important to check the FSSAI License Number Real or Fake.

How to check FSSAI License Number Real or Fake?

Follow the steps below to easily check the FSSAI License Numbers’ legitimacy from the FoSCos website.

• Visit the FoSCos website.

• Click on FBO Search.
• Enter the 14-digit FSSAI License Number.

• Click on the Submit Button.
• Get details for verification, or record not found (if the license is fake).

Details you will get for verification

• Business Name
• Address of the food business
• Types of License (State/Central/Basic)
• License Status (Active/Expired/Suspended)
• License Validity
• Kind of Business
• Product Category

Check FSSAI License Number Real or Fake with FSSAI Verification API

Apart from the FoSCos website, businesses can verify the FSSAI License number easily through the FSSAI Verification API. This method is useful for businesses that want to integrate verification directly into their own systems or applications.

• Enter the FSSAI License Number into the API.
• Get verified details of the business for verification.

API streamlines the verification process with quick verification and a simple process without manual searches.

Signs of a Fake or Invalid FSSAI License Number.

These are the common signs that distinguish whether the FSSAI License Number is real or fake:

• License Number is not 14 digits: A valid FSSAI license number is always a 14-digit unique code. If the number on a package or menu has more or fewer digits, it is likely a fake number.
• No Record Found on the FoSCos Portal: When you enter the license number on the FoSCos verification portal, and the system shows “record not found”. It usually means the license number is not registered in the official database.
• Expired or Suspended License Status: If, on searching, you got results like expired, suspend or cancelled, the food business is not legally allowed to operate. Checking FSSAI expiry is essential to avoid the consumption of unregistered businesses.
• Business Name Does Not Match the Product Brand: Sometimes the license number belongs to a different business. If the business name displayed in the verification result does not match the brand name on the product or restaurant. It may indicate misuse of the FSSAI license.
• Incorrect Address on License Type: Check whether the address, type of license (State, Central, or Basic), and business category match the food business you are checking. Any mismatch could indicate license number is used incorrectly.

Why You Should Verify FSSAI License Number?

You should verify an FSSAI License number, whether it is real or fake, due to the following reasons:

• Consumers Buying Packaged Food: Consumers should check FSSAI Number’s real or fake status. Because it confirms you are eating safe food instead of unsafe, counterfeit, or unregulated food products.
• Food Delivery Platforms: Online food delivery platforms should check the FSSAI license number legitimacy before onboarding them on the platform. Verifying licenses ensures that all listed partners operate legally and meet food safety standards.
• E-Commerce Marketplaces: E-Commerce Marketplaces that sell packaged food items should check the FSSAI License numbers of sellers and brands. It ensures the listing of only genuine food products and prevents legal issues.
• Food Distributors and Retailers: Food Distributors and Retailers should verify the FSSAI License numbers of manufacturers and suppliers before stocking products. It confirms that products are coming from approved manufacturers.

How to Report a Fake FSSAI License Number?

If you find a product or business using a fake license number, immediately report it to the food authorities.

• Visit FoSCos Website
• Click on Consumer Grievance
• Register and log in
• File the complaint and attach documents.
• Get tracking number

Call the FSSAI Helpline: Dial 1800-112-100 or 1967

Send Email to [email protected]

Go to the nearby food safety office with product details.

Conclusion

Whether you are a business or a consumer, verifying the FSSAI License number is essential. As a business, it confirms that you are working with a legitimate business. As a consumer, it confirms that you are eating a safe food product. Many illegitimate businesses are operating with fake FSSAI license numbers; you should check FSSAI license number is real or fake. You just need to follow the above guide.

FAQs

Ques: How to verify FSSAI License Number?

Ans: Go to the official FoSCos .

• Click on FBO Search.
• Enter the FSSAI License Number in the search bar.
• Fill the captcha.
• Click on Submit.

Ques: What is the format of the FSSAI License number?

Ans: It contains 14 digit numeric code with a properly arranged structure:

• 1st Digit: It indicates the type of registration (State License, Central License, or basic registration).
• 2nd-3rd Digits: It represents the state code where the food business is registered.
• 4th-5th Digits: Show the year of license registration.
• 6th-14th Digits: Unique Identification number assigned to the Food Business Operator (FBO).

Ques: How to check FSSAI number real or fake in India?

Ans: You can check the legitimacy of the FSSAI License number from FoSCos website through the FBO Search.

Ques: What to do when finding a fake FSSAI license number?

Ans: You should report it to the Food Safety Connect App or the FoSCos Grievance portal.

Ques: Can different branches of a company have different FSSAI License numbers?

Ans: Yes, different branches of a company have different FSSAI License numbers.