FSSAI & BIS Licensing for Water Businesses
The packaged drinking water category is categorized as a 'high-risk' food category by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which means that stricter licensing requirements are in place. In the FSSAI's official announcement on November 20, 2024, BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) certification is no longer required for packaged drinking waters — and the requirement for an FSSAI license is now the sole legal requirement for selling. A lot of guides on the internet still refer to the previous FSSAI and BIS requirements. This page provides the latest law.
What Changed in November 2024 — and Why It Matters
FSSAI's notification reclassified packaged drinking water as a high-risk food category and removed the compulsory BIS certification requirement, replacing it with mandatory FSSAI licensing as the primary compliance route.
If you're checking older articles, checklists, or advice that says you need both — that guidance predates this change. Confirm current requirements before applying, since regulations can be updated again.
Which FSSAI License Applies to You
Because packaged drinking water is a high-risk category, Basic Registration alone is usually not sufficient — most water businesses need at least a State License.
| License Type | Annual Turnover | Who It's For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Up to ₹12 lakh | Small local operators, typically insufficient alone for packaged water given its high-risk classification |
| State License | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | Medium-sized water businesses operating within one state |
| Central License | Above ₹20 crore, or multi-state operations | Larger manufacturers and distributors |
How to Apply
Based on your annual turnover and where you operate.
Business registration, facility layout, water source details, and quality testing evidence.
Submit your application through FSSAI's FoSCoS portal.
FSSAI conducts pre-license inspections for high-risk categories like packaged water.
Expect periodic third-party audits once licensed, not just a one-time approval.
Common Mistakes
Applying for Basic Registration when a State License is required wastes time and delays your ability to legally sell.
It isn't, as of the November 2024 update, though your product still needs to meet quality standards.
FSSAI requires clarity on whether your source is municipal, borewell, or another source, with appropriate treatment evidence.
Your FSSAI license doesn't replace the need for regular water quality testing.
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