FSSAI License for Cashew Nuts Business in India

Complete Guide for Cashew Manufacturers, Processors, Repackers, Traders, Exporters, Importers & Dry Fruit Businesses

If your business manufactures, processes, roasts, flavours, repacks, stores, distributes, imports, exports or sells cashew nuts in India, obtaining the appropriate FSSAI License is generally mandatory before commencing commercial operations.

Cashew nuts fall under the dry fruits category and are regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Businesses dealing with cashew nuts must comply with the applicable food safety, hygiene, packaging, labelling and storage requirements before placing products on the market.

Whether you operate a small roasted cashew business, a dry fruit shop, a cashew processing unit, a wholesale distribution business or an export company, obtaining the correct FSSAI Registration or License helps your business operate legally while improving customer confidence and market credibility.

At FSSAI Help, we provide complete assistance with document verification, FoSCoS application filing, compliance guidance, licence renewal, modification and approval support for every category of cashew nuts business across India.

Quick Overview

Particular	Details
License Required	Mandatory for all commercial cashew nuts businesses.
Issuing Authority	Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
Application Portal	Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS)
Applicable Businesses	Cashew Manufacturers, Processors, Repackers, Traders, Wholesalers, Retailers, Importers, Exporters and E-commerce Businesses
Product Category	Dry Fruits
License Categories	FSSAI Basic Registration, FSSAI State License and FSSAI Central License
License Validity	1 to 10 Years
Instant License	Available for eligible FSSAI Basic Registration, FSSAI State License and FSSAI Central License applications

What is a Cashew Nuts Business?

A cashew nuts business includes any commercial activity involving the processing, packing, storage, distribution or sale of cashew nuts and related dry fruit products.

Depending on the nature of the business, activities may include:

• Cleaning raw cashew kernels
• Roasting cashews
• Flavouring cashews
• Grading and sorting
• Processing
• Repacking under your own brand
• Wholesale trading
• Retail selling
• Online selling
• Importing and exporting

Since cashew nuts are intended for human consumption, businesses should comply with the applicable FSSAI food safety, packaging and hygiene requirements before commencing commercial operations.

Benefits of Obtaining an FSSAI License

Obtaining an FSSAI License helps cashew businesses operate legally while demonstrating compliance with India’s food safety framework.

Key benefits include:

• Legally manufacture, process and sell cashew nuts.
• Improve customer confidence through recognised food safety compliance.
• Supply products to supermarkets, hotels, wholesalers and organised retailers.
• Sell products through Amazon, Flipkart and other e-commerce platforms.
• Support interstate distribution and export activities with the appropriate Licence.
• Improve business credibility among distributors and export buyers.
• Reduce the risk of penalties arising from non-compliance.
• Build a trusted dry fruit brand.

Services Offered

FSSAI Help provides complete licensing and compliance assistance for all categories of cashew businesses.

Our services include:

• FSSAI Basic Registration
• FSSAI State License
• FSSAI Central License
• FSSAI License Renewal
• FSSAI License Modification
• FSSAI Annual Return Assistance
• Cashew Processing Unit Compliance Guidance
• Dry Fruit Packaging Compliance Support
• Documentation and FoSCoS Application Filing
• Import and Export Compliance Assistance

Whether you are operating a home-based roasted cashew business or a large cashew processing plant, our consultants provide complete assistance until your Licence is approved.

Who Needs an FSSAI License?

The following businesses are generally required to obtain an FSSAI Registration or License before commencing commercial operations:

• Cashew manufacturers
• Cashew processors
• Roasted cashew manufacturers
• Flavoured cashew manufacturers
• Cashew repackers
• Dry fruit traders
• Cashew wholesalers
• Cashew distributors
• Cashew retailers
• Online cashew sellers
• Cashew importers
• Cashew exporters

Which FSSAI License is Right for Your Business?

Business Activity	License Generally Required
Homemade Roasted Cashew Business	FSSAI Basic Registration (where eligible)
Small Dry Fruit Retailer	FSSAI Basic Registration
Cashew Trader	FSSAI Basic Registration or FSSAI State License
Cashew Wholesaler	FSSAI State License
Cashew Distributor	FSSAI State License
Cashew Repacker	FSSAI State License or FSSAI Central License
Cashew Processing Unit	FSSAI State License or FSSAI Central License
Cashew Manufacturer	FSSAI State License or FSSAI Central License
Cashew Importer	FSSAI Central License
Cashew Exporter	FSSAI Central License
E-commerce Cashew Business	FSSAI Central License

License Categories Based on Eligibility

Eligibility Criteria	License Generally Required
Annual turnover up to ₹1.5 Crore	FSSAI Basic Registration
Annual turnover above ₹1.5 Crore up to ₹50 Crore	FSSAI State License
Annual turnover above ₹50 Crore	FSSAI Central License
Import or Export of Cashew Nuts	FSSAI Central License
Multi-state Operations	FSSAI Central License
E-commerce Dry Fruit Business	FSSAI Central License

Important Note for Cashew Businesses

Businesses involved in manufacturing, processing or repacking cashew nuts should comply with the applicable food safety and manufacturing requirements prescribed by FSSAI. Exporters and importers generally require an FSSAI Central License along with an Import Export Code (IEC) and should also comply with the applicable export and import regulations.

Home-based roasted or flavoured cashew businesses may generally begin with an FSSAI Basic Registration, provided they satisfy the applicable eligibility criteria. As the business expands, the Registration should be upgraded to the appropriate Licence category.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Obtaining an FSSAI License for a Cashew Nuts Business involves several stages to ensure that your business complies with the applicable food safety, hygiene, packaging and labelling requirements. Selecting the correct Licence category and preparing complete documentation significantly improves the chances of smooth approval.

Eligible applications may qualify for an Instant FSSAI Basic Registration, Instant FSSAI State License or Instant FSSAI Central License within 1 working day. Standard applications are generally processed within 1–7 days for Basic Registration, 5–12 working days for State Licenses and 10–15 working days for Central Licenses, subject to document verification and inspection, where applicable.

FSSAI Basic Registration for Cashew Nuts Businesses

FSSAI Basic Registration is generally suitable for eligible cashew nuts businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹1.5 crore. It is intended for small-scale food businesses engaged in roasting, flavouring, packing, storing or selling cashew nuts commercially while complying with food safety regulations. This category is commonly suitable for homemade roasted cashew businesses, dry fruit retailers, startup brands, local traders and businesses selling cashew nuts through neighbourhood stores or online platforms. Eligible businesses can begin commercial operations after obtaining the appropriate FSSAI Registration and following the applicable hygiene, packaging and labelling requirements. As the business grows in turnover, production capacity or market reach, it can be upgraded to the appropriate licence category.

Documents Required for FSSAI Basic Registration for Cashew Nuts Businesses

Businesses generally require:

• Business name
• Business address
• Aadhaar Card and PAN Card of the applicant
• Mobile number
• Email ID
• Applicant photograph

FSSAI State Licence for Cashew Nuts Businesses

An FSSAI State Licence is generally suitable for cashew nuts businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹1.5 crore and up to ₹50 crore, subject to the applicable FSSAI licensing criteria. It is commonly obtained by cashew processors, roasting units, flavouring units, repackers, wholesalers, distributors and medium-sized dry fruit businesses supplying products across multiple districts within a state. Businesses operating processing units, commercial packaging facilities or manufacturing branded cashew products generally fall under this category. A State Licence supports growing businesses by allowing them to expand production, strengthen distribution networks and supply supermarkets, organised retailers and institutional buyers while maintaining compliance with FSSAI requirements.

Documents Required for FSSAI State License for Cashew Nuts Businesses

Businesses generally require:

• Business name and address
• Aadhaar Card and PAN Card of the applicant
• Mobile number and Email ID
• Business address proof (Rent Agreement or Electricity Bill)
• Partnership Deed (for Partnership Firms)
• Incorporation Certificate, MOA and AOA (for Private Limited Companies)
• Manufacturing or processing unit photographs (where applicable)

FSSAI Central Licence for Cashew Nuts Businesses

An FSSAI Central Licence is generally required for cashew nuts businesses with an annual turnover exceeding ₹50 crore. It is also generally required for businesses engaged in importing or exporting cashew nuts, operating across multiple states, running large processing units or selling through their own e-commerce platform, irrespective of turnover where applicable. This category is commonly obtained by national dry fruit brands, large cashew manufacturers, exporters, importers, contract processors and businesses supplying products throughout India or international markets. Businesses operating under this category should also maintain proper processing standards, hygienic manufacturing practices, batch traceability and compliant packaging to meet the applicable FSSAI requirements.

Documents Required for FSSAI Central License for Cashew Nuts Businesses

Businesses generally require:

• Business name and address
• Aadhaar Card and PAN Card of the applicant
• Mobile number and Email ID
• Business address proof (Rent Agreement or Electricity Bill)
• Partnership Deed (for Partnership Firms)
• Incorporation Certificate, MOA and AOA (for Private Limited Companies)
• Manufacturing or processing unit photographs
• Import Export Code (IEC) for importers and exporters
• Website details for e-commerce businesses

The licensing authority may request additional supporting documents depending on the nature of the business.

FSSAI Licence for Different Types of Cashew Nuts Businesses 

FSSAI Licence for Homemade Roasted Cashew Businesses

Many entrepreneurs prepare roasted or flavoured cashew nuts at home and sell them through local markets, exhibitions, social media platforms or online marketplaces. Although production takes place in a home kitchen, commercial sale of roasted cashew products generally requires the appropriate FSSAI Registration or Licence. Businesses should maintain hygienic preparation areas, use quality raw cashews, follow safe roasting practices and package products using food-grade materials. As the business grows and begins supplying retailers or expanding production, the Registration can be upgraded to the appropriate licence category.

FSSAI Licence for Cashew Processing Units

Cashew processing units clean, grade, shell, dry, roast, flavour and prepare raw cashew kernels before they are packed for commercial sale. Since processing directly affects food quality and safety, businesses are expected to comply with applicable FSSAI standards relating to hygiene, manufacturing and packaging. Depending on turnover and operational scale, businesses generally require a State or Central Licence. Maintaining hygienic processing areas, food-grade equipment and proper quality control procedures helps produce safe and high-quality cashew products.

FSSAI Licence for Cashew Packers & Repackers

Many businesses purchase cashew nuts in bulk from manufacturers or processors and repack them into retail packs under their own brand. Although these businesses may not manufacture the product, repacking is a regulated food business activity because it affects packaging, traceability and consumer safety. Businesses engaged in packing or repacking cashew nuts generally require the appropriate FSSAI Licence. Product labels should contain all mandatory declarations, including the FSSAI Licence Number, ingredient details for flavoured variants, allergen declaration, batch number, manufacturing or packing date and best-before date.

FSSAI Licence for Dry Fruit Traders & Wholesalers

Dry fruit traders and wholesalers purchase cashew nuts in bulk and supply them to retailers, supermarkets, sweet manufacturers, hotels, restaurants and institutional buyers. Although they do not process the products themselves, they remain responsible for proper storage, handling and transportation. Businesses involved in wholesale trading generally require the appropriate FSSAI Registration or Licence depending on their turnover and operations. Maintaining clean storage conditions and protecting products from moisture, pests and contamination helps preserve product quality.

FSSAI Licence for Online Cashew Sellers

Many businesses sell roasted, flavoured and plain cashew nuts through their own websites and e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, Blinkit, BigBasket and other online marketplaces. Selling food online generally requires the appropriate FSSAI Registration or Licence before commencing commercial operations. Businesses should ensure that products are packed securely, labelled correctly and stored under suitable conditions before dispatch. Accurate product descriptions, allergen information and nutritional declarations help improve customer confidence while maintaining compliance with FSSAI requirements.

FSSAI Licence for Cashew Exporters & Importers

India is one of the world’s major producers and exporters of cashew products. Businesses importing or exporting cashew nuts generally require an FSSAI Central Licence along with an Import Export Code (IEC) and compliance with the applicable food import and export regulations. Imported products should comply with Indian food safety standards before entering the domestic market, while exported products must satisfy the regulatory requirements of the destination country. Proper documentation, product traceability, compliant packaging and quality control procedures help facilitate customs clearance and support international trade.

Timeline, Validity & Government Fees

Processing Timeline

License Category	Instant License	Normal Processing Time
FSSAI Basic Registration	Within 1 Working Day (Eligible Applications)	1–7 Days
FSSAI State License	Within 1 Working Day (Eligible Applications)	5–12 Working Days
FSSAI Central License	Within 1 Working Day (Eligible Applications)	10–15 Working Days

Applications requiring additional verification or inspection may take longer depending on departmental procedures.

License Validity

An FSSAI Registration or License can be obtained for a validity period ranging from 1 year to 10 years, depending on the option selected during the application.

Businesses should apply for renewal before the Licence expires to ensure uninterrupted operations and continued regulatory compliance.

Government Fees

License Category	Government Fee
FSSAI Basic Registration	₹100 per year
FSSAI State License	₹5,000 per year
FSSAI Central License	₹7,500 per year + 18% GST (₹8,850)

Major FSSAI Rules & Regulations for Cashew Nuts Businesses

Cashew nuts are regulated as food products under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Businesses involved in manufacturing, processing, repacking or selling cashew nuts should comply with the applicable food safety, hygiene, packaging and labelling requirements before commencing commercial operations.

Compliance Requirement	Business Requirement
Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006	Obtain the appropriate FSSAI Registration or License before manufacturing, processing or selling cashew nuts commercially.
Manufacturing Hygiene	Processing units should maintain hygienic premises, employee hygiene, pest control and equipment sanitation throughout production.
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)	Cashew processing should be carried out using suitable food-grade equipment and safe processing methods to minimise contamination.
Good Hygiene Practices (GHP)	Cleaning, grading, roasting, flavouring and packaging activities should be carried out under hygienic conditions.
Food-Grade Packaging	Cashew nuts should be packed in clean, food-grade packaging materials that protect the product from moisture, contamination and physical damage.
Labelling & Display Requirements	Labels should contain mandatory declarations such as product name, FSSAI License Number, net quantity, ingredient list (for flavoured products), allergen declaration, nutritional information, batch number, manufacturing date, best before date and manufacturer details, wherever applicable.
Allergen Declaration	Since cashew nuts are tree nuts, businesses should provide the applicable allergen declaration on product labels wherever required.
Storage Requirements	Cashew nuts should be stored in clean, dry conditions away from moisture, pests, direct sunlight and contamination to maintain quality and shelf life.
Batch Traceability	Manufacturers and repackers should maintain batch records to support product traceability and quality management.
Import & Export Compliance	Importers and exporters should obtain an FSSAI Central License, Import Export Code (IEC) and comply with the applicable export and import requirements.

Compliance Tips

Maintaining good manufacturing and storage practices helps preserve product quality and improve regulatory compliance.

Recommended practices include:

• Purchase quality raw cashew kernels from reliable suppliers.
• Maintain hygienic processing and roasting facilities.
• Use food-grade equipment and packaging materials.
• Store products in clean, dry environments.
• Clearly declare allergens wherever applicable.
• Maintain production and batch records.
• Check packaging quality before dispatch.
• Apply for Licence modification whenever business details change.
• Renew the Licence before expiry.

Common Compliance Mistakes

Many businesses experience delays or compliance issues because of avoidable mistakes.

Some of the most common include:

• Applying under the incorrect Licence category.
• Poor hygiene during processing or repacking.
• Using unsuitable packaging materials.
• Missing mandatory label declarations.
• Not providing allergen information where applicable.
• Improper storage leading to quality deterioration.
• Failure to maintain batch records.
• Failure to respond to departmental observations.
• Failing to renew the Licence before expiry.

Reviewing your application carefully and maintaining proper food safety practices significantly improves the chances of smooth approval.

Why Choose FSSAI Help?

Cashew manufacturers, processors, traders and exporters across India trust FSSAI Help for complete licensing and compliance support.

Our services include:

• Assistance in selecting the appropriate Licence category.
• Complete document verification.
• FoSCoS application filing.
• Cashew processing compliance guidance.
• Instant Licence assistance for eligible applications.
• Departmental query support.
• Licence renewal and modification.
• Compliance assistance until approval.

Contact FSSAI Help

Whether you manufacture roasted cashews, process raw kernels, operate a dry fruit shop, repack cashew nuts under your own brand or export cashew products internationally, obtaining the appropriate FSSAI Registration or License is essential for operating legally and maintaining customer confidence.

Get in touch with FSSAI Help today for professional assistance with your FSSAI License for Cashew Nuts Business and ensure your business complies with the applicable FSSAI requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)