Biscuits are among the most widely consumed food products in India, which enjoy people in all age groups. From domestic snacks to large-scale hospitality and export markets, demand for quality biscuits is steadily increasing. To ensure that biscuits manufactured in India continuously meet safety and quality standards, the Indian Standards Bureau has made certification mandatory under IS 1011: 2002 – Biscuits Specification.
This article will run through everything you need to learn about BIS certification for biscuits – to cover its importance, requirements, process and benefits.
What is BIS Certification?
The Bureau of Indian Standards is responsible for ensuring India’s national standard body, that the products sold in the market meet the specified quality, safety and reliability standards.
For biscuits, BIS certification ensures that the product follows the requirements under 1011: 2002 (specification for biscuits). This standard incorporates aspects such as:
- Ingredients used in biscuits
- Hygienic manufacturing conditions
- Nutritional value and labelling requirements
- Packaging and storage standards
- Safety from harmful substances or adulteration
Read More: Introduction To Bureau Of Indian Standards
Why Do Biscuits Need BIS Certification?
Biscuits manufacturing include materials such as flour, sugar, fat, leaving agent, and flavored substances – all of which should complete purity and hygiene parameters. BIS ensures certification:
- Biscuits are free from harmful chemicals and adulteration.
- The product complies with Indian Standard 1011: 2018 (Biscuits – Specification).
- Manufacturing units follow good manufacturing practices (GMP).
- Products meet nutrition labeling and safety requirements.
- Legal compliance for selling in Indian and export markets.
In addition, FSSAI approval covers food security alone; BIS certification ensures product quality and standardisation significant difference for manufacturers with targets for decidual brand reliability.
Benefits of BIS Certification for Biscuits
Below we mentioned benefits of BIS certificate for biscuits:
1. Consumer confidence: BIS-certified biscuits assure buyers that the product is safe, clean and high quality.
2. Valid compliance: Manufacturers and importers avoid punishment, restrictions or legal issues by meeting regulatory standards.
3. Market access: Certification is necessary for selling biscuits across India, including organised retail and government tenders.
4. Brand reputation: A BIS mark on packaging increases brand value and helps in creating customer loyalty.
5. Export opportunities: BIS certification can also strengthen the possibilities of exporting biscuits, as it displays adherence to recognized quality standards.
Steps to Obtain BIS Certification for Biscuits
Here is a step outline of how manufacturers or importers can get BIS certificate for Biscuits:
1. Application Filing: Submit the application on BIS portal (standard online).
2. Document submission: Upload the required documents and pay the fee.
3 . Inspection: BIS officers visit the manufacturing site for inspection.
4. Product Testing: Biscuit samples are tested in BIS-innovative laboratories.
5. License grant: After the product is passed, BIS issues a license and allows the use of ISI mark.
Read More: Process for getting BIS for Certification
Documents Required for BIS Certification of Biscuits
To apply for BIS registration for Biscuits, the manufacturer must prepare:
- Application form (as per BIS rules vi)
- Manufacturing license copy (under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, if applicable)
- Product Specifications and Formation Description
- Testing report from BIS-recognized laboratories
- Factory layout and process flow chart
- Quality Control Measures and Employees Description
- Packaging and labeling samples
- Address proof and applicant identity
Read More: Documents Required For BIS Registration
Validity and Renewal of BIS License
- The BIS license for biscuits is usually given for two years initially.
- It can be renewed every 2-5 years based on compliance and stability in quality.
Challenges Faced in BIS Certification
- Hygiene meets requirements
- Establishment of in-House Quality Test Laboratories
- Delay in inspection and test process
- Packaging and labeling standards are met
However, with expert guidance and proper documentation, these challenges can be handled smoothly.
Why BIS Certification Matters for Consumers
For consumers, BIS ensures certification:
- Biscuits are free from harmful chemicals or adulteration.
- They meet nutrition and labeling standards.
- They are manufactured in clean, safe facilities.
This helps to maintain confidence in everyday food products.
Conclusion
BIS certification for biscuits is not just a legal requirement – this is a commitment to consumer safety, quality and trust. For businesses, it opens the door for broad markets, brand recognition and long-term development.
If you are a biscuit manufacturer or importer, obtaining BIS certification should be your first step before entering the Indian market. With professional assistance and compliance support, this process becomes very easy to ensure that your biscuits enjoy across the country with confidence by consumers.
Is BIS certification mandatory for biscuits in India?
Yes, BIS certification ensures biscuits meet quality and safety standards as per IS 1011:2018.
Which standard applies to BIS certification for biscuits?
The applicable Indian Standard is IS 1011:2018 – Biscuits (First Revision).
Who grants BIS certification for biscuits?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) grants the certification after product testing and inspection.





