Food safety and hygiene are not just consumer expectations but also legal requirements in India. To regulate this, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) makes it mandatory for all food businesses to obtain FSSAI Registration or License before starting operations.
The type of FSSAI registration depends on the scale of business, turnover, and nature of food activity. Choosing the correct category is crucial to remain compliant and avoid penalties. Let’s understand the different types of FSSAI registration in India.
1. FSSAI Basic Registration
Who needs it?
Small food businesses and petty food manufacturers.
Businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.
Examples:
Local kirana shops
Tea stalls and small dhabas
Home-based food sellers
Small food vendors and hawkers
Key Features:
It is the simplest form of FSSAI compliance.
Requires Form A submission.
Issued for 1 to 5 years.
2. FSSAI State License
Who needs it?
Medium-sized food businesses.
Businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
Examples:
Mid-sized restaurants, snack manufacturers, and distributors
Small to medium-sized food storage or transport units
Dairy units (with capacity up to 50,000 liters/day)
Hotels and catering services supplying to state level
Key Features:
Requires submission of Form B.
Issued by the State Government.
Valid for 1 to 5 years.
3. FSSAI Central License
Who needs it?
Large-scale food businesses.
Businesses with an annual turnover above ₹20 crore.
Units involved in food exports or imports.
Examples:
Large restaurants, food chains, and franchises
Export-oriented food businesses
Large-scale manufacturers and processors
5-star hotels, airports, and seaports food service units
Importers and exporters of food products
Key Features:
Requires submission of Form B with detailed documents.
Issued by the Central Government.
Mandatory for businesses operating in multiple states.
Quick Comparison of FSSAI Registrations
| Type of Registration | Annual Turnover | Applicable To | Issuing Authority | Form Used |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Up to ₹12 lakh | Small FBOs, hawkers, petty manufacturers | Local authority | Form A |
| State License | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | Medium-sized FBOs like restaurants, distributors, dairies | State Government | Form B |
| Central License | Above ₹20 crore | Large-scale businesses, import/export, multi-state operators | Central Government | Form B |
Why Choosing the Right FSSAI Registration Matters
Legal compliance: Avoids penalties and shutdowns.
Market credibility: Boosts customer trust with a valid license number on food products.
Business growth: Correct registration allows seamless expansion.
Access to contracts: Many corporates, e-commerce platforms, and government tenders require FSSAI compliance.
Conclusion
The types of FSSAI registrations in India are designed to bring every food business, big or small, under one food safety framework. Whether you are a roadside food vendor, a medium restaurant, or a large manufacturer, having the correct FSSAI Registration ensures compliance, builds trust, and creates opportunities for business growth.
