In India, any business involved in manufacturing, processing, storing, distributing, or selling food must register with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This ensures the food is safe, hygienic, and follows legal standards. However, FSSAI registration isn’t the same for every business. There are different types of FSSAI registration depending on your business size, turnover, and operations.
Let’s break down each type so you can choose the right one for your food business.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
This is the simplest form of FSSAI registration, meant for very small food businesses or startups.
Who needs it:
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Petty food manufacturers.
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Home-based food sellers, small hawkers, or tea stalls.
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Small retailers and temporary food stalls.
Key criteria:
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Annual turnover should be up to ₹12 lakh.
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Production capacity should be small (less than 100 kg or liters per day for dairy and other products).
Validity: 1 to 5 years (renewable).
This is perfect for new or small-scale food businesses just starting out.
2. State FSSAI License
If your food business grows beyond the limits of Basic Registration but still operates within one state, you need a State License.
Who needs it:
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Medium-sized manufacturers, traders, and food processing units.
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Restaurants, food trucks, and small chains operating in one state.
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Storage units, warehouses, and transporters with larger capacity.
Key criteria:
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Annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
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Production capacity for milk up to 50,000 liters per day or meat processing up to 500 kg per day.
Validity: 1 to 5 years (renewable).
This is ideal for growing businesses expanding their production or operations but still local.
3. Central FSSAI License
This is the highest level of FSSAI registration, meant for large-scale food businesses or companies with operations in multiple states.
Who needs it:
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Large food manufacturers and processors.
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E-commerce food platforms and major exporters/importers.
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Food chains, hotels, and restaurants operating in more than one state.
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Units with large production capacity or turnover above ₹20 crore.
Key criteria:
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Businesses engaged in import/export of food items.
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High capacity manufacturing (milk above 50,000 liters per day, meat above 500 kg per day).
Validity: 1 to 5 years (renewable).
This is necessary for national and international brands and for companies expanding across states or exporting food products.
Choosing the Right Type of FSSAI Registration
Here’s a quick comparison table for better clarity:
| Type | Turnover | Who Should Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | Up to ₹12 lakh | Home kitchens, hawkers, small stalls, tiny processors |
| State License | ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore | Medium restaurants, local brands, state-level traders |
| Central License | Above ₹20 crore / multi-state | Large manufacturers, exporters, importers, big chains |
Why Getting the Right FSSAI Registration Matters
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Legal compliance: Avoid heavy penalties and closures.
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Consumer trust: The 14-digit FSSAI number builds credibility with customers.
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Market opportunities: Many marketplaces, retailers, and exporters require a valid FSSAI license.
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Brand growth: It shows your food products meet national safety standards.
Final Thoughts
The types of FSSAI registration depend mainly on your annual turnover, production size, and business reach. Small sellers can start with a Basic Registration, while medium and large businesses need a State or Central License. Choosing the right category ensures compliance, credibility, and smooth business growth.
If you’re unsure which license fits your business, consulting an FSSAI expert can help you save time, avoid penalties, and get your registration done correctly.