Introduction
If you’re planning to start a food-related business in India—whether it's a home-based kitchen, a cloud kitchen, a restaurant, or a packaged food manufacturing unit—FSSAI compliance is mandatory. But when you begin the registration process, a common question arises: Do I need an FSSAI license or just registration? Understanding the difference between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License, and knowing which one applies to your business, is essential to staying compliant and avoiding penalties. In this blog, we break down the differences, eligibility, and how to choose the right option based on your business type and scale.
What is FSSAI?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the governing body responsible for regulating and supervising food safety in India. Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, of 2006, all food business operators (FBOs) must obtain an FSSAI Registration or License to operate legally. FSSAI ensures that the food being sold or manufactured is safe, clean, and up to the prescribed quality standards. The licensing and registration system helps track food safety practices and build consumer trust.
FSSAI Registration vs. FSSAI License: The Basic Difference
The main difference between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License lies in the scale of business and production capacity.
FSSAI Registration is for small food businesses such as petty traders, small manufacturers, or home-based food sellers whose annual turnover does not exceed ₹12 lakh.
FSSAI License is required for larger food businesses. It has two types:
State License: For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore annually.
Central License: For large-scale operations with turnover above ₹20 crore or businesses involved in import/export or operating across multiple states.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration?
You need FSSAI Registration if your food business falls under the petty food operator category. This includes:
Small retailers selling food items
Home-based food sellers (like tiffin services)
Food stalls or street vendors
Small-scale dairy units (producing ≤ 500 liters/day)
Small processors or repackers
Cottage or homemade food businesses
Eligibility Criteria:
Turnover does not exceed ₹12 lakh per year
Production capacity ≤ 100 kg/liters per day
Handling capacity ≤ 500 liters/day for milk
Up to 2 large animals or 10 small animals slaughtered per day
Who Needs an FSSAI License?
Businesses that exceed the petty operator criteria need to apply for either a State or Central FSSAI License, depending on their turnover, business scale, and geographical operations.
State License is needed by:
Medium-sized food manufacturers or processors
Restaurants and food caterers with moderate sales
Transporters, storage units, and distributors handling food in one state
Dairy units producing 500–50,000 liters of milk per day
Central License is required for:
Large-scale food manufacturers or exporters
Food importers and exporters
E-commerce food businesses
Chains operating in more than one state
Dairy units handling more than 50,000 liters of milk per day
Meat processing units handling more than 1,000 kg/day
Documentation Required
For FSSAI Registration:
Photo ID proof (Aadhaar/Driving License)
Address proof of the business
Passport-size photograph
Business details (name, type, address)
For FSSAI License:
Form B (duly completed and signed)
Blueprint/layout plan of the processing unit
List of food products
Photo ID and address proof of proprietor/partners/directors
Certificate of incorporation/partnership deed
Water test report (if applicable)
NOC from the municipality or local authority
Import/export code (if applicable)
FSMS plan and turnover proof for a central license
How to Apply for FSSAI Registration or License
1. Access the FSSAI Portal
Begin by visiting the official FSSAI registration website to initiate your application.
2. Fill in the Application Details
Provide all necessary information, including your name, business type, address, and the food category you deal in. Don’t forget to upload your PAN card and other required documents.
3. Verify and Submit
Carefully review all the entered details for accuracy. Once everything is correct, proceed to apply.
4. Make the Payment
Pay the applicable registration or license fee online, based on the category of license you need (Basic, State, or Central).
5. OTP Verification
You will receive a one-time password (OTP) on your registered mobile number or email. Enter this OTP to verify your identity and confirm submission.
6. Await Inspection (if applicable)
In some cases, FSSAI authorities may conduct a physical inspection of your premises before approving the license.
7. Download Your FSSAI License
Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive your FSSAI license digitally, which can be downloaded directly from the portal.
Why Is It Important to Choose the Right Category?
Choosing the wrong category—applying for registration when you need a license—can lead to penalties, rejection, or legal complications. It can also delay your ability to list on e-commerce platforms like Amazon or food delivery apps like Zomato and Swiggy, all of which mandate FSSAI compliance. Also, if you scale up your business in the future, you must upgrade from registration to a license to remain compliant with the law.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating a food business without FSSAI registration or license is a punishable offense. The FSSAI can impose a fine of up to ₹5 lakh and/or imprisonment of up to six months, depending on the severity of the violation. Non-compliance also damages your brand reputation and customer trust.
Note: You can also Apply for Tatkal FSSAI Registration from our portal
Conclusion
Whether you're a small food seller or a large manufacturer, complying with FSSAI regulations is crucial for operating legally and building consumer trust. Understanding the difference between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License ensures that your business is on the right track from day one. If you’re unsure about where your business fits, consult a professional or use online tools provided by the FSSAI portal to determine eligibility. Remember, food safety isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about credibility, compliance, and customer confidence. Start right, grow right—get your FSSAI certificate today and take your food business to the next level.
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