Types of FSSAI Registration in India — A Complete Guide

Food safety is one of the most important aspects for any business dealing with food in India. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates and monitors food businesses to ensure consumers get safe, hygienic products. Every food business operator (FBO) — from small vendors to large manufacturers and exporters — must get an FSSAI license or registration.

But not all food businesses need the same kind of license. There are different types of FSSAI registration in India, each designed for different scales and categories of operations. Understanding these types is essential to stay compliant and avoid penalties.

Why FSSAI Registration Matters

• Legal Compliance: FSSAI registration is mandatory under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Consumer Trust: The 14-digit FSSAI number on your food package builds confidence with customers.
• Market Access: Without FSSAI, you can’t legally supply to big retailers, ecommerce platforms, or export your products.
• Brand Reputation: Certification shows your business follows proper hygiene and safety standards.

Types of FSSAI Registration in India

Broadly, there are three main types of FSSAI registration in India — Basic Registration, State License, and Central License. Each one is meant for businesses of different sizes and turnover levels.

1. FSSAI Basic Registration

Who needs it:

• Small food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakhs.
• Examples: small vendors, petty retailers, temporary food stalls, small homemade food sellers, dhabas, canteens, or local sweet shops.

Key details:

• This is the most basic form of registration.
• It’s mandatory even if you’re a small seller making food at home or running a part-time food business.
• You get a 14-digit FSSAI number that must be displayed on your products or shop.

Validity & renewal:

• 1 to 5 years (can be renewed).
• Simple online application with minimal documents like ID proof, address proof, and photo.

2. FSSAI State License

Who needs it:

• Medium-sized food businesses with an annual turnover of more than ₹12 lakhs and up to ₹20 crores.
• Examples: small manufacturers, storage units, transporters, marketers, distributors, medium restaurants, mid-sized retailers.

Key details:

• Required when your production or handling capacity grows beyond the limit for Basic Registration.
• Issued by the State Government where the business is located.
• Each state may have slight differences in additional requirements, but the basic FSSAI rules remain the same.

Documents required:

• Business registration documents (Partnership Deed/Company Incorporation Certificate).
• Layout plan of the processing unit.
• Details of equipment, machinery, and installed capacity.
• Food safety management plan.

Validity & renewal:

• Valid for 1–5 years; must be renewed before expiry.

3. FSSAI Central License

Who needs it:

• Large food businesses with turnover above ₹20 crores OR businesses engaged in import/export.
• Examples: large manufacturers, 100% export-oriented units, food processors, chains of restaurants, large warehouses, exporters, and importers of food.

Key details:

• Mandatory for companies operating in more than one state or involved in large-scale production.
• Issued directly by the Central Government.
• Essential for businesses that want to trade food internationally or supply to large corporations.

Documents required:

• All documents needed for State License, plus proof of export/import (if applicable).
• NOCs from the local authority or municipality (sometimes required).
• Form IX (nomination of persons authorized to file application).

Validity & renewal:

• 1–5 years; renewal required on time to avoid penalties.

Choosing the Right Type of FSSAI Registration

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Additional Points to Remember

• Different Outlets: If you operate in multiple states, you need a Central License for your head office and State Licenses for each unit.
• Penalty for Non-Compliance: Running a food business without proper FSSAI registration can lead to heavy fines and even closure orders.
• Display Requirement: The FSSAI license number must be printed on food packaging and displayed prominently at food premises.

Practical Tips

• Start small? Go for Basic Registration but upgrade to State License as you grow.
• Planning to export? Get Central License early to avoid delays.
• If your operations cross states, keep your head office under Central License but individual outlets under State Licenses.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the types of FSSAI registration in India helps you pick the right license from the start. This avoids legal trouble, builds trust with customers, and supports your business’s long-term growth.

For new entrepreneurs and food startups, starting with the correct FSSAI category is a smart move. It’s also helpful to consult an experienced registration consultant who can guide you through documentation, standards, and renewal timelines so you can focus on running your food business with confidence.