In India, anyone involved in the food business—whether manufacturing, processing, packaging, distributing, or selling—must have an FSSAI registration. The FSSAI registration is governed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and ensures that food products meet safety and hygiene standards. This registration is not only a legal requirement but also builds trust among consumers.
But did you know that there are different types of FSSAI registration based on the size and nature of your business? Let’s explore these types and understand their specific uses.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
Who Needs It:
Basic FSSAI registration is ideal for small-scale food businesses. This includes:
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Petty food manufacturers
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Food vendors
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Small retailers
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Cottage industries
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Home-based food sellers (such as those on Instagram or WhatsApp)
Eligibility:
Businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh.
Use:
This registration ensures that even the smallest food businesses follow basic hygiene and safety guidelines. It is a simple and cost-effective way to enter the food industry legally and build consumer confidence.
2. State FSSAI License
Who Needs It:
This license is for medium-sized food businesses such as:
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Mid-level manufacturers
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Storage units
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Transporters
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Distributors
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Large food retailers
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Hotels and restaurants operating in a single state
Eligibility:
Annual turnover of more than ₹12 lakh but less than ₹20 crore.
Use:
The FSSAI registration under the State License category is necessary to scale your operations within a state. It ensures detailed checks on quality, hygiene, and operations, thus allowing businesses to grow responsibly.
3. Central FSSAI License
Who Needs It:
This is for large-scale food businesses or those operating in multiple states, such as:
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Importers and exporters of food products
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Large manufacturers and processors
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Multinational restaurant chains
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Operators with a turnover above ₹20 crore
Eligibility:
Annual turnover of ₹20 crore or more, or businesses involved in import/export or supplying food to government agencies.
Use:
The FSSAI registration under the Central License category is mandatory for big food brands. It allows them to operate across states, export food products, and bid for government tenders. This type of license ensures the highest level of food safety compliance and credibility in the market.
Why Is FSSAI Registration Important?
Whether you are a small food startup or a large FMCG company, getting the right FSSAI registration is crucial for:
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Legal protection
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Consumer trust
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Product quality assurance
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Business expansion
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Participation in online platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, Amazon, Flipkart, etc.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of FSSAI registration helps you choose the right path for your food business. From home kitchens to nationwide food chains, FSSAI ensures that the food we consume is safe and of good quality. If you’re planning to enter the food industry or scale your existing venture, don’t ignore the importance of FSSAI registration—it’s not just a license, but your brand’s reputation.
