FSSAI Registration vs. FSSAI License: What’s the Difference?
If you are planning to start a food business in India, obtaining an FSSAI Registration or License is mandatory. However, many business owners often get confused between the two.
While both serve the same purpose—ensuring food safety and compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)—they differ based on business size, turnover, and operations.
In this blog, we will break down the differences between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License to help you determine which one is right for your business.
What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI Registration is a basic food safety certification for small-scale food businesses with an annual turnover of up to ₹12 lakh. It is ideal for:
✔️ Small food manufacturers
✔️ Hawkers & petty retailers
✔️ Cottage industries & home-based food businesses
✔️ Small canteens, tea stalls, & food kiosks
Key Features of FSSAI Registration
✅ Applicable to: Small food businesses with annual turnover ≤ ₹12 lakh
✅ Issued by: State food authority
✅ Validity: 1 to 5 years
✅ FSSAI Number: 14-digit registration number with an ‘F’ prefix
✅ Renewal: Before expiry to avoid penalties
What is an FSSAI License?
An FSSAI License is mandatory for medium to large-scale food businesses with an annual turnover above ₹12 lakh. It is of two types:
1. FSSAI State License
✔️ Required for businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore
✔️ Issued by the State Authority
✔️ Ideal for restaurants, large food manufacturers, storage units, and food processing units
2. FSSAI Central License
✔️ Required for businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore
✔️ Issued by the Central Authority
✔️ Mandatory for import/export businesses, large manufacturers, and food chains
Key Features of FSSAI License
✅ Applicable to: Medium and large food businesses
✅ Issued by: State or Central Authority
✅ Validity: 1 to 5 years
✅ FSSAI Number: 14-digit license number
✅ Renewal: Before expiry to maintain compliance
Comparison Table: FSSAI Registration vs. FSSAI License
| Feature | FSSAI Registration | FSSAI State License | FSSAI Central License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applicable To | Small food businesses (Turnover ≤ ₹12 lakh) | Medium businesses (Turnover ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore) | Large businesses (Turnover above ₹20 crore) |
| Issued By | State Authority | State Authority | Central Authority |
| Examples | Home-based sellers, food vendors, small eateries | Restaurants, storage units, food processors | Food manufacturers, import/export companies, national chains |
| Validity | 1 to 5 years | 1 to 5 years | 1 to 5 years |
| FSSAI Number | 14-digit with ‘F’ prefix | 14-digit number | 14-digit number |
| Mandatory for Online Selling | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Required for Export | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Which One Should You Apply For?
- If you are a small home-based food seller or vendor, go for FSSAI Registration.
- If you own a restaurant, food processing unit, or cloud kitchen, apply for an FSSAI State License.
- If your business involves food exports, large-scale production, or national operations, you need an FSSAI Central License.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need FSSAI Registration or an FSSAI License, both are essential for legal compliance, customer trust, and business growth. If you haven’t applied yet, start the process today to avoid legal complications and penalties.
For assistance in FSSAI registration and licensing, consult an expert to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.
