FSSAI Registration vs FSSAI License: What’s the Difference for Your Food Business?

In India, the food industry is booming, with new eateries, packaged food startups, home kitchens, and processing units launching every year. But before any food venture can begin operations legally, compliance with food safety regulations is essential.

Whether you're a small vendor or a large manufacturer, obtaining the right approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is mandatory. Still, many food entrepreneurs struggle to understand the difference between a basic registration and a full license—two terms that sound alike but apply to different types of businesses.

In this blog, we’ll explain the key differences, who needs which one, and how you can apply online quickly and easily.

What is FSSAI?

FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It ensures that food sold in India is safe for human consumption. FSSAI sets science-based standards for food safety, and every food business must obtain approval through FSSAI Registration or License, depending on their size and operations.

What is FSSAI Registration?

FSSAI Registration is the basic compliance for small-scale food businesses. It applies to businesses with annual turnover below ₹12 lakh.

Who Should Apply for FSSAI Registration?

• Home-based food sellers
• Small snack vendors or tea stalls
• Petty food manufacturers
• Street food hawkers
• Small retailers and food delivery partners
• Temporary food stalls at fairs

Features of FSSAI Registration:

• A 14-digit registration number that must be printed on food packages or displayed.
• Validity ranges from 1 to 5 years (renewable).
• Less documentation compared to a full license.
• Requires Form A submission.

What is FSSAI License?

An FSSAI License is a more comprehensive and advanced approval that applies to medium to large-scale food businesses. These businesses typically have higher revenue, wider operations, or engage in multi-state or international business.

There are two types of FSSAI licenses based on the size and nature of the food business:

1. FSSAI State License

• Required for food businesses with annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
• Applicable for businesses operating within a single state.
• Suitable for restaurants, medium-sized food manufacturers, catering services, and mid-level food brands.

2. FSSAI Central License

• Mandatory for businesses with:
  • Annual turnover above ₹20 crore
  • Operations in multiple states
  • Engagement in food imports or exports
• Typically required by large food manufacturers, e-commerce food platforms, export houses, and international restaurant chains operating in India.

Who Should Apply for FSSAI License?

• Food manufacturers and processors
• Large-scale restaurants and hotels
• Exporters and importers of food products
• Food chain franchises and retail chains
• Cold storage, logistics operators
• Packaged food brands

Key Features of FSSAI License:

• Comes with a 14-digit license number, similar to registration, but must be printed on all packaging and used in advertisements, websites, and invoices.
• Requires submission of Form B, along with several supporting documents such as:
  • Food category list
  • Layout plan of premises
  • Water test report
  • Details of food safety management system (FSMS)
  • Identity and address proof of owner/director
• Valid for 1 to 5 years, renewable upon expiration.
• Subject to more frequent inspections and audits compared to basic registration.

Key Differences Between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License

Why FSSAI Compliance Matters for Your Business

Whether you're running a cloud kitchen or scaling your FMCG brand, having an FSSAI registration or license helps you:

• Build Trust: Customers are more likely to trust your brand when they see the FSSAI number.
• Avoid Legal Penalties: Non-compliance can result in heavy fines or business closure.
• Get Investment or Sell Online: Most eCommerce and aggregator platforms require FSSAI compliance.
• Expand Operations: With a license, you can legally distribute, manufacture, or export food products.

How to Apply for FSSAI Registration or License Online?

Applying has never been easier. You can apply online through fssairegistrar.com, a trusted platform offering complete support for FSSAI documentation, registration, and renewals.

Simple 3-Step Process:

1. Choose the Right Category Determine whether you need Registration, State License, or Central License based on your business type and turnover.

2. Upload Documents Online Submit identity proof, business address, food safety plan, and other relevant documents.

3. Get Your Certificate After processing, your FSSAI certificate will be delivered via email or download.

Common Documents Required

For FSSAI Registration:

• Passport-size photo
• Government ID (Aadhaar/PAN)
• Business address proof

For FSSAI License:

• Blueprint of the processing unit
• Proof of business incorporation
• Food safety management plan
• Utility bills
• List of directors/partners

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License is crucial for compliance and long-term success of your food business. Choosing the right category not only keeps you legally safe but also opens doors to growth, partnerships, and customer trust.

Whether you're just starting your homemade pickle brand or expanding into multi-state food exports, FSSAI certification is your first step toward professionalism and legality in the food industry.

Note: For a quick and hassle-free process, visit fssairegistrar.com to get started today.