Whether you’re starting a new food business or already own one, you need to understand FSSAI license requirements. Every food business in India must follow Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) rules. Getting the correct FSSAI license is one of your first steps
Many food business owners feel confused about whether they need an FSSAI State License or an FSSAI Central License. This confusion can cause delays, penalties, and extra costs. Most manufacturers end up choosing the wrong FSSAI license for their business operations.
In this guide, we explain the difference between two important FSSAI licenses, which license you need. How to choose the right FSSAI license for your food business.
Why Choosing the Right FSSAI License Matters
Getting the wrong license is not just a non-compliance. It can lead to:
- Application rejection – Your FSSAI license application request can be rejected
- Penalties – Using the wrong license can lead to fines or legal action during FSSAI audits.
- Delays in business – You may not be able to expand or operate in certain areas.
Important
Most manufacturers have two FSSAI licenses for different operations under the same license. But its wrong. FSSAI License is based on the premises. All kinds of business activities being conducted under the brand can be applied under a single FSSAI License.
Understanding FSSAI Licensing
FSSAI as the regulatory body of India, makes sure that food sold in India is safe and of good quality. Any business that makes, processes, stores, sells, or transports food must have an FSSAI license.
There are three main types of licenses:
- Basic Registration – For very small businesses with a turnover of up to ₹12 lakh per year.
- FSSAI State License – For medium-sized businesses operating in one state.
- FSSAI Central License – For large businesses, multi-state operations, importers, and exporters.
Knowing the eligibility for FSSAI State License and the eligibility for FSSAI Central License will help you avoid mistakes.
FSSAI State License – Who Should Apply?
The FSSAI State License is for food businesses that:
- Operate only within one state.
- Have a turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore per year.
- Include manufacturers, processors, restaurants, distributors, and transporters working within the state.
When your FSSAI state license need modification:
- If you plan to expand to more than one state.
- If you plan to export food products.
FSSAI Central License – Who Should Apply?
The FSSAI Central License is for businesses that:
- Operate in more than one state.
- Have a turnover of more than ₹20 crore per year.
- Import food products.
- Export food products (FSSAI license for export business is always Central License).
- Supply food to central government agencies or operate large-scale manufacturing units.
Why it is better for some businesses:
- It allows operations across India.
- It is valid for import and export activities.
- It avoids the need to upgrade later as your business grows.
Who requires a FSSAI central license? Any food business operator (FBO), engaged in import, export, airport or seaport operations, or the manufacturing of nutraceutical products must obtain an FSSAI Central License.
Key Differences Between FSSAI State and Central License
Common Mistakes When Choosing a FSSAI License
- Not thinking about future growth and expansion.
- Estimating turnover incorrectly.
- Assuming a State License is enough for export.
- Following advice from unverified sources instead of official guidelines
How to Decide the Right FSSAI License in 3 Steps
- Check Your Turnover
- ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore → State License
- Above ₹20 crore → Central License
- Check Your Area of Operation
- Only in one state → State License
- More than one state → Central License
- Check Your Business Activities
- Import or export → Central License
- Local production and sales → State License (if turnover is within the limit)
myFssai in FSSAI License Assistance
Backed by the expertise expert Food consultants of Food Safety Works, myFSSAI offers an easy, step-by-step service request process for FSSAI licensing. From selecting the right license to preparing documents and managing approvals, we make the entire process quick, simple, and stress-free.
Reach out to us now to get your FSSAI license!
