Every food business in India — from a home baker to a large food manufacturer — must be registered or licensed under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). But there are three tiers: Basic Registration, State License, and Central License. Choosing the wrong one creates compliance problems, and operating without one means fines of up to 5 lakh and potential closure. This guide helps you identify exactly which tier applies to your business.
FSSAI Basic Registration — for smallest food businesses
FSSAI Basic Registration (Form A) is for petty food businesses with annual turnover up to 12 lakh. This includes home-based food businesses, small roadside stalls, small retailers, hawkers, and temporary stall holders. The registration is issued by the State Food Safety Authority and is valid for 1–5 years. Fee is 100 per year. You receive a 14-digit Registration Number that must be displayed at your premises.
State License vs Central License — which do you need?
FSSAI State License (Form B) is for businesses with turnover between 12 lakh and 20 crore — includes restaurants, food processors, dairy units, mid-sized manufacturers, transporters, retailers, and caterers. Fee ranges from 2,000–5,000 per year. FSSAI Central License is for: businesses with annual turnover above 20 crore, food importers, exporters, businesses operating in more than one state, and food businesses operating in central government premises (airports, railways, defence canteens). The Central License requires more detailed documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions answered by our legal experts
1Do home-based food businesses need FSSAI registration?
2What is the penalty for operating without FSSAI registration?
3Can a restaurant have both a food and liquor license?
4How long does FSSAI registration take?
5Does FSSAI registration need to be renewed?
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