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FSSAI Registration vs State Licence vs Central Licence

By the BusinessKaro team · Updated November 2026

Every food business in India, from a home kitchen to a large manufacturer, must be registered or licensed with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Which one you need depends mainly on your turnover and the type of business.

Basic FSSAI Registration

FSSAI Registration is for small food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh, including home-based food businesses, small retailers, hawkers and temporary stalls.

FSSAI State Licence

An FSSAI State License is for medium-sized businesses with turnover above ₹12 lakh and up to ₹20 crore. It is issued by the state food safety department and is common for restaurants, caterers, distributors and mid-sized manufacturers.

FSSAI Central Licence

An FSSAI Central License is required for businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore, and in certain cases regardless of turnover, such as importers, exporters, businesses operating in more than one state and food businesses at airports and seaports.

Cloud kitchens and online sellers

Food delivery platforms require an FSSAI number before listing. E-commerce food sellers generally need a Central licence for their head office, with registrations or licences for each premises as required.

Validity and renewal

Registrations and licences are issued for one to five years. Apply for renewal before expiry to avoid penalties and interruption.

Get the right one first time

Applying for the wrong category leads to rejection and delay. We identify the correct licence and file it for you.

Services in this guide.

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