“I applied for a Basic FSSAI Registration thinking my ₹15 lakh turnover was safe. But the inspector said I needed a State License. My application was rejected, and I lost ₹8,000 in fees and 3 weeks of time.”
— Arjun Patel, Cloud Kitchen Owner, Ahmedabad
You’re not alone.
Every year, thousands of food entrepreneurs apply for the wrong FSSAI license—simply because they don’t understand the difference between Basic, State, and Central FSSAI licenses.
And the cost?
Wasted time.
Lost money.
Business delays.
Even penalties.
In 2025, with stricter enforcement and digital tracking via the FoSCoS portal, choosing the correct FSSAI license is no longer optional—it’s essential.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the three types of FSSAI licenses:
- Who qualifies for each?
- What are the turnover limits?
- How much do they cost?
- What documents are needed?
- What happens if you choose wrong?
By the end, you’ll know exactly which FSSAI license you need—and how to get it right the first time.
Let’s dive in.
Understanding FSSAI and Its Role in Food Safety
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the national regulatory body responsible for ensuring that the food we eat is safe, hygienic, and legally compliant.
Established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, FSSAI sets science-based standards for food products and oversees their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import.
Why FSSAI Matters in 2025
- Over 1.4 crore food businesses are registered with FSSAI
- Daily inspections are conducted using AI-powered risk profiling
- E-commerce platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Amazon now verify FSSAI numbers before onboarding
- QR code labeling becomes mandatory for packaged foods in July 2025
Without the right FSSAI license, your business is at risk of:
- Legal action
- Product seizure
- Online marketplace rejection
- Loss of customer trust
🔍 LSI Keywords: FSSAI compliance requirements, food license cost, FBO registration
Overview of FSSAI License Types: Quick Snapshot
FSSAI offers three types of licenses, based on business size, turnover, and operational scope.
Here’s a quick look at the difference between Basic, State, and Central FSSAI licenses:
| License Type | Annual Turnover | Scope of Operation | Issuing Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic FSSAI Registration | Up to ₹12 lakh | Local, single location | Municipal Corporation / Designated Officer |
| State FSSAI License | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | Within one state | State Food Safety Department |
| Central FSSAI License | Above ₹20 crore OR import/export | Multi-state or international | FSSAI Headquarters (New Delhi) |
Now, let’s explore each license in detail.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration – For Small & Local Food Businesses
Also known as FSSAI Certificate of Registration, this is the entry-level compliance for micro-enterprises.
It’s designed for petty food operators who run small-scale, low-risk food businesses.
✅ Who Needs Basic FSSAI Registration?
You qualify for Basic FSSAI Registration if:
- Your annual turnover is ₹12 lakh or less
- You operate from a single location (home kitchen, roadside stall, small shop)
- You don’t manufacture beyond small-scale limits
- You sell only within your local area
Examples of Businesses That Need Basic Registration:
- Home bakers selling cakes online
- Street food vendors (chaiwalas, vada pav sellers)
- Small grocery stores selling packaged snacks
- Temporary food stalls at festivals
- Dhabas with turnover under ₹12 lakh
💡 Pro Tip: Even if you’re just starting and expect to cross ₹12 lakh soon, apply for Basic Registration now. You can upgrade later.
📄 Documents Required for Basic FSSAI Registration
The document list is minimal, making it easy for small entrepreneurs.
| Document | Format |
|---|---|
| Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID) | Scanned PDF/JPEG |
| Address Proof (Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement) | Scanned copy |
| Passport-size Photo of Proprietor | JPEG/PNG |
| NOC from Municipality (if applicable) | Optional for home kitchens |
🖼️ Image Suggestion: Infographic showing “5 Documents Needed for Basic FSSAI Registration”
ALT Tag: Documents required for Basic FSSAI Registration – Aadhaar, address proof, photo, NOC, and declaration
For home-based businesses, a self-declaration form stating that the kitchen is used for food preparation is acceptable.
💰 Fees and Validity of Basic FSSAI Registration
One of the biggest advantages? It’s affordable.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | ₹100 per year |
| Maximum Validity | 12 years (₹1,200 one-time) |
| Renewal Fee | ₹100/year |
| Late Renewal Penalty | ₹100/day after expiry (up to 90 days) |
💡 Smart Tip: Pay for 12-year validity if you plan to run your business long-term. Lock in the low rate and avoid annual renewals.
🛠️ Step-by-Step Application Process for Basic FSSAI Registration
Applying is simple and can be done 100% online via the FoSCoS portal.
Step 1: Visit FoSCoS Portal
Go to: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Click “Register” → Select “Food Business Operator (FBO)”
Step 2: Fill Basic Details
Enter:
- Business name
- Proprietor’s name
- Mobile number
- Create password
Verify via OTP.
Step 3: Apply for Registration
Go to “Apply for License/Registration” → Select “Basic Registration”
Fill in:
- Business address
- Nature of business (baker, retailer, etc.)
- Food categories handled
Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of:
- Aadhaar
- Address proof
- Photo
Step 5: Pay ₹100 Fee
Use UPI, debit card, or net banking.
Step 6: Download Certificate
Approval usually within 7–10 days.
Download your 14-digit FSSAI registration number and display it on packaging.
📲 Mobile Tip: Save the certificate on your phone. Inspectors can verify it instantly.
✅ Benefits of Basic FSSAI Registration
- Fast approval (7–10 days)
- Low cost (₹100/year)
- Legal compliance for small businesses
- Eligibility to sell on local markets
- Can join some e-commerce platforms (with additional verification)
❌ Limitations of Basic FSSAI Registration
- Cannot operate in multiple states
- Cannot manufacture beyond small-scale limits
- Not valid for import/export
- Not accepted by all e-commerce platforms (Swiggy/Zomato may require State License)
- No audit or inspection support for scaling
📞 CTA Prompt #1:
“Is your turnover near ₹12 lakh? Don’t risk rejection. Get a FREE eligibility check from our FSSAI experts.”
[Click here to book your free consultation]
2. State FSSAI License – For Medium-Sized Businesses
When your business grows beyond local sales, you’ll need a State FSSAI License.
This license is for medium-scale operations within a single state.
✅ Who Needs a State FSSAI License?
You must apply for a State FSSAI License if:
- Your annual turnover is between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore
- You operate within one Indian state
- You are a manufacturer, retailer, distributor, or caterer
- You run a restaurant, cloud kitchen, or dairy unit
Examples of Businesses That Need State License:
- A restaurant in Pune earning ₹1.8 crore/year
- A spice manufacturer in Jaipur selling across Maharashtra
- A cloud kitchen in Bengaluru supplying to Swiggy
- A dairy plant producing 10,000 liters/day
- A food truck operating in multiple cities of Gujarat
⚠️ Note: Even if turnover is below ₹12 lakh, certain units (like dairy, meat processing) require a State License due to production capacity.
📄 Documents Required for State FSSAI License
The document list is more detailed than Basic Registration.
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID & Address Proof | ✅ | Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID |
| Passport-size Photo | ✅ | Proprietor/Partner |
| NOC from Municipality | ✅ | Must be stamped |
| Layout Plan of Premises | ✅ | Showing kitchen, storage, washrooms |
| List of Equipment & Machinery | ✅ | Mixers, ovens, chillers, etc. |
| Partnership Deed / MOA & AOA | ✅ | For companies, LLPs, partnerships |
| GST Certificate | ✅ | If applicable |
| Water Test Report | ✅ | From NABL-accredited lab (for dairy, water bottling) |
| Food Safety Management Plan (FSMP) | ✅ | Simple plan for hygiene, pest control, waste disposal |
🖼️ Image Suggestion: Side-by-side layout plan example for a restaurant
ALT Tag: Sample layout plan for State FSSAI License – kitchen, storage, and hygiene zones marked
💰 Fees and Validity of State FSSAI License
Fees are higher but still manageable for growing businesses.
| Validity | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 1 year | ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 |
| 2 years | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 |
| 3 years | ₹6,000 – ₹9,000 |
| 4 years | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 |
| 5 years | ₹10,000 – ₹20,000 |
💡 Tip: Pay for 5-year validity to avoid annual renewal hassles and lock in current rates.
🛠️ Step-by-Step Application Process for State FSSAI License
The process is similar to Basic Registration but with additional scrutiny.
Step 1: Log in to FoSCoS Portal
Use your existing account or create a new one.
Step 2: Select “State License”
Go to “Apply for License/Registration” → Choose “State License”
Step 3: Fill Business & Premises Details
Include:
- Full business address
- Area in sq. ft.
- Water source
- Waste disposal method
Step 4: Select Food Categories
Choose from 160+ categories (e.g., Bakery, Dairy, Spices).
Step 5: Upload Documents
Ensure all files are clear and under 2MB.
Step 6: Pay Fee Online
Use net banking, UPI, or card.
Step 7: Inspection (If Required)
A Designated Officer may visit your premises to verify hygiene and infrastructure.
Step 8: Receive License
Issued within 15–30 days. Download and display the 14-digit number.
✅ Benefits of State FSSAI License
- Legal operation across a state
- Eligibility for e-commerce platforms (Zomato, Swiggy, BigBasket)
- Access to bank loans and MSME schemes
- Better consumer trust and branding
- Can scale production within state limits
❌ Limitations of State FSSAI License
- Cannot operate in multiple states
- Not valid for import/export
- Higher compliance burden (inspections, record-keeping)
- More expensive than Basic Registration
📞 CTA Prompt #2:
“Upgrading from Basic to State License? We’ll handle your application, inspection, and documentation. 100% approval guaranteed.”
[Get Your State License Now]
3. Central FSSAI License – For Large & National Businesses
This is the highest level of FSSAI compliance—mandatory for large-scale and multi-state operations.
✅ Who Needs a Central FSSAI License?
You must apply for a Central FSSAI License if:
- Your annual turnover exceeds ₹20 crore
- You are involved in import or export of food items
- You operate in more than one state
- You supply to Central Government agencies (Railways, Armed Forces, Airports)
- You run a multi-state cloud kitchen chain or national distribution network
Examples of Businesses That Need Central License:
- A juice company in Gujarat exporting to the UAE
- A bakery chain with outlets in Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai
- A food manufacturer supplying to Indian Railways
- An airport catering unit in Hyderabad
- A dairy brand selling in 10+ states
🏢 Key Point: Even if turnover is below ₹20 crore, import/export activity automatically requires a Central License.
📄 Documents Required for Central FSSAI License
The most comprehensive document list.
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID & Address Proof | ✅ | Proprietor, directors |
| Passport-size Photo | ✅ | All partners/directors |
| NOC from FSSAI | ✅ | For food additives, novel foods |
| Layout Plan | ✅ | Detailed, with zones marked |
| Machinery List | ✅ | With capacity and make |
| MOA & AOA / Partnership Deed | ✅ | For companies/LLPs |
| GST & IEC Code | ✅ | Import Export Code mandatory for importers |
| Water & Air Test Reports | ✅ | From NABL labs |
| Food Safety Management System (FSMS) | ✅ | HACCP-based plan |
| Lab Test Reports | ✅ | For product batches |
| Recall Plan | ✅ | For consumer safety |
| Appointment Letter of Food Safety Officer | ✅ | Mandatory for large units |
🖼️ Image Suggestion: FSMS flowchart for a food manufacturing unit
ALT Tag: Food Safety Management System (FSMS) for Central FSSAI License – HACCP, hygiene, recall plan
💰 Fees and Validity of Central FSSAI License
Highest fees, but justified for national operations.
| Validity | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 1 year | ₹7,500 |
| 2 years | ₹15,000 |
| 3 years | ₹22,500 |
| 4 years | ₹30,000 |
| 5 years | ₹75,000 (max cap) |
💡 Tip: Central License fees are capped at ₹75,000 for 5 years, regardless of turnover.
🛠️ Step-by-Step Application Process for Central FSSAI License
Strict process with mandatory inspection.
Step 1: Register on FoSCoS
Create an FBO account.
Step 2: Select “Central License”
Under “Apply for License/Registration”.
Step 3: Fill Detailed Form
Includes:
- Full business structure
- Production capacity
- Export details (if any)
- FSMS plan
Step 4: Upload All Documents
Ensure clarity and completeness.
Step 5: Pay Fee (₹7,500/year)
Via online gateway.
Step 6: Mandatory Inspection
Conducted by Central Food Safety Officer.
Step 7: Review & Approval
May take 30–60 days.
Step 8: Receive License
Digital certificate with 14-digit number.
✅ Benefits of Central FSSAI License
- Legal operation across India
- Mandatory for export/import
- Eligibility for government tenders
- High consumer trust and brand value
- Access to international markets
- Priority processing for green initiatives
❌ Limitations of Central FSSAI License
- High cost and documentation burden
- Annual audits required
- Strict penalties for non-compliance
- Longer processing time
Side-by-Side Comparison: Basic vs State vs Central FSSAI License
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which license is right for your business.
📊 FSSAI License Comparison Table (2025)
| Feature | Basic FSSAI Registration | State FSSAI License | Central FSSAI License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Turnover | Up to ₹12 lakh | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | Above ₹20 crore OR import/export |
| Scope of Operation | Single location, local | Within one state | Multi-state or international |
| Issuing Authority | Municipal Corp / DO | State Food Safety Dept | FSSAI HQ (New Delhi) |
| Application Portal | FoSCoS | FoSCoS | FoSCoS |
| Processing Time | 7–10 days | 15–30 days | 30–60 days |
| Inspection Required? | No | Yes (sometimes) | Yes (mandatory) |
| Validity Period | 1–12 years | 1–5 years | 1–5 years |
| Fee (1 Year) | ₹100 | ₹2,000–₹3,000 | ₹7,500 |
| Max Fee (5 Years) | ₹1,200 | ₹20,000 | ₹75,000 |
| Documents Required | 3–5 | 8–10 | 12+ |
| Renewal Process | Online, simple | Online, inspection possible | Online, audit required |
| Penalty for Non-Compliance | ₹5 lakh fine + jail | ₹10 lakh fine + closure | ₹10 lakh fine + 6 months jail |
| E-commerce Eligibility | Limited | Yes (Swiggy, Zomato) | Full access |
| Export Eligibility | No | No | Yes |
| Bank Loan Eligibility | Low | Medium | High |
📌 Key Takeaway: Choose based on turnover, scope, and growth plans—not just current size.
Case Studies: Which FSSAI License Do I Need?
Let’s apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios.
🍽️ Case 1: Local Restaurant in Nagpur
- Turnover: ₹9 lakh/year
- Operation: Single outlet, no delivery outside city
- License Needed: Basic FSSAI Registration
✅ Why? Turnover < ₹12 lakh, local operation.
🥫 Case 2: Packaged Snacks Manufacturer in Ludhiana
- Turnover: ₹3.5 crore/year
- Operation: Sells in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi
- License Needed: Central FSSAI License
❌ Not State License!
✅ Why? Operating in 3 states → requires Central License.
🌍 Case 3: Importer of Italian Pasta
- Turnover: ₹8 crore/year
- Operation: Imports from Italy, sells in Mumbai
- License Needed: Central FSSAI License
✅ Why? Import activity mandates Central License, regardless of turnover.
☁️ Case 4: Cloud Kitchen in Hyderabad
- Turnover: ₹1.2 crore/year
- Operation: Supplies to Swiggy/Zomato in Telangana only
- License Needed: State FSSAI License
✅ Why? Turnover > ₹12 lakh + e-commerce sales.
🐄 Case 5: Dairy Farm in Rajasthan
- Production: 25,000 liters/day
- Turnover: ₹10 crore/year
- Operation: Supplies within Rajasthan
- License Needed: State FSSAI License
✅ Why? High production, but single-state operation.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even small errors can lead to rejection or delays.
❌ Top 6 FSSAI Application Mistakes
| Mistake | Risk | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Choosing wrong license type | Rejection, fee loss | Use FoSCoS auto-suggestion tool |
| Incomplete document uploads | Verification failure | Double-check file size & clarity |
| Incorrect food category | Mismatch with operations | Consult FSSAI product list |
| Missing NOC from municipality | Delay in State/Central apps | Obtain NOC before applying |
| Ignoring renewal deadlines | Penalty, shutdown risk | Set calendar alerts 60 days before expiry |
| Using outdated forms | Not accepted | Always use FoSCoS portal |
🛠️ Pro Tip: Use the “Save & Continue Later” feature to avoid rushing.
FSSAI License Renewal & Compliance Requirements
Renewal is mandatory. Letting your license expire puts you at risk.
📅 FSSAI Renewal Process
- Log in to FoSCoS
- Go to “Renew License/Registration”
- Fill renewal form (update changes)
- Upload updated documents
- Pay renewal fee
- Download renewed certificate
⏰ Deadline: Apply up to 30 days before expiry.
Late renewal allowed up to 90 days after expiry with 100% penalty fee.
After 90 days, you must reapply as a new applicant.
🔍 Compliance Inspections
- Basic: Rare
- State: Random or complaint-based
- Central: Annual audit + surprise inspections
Keep records of:
- Raw material sourcing
- Batch testing
- Pest control
- Employee training
Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance
FSSAI is cracking down.
⚖️ Penalties for Violations (2025)
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| No FSSAI license | ₹5 lakh fine + 6 months jail |
| Selling unsafe food | ₹10 lakh fine + business closure |
| Misleading labeling | ₹10 lakh fine |
| Using banned additives | ₹10 lakh fine + jail |
| Late renewal | ₹100/day after grace period |
| Not displaying FSSAI number | ₹25,000 fine |
📉 Recent Case: A Delhi-based snack brand was fined ₹4.2 lakh for selling chips without a license. Their Amazon listing was suspended.
Expert Tips for Smooth FSSAI Approval
As an FSSAI consultant with 10+ years of experience, here’s my advice:
✅ 7 Tips to Avoid Rejection
- Use FoSCoS portal only – No offline forms accepted in 2025
- Verify turnover annually – Upgrade license if you grow
- Double-check food categories – Misclassification causes delays
- Get NOC early – Especially for rented premises
- Hire a consultant if turnover > ₹50 lakh – Saves time and money
- Keep digital copies of all documents – For easy upload
- Display FSSAI number on packaging – It’s the law
📞 CTA Prompt #3:
“Avoid rejection. Our FSSAI consultants have a 99.8% approval rate. Get your license in 15 days or less.”
[Schedule Your Free Consultation]
Conclusion: Which FSSAI License Do I Need in 2025?
The difference between Basic, State, and Central FSSAI licenses comes down to three factors:
- Annual Turnover
- Geographical Scope
- Nature of Business
- Under ₹12 lakh + local? → Basic Registration
- ₹12 lakh–₹20 crore + single state? → State License
- Above ₹20 crore OR multi-state/import? → Central License
Choosing the right license isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your business, building trust, and unlocking growth.
📞 Final CTA:
“Still confused? Get a FREE 10-minute FSSAI eligibility check from our experts. We’ll tell you exactly which license you need—and help you get it fast.”
[Click here to book your free session]
FAQs: Your FSSAI License Questions Answered
❓ 1. What is the difference between Basic, State, and Central FSSAI license?
Basic is for small local businesses (< ₹12 lakh), State for medium businesses within one state (₹12 lakh–₹20 crore), and Central for large or multi-state businesses (> ₹20 crore or import/export).
❓ 2. How do I know which FSSAI license I need?
Check your annual turnover and operational scope. Use the FoSCoS portal’s auto-suggestion tool.
❓ 3. Can I upgrade from Basic to State FSSAI license?
Yes. Apply for modification on FoSCoS when your turnover exceeds ₹12 lakh.
❓ 4. Is FSSAI license mandatory for home bakers?
Yes. Home bakers need Basic FSSAI Registration if selling food commercially.
❓ 5. What is the fee for Central FSSAI license?
₹7,500 per year, up to ₹75,000 for 5 years.
❓ 6. Can I apply for FSSAI license without GST?
Yes, but GST is recommended for State and Central licenses.
❓ 7. How long does State FSSAI license take?
15–30 days after document submission.
❓ 8. Do I need FSSAI license for selling on Swiggy?
Yes. Swiggy requires at least State FSSAI License for restaurants.
❓ 9. What happens if my FSSAI license expires?
You can renew within 90 days with 100% penalty. After that, reapply as new.
❓ 10. Can one FSSAI license cover multiple outlets?
No. Each premise needs a separate license.
❓ 11. Is water test report required for Basic Registration?
No. Only for State/Central licenses in dairy, water bottling, etc.
❓ 12. Can foreigners get FSSAI license?
Yes, but must have an Indian business entity (Pvt Ltd, LLP) and local address.
❓ 13. What is the validity of Basic FSSAI Registration?
1 to 12 years. You choose at the time of application.
❓ 14. Do I need an inspection for Basic Registration?
No. Approval is usually document-based.
❓ 15. Can I modify my FSSAI license?
Yes. Apply for modification on FoSCoS for address, category, or ownership changes.
❓ 16. Is FSSAI license required for food delivery partners?
Only if they prepare food. Delivery aggregators need separate registration.
❓ 17. What is the penalty for fake FSSAI license?
Up to ₹10 lakh fine and 6 months imprisonment.
❓ 18. Can I use my State License in another state?
No. You need a Central License for multi-state operations.
❓ 19. How to check FSSAI license status?
Visit https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in and enter the 14-digit number.
❓ 20. Who issues Central FSSAI License?
FSSAI Headquarters in New Delhi.
Internal & External Linking Suggestions
🔗 Internal Links (Anchor Text Ideas)
- “Learn how to renew your FSSAI license on time” → Link to renewal section
- “See the full document checklist for State FSSAI License” → Link to table
- “Discover how FSSAI consultants can help you avoid rejection” → Link to expert tips
- “Read real case studies of FSSAI license applications” → Link to case studies
🔗 External Authority Links
- https://www.fssai.gov.in – Official FSSAI website
- https://foscos.fssai.gov.in – FoSCoS Portal
- https://www.foodsafetyhelpline.com – FSSAI Guidelines
Social Media Share Captions
Confused about Basic vs State vs Central FSSAI license?
We break down the differences in one clear guide.
👉 [Link]
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The #1 question food entrepreneurs ask: “Which FSSAI license do I need?”
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide.
Perfect for home bakers, restaurants, and manufacturers.
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⚠️ Warning: 70% of food startups apply for the WRONG FSSAI license.
Don’t be one of them.
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About the Author
FSSAI Certified Consultant & Trainer
With over a decade of experience in food regulatory compliance, Neha has helped 1,300+ food businesses obtain FSSAI licenses, renewals, and modifications. She is a registered FSSAI Training Partner and advisor to multiple state food safety departments.
📧 Contact: neha@fssaiguide.in
📞 Helpline: +91-98765-12345
🌐 Website: www.startbiz.org.in
Need help choosing the right FSSAI license? Book a free 10-minute consultation today.
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