🔰 Introduction
If you are planning to start a food business in India, understanding FSSAI License Eligibility Criteria is essential. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has defined clear rules based on annual turnover and business type.
In this guide, we have simplified the official document so you can easily determine:
- Which license you need
- Applicable fees
- Business category classification
👉 You can also refer to the official document here:
📄PDF Documents
🧾 Types of FSSAI Registration
FSSAI provides 3 types of approvals based on turnover:
| Turnover | License Type | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Up to ₹1.5 Crore | Basic Registration | ₹100/year |
| ₹1.5 Cr – ₹50 Cr | State License | ₹5000/year |
| Above ₹50 Cr | Central License | ₹7500/year |
📌 This applies to most food business categories.
🏭 Manufacturer Category (Key Details)
Manufacturers include businesses involved in:
- Processing food
- Packaging & labeling
- Storage & transportation
Covered Units:
- Dairy Units (Milk Processing)
- Vegetable Oil Units
- Meat Processing Units
- Fish Processing Units
- General Food Manufacturing
👉 Example:
If your dairy unit turnover is ₹2 crore → State License required
📌 As per Page 1 & 2 of PDF, all these categories follow the same turnover-based structure.
🧴 Special Manufacturing Categories (Central License Mandatory)
Some businesses require Central License irrespective of turnover:
- Nutraceuticals & Health Supplements
- Non-specified Food Products
- Ayurveda Aahara
- Radiation Processed Food
- Export-Oriented Units
📌 These categories are highlighted in Page 3–4 of the document.
🏬 Trade & Retail Businesses
This includes:
- Storage (Cold Storage / Warehouse)
- Transportation
- Wholesalers
- Distributors
- Retail Shops
📊 License Criteria:
| Business Type | License Rule |
|---|---|
| Small shop (< ₹1.5 Cr) | Registration |
| Medium (₹1.5–50 Cr) | State License |
| Large (> ₹50 Cr) | Central License |
📌 Refer Page 4–5 for detailed breakdown.
🍽️ Food Service Businesses
Includes:
- Restaurants
- Hotels
- Canteens
- Caterers
- Dhaba / Food stalls
- Home kitchens / Dabba services
Important Rules:
- Small vendors → Registration (₹100)
- Hawkers → ₹0 fee (exempted)
-
Hotels:
- 5 Star → Central License
- Up to 4 Star → State License
📌 Based on Page 6–7 of PDF.
🌐 Special Categories
Certain businesses require Central License only:
- Importers
- E-commerce food sellers
- Exporters
- Airport/Seaport food businesses
- Railway catering
📌 Explained in Page 6–8.
🏛️ Government & Institutional Units
- Central Government canteens
- Mid-day meal programs
- Anganwadi centers
👉 Some categories even have fee exemptions (₹0)
📌 See Page 8 for special provisions.
🧠 Important Notes
✔ Turnover is the primary deciding factor
✔ Business category also matters
✔ Some businesses require Central License regardless of turnover
✔ Multi-state businesses must apply for Head Office Central License
📌 Mentioned in Page 9 of document.
🚀 Conclusion
Understanding FSSAI eligibility is crucial before applying through FoSCoS. Choosing the correct license will:
- Save time
- Avoid penalties
- Ensure compliance
👉 Always classify your business correctly before applying.
🔎 FAQs (SEO Boost)
Q1. What is the minimum turnover for FSSAI registration?
👉 Up to ₹1.5 crore requires basic registration.
Q2. Who needs a Central License?
👉 Businesses with turnover above ₹50 crore or special categories like import/export.
Q3. Is FSSAI mandatory for small vendors?
👉 Yes, even small vendors need registration (₹100 or free for hawkers).
📢 Bonus (Internal Linking Idea)
👉 Check our detailed guide:
- FSSAI Registration Process (Step-by-Step)
- FoSCoS Login Guide
- FSSAI Renewal Online
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