Food is an essential part of life, and ensuring its safety is a responsibility for everyone involved in the food industry. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food safety standards to protect consumers and ensure quality in food production, manufacturing, and distribution. For businesses in the food manufacturing sector, obtaining FSSAI Registration is not just a legal requirement—it’s a mark of credibility and trust.
If you are starting a food manufacturing business or are already operating one in India, understanding who needs FSSAI registration is crucial. This article explains the eligibility, types of registration, benefits, and the process for food manufacturers to comply with FSSAI regulations.
What is FSSAI Registration?
The FSSAI is a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Its primary role is to regulate and monitor food safety standards, ensuring that food products manufactured, processed, or sold in India are safe for consumption.
FSSAI registration is the process through which food businesses receive a license or registration number, signifying compliance with safety and hygiene standards. This registration is mandatory for all food businesses, including manufacturers, distributors, restaurants, and online food sellers.
For food manufacturing units, FSSAI ensures that the entire production process — from sourcing raw materials to packaging — meets safety standards. Without it, businesses can face legal penalties, fines, or even closure.
Who Needs FSSAI Registration for Food Manufacturing in India?
The requirement for FSSAI registration depends on the size and scale of your business, as well as the type of food you manufacture. In general, any entity engaged in the manufacturing, processing, storage, or distribution of food products must obtain FSSAI registration.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Small-Scale Food Manufacturers
- Businesses with a small investment in food manufacturing operations.
- Typically, units producing food in limited quantities are often at a local or regional level.
- Examples: Homemade snacks, bakery products, jams, pickles, or small-scale packaged food items.
Requirement: They can apply for basic FSSAI registration, which is suitable for small manufacturers with a turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs annually.
2. Medium and Large Food Manufacturers
- Enterprises with moderate to large-scale production facilities.
- Businesses that manufacture food products in bulk for distribution across states or nationally.
- Examples: Packaged snacks, beverages, ready-to-eat meals, sauces, confectionery, and dairy products.
Requirement: Such manufacturers must apply for a state or central FSSAI license, depending on their annual turnover and the scale of operations:
- State License: For businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakhs to ₹20 crores.
- Central License: For businesses operating in multiple states, with a turnover exceeding ₹20 crores, or involved in import/export.
3. Food Manufacturers Producing Specialized Products
Some food products require specialized compliance, such as:
- Organic food items
- Health supplements
- Nutraceuticals
- Infant foods
Even if the business is small, manufacturing such products requires appropriate FSSAI licensing to ensure safety standards are strictly maintained.
Types of FSSAI Registration for Food Manufacturers
Depending on the scale and type of business, food manufacturers can apply for one of the following:
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
- Suitable for small manufacturers and micro-units.
- Valid for 1 to 5 years.
- Usually issued by the local FSSAI authority.
- Cost is nominal and designed for startups or home-based food businesses.
2. State FSSAI License
- Applicable for medium-sized food manufacturing units operating within a single state.
- Required if the turnover exceeds ₹12 lakhs but is below the central license threshold.
- Ensures that larger units comply with state-level food safety regulations.
3. Central FSSAI License
- Required for large-scale manufacturers, exporters, and businesses operating across multiple states.
- Mandatory for high-risk food products or those with turnover above ₹20 crores.
- Issued by the Central FSSAI authority.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration for Food Manufacturers
Obtaining FSSAI registration provides several advantages beyond legal compliance:
1. Legal Compliance
- Operating without FSSAI registration is illegal and can result in fines, penalties, or business closure.
- Registration ensures that your food manufacturing unit meets national safety standards.
2. Consumer Trust and Credibility
- Displaying the FSSAI logo on food products assures customers of safety and hygiene.
- It helps build brand credibility, especially for startups entering competitive markets.
3. Access to Government Schemes
- FSSAI-registered businesses can benefit from government programs for MSMEs, including subsidies, tax benefits, and easier access to loans.
4. Market Expansion Opportunities
- Registration is often required for exporting food products or supplying to large retailers and e-commerce platforms.
- Helps small manufacturers scale to larger markets with confidence.
Also Read: FSSAI license for Restaurants – Documents and process
Conclusion
For any food manufacturing business in India, FSSAI registration is not optional—it’s essential. From small home-based startups to large-scale manufacturers, obtaining the correct registration ensures legal compliance, builds consumer trust, and opens doors to market expansion and government support.
Whether you’re producing snacks, beverages, organic foods, or packaged goods, understanding who needs FSSAI registration and adhering to the rules can save your business from legal complications while enhancing your credibility in a competitive market.
Start your journey today, get your FSSAI registration, and assure your customers that your food products are safe, high-quality, and trustworthy.
