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In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food safety and issues licenses to Food Business Operators (FBOs). FBOs involved in any stage of the food chain, from manufacturing and processing to packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, Retail, Export and import, are required to obtain an FSSAI license.

The FSSAI has categorized the licenses into three types: Basic Registration, State License, and Central License, depending on the size and scale of operations of the food business. The type of license required will vary based on factors such as turnover, production capacity, and the nature of the food business.

The FBOs that require an FSSAI license include:

1. Manufacturers and Processors: This category includes entities involved in the manufacturing or processing of food products.
2. Storage and Warehousing Units: Businesses engaged in storing and warehousing of food products need to obtain an FSSAI license.
3. Transporters: Entities involved in the transportation of food products, whether by road, rail, air, or sea, require an FSSAI license.
4. Distributors and Wholesalers: Those involved in the distribution and wholesale of food products must obtain an FSSAI license.
5. Retailers: Retailers such as grocery stores, supermarkets, and food outlets are required to have an FSSAI license.
6. Caterers and Hoteliers: Caterers and hotels, including restaurants and eateries, need to obtain an FSSAI license.
7. Importers and Exporters: Businesses involved in the import and export of food products are required to obtain an FSSAI license.
8. Online Food Businesses: Platforms and businesses engaged in selling food products online must also obtain the necessary FSSAI license.
9. Canteens and Messes: Canteens and mess facilities, whether in educational institutions, offices, or other establishments, need to obtain an FSSAI license.