When it comes to food regulation in India, two names often come up: FSSAI and AGMARK.
But they’re not the same thing.
So what’s the difference between FSSAI and AGMARK? Which applies to your business? And do you need both?
In this blog, we break down the purpose, authority, coverage, and legal value of both FSSAI and AGMARK—so you know exactly where your food product stands.
Short Answer
- FSSAI = Mandatory food safety license issued by the Government of India for all food businesses
- AGMARK = Voluntary quality certification mark for agricultural produce
They are governed by different departments, have different purposes, and serve different legal roles.
What Is FSSAI?
- Full Form: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
- Type: Statutory government authority under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
- Purpose: To regulate food safety, hygiene, labelling, packaging, and legal compliance
- Applies To: All food businesses—retailers, manufacturers, importers, hotels, cloud kitchens, and more
- Mandatory: YES
Key Function: Issues food licenses based on business size, type, and turnover.
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What Is AGMARK?
- Full Form: Agricultural Marketing
- Type: Quality certification mark governed by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection (DMI) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
- Purpose: To certify quality and grade standards of agricultural products
- Applies To: Farmers, agri-traders, grain dealers, spice sellers, oil producers, etc.
- Mandatory: NO (except for a few commodities like butter, ghee)
Key Function: Assigns quality grades (AGMARK Grade 1, 2, etc.) based on government testing.
FSSAI vs AGMARK – Comparison Table
When Do You Need FSSAI?
You MUST have an FSSAI license or registration if you:
- Manufacture, process, pack, or sell food
- Run a food truck, cloud kitchen, hotel, restaurant, or canteen
- Sell food on Swiggy, Amazon, Flipkart, or through a shop
- Export or import food products
No business involving food is legally allowed to operate without FSSAI approval.
When Should You Get AGMARK?
AGMARK is recommended if you:
- Sell or export agricultural produce
- Want to build customer trust with quality assurance
- Sell graded farm commodities in bulk or retail
- Need to comply with certain export/import regulations
It is voluntary, but it gives your brand more credibility—especially in wholesale or export markets.
Do You Need Both FSSAI and AGMARK?
In some cases—yes.
For example:
- If you sell packaged mustard oil, you’ll need an FSSAI license to sell legally, and can also apply for AGMARK to show quality grade.
- For ghee and butter, AGMARK is mandatory, and FSSAI is also required.
Visual Markings
Why This Distinction Matters for Your Business
Knowing the difference helps you:
- Stay legally compliant
- Avoid fines and product seizures
- Choose the right packaging strategy
- Target retail, e-commerce, or export markets effectively
- Build consumer trust with both safety + quality assurance
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Conclusion
- FSSAI = Mandatory license for food safety and business legality
- AGMARK = Voluntary (in most cases), used to show product quality and grade
If you’re in the food manufacturing, processing, or selling business, you must get an FSSAI.
If you’re dealing in raw agricultural goods, AGMARK gives you an edge in quality and credibility.
FAQs
Is FSSAI mandatory for all food businesses?
Yes. Any food-related business must have an FSSAI license or registration.
Is AGMARK mandatory for all food products?
No. AGMARK is mostly voluntary, but mandatory for a few items like butter and ghee.
Can I get AGMARK without FSSAI?
Technically yes, but if you are selling packaged or processed food, you still need FSSAI.
Do both FSSAI and AGMARK require testing?
FSSAI focuses on safety compliance, while AGMARK requires lab testing for grading.
Where can I apply for FSSAI and AGMARK?
FSSAI: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
AGMARK: Through the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection (DMI)
Is AGMARK applicable for packaged food?
Only for agricultural goods—e.g., wheat, flour, edible oils.
Is FSSAI relevant for farmers?
Not directly unless they package and sell food themselves.
Who monitors AGMARK compliance?
DMI and agricultural inspectors.
Can I use AGMARK in my advertising?
Yes, if you are certified and meet grade specifications.
Does FSSAI check product quality?
It checks for safety, not grading or premium quality—AGMARK handles that.
