FSSAI vs AGMARK: What's the Difference? | Which One Do You Need?

Introduction to FSSAI and AGMARK Certifications

If you're involved in the food industry in India, you may have heard of both **FSSAI** and **AGMARK**. While both are food-related quality assurance systems, they serve different purposes and apply to different types of products.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• What is FSSAI Certification?
• What is AGMARK Certification?
• Key differences between FSSAI and AGMARK
• Which certification your business needs
• Application processes for both
• Latest updates in 2024

💡 Tip: Most food businesses require FSSAI certification, while AGMARK is limited to specific agricultural commodities.

What is FSSAI Certification?

FSSAI stands for **Food Safety and Standards Authority of India**. It was established under the **FSS Act, 2006** and is responsible for regulating the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale, and import of food products across India.

All food business operators (FBOs) must obtain an FSSAI license or registration before starting operations.

Who Needs FSSAI Certification?

• Food manufacturers
• Restaurants and hotels
• Importers and exporters
• Packaged food brands
• Home-based food businesses

What is AGMARK Certification?

AGMARK stands for **Agricultural Marketing**, and it’s a certification mark governed by the **Directorate of Marketing & Inspection (DMI)** under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.

AGMARK ensures that agricultural commodities meet defined standards of quality and purity. It acts as a guarantee of quality for consumers.

Who Needs AGMARK Certification?

• Rice, wheat, pulses, and edible oils
• Dal, ghee, honey, butter, and spices
• Certified seeds and fertilizers
• Export-import companies dealing with agricultural goods

Key Differences Between FSSAI and AGMARK

Parameter	FSSAI	AGMARK
Full Form	Food Safety and Standards Authority of India	Agricultural Marketing
Issuing Authority	Ministry of Health and Family Welfare	Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
Scope	Applies to all food products and businesses	Limited to agricultural commodities and processed agri-foods
Mandatory Status	Yes, for all food businesses	Optional for most, but mandatory for exports and certain government tenders
Logo Requirement	Must display FSSAI logo and license number on packaging	AGMARK seal displayed voluntarily on certified products
Penalties for Non-Compliance	Up to ₹10 lakh + imprisonment	Varies based on commodity type

Do I Need Both FSSAI and AGMARK?

It depends on your business type and product category:

• If you’re a **food manufacturer or restaurant**, you only need **FSSAI**.
• If you produce **agricultural commodities** like rice, flour, ghee, or oil, you may choose to get **AGMARK** certification for added trust and marketability.
• If you're exporting agricultural goods, **both FSSAI and AGMARK** may be required depending on the destination country's norms.

Scope of FSSAI Certification

The FSSAI covers all aspects of food safety and hygiene, including:

• Labeling and packaging rules
• Hygiene and sanitation guidelines
• Nutritional labeling requirements
• Testing and compliance norms
• License renewal and audit procedures

Scope of AGMARK Certification

AGMARK focuses on standardization and grading of agricultural commodities based on physical and chemical parameters. Some of the commonly certified items include:

• Rice and Wheat
• Edible Oils and Ghee
• Honey and Spices
• Basmati Rice
• Tea and Coffee
• Seeds and Grains

✅ Note: AGMARK certification is not mandatory for domestic sales, but preferred for exports and premium branding.

When Is AGMARK Required?

While not compulsory for all food businesses, AGMARK certification is beneficial or required in these cases:

• Exporting agricultural products
• Participating in government procurement programs
• Branding and marketing premium agricultural goods
• Meeting international food safety standards

How to Apply for FSSAI Certification

FSSAI certification is mandatory and must be applied online via the official portal:

1. Visit: FSSAI Licensing Portal
2. Create an account using your PAN and Aadhaar
3. Select appropriate form: Form A (Basic Registration) or Form B (State/Central License)
4. Upload required documents
5. Pay fees online
6. Wait for verification and approval

📌 Pro Tip: Always keep your FSSAI certificate updated during inspections and renewals.

How to Apply for AGMARK Certification

AGMARK certification is issued by the Directorate of Marketing & Inspection. Here’s how to apply:

1. Apply at the nearest DMI office or authorized testing lab
2. Submit samples of your product for testing
3. Provide business and product details
4. Pay applicable fees
5. Get approval and license to use AGMARK seal

Validity and Renewal

Certificate	Validity	Renewal Process
FSSAI License	1–5 years	Online renewal on FSSAI portal
AGMARK Certification	1–3 years (varies by product)	Reapply with fresh sample testing

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FAQs About FSSAI and AGMARK

Q1. Is FSSAI enough for selling packaged food?

Yes, FSSAI certification is mandatory for all packaged food businesses in India.

Q2. Can I use AGMARK without FSSAI?

No, FSSAI certification is mandatory for any food business in India, even if AGMARK is used.

Q3. Is AGMARK certification free?

No, AGMARK certification involves testing fees and licensing charges based on the product type.

Q4. Is AGMARK certification valid internationally?

Yes, AGMARK is recognized in several countries and helps in export markets where Indian standards are accepted.

Q5. Can small farmers get AGMARK certification?

Yes, small producers can apply individually or through co-operative societies.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between FSSAI and AGMARK is crucial for regulatory compliance and brand positioning.

FSSAI is a **mandatory certification** for every food business in India, ensuring safety and hygiene. AGMARK is a **quality grading system** for agricultural commodities — often used for exports and premium branding.

Make sure you apply for the right certification based on your business model and product type to stay compliant and competitive.

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Need Help With Food Certifications?

Contact us today or visit the official FSSAI website or AGMARK website to learn how to apply and stay compliant with food safety regulations.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always refer to the official FSSAI and AGMARK websites or consult a licensed professional for accurate guidance.