FSSAI Central License Registration

What is an FSSAI Central License?

An FSSAI Central License is the top-tier food licence issued by the central licensing authority of FSSAI to large FBOs, importers/exporters and businesses operating in more than one state.

• Issuing Authority: FSSAI (Central Licensing Authority)
• Governing Law: Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
• Applicable To: Large FBOs with annual turnover above Rs. 20 crore, importers, exporters and multi-state operators
• FSSAI Number: A unique 14-digit number on packaging and at the premises
• Validity: Issued for 1 to 5 years, as chosen by the applicant

FSSAI License Types Comparison

Note: The right category depends on your exact turnover and operations. To confirm which licence applies to you, connect with our executive.

Who Needs an FSSAI Central License?

• Large FBOs with annual turnover above Rs. 20 crore
• Importers of food products and ingredients
• Exporters and 100% export-oriented food units
• Businesses operating in more than one state (head office)
• E-commerce food business operators
• Operators at central government premises, airports, seaports and defence establishments
• Large manufacturers, processors and storage units above prescribed capacity
• Food catering at airports / seaports and in railways / Indian Railways
• Large transporters and wholesalers above the prescribed turnover/capacity

Capacity-Based Eligibility (Indicative)

Note: The above limits are indicative and may vary. For your exact eligibility, connect with our executive.

Documents Required for FSSAI Central License

• Passport-size photograph of the applicant / authorised signatory
• PAN Card and ID proof (Aadhaar / Voter ID / Passport / Driving Licence)
• Address proof of the business premises (electricity bill / rent agreement / NOC)
• Business constitution proof (Incorporation Certificate / Partnership Deed / GST)
• Form B duly completed and signed by the proprietor / authorised signatory
• List of food products / categories to be manufactured or handled
• Blueprint / layout plan of the processing unit (for manufacturers)
• List of equipment and machinery with capacity (for manufacturers)
• Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan or certificate
• Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT (for importers/exporters)
• Source of milk / raw material and details of suppliers (where applicable)
• Water test report from a recognised lab (for manufacturing units)
• NOC from the manufacturer (for marketers) and ministry/department (where applicable)
• List of directors / partners with full address and contact details

Our FSSAI Central License Process

1. Consultation: Confirm that the Central License is the correct category for your business
2. Document Collection: Gather all required documents, layout plan, FSMS and product list
3. Application Filing: File Form B on the FoSCoS portal with the required attachments
4. Fee Payment: Pay the prescribed government fee for the chosen validity period
5. Inspection: The designated officer may inspect the premises before approval
6. Query Response: We respond to any clarifications or queries raised by the authority
7. License Issuance: The FSSAI Central License with a 14-digit number is granted
8. Renewal & Compliance: We assist with renewal, annual returns and ongoing compliance

Benefits of FSSAI Central License

• Legal Compliance: Fulfils the mandatory requirement for large FBOs and avoids penalties
• Import/Export: Essential for importing and exporting food products
• Pan-India Operations: Enables business across multiple states under one head licence
• Consumer Trust: The FSSAI number assures customers of food safety and quality
• Brand Credibility: Strengthens brand reputation with large retailers and partners
• Market Access: Required for large e-commerce, retail chains and institutional supply
• Funding & Tenders: Improves eligibility for loans, investments and big tenders

Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Operating Without License: Imprisonment and a fine up to Rs. 5 lakh for running a food business without a valid licence
• Substandard Food: Penalty up to Rs. 5 lakh for selling food not of the prescribed standard
• Misbranded Food: Penalty up to Rs. 3 lakh for misbranded food products
• Misleading Advertisement: Penalty up to Rs. 10 lakh for false or misleading claims
• Unhygienic Conditions: Penalty for manufacturing/processing in unhygienic conditions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Who needs an FSSAI Central License?

Large FBOs with annual turnover above Rs. 20 crore, importers, exporters, e-commerce food businesses and multi-state operators need a Central License. For your case, connect with our executive.

Q2. Do importers and exporters always need a Central License?

Yes. All food importers and exporters require an FSSAI Central License irrespective of their turnover.

Q3. I operate in several states — which license do I need?

Businesses operating across multiple states need a Central License for the head office and State Licenses for individual state operations, as applicable.

Q4. What is the validity of the Central License?

The Central License can be obtained for 1 to 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.

Q5. Is a premises inspection required?

Yes, in most cases the designated officer inspects the premises, especially for manufacturing and large-scale units, before granting the licence.

Q6. Can I upgrade my State License to a Central License?

Yes. If your turnover or operations cross the State License limits, you can move to a Central License. We assist with the process.

Q7. How long does it take to get the Central License?

With complete documents, the Central License is generally processed within a few weeks, subject to inspection. For more details, connect with our executive.

Ready to Get Your FSSAI Central License?

Contact us today for fast and hassle-free FSSAI Central License registration and food safety compliance!