In India’s rapidly growing food industry, regulatory compliance is no longer optional—it’s essential. The FSSAI Central License stands as one of the most important legal requirements for large-scale food businesses. Whether you’re a manufacturer, importer, exporter, or multi-state food operator, understanding the FSSAI Central License process is critical to avoid penalties, ensure market access, and build consumer trust.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates the entire food supply chain under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. As part of this framework, FSSAI issues three types of licenses: Basic Registration, State License, and Central License. Among these, the FSSAI Central License is designed for high-turnover, interstate, and international food businesses.
If you’re searching for “how to apply for FSSAI Central License”, “FSSAI Central License requirements”, or “who needs FSSAI Central License”, you’re not alone. Thousands of entrepreneurs, startups, and established food companies look for accurate, step-by-step guidance every month. This guide delivers exactly that—a complete, SEO-optimized, expert-level breakdown of everything you need to know about the FSSAI Central License in India.
What Is FSSAI Central License?
The FSSAI Central License is the highest level of food business operator (FBO) authorization issued directly by the FSSAI headquarters in New Delhi. Unlike state-issued licenses, the Central License is mandatory for businesses operating at a national or international scale.
It serves as official recognition that your food business complies with national food safety standards, including hygiene, labeling, packaging, and manufacturing practices. The license number is unique and verifiable via the FSSAI online portal, adding transparency and credibility.
Businesses with a Central License are subject to stricter scrutiny and regular inspections, ensuring they maintain the highest standards of food safety. Holding this license is not just about legality—it’s about brand reputation, consumer confidence, and long-term sustainability.
Why FSSAI Central License Matters in 2024
With rising awareness about food adulteration, hygiene, and quality, consumers now check for the FSSAI license number before purchasing any packaged food. A Central License signals that your business is not just compliant but also committed to safety.
Here’s why the FSSAI Central License is more important than ever:
- Legal Requirement: Operating without a valid license can lead to fines up to ₹10 lakh or imprisonment.
- Interstate Operations: Required for any food business operating in more than one state.
- Export & Import: Mandatory for importers and exporters of food items.
- E-commerce Compliance: Platforms like BigBasket, Swiggy, Zomato, and Amazon require FSSAI licensing for onboarding.
- Government Tenders: Many public sector contracts require FSSAI Central License as proof of compliance.
- Investor Trust: Startups with proper licensing attract better funding and partnerships.
In short, if your business is scaling beyond a single city or has a turnover above ₹20 crore, the FSSAI Central License is non-negotiable.
When Is FSSAI Central License Required? (Key Criteria)
Not every food business needs a Central License. The FSSAI has clear thresholds based on turnover, production capacity, and operational scope. Here are the exact conditions under which you must apply for FSSAI Central License:
1. Annual Turnover Above ₹20 Crore
This is the most common trigger. If your total annual food business turnover exceeds ₹20 crores, you must obtain a Central License, regardless of whether you operate in one state or multiple states.
For example:
- A packaged snacks manufacturer with ₹25 crore sales across India.
- A dairy company selling milk, curd, and paneer nationwide.
Even if your business is registered in one state, high turnover demands central-level oversight.
2. Interstate Food Business
If your food business operates in two or more Indian states, you need a Central License, even if your turnover is below ₹20 crore.
This includes:
- Restaurant chains with outlets in multiple cities.
- Cloud kitchens delivering via Swiggy/Zomato across states.
- Online food retailers shipping pan-India.
The logic is simple: interstate movement of food requires centralized regulation to maintain uniform safety standards.
3. Import or Export of Food Products
All importers and exporters of food must have an FSSAI Central License. This applies even if you don’t manufacture or sell within India.
Examples:
- Importing olive oil from Italy.
- Exporting Indian spices to the USA.
- Trading frozen seafood internationally.
You’ll also need an Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT, but the FSSAI Central License is the primary food safety requirement.
4. Large-Scale Manufacturing Units
Certain food units require a Central License based on production capacity, not turnover:
| Dairy Units | > 50,000 liters/day |
| Vegetable Oil | > 2 MT/day |
| Meat Processing | > 500 kg/day |
| Slaughterhouses | > 50 large animals/day |
These thresholds are set due to the high risk of contamination and the volume of food involved.
5. Centralized Catering Services
Businesses providing food to:
- Railways (IRCTC vendors)
- Airlines (in-flight catering)
- Government institutions
- Large events and conferences
must have a Central License, especially if meals are prepared at a central kitchen and distributed across regions.
6. 100% Export-Oriented Units (EOUs)
Even if you don’t sell in India, if you manufacture food in India for export, you still need an FSSAI Central License. This ensures that Indian-made food meets international quality standards and protects India’s global reputation.
7. E-commerce Food Sellers with Pan-India Reach
If you run an online food brand selling through:
- Amazon Fresh
- JioMart
- BigBasket
- Flipkart Grocery
and ship across multiple states, you likely need a Central License, especially if turnover exceeds ₹20 crore.
8. Cold Storage & Warehousing (Large Scale)
Cold storage facilities with a capacity of over 10,000 metric tons must obtain a Central License if they store food for interstate distribution.
Who Needs FSSAI Central License? (Complete List)
The following food business operators (FBOs) must apply for FSSAI Central License:
- Large Food Manufacturers (e.g., PepsiCo, Britannia, Amul)
- Importers & Exporters of Food
- Multi-State Restaurant Chains (e.g., McDonald’s, Domino’s)
- Central Kitchens & Food Processing Hubs
- Airline & Railway Caterers
- E-commerce Food Platforms
- Packaged Drinking Water Plants (large-scale)
- Meat, Poultry & Seafood Processors
- Dairy & Milk Processing Units (high capacity)
- Food Additive & Flavor Manufacturers
- Proprietary Food Makers (health drinks, energy bars)
- Third-Party Logistics (3PL) for Food
If your business falls into any of these categories, do not delay—apply for your FSSAI Central License today.
How to Apply for FSSAI Central License Online (Step-by-Step)
The FSSAI Central License application process is 100% online via the FSSAI Food Licensing Portal: https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in
Follow these 7 steps to apply successfully:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before applying, confirm:
- Your turnover > ₹20 crore, OR
- You operate in multiple states, OR
- You are an importer/exporter, OR
- Your production capacity meets FSSAI thresholds.
Step 2: Register on FSSAI Portal
Go to the FSSAI online licensing system and click “Register”.
Provide:
- Business name
- Email ID
- Mobile number
- Type of FBO (Proprietorship, LLP, Company, etc.)
You’ll receive an OTP for verification.
Step 3: Log In and Start Application
After registration, log in and select:
“Apply for Central License”
You’ll be directed to Form B—the official application form.
Step 4: Fill Form B Accurately
Form B requires detailed information:
- Proposed business name
- Complete address (with pin code)
- Nature of business (Manufacturer, Trader, Importer, etc.)
- Food categories (select from FSSAI list)
- Turnover & production capacity
- Details of directors/partners
- Layout plan of unit (for manufacturers)
Tip: Use official business name as per PAN. Any mismatch can cause rejection.
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
Scan and upload the following in PDF or JPEG format (max 2MB per file):
- Form B (signed)
- Photo ID & Address Proof (PAN, Aadhaar, Passport)
- Proof of Premises (Rent Agreement, Sale Deed, NOC)
- Partnership Deed / Certificate of Incorporation
- List of Food Products
- Layout Plan (with equipment, workflow, hygiene zones)
- NOC from Municipality / Fire Department
- Water Test Report (from NABL-approved lab)
- Import Export Code (IEC) (for importers/exporters)
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan
Pro Tip: Use a professional food safety consultant to prepare the FSMS plan and layout.
Step 6: Pay the License Fee
The FSSAI Central License fee depends on the validity period:
| 1 Year | 7,500 |
| 2 Years | 15,000 |
| 3 Years | 22,500 |
| 4 Years | 30,000 |
| 5 Years | 37,500 |
Payment options: Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, UPI
Step 7: Submit & Track Application
After payment, submit the application. You’ll receive an Application Reference Number (ARN).
Track status via:
“Track Application Status” on the portal
Processing time: Up to 60 days
An FSSAI officer may inspect your premises. Be prepared with:
- Clean facility
- Staff in uniforms
- Proper labeling
- Safety equipment
FSSAI Central License Documents Required
Here’s a complete checklist of documents needed:
| Form B | Main application form |
| PAN Card | Business & owner identification |
| Aadhaar Card | Address & ID proof |
| Premises Proof | Rent agreement, electricity bill, etc. |
| Incorporation Certificate | For companies & LLPs |
| Partnership Deed | For partnerships |
| Layout Plan | Shows workflow & hygiene zones |
| NOC from Local Body | Confirms legal operation |
| Water Test Report | Ensures potable water usage |
| IEC Code | For import/export |
| FSMS Plan | Food safety procedures |
| List of Equipment | Machines used in production |
Note: All documents must be self-attested. For companies, attestation by a director is required.
FSSAI Central License Processing Time
The FSSAI Central License is issued within 60 days of application, as per the FSSAI Licensing Regulations, 2011.
However, delays can occur due to:
- Incomplete documents
- Failed inspection
- High application volume
- Requests for additional information
Tip: Apply at least 90 days before launch to avoid delays.
FSSAI Central License Renewal Process
The license is valid for 1 to 5 years. Renew it before expiry to avoid penalties.
Renewal Steps:
- Log in to FSSAI portal
- Click “Renew License”
- Fill renewal form
- Upload updated documents (if any)
- Pay renewal fee (same as fresh application)
- Submit
Late Renewal Penalty: ₹100 per day of delay.
Grace Period: 30 days after expiry (with penalty).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced businesses make errors. Avoid these top 5 mistakes:
- Wrong Food Category Selection
→ Use the FSSAI Food Product Category List. - Incorrect Address or Name
→ Match exactly with PAN and GSTIN.
- Poor Layout Plan
→ Show separate zones for raw, processing, and packing. - Missing NOC or Water Test
→ These are mandatory for approval.
- Ignoring Inspection Readiness
→ Keep facility clean, staff trained, and records ready.
FSSAI Central License vs State License: Key Differences
| Issuing Authority | FSSAI (Central) | State Food Authority |
| Turnover Threshold | > ₹20 Crore | ₹12 Lakh – ₹20 Crore |
| Operational Scope | Interstate/International | Single State |
| Fee (5 Years) | ₹37,500 | ₹8,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Inspection | Central Officer | State Inspector |
| Renewal Penalty | ₹100/day | ₹100/day |
Choose the right license based on your business scale and reach.
Benefits of FSSAI Central License
- Legal Operation Across India
- Eligibility for Export Markets
- Trust of E-commerce Platforms
- Access to Government Schemes
- Enhanced Brand Value
- Smooth Customs Clearance
- Investor & Bank Confidence
How to Check FSSAI Central License Validity
Verify any license using:
FSSAI License Verification Portal: https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in/checklicense.aspx
Enter the 14-digit license number to view:
- Business name
- Address
- Validity
- Food categories
- QR code
Consumers and partners use this to verify authenticity.
FSSAI License Number Format
The 14-digit FSSAI license number follows this format:
1 2345 67890 1234
- 1st digit: License type (1 = Central, 2 = State, 3 = Registration)
- 2nd–6th: State code
- 7th–12th: Unique FBO number
- 13th–14th: Last two digits of year
Example: 1 09123 45678 24 → Central License issued in 2024.
Can You Apply Without a Physical Premises?
No. FSSAI requires a verifiable business address. Even for e-commerce brands, you must have:
- A registered office
- Or a warehouse/kitchen address
Virtual offices are not accepted.
Penalty for Not Having FSSAI Central License
Under Section 59 of FSSAI Act:
- Fine: Up to ₹10 lakh
- Imprisonment: Up to 6 months
- Business closure
- Product seizure
Don’t risk your business—get licensed.
Final Thoughts: Is FSSAI Central License Worth It?
Absolutely. The FSSAI Central License is not just a legal formality—it’s a strategic advantage. It opens doors to:
- National distribution
- Export markets
- E-commerce partnerships
- Government contracts
- Consumer trust
With the Indian food industry projected to reach $500 billion by 2025, now is the time to get compliant, get licensed, and grow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How much does FSSAI Central License cost?
A: ₹7,500 (1 year) to ₹37,500 (5 years).
Q2. Can I apply for FSSAI Central License online?
A: Yes, 100% online via FSSAI portal.
Q3. What is the validity of FSSAI Central License?
A: 1 to 5 years, renewable.
Q4. Do I need FSSAI license for home kitchen?
A: If turnover < ₹12 lakh, Basic Registration (₹100) is enough.
Q5. Can I transfer my FSSAI Central License?
A: No, but you can apply for a new license under new ownership.
Q6. How long does it take to get FSSAI Central License?
A: 30–60 days, depending on inspection and document clarity.
Q7. Is FSSAI license mandatory for cloud kitchen?
A: Yes, if operating in multiple cities or turnover > ₹12 lakh.
Q8. What is FSMS plan for FSSAI?
A: A documented food safety system covering hygiene, HACCP, and quality control.
Q9. Can foreign companies get FSSAI Central License?
A: Yes, if they have a registered office or importer in India.
Q10. Where to download FSSAI Central License?
A: From your account on foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in after approval.
Conclusion: Secure Your FSSAI Central License Today
The FSSAI Central License is the gold standard for food businesses in India. Whether you’re a startup scaling nationally or an established exporter, this license is your passport to legal operation, consumer trust, and business growth.
By understanding when it’s required, who needs it, and how to apply, you can avoid costly mistakes and build a compliant, future-ready food business.
Don’t wait for an inspection or penalty. Apply today, stay compliant, and let your brand stand for safety, quality, and excellence.
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