FSSAI Central License: Complete Guide for Large-Scale Food Businesses
Operating a large-scale food business in India requires compliance with food safety regulations enforced by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. The FSSAI Central License represents the highest tier of food business authorization, designed specifically for enterprises with significant turnover, multi-state operations, or involvement in import-export activities. Without this license, large food businesses cannot legally operate, risking substantial penalties and business closure.
The Central License differs from basic registration and state licenses in scope, authority, and compliance requirements. It’s issued directly by the Central Licensing Authority under FSSAI and covers businesses operating across multiple states, importers, exporters, and large manufacturers. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and compliance obligations helps you navigate the licensing journey smoothly.
What is FSSAI Central License
The FSSAI Central License is a food business authorization issued by the Central Government for large-scale Food Business Operators under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This 14-digit license number beginning with ‘1’ signifies that your business has met the stringent food safety standards required for operating at a national or international level. The license validity ranges from one to five years, after which renewal becomes mandatory.
Unlike the FSSAI State License meant for medium-sized businesses operating within a single state, the Central License caters to enterprises with pan-India presence, international trade operations, or production capacities exceeding specified thresholds. The Central Licensing Authority processes applications through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal.
Who Needs FSSAI Central License
The following categories of Food Business Operators must obtain FSSAI Central License:
Based on Annual Turnover:
- Food businesses with annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crore
- Transporters and wholesalers with turnover above ₹30 crore
- E-commerce food platforms selling through own websites
Based on Business Nature (Irrespective of Turnover):
- Food importers and exporters
- Food businesses operating in multiple states
- 100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs)
- Manufacturers of proprietary food and non-specified food items
- Food businesses operating at airports, seaports, and railway stations
- Units under Central Government agencies including Defence establishments
- Manufacturers of nutraceuticals, health supplements, and novel foods
Based on Production Capacity:
- Dairy units handling over 50,000 litres of milk per day or 2,500 MT milk solids annually
- Vegetable oil processing units with capacity exceeding 2 MT per day
- Slaughterhouses processing over 50 large animals, 150 small animals, or 1,000 poultry birds daily
- Meat processing units with capacity over 500 kg per day or 150 MT annually
- Cold storage facilities with capacity exceeding 1,000 MT
- Hotels with 5-star rating and above
Eligibility Criteria for FSSAI Central License
Before applying for Central License, verify that your business meets these essential criteria:
Turnover Threshold: Annual turnover must exceed ₹20 crore for general food businesses. For transporters and wholesalers, the threshold is ₹30 crore.
Business Constitution: Valid business entity registration such as Private Limited Company, LLP, Partnership Firm, or Proprietorship with appropriate registration certificates.
Premises Compliance: Business premises must meet FSSAI’s hygiene, sanitation, and food safety infrastructure requirements.
Food Safety Management: Implementation of Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan covering production, storage, and distribution processes.
Import-Export Code: Valid IEC from DGFT is mandatory for businesses involved in food import or export activities.
Documents Required for FSSAI Central License
Identity and Business Documents:
- Photo ID proof of proprietor/partners/directors (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport)
- Business constitution proof (Certificate of Incorporation, Partnership Deed, GST Registration)
- List of directors/partners with complete contact details
- Passport-size photographs of authorized signatory
Premises and Infrastructure Documents:
- Proof of premises possession (ownership documents, rent agreement, utility bills)
- NOC from landlord (for rented premises)
- Layout plan/blueprint of manufacturing unit
- List of machinery and equipment with installed capacity
Compliance and Safety Documents:
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan
- Water quality testing report from recognized laboratory
- Product recall plan for food safety emergencies
- Source of raw materials (for meat and milk processing units)
- NOC from local municipal authority
Additional Documents (Activity-Specific):
- Import Export Code (IEC) for importers/exporters
- Ministry of Commerce certificate for 100% EOUs
- Product approval from FSSAI for proprietary foods
- FSSAI license numbers of other units (for multi-state operations)
Step-by-Step Application Process Through FoSCoS Portal
Step 1: Register on FoSCoS Portal
Visit the official FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in) and create a new account. Provide basic details including name, email, and mobile number. Verify your account through OTP sent to your registered mobile.
Step 2: Select License Type
After logging in, click on ‘Apply for License/Registration’. Select your state from the dropdown menu and choose ‘Central License’ based on your business eligibility. This selection directs you to Form B.
Step 3: Complete Form B Application
Fill Form B accurately with complete business details including registered name, address, type of food business, products manufactured or traded, installed capacity, and annual turnover. Select the appropriate Kind of Business (KoB) category from the dropdown.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of all mandatory documents as per the checklist. Ensure documents are clear, legible, and in prescribed format (PDF/JPEG). Any missing or invalid document may result in application rejection or improvement notice.
Step 5: Pay License Fees
Pay the applicable government fee online through the payment gateway. Fee varies based on license validity period (1-5 years). Upon successful payment, a receipt with 17-digit reference number is generated.
Step 6: Application Scrutiny and Inspection
The Designated Officer reviews submitted documents. For Central License, premises inspection is typically conducted to verify compliance with food safety standards. Address any queries or provide additional documents if requested.
Step 7: License Issuance
Upon satisfactory review and inspection, FSSAI approves the application and issues the Central License certificate. Download the license from your FoSCoS dashboard. The license must be displayed prominently at all business premises.
Time Required for FSSAI Central License
The FSSAI Central License process typically takes 30-60 working days from application submission to certificate issuance. Document preparation and gathering requires 7-10 days. Application scrutiny and document verification consume 15-20 days. Premises inspection scheduling and completion take 7-15 days. Final approval and certificate issuance require 7-10 days. Timelines may extend if improvement notices are issued or additional documents requested.
FSSAI Central License Fee Structure
| License Validity | Government Fee |
| 1 Year | ₹7,500 |
| 2 Years | ₹15,000 |
| 3 Years | ₹22,500 |
| 4 Years | ₹30,000 |
| 5 Years | ₹37,500 |
Benefits of FSSAI Central License
Pan-India Operations
Central License authorizes food business operations across all states without requiring separate state licenses for each location. This simplifies multi-state expansion and distribution networks.
Import-Export Authorization
International trade in food products mandates Central License. It enables customs clearance for imported food items and certification for exports, opening global market opportunities.
Enhanced Business Credibility
Central License demonstrates compliance with the highest food safety standards. This credibility attracts institutional buyers, retail chains, and quality-conscious consumers.
E-Commerce Platform Compliance
Online food marketplaces and e-commerce platforms require Central License for listing products. It’s mandatory for businesses selling food through their own websites.
Government Contract Eligibility
Large government contracts for food supply to institutions, schools, and public distribution systems require valid Central License as a mandatory qualification criterion.
FSSAI Central License vs State License
| Parameter | Central License | State License |
| Turnover Threshold | Above ₹20 crore | ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore |
| Issuing Authority | Central Government | State Government |
| Area of Operation | Multiple states / Pan-India | Within single state |
| Annual Fee | ₹7,500 | ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 |
| Import/Export | Permitted | Not permitted |
| Processing Time | 30-60 days | 15-30 days |
FSSAI Central License Renewal
Timely renewal ensures uninterrupted business operations. The renewal window opens 120 days before license expiry. Applications must be submitted at least 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties.
Renewal Process:
- Login to FoSCoS portal and select ‘Apply for Renewal’
- Update any changed business information
- Upload renewed documents (water test reports, FSMS plan updates)
- Pay renewal fees based on chosen validity period
- Receive renewed license upon approval
Late Renewal Penalty: If renewal application is filed after the 30-day window but before expiry, a late fee of ₹100 per day applies in addition to standard renewal fees. After expiry, the license becomes invalid and a fresh application is required.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating Without License: Fine up to ₹5 lakh under Section 63 of FSS Act, 2006.
Failure to Display License: Penalty and improvement notice from food safety authorities.
Operating with Expired License: Business shutdown order and fresh license requirement.
Violation of Food Safety Standards: Fines ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakh depending on severity, with possible imprisonment for serious violations.
Conclusion
The FSSAI Central License is essential for large-scale food businesses operating across India or engaged in international food trade. The application process through the FoSCoS portal has streamlined what was once a complex regulatory requirement. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, gather all required documents, and maintain compliance with food safety standards throughout your operations. Timely renewal and adherence to FSS Act provisions protect your business from penalties while building consumer trust in your food products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the turnover limit for FSSAI Central License?
Food businesses with annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crore require Central License. For transporters and wholesalers, the threshold is ₹30 crore.
Can I apply for Central License for import-export business with lower turnover?
Yes. Importers and exporters must obtain Central License regardless of turnover. The nature of business mandates Central License for all international food trade.
How long does FSSAI Central License approval take?
The process typically takes 30-60 working days including document scrutiny, premises inspection, and certificate issuance. Timelines may extend if additional documents are requested.
What is the maximum validity period for Central License?
Central License can be obtained for 1 to 5 years. Longer validity periods offer cost savings on annual fees and reduce renewal frequency.
Do I need separate licenses for each state if I have Central License?
The Central License covers head office operations across states. However, each manufacturing unit or branch may require its own license (Central or State) based on individual capacity and turnover.
Can Central License be modified after issuance?
Yes. Changes in address, product categories, business constitution, or installed capacity require modification application through FoSCoS portal. A modification fee equivalent to one-year license fee may apply.
Is premises inspection mandatory for Central License?
Yes. Unlike basic registration, Central License applications typically require on-site inspection by FSSAI officials to verify compliance with food safety infrastructure and hygiene standards.
What happens if my turnover exceeds ₹20 crore while holding State License?
You must apply to upgrade your State License to Central License through the FoSCoS portal. Operating with State License after crossing the turnover threshold constitutes non-compliance.
Is Central License required for hotels?
Hotels with 5-star rating and above require Central License regardless of turnover. Hotels below 5-star rating with turnover exceeding ₹20 crore also need Central License.
Can I track my Central License application status?
Yes. Use the 17-digit reference number generated after application submission to track status on the FoSCoS portal. SMS and email alerts are also sent at various processing stages.
