What is FSSAI Central License?
The FSSAI Central License is mandatory for large food businesses operating in India with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crores. Issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), this license ensures compliance with food safety regulations.
Our FSSAI Central License services cover:
- New registration for food manufacturers, importers and exporters
- License modification for business expansion or changes
- Annual returns filing and compliance management
- License renewal before expiration
- State to central license upgrade services
Central FSSAI licence for large, import and multi-state food businesses
- Eligibility confirmed – turnover, activity and number of states
- Documents and food safety management plan prepared
- Application filed and followed up on FoSCoS
Who Needs FSSAI Central License?
Large Food Manufacturers
Food production units with capacity above specified limits as per FSSAI regulations.
Importers/Exporters
All food import and export businesses regardless of turnover.
Central Government Agencies
Food businesses operated by central government agencies.
Large Retail Chains
Food retail chains with operations in multiple states.
Required Documents for FSSAI Central License
Form-B
Duly filled application form
ID Proof
PAN card of business/food business operator
Address Proof
Rental agreement or property papers
Company Incorporation
Certificate of incorporation for companies
Food Safety Plan
Food safety management system plan
Product List
List of food categories to be manufactured
FSSAI Central License Registration Process
1. Document Collection
Gathering all required documents and information.
2. Application Preparation
Drafting Form-B and preparing supporting documents.
3. Online Submission
Filing application on FSSAI FoSCoS portal.
4. Inspection
Food safety officer inspection of premises (if required).
5. License Issuance
Receiving 14-digit FSSAI license number.
Benefits of FSSAI Central License
Legal Compliance
Meets mandatory requirements under Food Safety Act
Business Expansion
Enables nationwide and international operations
Brand Value
Enhances credibility and consumer trust
Export Advantage
Required for food exports and dealing with foreign buyers
FSSAI Central License Fees
| Business Type | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturers | ₹7,500 | ₹37,500 |
| Importers | ₹7,500 | ₹37,500 |
| Large Retailers | ₹5,000 | ₹25,000 |
| Transporters | ₹5,000 | ₹25,000 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Central licence applications are detailed. These gaps cause most queries.
- Incomplete food safety plan – A documented food safety management system is expected.
- Missing import documents – Importers need an IEC and related documents.
- Wrong licence category – Turnover, activity and number of states decide the category.
- No layout plan – The premises layout is required for manufacturing units.
- Late renewal – Operating on an expired licence can lead to penalties.
After Getting Your Central Licence
Display the licence
Show it at the premises and print the number on labels.
Annual return
File Form D1 by 31 May each year.
Inspections and audits
Keep records ready for inspections.
Renew or modify
Renew before expiry and modify for changes.
Helpful Guides
Free, plain-English guides from our compliance team:
Why Choose Vaidam Consultancy for FSSAI Central Licence
Eligibility checked first
Applying under the wrong licence type is a common cause of rejection; we check before filing.
Complete documentation
Layout plans, equipment lists and food safety plans are prepared with you.
Clear, upfront pricing
Our fees are listed on this page, and any government fee is shown separately before we start.
Follow-up until approval
We respond to queries and inspections from the authority on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
The license can be obtained for 1 to 5 years as per your business requirements.
Typically 30-45 days from application submission, depending on inspection requirements.
Yes, all food exporters require FSSAI Central License regardless of turnover.
Operating without required FSSAI license can lead to penalties up to ₹5 lakhs and imprisonment.
Generally food businesses with annual turnover above ₹20 crore, importers and exporters, e-commerce food operators and the head office of businesses operating in more than one state.
Typically constitution documents of the business, ID and address proof of the owners or directors, a layout plan, list of equipment, food safety management plan and, for importers, the Import Export Code.
E-commerce food business operators generally need a Central licence from FSSAI.
Each manufacturing or storage premises is usually licensed separately; the head office of a multi-state business holds a Central licence.