NADCORP

FSSAI Central License Registration in India

Businesses involved in large-scale food manufacturing, food imports, exports, multi-state operations, e-commerce food supply, large warehousing, and food distribution networks are required to obtain an FSSAI Central License under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The Central License is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) through the Central Licensing Authority and is mandatory for specified categories of Food Business Operators (FBOs).

Nadcorp Consultancy Services provides complete assistance for FSSAI Central License Registration, Importer FSSAI License, Exporter Food License, License Renewal, License Modification, Food Product Approval Support, and Food Business Compliance Services across India.

The Central License demonstrates compliance with food safety regulations and enables businesses to operate legally across India while building trust among customers, distributors, regulators, and international buyers.

What is an FSSAI Central License?

An FSSAI Central License is the highest category of food license issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

It is generally required for:

• Large food manufacturers
• Food importers
• Food exporters
• Multi-state food businesses
• E-commerce food operators
• Large warehouses and cold storage facilities
• Food businesses operating under Central Government agencies
• Airport, railway, and seaport food operators

The license contains a unique 14-digit FSSAI License Number, which must be displayed on food packaging, labels, invoices, and business premises as prescribed by law.

Why is an FSSAI Central License Important?

The Central License is not merely a legal requirement; it is a mark of regulatory compliance and food safety assurance.

Nationwide Business Operations

Enables food businesses to operate across multiple states.

Import & Export Authorization

Required for businesses importing or exporting food products.

Enhanced Brand Reputation

Strengthens customer confidence and business credibility.

Government Contract Eligibility

Many tenders and government procurement opportunities require FSSAI licensing.

Better Market Acceptance

Distributors, retailers, and online marketplaces often prefer licensed food businesses.

Legal Protection

Helps avoid penalties, prosecutions, and business disruptions arising from non-compliance.

Who Requires an FSSAI Central License?

The requirement is based on turnover, production capacity, and business activities.

Large Food Businesses

Food businesses having annual turnover exceeding ₹20 Crore generally require a Central License.

Multi-State Food Operators

Businesses operating in more than one state are generally required to obtain a Central License for their Head Office.

Food Importers & Exporters

All food importers and exporters are required to obtain an FSSAI Central License irrespective of turnover.

Large Manufacturing Units

Food manufacturing units producing more than prescribed limits under FSSAI regulations.

Dairy Businesses

Units handling:

• More than 50,000 litres of milk per day; or
• More than 2,500 MT of milk solids annually.

Meat Processing Units

Businesses processing:

• More than 500 kg of meat per day; or
• More than 150 MT annually.

Large Warehouses & Cold Storage Units

Storage facilities having substantial storage capacity as prescribed under FSSAI norms.

Transporters

Food transport operators using large fleets or transporting substantial quantities of food products.

Government-Linked Food Operations

Food businesses operating under:

• Central Government Departments
• Railways
• Airports
• Seaports
• Defence Establishments

Key Categories Eligible for Central License

Food Manufacturers

• Packaged Food Manufacturers
• Beverage Manufacturers
• Dairy Processing Units
• Meat Processing Units
• Ready-to-Eat Food Manufacturers

Food Traders

• Wholesalers
• Distributors
• Large Retail Chains

Food Service Providers

• Large Catering Companies
• Institutional Kitchens
• Multi-State Restaurant Chains

Logistics & Storage Operators

• Cold Chain Operators
• Food Warehouses
• Transporters

Import-Export Businesses

• Importers of Food Products
• Export-Oriented Food Businesses

Documents Required for FSSAI Central License

Identity & Address Documents

• PAN Card
• Aadhaar Card
• Passport (if applicable)
• Passport Size Photographs

Business Registration Documents

Proprietorship

• Proprietor Declaration

Partnership Firm

• Partnership Deed

LLP

• LLP Incorporation Certificate
• LLP Agreement

Company

• Certificate of Incorporation
• MOA & AOA
• Board Resolution

Statutory Documents

• GST Registration Certificate
• Import Export Code (IEC) (if applicable)
• Form IX (Nomination of Responsible Person)

Operational Documents

• Manufacturing Layout Plan
• List of Machinery & Equipment
• Food Product List
• Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan
• Water Testing Report
• Source of Raw Material Details

Additional Documents

• NOC from Owner/Landlord
• Recall Plan
• Pest Control Records
• Supplier & Distributor Details
• Turnover Proof
• Audit Reports (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining FSSAI Central License

Step 1: Eligibility Evaluation

Determine whether the business qualifies for a Central License based on turnover and activity.

Step 2: Document Preparation

Compile all required registration and operational documents.

Step 3: Online Application Filing

Submit Form B through the FoSCoS Portal.

Step 4: Upload Documents

Upload prescribed supporting documents.

Step 5: Government Fee Payment

Pay applicable fees based on the validity period selected.

Step 6: Departmental Scrutiny

The application is reviewed by the licensing authority.

Step 7: Inspection (If Required)

Physical inspection may be conducted by food safety officials.

Step 8: Grant of License

Upon successful verification, the Central License is issued.

Government Fees for FSSAI Central License

The government fee varies according to the category and validity period selected.

Timeline for FSSAI Central License Approval

Activity	Approximate Timeline
Application Review	7–15 Days
Inspection (if required)	30–60 Days
License Issuance	7–15 Days

Expected Overall Timeline

Generally, 30–90 working days, depending upon business category, inspection requirements, and document completeness.

Validity & Renewal of Central License

A FSSAI Central License can be obtained for a period ranging from 1 year to 5 years.

Renewal Window

FBOs can generally apply for renewal up to 120 days before expiry.

Recommended Practice

Apply at least 30 days before expiry to avoid additional fees and operational disruptions.

Late Renewal Charges

A late fee may be levied as prescribed under FSSAI regulations.

Compliance Requirements After Obtaining License

Businesses holding a Central License must ensure:

Food Safety Compliance

Maintain prescribed food safety and hygiene standards.

Proper Labelling

Display FSSAI License Number on food labels and packaging.

Record Maintenance

Maintain production, storage, procurement, and sales records.

Product Traceability

Maintain systems for product recall and traceability.

Periodic Inspections

Cooperate with food safety inspections and audits.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to obtain or maintain a valid Central License may result in severe consequences.

Operating Without License

Penalty up to ₹5 Lakhs and/or imprisonment under applicable provisions.

Sale of Substandard Food

Financial penalties and enforcement actions.

Misleading Claims

Penalties for false or misleading advertisements.

Unsafe Food

Penalties may include substantial fines, imprisonment, product recalls, and business closure depending on the severity of violations.

Business Closure

Authorities may suspend or cancel operations for serious breaches.

Recent Regulatory Developments

FoSCoS-Based Licensing System

FSSAI now processes most applications, renewals, modifications, and compliance functions through the FoSCoS (Food Safety Compliance System) portal.

Strengthened Traceability Requirements

Food businesses are increasingly expected to maintain supplier records, recall mechanisms, and traceability systems.

Import Compliance Monitoring

Food importers are subject to enhanced scrutiny regarding product labeling, documentation, testing, and safety standards.

Hygiene & Food Safety Audits

Large food businesses may face more rigorous inspections and compliance verification measures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who requires an FSSAI Central License?

Businesses with turnover exceeding ₹20 Crore, importers, exporters, multi-state operators, and specified large-scale food businesses.

Is FSSAI Central License mandatory for food importers?

Yes. Food importers generally require a valid Central License.

What is the validity period?

The license can be obtained for 1 to 5 years.

Which form is used for application?

Form B is generally used for obtaining an FSSAI Central License.

Is inspection compulsory?

Inspection may be conducted depending on the category and nature of business.

Can a State License be upgraded to a Central License?

Yes. Eligible businesses may apply for conversion or fresh Central Licensing based on revised eligibility criteria.

How long does approval take?

Typically, 30–90 days, depending on documentation and verification requirements.

Is the FSSAI number mandatory on packaging?

Yes. The FSSAI License Number must generally be displayed on food labels and packaging.

Can the license be renewed online?

Yes. Renewal applications can be filed through the FoSCoS portal.

What happens if the license expires?

The business may face compliance issues, penalties, and may need to obtain a fresh license if renewal timelines are missed.