What is the turnover limit for FSSAI Central License?

The FSSAI Central License is required for FBOs with annual turnover above Rs 20 crore. For transporters and wholesalers the threshold is Rs 30 crore. Food importers, exporters, 100% EOUs, and multi-state e-commerce operators require Central License regardless of turnover.

How much does an FSSAI Central License cost?

The government fee is Rs 7,500 per year under the FSS Licensing and Registration Regulations 2011. The license can be obtained for 1 to 5 years. Rs 7,500 for 1 year, Rs 15,000 for 2 years, Rs 22,500 for 3 years, and Rs 37,500 for 5 years.

What is the difference between FSSAI State License and Central License?

State License is for FBOs with turnover Rs 12 lakh to Rs 20 crore issued by the State Licensing Authority. Central License is for turnover above Rs 20 crore issued by the Central Licensing Authority under FSSAI. Central License is also mandatory for import-export and multi-state operations.

Is FSSAI Central License mandatory for food exporters?

Yes, FSSAI Central License is mandatory for all food exporters regardless of annual turnover or production capacity. The license number must appear on all exported food products. Exporters also need an IE Code from DGFT.

Can I apply for FSSAI Central License online?

Yes, the application is filed exclusively online through the FoSCoS portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in. Register on the portal, fill Form B, upload documents, and pay the fee online. The entire process is managed through FoSCoS.

What happens if I operate without an FSSAI license?

Operating without a valid FSSAI license is punishable under the FSS Act 2006. Section 55 prescribes a penalty of up to Rs 5 lakh. Section 59 provides for imprisonment up to 6 months and fine up to Rs 1 lakh for unsafe food. Food safety officers can seize food articles and equipment.

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FSSAI Central License Registration in India

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Threshold: Annual turnover above Rs 20 crore (Rs 30 crore for transporters/wholesalers) under FSS (L&R) Regulations, 2011

Fee: Rs 7,500 per year with 1 to 5 year validity options - paid online through the FoSCoS portal

Application: Form B on FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in) with FSMS/HACCP documentation

Timeline: 30-60 days including application processing, site inspection, and verification by Central Licensing Authority

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Hear how teams across industries use Patron to save time, cut costs, & stay in control.

“

Patron Accounting handled our FSSAI Central License for a multi-state food distribution company. Their Form B preparation was thorough and the FSMS documentation met all FSSAI requirements. License received in 45 days.

Rajesh Kumar

Director, FreshKart Distributors

★★★★★

2 months ago

“

As a food exporter, we needed both FSSAI Central License and IEC. Patron coordinated both applications simultaneously - their understanding of FSSAI import-export requirements saved us weeks of effort.

Priya Sharma

CEO, SpiceWorld Exports Pvt Ltd

★★★★★

1 month ago

“

Our food manufacturing plant needed Central License with FSMS/HACCP documentation. Patron's team prepared everything from scratch and handled the site inspection coordination. Very professional service.

Amit Verma

Plant Manager, NutriBite Foods

★★★★★

3 months ago

“

We operate an e-commerce food platform across 8 states. Patron helped us understand the central vs state license requirements and secured our Central License efficiently. Their annual compliance support is invaluable.

Sneha Gupta

VP Operations, FoodBox India

★★★★★

4 months ago

“

Patron handled our FSSAI Central License renewal just in time - we were 10 days from expiry. They filed on FoSCoS, coordinated the renewal inspection, and ensured zero gap in our license validity. Highly recommend.

Karan Mehta

Owner, Maharaja Food Products

★★★★★

2 months ago

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Expert FSSAI Central License registration - from Form B filing to inspection coordination under the FSS Act, 2006.

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Overview What Is It Who Needs It Our Services 7-Step Process Documents Challenges Fees Timeline Benefits Central vs State vs Basic FAQs

FSSAI Central License - Complete Overview

📌 TL;DR - FSSAI Central License Services at a Glance

The FSSAI Central License is the highest tier of food business licensing in India, mandated under the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration) Regulations, 2011 for large-scale food businesses. It is required for FBOs with annual turnover above Rs 20 crore, import-export operations, multi-state operations, and large-capacity manufacturers. Application is filed via Form B on the FoSCoS portal at a fee of Rs 7,500 per year.

Parameter	Details
Governing Law	Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (Section 31) + FSS (Licensing and Registration) Regulations, 2011
Turnover Threshold	Above Rs 20 crore annual turnover (Rs 30 crore for transporters and wholesalers)
Application Form	Form B filed on FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in)
Annual Fee	Rs 7,500 per year (validity 1 to 5 years)
Who Issues It	Central Licensing Authority under FSSAI, Government of India
Validity	1 to 5 years (renewable 30 days before expiry)
FSSAI License Number	14-digit unique number starting with '1' for central license

Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, every food business operator must obtain appropriate FSSAI registration or license before commencing operations.

Non-compliance attracts penalties of up to Rs 5 lakh and imprisonment of up to 6 months under Section 55 and Section 59 of the FSS Act, 2006. With India's food industry projected to reach USD 535 billion by 2025-26, having a valid FSSAI Central License is not just a legal requirement but a competitive advantage for market access. Patron Accounting's CA and CS team handles the complete Central License process from offices in Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram.

Content is reviewed quarterly for accuracy.

What Is FSSAI Central License?

An FSSAI Central License is a food business license issued by the Central Licensing Authority under the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration) Regulations, 2011, required for large-scale food business operators with annual turnover exceeding Rs 20 crore or those involved in import, export, or multi-state operations.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), established under the FSS Act, 2006 as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, administers a 3-tier licensing system: Basic Registration (turnover up to Rs 12 lakh, Form A), State License (turnover Rs 12 lakh to Rs 20 crore, Form B), and Central License (turnover above Rs 20 crore, Form B).

The Central License is distinguished by its issuance by the Central Licensing Authority (not the state food safety department) and is identified by a 14-digit FSSAI license number starting with '1'. Applications are filed exclusively through the FoSCoS (Food Safety and Compliance System) portal.

Key Terms for FSSAI Central License:

FoSCoS (Food Safety and Compliance System) - The official online portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in for filing applications, renewals, modifications, and compliance management for all food business licenses and registrations.

Food Business Operator (FBO) - Any person or entity carrying on food business and responsible for ensuring compliance with the FSS Act, 2006. Includes manufacturers, processors, importers, and exporters.

Form B - The prescribed application form under FSS (L&R) Regulations, 2011 for obtaining both State and Central FSSAI licenses.

FSMS Plan - Food Safety Management System plan documenting food safety procedures, HACCP principles, quality control measures, and recall procedures - required for Central License applications.

FSS Act 2006 FSSAI Central License

Who Needs an FSSAI Central License?

The following food business operators must obtain an FSSAI Central License:

Large-Scale FBOs: Annual turnover above Rs 20 crore (Rs 30 crore for food transporters and wholesalers)
Food Importers and Exporters: Mandatory regardless of turnover - FSSAI number must appear on all imported/exported food packages
100% Export Oriented Units (EOUs): In the food sector requiring FSSAI compliance for international trade
E-Commerce Food Operators: Food delivery aggregators and platforms operating across multiple states
Large Manufacturers: Production capacity above 2 MT/day (excluding milk and meat), dairy units handling 50,000+ litres/day, meat processors 500+ kg/day
Multi-State FBOs: Requiring central-level licensing for the head office and unified compliance framework
Proprietary Food Manufacturers: Health supplements, nutraceuticals, and novel foods requiring prior FSSAI HQ approval

Patron Accounting's FSSAI Central License Services

Service	What We Do
Complete Central License Application	End-to-end Form B preparation, document compilation, FoSCoS portal filing, fee payment, and follow-up until license issuance
Eligibility Assessment	Determination of whether your business requires Central License, State License, or Basic Registration based on turnover, production capacity, and scope
FSMS and HACCP Documentation	Preparation of Food Safety Management System plan, HACCP documentation, recall plan, and quality control procedures required for Central License
Import-Export Food License Support	Specialized assistance for food importers/exporters including IE Code coordination, product approval documentation, and labelling compliance
Inspection Preparation	Pre-inspection readiness assessment of food premises, document preparation, and coordination with FSSAI inspectors during verification
Renewal and Ongoing Compliance	Timely renewal 30 days before expiry, annual return filing by 31 May, modification applications, and compliance advisory. Learn more

Our Process

7-Step FSSAI Central License Application Process

Patron Accounting guides you through the complete FSSAI Central License process - from eligibility assessment to license issuance under the FSS Act, 2006.

Step 1

Determine Eligibility for Central License

Verify that your food business meets Central License criteria - annual turnover above Rs 20 crore, involvement in import/export, multi-state operations, or production capacity exceeding the thresholds in the FSS (L&R) Regulations, 2011. Patron Accounting conducts a free eligibility assessment.

Turnover/capacity verified License tier confirmed

Eligibility Confirmed 01

Step 2

Register on the FoSCoS Portal

Create an account on the FoSCoS portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in. This is the exclusive online platform for all FSSAI license and registration applications. You will receive a user ID and password upon registration.

FoSCoS account created Login credentials received

Portal Ready 02

Step 3

Fill Form B Online

Complete Form B with comprehensive details including: business name and address, kind of business activity, food category and products, production capacity, annual turnover, authorized person details, technical expert qualifications, water source, and FSMS/HACCP plan details.

Form B completed All fields verified

Application Prepared 03

Step 4

Upload Supporting Documents

Upload all required documents in prescribed format: identity and address proof, business registration, food product details, layout plan, equipment list, water test report, FSMS plan, NOCs as applicable, and turnover evidence.

All documents uploaded FSMS plan attached

Documents Submitted 04

Step 5

Pay the Central License Fee Online

Pay Rs 7,500 per year through the FoSCoS portal using net banking, credit/debit card, or other online payment methods. The license can be obtained for 1 to 5 years - paying for multiple years upfront (Rs 37,500 for 5 years) avoids annual renewal hassle.

Rs 7,500/yr fee paid Payment receipt generated

Fee Paid 05

Step 6

Site Inspection by FSSAI Officers

FSSAI designated officers may conduct a physical inspection of the food business premises to verify compliance with food safety standards, infrastructure, equipment, sanitation, and FSMS implementation. Patron Accounting prepares your premises for inspection.

Premises inspected Compliance verified

Inspection Passed 06

Step 7

Central License Issued

Upon satisfactory verification and inspection, the Central Licensing Authority issues the FSSAI Central License with a unique 14-digit license number (starting with '1'). The license must be prominently displayed at the business premises per Regulation 2.1.8.

14-digit license issued Display at premises

License Granted 07

Documents Required for FSSAI Central License

Completed Form B - Generated through FoSCoS portal with all business and product details
Identity proof of FBO/authorized person - PAN, Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID
Address proof of FBO - Utility bill or bank statement
Proof of business premises - Rent agreement + NOC, or ownership documents
Business registration certificate - Incorporation certificate, partnership deed, GST certificate
Layout plan of the food processing unit/premises
List of food products manufactured/processed/stored/distributed
List of equipment and machinery with details
Water test report from accredited laboratory (for manufacturing units)
FSMS plan and HACCP documentation with recall plan
Supporting turnover evidence - Financial statements or audited accounts
IE Code from DGFT - For importers/exporters
NOC/Product Approval from FSSAI - For proprietary food, nutraceuticals, novel food

Common FSSAI Central License Challenges and Solutions

Challenge	Impact	How Patron Accounting Solves It
Complex Form B with Technical Details	Form B requires detailed technical information including food categories, production processes, equipment lists, water sources, and FSMS plans that most FBOs struggle to prepare	Our food compliance team fills every field accurately based on your business specifics, eliminating rejection risk and ensuring first-time approval
FSMS/HACCP Documentation	Central License applicants must submit a comprehensive Food Safety Management System plan that most businesses lack the expertise to prepare	We create FSMS plans and HACCP documentation tailored to your specific food business operations, meeting all FSSAI requirements
Inspection Readiness	FSSAI officers conduct site inspections assessing food safety infrastructure, sanitation, equipment, storage, and compliance - many businesses fail on first inspection	We provide a pre-inspection readiness assessment, identify gaps, and help you address them before the official inspection visit
Import-Export Specific Requirements	Food importers and exporters face additional compliance including product approvals, labelling compliance, and FSSAI HQ clearances that are complex to navigate	Our team handles the complete import-export food license process including IE Code coordination and product-specific documentation

FSSAI Central License Fees

Fee Component	Amount
Central License Fee	Rs 7,500 per year
License for 1 Year	Rs 7,500
License for 2 Years	Rs 15,000
License for 3 Years	Rs 22,500
License for 5 Years	Rs 37,500
Modification Fee	Rs 7,500 (equal to 1-year license fee)
Late Renewal Penalty	Rs 100 per day of delay
Patron Accounting Professional Fees	Starting from INR 14,999 (Exl GST and Govt. Charges)

All fees and charges listed are indicative only and do not constitute a binding offer. Final amounts may vary depending on the volume of work and the complexity involved.

Professional service charges for drafting, filing, and representation are separate from the statutory fees. The exact fee depends on the complexity of the case, disputed amount, and number of hearings required. Contact us for a detailed quote.

Get a free FSSAI Central License consultation - Call +91 945 945 6700 or WhatsApp us. No-obligation assessment.

FSSAI Central License Timeline

Stage	Estimated Timeline
Eligibility Assessment	1-2 days
Document Compilation and FSMS Preparation	5-10 days
Form B Filing on FoSCoS	1-2 days
Application Processing by FSSAI	7-15 working days
Site Inspection (if required)	7-30 days as per FSSAI schedule
License Issuance	Upon satisfactory verification
Total End-to-End	30-60 days

Important: Renewal must be applied at least 30 days before license expiry through the FoSCoS portal. Late renewal attracts a penalty of Rs 100 per day of delay, and the business cannot operate during any lapsed period. Annual returns must be filed by 31 May each year.

Key Benefits

Benefits of FSSAI Central License

Legal Compliance

Operating without FSSAI license is punishable under Section 55 with penalties up to Rs 5 lakh. A valid Central License ensures full legal compliance for large-scale food operations

Import-Export Authorization

Only Central License holders can legally import or export food products. The 14-digit FSSAI number must appear on all food packages per FSSAI labelling regulations

Multi-State Operations

Central License covers the principal place of business for nationally distributed food brands, providing a unified compliance framework

Consumer Trust and Brand Value

The FSSAI logo and 14-digit license number on food packaging signals food safety compliance, building consumer trust and retail confidence

Government and E-Commerce Access

Many government procurement contracts and major e-commerce platforms (Amazon, Flipkart, BigBasket, Swiggy, Zomato) require valid FSSAI Central License as mandatory eligibility

Why 10,000+ Businesses Trust Patron Accounting

10,000+ businesses including food manufacturers, importers, exporters, and restaurant chains trust Patron Accounting for FSSAI and compliance services. With 15+ years of experience, a 4.9-star Google rating, and 50,000+ documents filed, our CA and CS team delivers reliable food business licensing for India's growing food industry.

With offices in Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram, we serve food businesses across India - from startups to large-scale manufacturers.

FSSAI Central License vs State License vs Basic Registration

Parameter	Basic Registration	State License	Central License
Turnover	Up to Rs 12 lakh	Rs 12 lakh to Rs 20 crore	Above Rs 20 crore
Application Form	Form A	Form B	Form B
Annual Fee	Rs 100	Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000	Rs 7,500
Issued By	District Food Safety Officer	State Licensing Authority	Central Licensing Authority (FSSAI)
License Number	Starts with 2	Starts with 2	Starts with 1
Import/Export	Not eligible	Not eligible	Mandatory for import/export
Inspection	Not typically required	May be required	Usually required
FSMS/HACCP	Not required	May be required	Required

Related FSSAI and Compliance Services

Patron Accounting offers a comprehensive suite of FSSAI and business compliance services:

FSSAI Registration (Basic) - For small food businesses with turnover up to Rs 12 lakh
FSSAI State License - For medium businesses with turnover Rs 12 lakh to Rs 20 crore
FSSAI Renewal - Timely renewal before expiry to avoid Rs 100/day penalty
FSSAI Returns - Annual return filing compliance by 31 May each year
IEC Registration - Import Export Code for food trade through DGFT
GST Registration - Mandatory for food businesses above threshold

Legal Framework for FSSAI Central License

Provision	Key Requirement
Section 31, FSS Act 2006	No person shall commence or carry on any food business except under a license or registration
Section 55	Penalty for operating without license - fine up to Rs 5 lakh
Section 59	Penalty for unsafe food - imprisonment up to 6 months and/or fine up to Rs 1 lakh
Section 63	Penalty for food containing extraneous matter - fine up to Rs 1 lakh
Section 66	Penalty for false or misleading labelling - fine up to Rs 3 lakh
Regulation 2.1.1, FSS (L&R)	Specifies Central License eligibility by business type, turnover, and production capacity
Regulation 2.1.2	Application in Form B with prescribed documents and fee
Regulation 2.1.8	License to be prominently displayed at business premises with FSSAI logo

Regulatory Authority: FSSAI, established under the FSS Act, 2006, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

Annual Compliance: File annual returns on FoSCoS portal by 31 May. Maintain records of food production, purchase, sale, and disposal. Comply with FSSAI labelling and packaging regulations. Renew license 30 days before expiry.

Frequently Asked Questions - FSSAI Central License

Expert answers to common questions about FSSAI Central License eligibility, fees, process, and compliance in India.

Quick Answers

What does the FSSAI 14-digit number starting with '1' mean? A license number starting with '1' indicates a Central License issued by the Central Licensing Authority. Numbers starting with '2' indicate State License or Basic Registration.

Is a separate license needed for each state? The Central License covers the principal place of business. Each manufacturing unit in a different state requires a separate State License.

When must annual returns be filed? By 31 May each year on the FoSCoS portal, covering food production, purchase, sale, and disposal data for the preceding financial year.

Is FSSAI logo display mandatory? Yes. The FSSAI logo and 14-digit license number must be displayed on all food packages and prominently at business premises per Regulation 2.1.8.

Get Your FSSAI Central License - Avoid Penalties

Operating without FSSAI license attracts penalties of up to Rs 5 lakh under Section 55 and imprisonment of up to 6 months under Section 59 of the FSS Act, 2006. Food safety officers can seize food articles and equipment, and courts can order closure of your business premises. Every day without a license is a day of legal exposure.

Don't risk your food business. Call +91 945 945 6700 or WhatsApp us for a free eligibility assessment today.

Get Your FSSAI Central License Today

The FSSAI Central License is the cornerstone of legal compliance for large-scale food businesses, importers, exporters, and multi-state operators in India. Governed by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the FSS (Licensing and Registration) Regulations, 2011, it requires a comprehensive application through the FoSCoS portal with FSMS documentation, site inspection, and a fee of Rs 7,500 per year.

Patron Accounting's CA and CS team handles the complete Central License process - from eligibility assessment and Form B filing to FSMS preparation, inspection coordination, and annual compliance management. With offices in Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurugram and 15+ years of experience, we serve food businesses across India.

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FSSAI Central License Services Across India

Patron Accounting provides FSSAI Central License registration for food businesses in major cities across India.

FSSAI Central License by City

Expert food business licensing for large-scale FBOs

Related FSSAI and Compliance Services

Comprehensive food business licensing and compliance

Content Created: 10 March 2026 | Last Updated: | Next Review: 10 June 2026 | Reviewed By: CA & CS Team, Patron Accounting LLP

This page is reviewed every 3 months - aligned to FSSAI regulation amendments, fee revisions, FoSCoS portal updates, and threshold changes. Next review: June 2026.

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FSSAI Central License Registration in India

Get Free Consultation

Real Stories from Real People

Join 10,000+ Satisfied Businesses

FSSAI Central License - Complete Overview

What Is FSSAI Central License?

Who Needs an FSSAI Central License?

Patron Accounting's FSSAI Central License Services

Determine Eligibility for Central License

Register on the FoSCoS Portal

Fill Form B Online

Upload Supporting Documents

Pay the Central License Fee Online

Site Inspection by FSSAI Officers

Central License Issued

Documents Required for FSSAI Central License

Common FSSAI Central License Challenges and Solutions

FSSAI Central License Fees

FSSAI Central License Timeline

Benefits of FSSAI Central License

Legal Compliance

Import-Export Authorization

Multi-State Operations

Consumer Trust and Brand Value

Government and E-Commerce Access

Why 10,000+ Businesses Trust Patron Accounting

FSSAI Central License vs State License vs Basic Registration

Related FSSAI and Compliance Services

Legal Framework for FSSAI Central License

Frequently Asked Questions - FSSAI Central License

What is the turnover limit for FSSAI Central License?

How much does an FSSAI Central License cost?

What is the difference between FSSAI State License and Central License?

Is FSSAI Central License mandatory for food exporters?

Can I apply for FSSAI Central License online?

What happens if I operate without an FSSAI license?

How long is the FSSAI Central License valid?

Get Your FSSAI Central License - Avoid Penalties

Get Your FSSAI Central License Today

FSSAI Central License Services Across India