FSSAI

Fssai Central

The FSSAI Central Licence is for large food businesses with annual turnover above Rs 20 crore, and for specified categories such as importers, 100% export-oriented units, operators in airports and seaports and businesses operating in multiple states. It uses Form B on FoSCoS, with an annual fee of Rs 7,500, and is issued by the Central Licensing Authority of FSSAI.

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Service Overview

What is Fssai Central?

A Central FSSAI licence is issued by FSSAI’s central licensing authority to food businesses that operate on a large scale or across states. It covers manufacturing, importing, exporting and other activities requiring central oversight, and typically requires a Food Safety Management System plan or certificate from an accredited agency.

The turnover threshold is above Rs 20 crore, though one source applies Rs 30 crore for transport and wholesaler businesses. The licence is mandatory for 100% export-oriented units, importers, large manufacturers and businesses in airports, seaports and certain central government premises, as well as multi-state operators.

Fssai Central

Who Needs This Service

Large food manufacturers, importers, exporters, multi-state food businesses, food courts and restaurants in airports and seaports, and companies with turnover above Rs 20 crore need a Central licence.

Food startups that scale quickly across states may need to upgrade from State licences.

Importers of food products should obtain the Central licence before customs clearance.

Companies that are unsure whether they qualify should review turnover, locations and activities.

Key Benefits

Correct central licence category for large or multi-state operations
FSMS plan and documents prepared
Smooth handling of queries and inspection
Annual fee and validity options explained
Support for importers and exporters

Next Steps & Related Services

After licensing, maintain hygiene and file returns.

Related services: FSSAI State, Modification, Renewal, Return, IEC Code and HACCP.

Common Mistakes

Applying for a State licence when a Central one is required.
Missing IEC for importers.
Weak FSMS documentation.
Not renewing in time.
Ignoring annual return filing.

Timeline, Costs & Practical Tips

Central licences involve scrutiny and possible inspection.

Practical tip: prepare the FSMS plan, layout and IEC documents before applying.

Additional Information

The FSS Licensing and Registration Regulations assign central licensing to FSSAI for large-scale and import-related businesses.

Practical Scenarios

Scenario 1:

A large packaged-food manufacturer obtains a Central licence.

Scenario 2:

An importer of food ingredients applies before importing.

Scenario 3:

A restaurant chain operating at airports obtains a Central licence.

Written By

Raghav Sharma

Operations Executive

10+ Years Experience

As seen on

Raghav Sharma has 10+ years of experience covering Company Registration - Operation, MCA Services - Operation, Corporate Operation, Import Export Services - Operation, Goverment Licence Services - Operation, FSSAI - Operation, SEBI - Operation, Labour Compliance - Operation, Fund Raising - Operation, Licence & Certificate - Operations.

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Frequently asked questions

Need clarity?

What is the Central licence fee?

Rs 7,500 per year.

Who needs it?

Businesses above Rs 20 crore turnover, importers, export units and multi-state operators.

Is an FSMS plan needed?

Typically, a plan or certificate is required.

What validity can I choose?

One to five years.

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