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FSSAI License - State & Central

An FSSAI License is your official government permission to run a food business legally in India. It's required for anyone making, storing, transporting, or selling food. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issues this license to ensure all food businesses follow safety and quality standards.

There are two main types of licenses: State License for businesses operating within one state, and Central License for large businesses operating across multiple states or involved in import/export.

Key Facts:
  • Mandatory For: All food businesses in India
  • Issued By: FSSAI (Government of India)
  • Validity: 1 to 5 years (your choice)
  • Legal Basis: FSS Act, 2006

3 Types of FSSAI Authorizations

1
Basic Registration

Turnover: Below ₹12 lakh/year

For: Small food vendors, home kitchens

License No: Starts with '2'

2
State License

Turnover: ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore

For: Medium businesses in one state

License No: Starts with state code

3
Central License

Turnover: Above ₹20 crore

For: Large/multi-state businesses

License No: Starts with '1'

Feature Basic Registration State License Central License
Turnover Up to ₹12 lakh ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore Above ₹20 crore
Business Scope Local/small businesses Single state operations Multi-state/Import-Export
Examples Street food, home bakers City restaurants, distributors Large manufacturers, exporters
Processing Time 7-15 days 15-30 days 30-45 days

FSSAI State License Details

Who Needs State License?
  • Restaurants & hotels (except 5-star)
  • Medium food manufacturers
  • Food distributors (within state)
  • Canteens & caterers
  • Storage units (up to 10,000 MT)
  • Transporters (up to 100 vehicles)
  • Wholesalers & retailers
  • Food service providers
Production Limits for State License
General Food

Up to 2 MT per day

Milk Handling

501 to 50,000 liters/day

Meat Processing

Up to 500 kg/day

State License Application:

Use Form B on FoSCoS portal → Select your state → Fill business details → Upload documents → Pay fees → Track status.

FSSAI Central License Details

Who Needs Central License?
  • Turnover above ₹20 crore
  • Operate in multiple states
  • Importers & exporters
  • Large manufacturers
  • 100% export units
  • Dairy units (50,000+ liters/day)
  • Storage (50,000+ MT capacity)
  • Central Govt. agencies
  • Airports/Seaports/Railways
  • E-commerce food platforms
Special Requirements:
Multi-State

Central License for head office + State licenses for units

Import/Export

IEC Code mandatory

Large Scale

Recall plan required

Central License Application:

Use Form B on FoSCoS → Select "Central License" → Fill comprehensive details → Upload extra documents → Pay higher fees → Longer processing time.

Benefits of FSSAI License

Legal Protection

Avoid fines up to ₹5 lakhs and imprisonment. Operate without legal worries.

Customer Trust

Customers trust FSSAI-licensed businesses more. Builds brand loyalty.

Business Growth

Required for government contracts, tenders, and large partnerships.

Export Ready

Essential for food exports. Meets international standards.

Quality Assurance

Shows commitment to food safety. Better quality control systems.

Investor Attraction

Investors prefer licensed businesses. Better funding opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

By Turnover
Basic Registration

Below ₹12 lakh/year

Small food businesses
State License

₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore/year

Medium businesses
Central License

Above ₹20 crore/year

Large businesses
By Production Capacity
State License Limits
  • Food: Up to 2 MT/day
  • Milk: 501-50,000 liters/day
  • Meat: Up to 500 kg/day
  • Storage: Up to 10,000 MT
Central License Limits
  • Food: Above 2 MT/day
  • Milk: Above 50,000 liters/day
  • Storage: Above 50,000 MT
  • Transport: 100+ vehicles
Special Cases (Need Central License):
  • Importers & exporters (any turnover)
  • Businesses in multiple states
  • E-commerce food platforms
  • 100% export-oriented units
  • Central Government agencies
  • Airports/Seaports/Railways catering

Documents Checklist

Common Documents (All Licenses)
  • Photo ID Proof: Aadhaar/PAN/Passport
  • Address Proof: Owner & business
  • Passport Photos: Recent
  • Property Proof: Rent agreement/Sale deed
  • Business Constitution: Company/Partnership papers
  • List of Directors/Partners
  • Form IX: Nomination form
  • GST Certificate (if available)
For Manufacturers/Processors
  • Layout Plan: Processing unit blueprint
  • Machinery List: Equipment details
  • Water Test Report: From approved lab
  • Unit Photos: Recent pictures
  • Raw Materials List
  • Production capacity details
  • Pest Control Certificate
  • NOC from Municipality
For Central License (Additional)
  • IEC Code: For importers/exporters
  • Recall Plan: Emergency procedures
  • HACCP/ISO 22000 Certificate
  • Process Flow Chart
  • Turnover Proof: Audit reports
  • Product Analysis Certificate
  • Import Label Copies
  • Multi-state operation proof

Online Application Process

1
Visit FoSCoS Portal

Go to foscos.fssai.gov.in → Click "Apply for License/Registration" → Create account/login.

2
Select License Type & Fill Form

Choose State/Central License → Fill Form B accurately → Enter all business details → Select food categories.

3
Upload Documents

Scan all required documents → Upload in PDF/JPEG format → Ensure clarity and correct file size → Double-check all uploads.

4
Pay Fees Online

Check calculated fee → Pay via net banking/credit/debit card → Save payment receipt → Get application number.

5
Inspection & Approval

FSSAI officer may visit premises → Check hygiene & safety → Verify documents → If approved, license issued in 7-30 days.

Processing Timeline
State License

15-30 Days

Central License

30-45 Days

With Inspection

Add 7-10 Days

Fees, Costs & Penalties

License Fees
License Type Annual Fee (₹)
State - Small Manufacturer 3,000
State - Large Manufacturer 5,000
State - Restaurants/Hotels 2,000 - 5,000
State - Distributors 2,000
Central - Manufacturer 7,500
Central - Importer/Exporter 7,500

Note: Multiply by number of years (1-5). Basic Registration: ₹100 for 5 years.

Penalties for Violations
No License

Fine up to ₹5 lakhs + 6 months imprisonment

Substandard Food

Fine up to ₹5 lakhs

Unsafe Food (No injury)

Fine up to ₹1 lakh

Unsafe Food (Death)

7 years imprisonment + ₹10 lakh+ fine

Misleading Ads

Fine up to ₹10 lakhs

Additional Costs:
Water Testing

₹500 - ₹2,000

Food Testing

₹1,000 - ₹5,000

Consultant Fees

₹2,000 - ₹10,000

Certification

₹5,000 - ₹20,000

License Renewal Process

Apply Before

30 Days
before expiry

Late Renewal

90-0 Days
before expiry

After Expiry

Fresh Application
required

Renewal Steps:
  1. Login to FoSCoS Portal - 120 days before expiry
  2. Go to Renewal Section - Find your license
  3. Update Business Details - Any changes
  4. Upload Latest Documents - Annual returns, updated certificates
  5. Pay Renewal Fee - + ₹100/day penalty if late
  6. Download New Certificate - Display at premises
Renewal Documents:
  • Previous FSSAI certificate
  • Self-declaration of compliance
  • Annual returns (last year)
  • Updated business information
  • Latest property documents
  • Payment receipt of renewal fee
Warning:

Operating with expired FSSAI license = Same as no license = Penalties apply (fines + imprisonment).

Compliance Rules After License

Display License

FSSAI license MUST be displayed prominently at business premises. License number must be on all food packaging and labels.

Regular Inspections

FSSAI officers can inspect anytime. Must maintain: Clean premises, Proper food storage, Employee health certificates, Water quality reports.

Proper Labeling

All packaged food must show: FSSAI logo & number, Ingredients list, Nutritional info, Manufacturing/expiry dates, Veg/Non-veg symbol.

Report Changes

Inform FSSAI about: Change in address, Change in ownership, New food categories, Expansion of operations.

Employee Requirements:
  • Medical fitness certificates
  • Regular health check-ups
  • Food safety training (FoSTaC)
  • Proper hygiene practices
  • Pest control measures
  • Waste disposal system

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

An FSSAI License is a certification issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for food businesses.

Key points:
  • Mandatory for most food businesses in India
  • Demonstrates compliance with food safety standards
  • Ensures safe and hygienic food for consumers
  • Issued under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
  • Contains 14-digit unique license number

Any food business operator must obtain FSSAI License if:

  • Annual turnover exceeds ₹12 lakhs
  • Involved in food manufacturing, processing, packaging
  • Operates restaurants, hotels, catering services
  • Food storage, transportation, or distribution
  • Food import or export businesses
  • Large retailers and wholesalers
  • E-commerce food businesses

Note: Businesses with turnover below ₹12 lakhs need Basic Registration instead of License.

Three main types of FSSAI licenses:

License Type Business Size Turnover Limit Issuing Authority
Basic Registration Small businesses Up to ₹12 lakh annually State Authority
State License Medium businesses ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore State Authority
Central License Large businesses Above ₹20 crore Central Authority

Special cases requiring Central License:
  • Food import/export businesses
  • Large manufacturers (specific capacity limits)
  • 100% Export Oriented Units
  • Businesses under Central Government agencies

Key differences:

Parameter FSSAI Registration FSSAI License
Business Size Small scale Medium to large scale
Turnover Limit Up to ₹12 lakh/year Above ₹12 lakh/year
Complexity Simple process More detailed process
Fees ₹100/year (approx) ₹2,000-₹7,500/year
Documentation Basic documents Detailed documents
Validity 1-5 years 1-5 years

Essential documents for FSSAI License:

1. Basic Documents (all types):
  • Passport size photograph of applicant
  • Identity proof (Aadhar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID)
  • Address proof of business premises
  • Proof of business ownership/possession
  • List of food products to be handled

2. For Manufacturing Units:
  • List of machinery with capacity
  • Layout plan of processing unit
  • Food safety management plan
  • Water test report
  • Recall plan (if required)

3. For Companies:
  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Memorandum & Articles of Association
  • Board resolution for authorized signatory
  • List of directors with IDs

4. Additional for Specific Businesses:
  • NOC from manufacturer (for repackers)
  • Import-export code (for importers/exporters)
  • Health NOC (for restaurants)
  • Fire safety certificate

Step-by-step application process:

  1. Determine License Type: Check which license (Basic, State, Central) you need
  2. Register on FoSCoS: Create account at https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
  3. Fill Application Form: Complete Form B for License application
  4. Upload Documents: Scan and upload all required documents
  5. Pay Fees: Make online payment through payment gateway
  6. Submit Application: Submit completed application
  7. Application Number: Note application number for tracking
  8. Inspection: Physical inspection may be conducted
  9. License Issuance: Download license after approval

Processing Time: 30-60 days depending on license type

FSSAI License fees structure:

1. Government Fees:
License Type 1 Year Fee 5 Year Fee
Basic Registration ₹100 ₹500
State License ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 ₹10,000 - ₹25,000
Central License ₹7,500 ₹37,500

2. Additional Costs:
  • GST: 18% on all FSSAI services
  • Professional Fees: ₹2,000 - ₹10,000 (for consultants)
  • Documentation: ₹500 - ₹2,000 (affidavits, notary)

3. Late Renewal Penalties:
  • 1-90 days late: 3 times annual fee
  • 91-180 days late: 5 times annual fee
  • After 180 days: Fresh application required

FSSAI License validity options:

1. Validity Periods:
  • 1 year: Most common choice
  • Up to 5 years: Can choose any period from 1-5 years
  • Same for all: Basic, State, and Central licenses

2. Renewal Timeline:
  • Apply before expiry: At least 30 days before expiry date
  • Grace period: 30 days after expiry (with penalty)
  • Late renewal: Possible with higher penalties
  • After 180 days: Need fresh application

3. Fee Calculation:
  • Annual fee × number of years chosen
  • Example: ₹2,000/year × 3 years = ₹6,000
  • Pay once for chosen validity period

4. Important: Must renew before expiry to avoid penalties

Operating without FSSAI License is illegal with severe penalties:

1. Legal Penalties:
  • Fine: Up to ₹5 lakh
  • Imprisonment: Up to 6 months
  • Both: Fine plus imprisonment in serious cases
  • Daily penalty: Additional fine for continued violation

2. Business Consequences:
  • Business sealing and closure
  • Product seizure and destruction
  • Legal notices and court cases
  • Blacklisting from future licenses

3. Financial Losses:
  • Loss of customer trust
  • Difficulty getting bank loans
  • Problems with GST registration
  • Issues with e-commerce platforms

4. Additional Requirements:
  • Must display FSSAI number on invoices
  • Regular inspections by food safety officers
  • Mandatory food testing requirements
  • Recall requirements for unsafe food

Renewal process for expired FSSAI License:

1. Renewal Timeline:
  • Ideal: 30 days before expiry
  • Late renewal possible: Up to 180 days after expiry
  • After 180 days: Fresh application required

2. Penalty Structure:
  • 1-90 days late: 3 times annual fee
  • 91-180 days late: 5 times annual fee
  • Example: ₹2,000 fee becomes ₹6,000 or ₹10,000

3. Online Renewal Steps:
  1. Login to FoSCoS portal
  2. Go to 'Renewal' section
  3. Select application for renewal
  4. Update changed information
  5. Upload latest documents
  6. Pay fees (including penalty if late)
  7. Submit renewal application
  8. Download renewed license

4. Documents for Renewal:
  • Existing FSSAI license copy
  • Updated address proof if changed
  • Latest photographs
  • Updated food product list

Yes, you can upgrade FSSAI Registration to License when business grows:

1. When to Upgrade:
  • Annual turnover exceeds ₹12 lakhs
  • Business expansion requires higher category
  • Starting new food activities
  • Moving to larger premises

2. Upgrade Process:
  1. Cancel existing Registration
  2. Apply for new License (State or Central)
  3. Submit required documents for License
  4. Pay applicable License fees
  5. Get new License certificate

3. Important Points:
  • Cannot operate under Registration after exceeding limits
  • Apply for License before crossing turnover threshold
  • May need different documents for License
  • New application number will be issued

4. Transition Period:
  • Apply for License before Registration expiry
  • Can operate with Registration until License issued
  • Display new License number once received
  • Update all business documents with new number

FSSAI License transfer rules:

1. General Rule:
  • Non-transferable: Cannot transfer to another person
  • Business sale: New owner must apply fresh
  • Partnership change: New application needed
  • Company takeover: New License required

2. Exception - Death of Owner:
  • Transfer to legal heirs: Possible with documents
  • Required documents: Death certificate, legal heir certificate
  • Process: Apply for transfer with supporting documents
  • Timeline: Should be done within reasonable time

3. Change in Business Details:
  • Modification allowed: For address, contact details, products
  • Process: Apply for modification on FoSCoS
  • Documents: Proof of changes required
  • Fees: Modification fees may apply

4. Important Notes:
  • License is linked to specific business and owner
  • Cannot be sold or transferred commercially
  • New owner gets new License number
  • Keep business running during transition

Rules for multiple businesses:

1. General Rule:
  • Separate License required: For each business location
  • Same owner: Still needs separate Licenses
  • Different locations: Definitely separate Licenses
  • Different business types: Separate Licenses needed

2. Exceptions (Limited):
  • Same premises: Multiple activities may need single License
  • Food chains: May have master License with branches
  • Manufacturer + retailer: Combined License possible
  • Check with authority: Specific cases may vary

3. Application Process:
  • Apply separately for each business
  • Different application numbers
  • Separate fees for each License
  • Individual documents for each

4. Display Requirements:
  • Display each License at respective premises
  • Use correct License number on products
  • Mention correct number on invoices
  • Keep records for each business separately

Recommendation: Always get separate License for each business to avoid legal issues.

Requirements for utensils and packaging material:

1. General Rule:
  • Not required: For utensils/packaging material manufacturers
  • Reason: These are not considered "food" under FSS Act
  • Definition: Section 3(n) of FSS Act, 2006
  • Scope: FSSAI regulates food, not containers

2. When Required:
  • Food packaging: If making food-grade packaging
  • Direct food contact: Materials that touch food directly
  • Food storage containers: May need certification
  • Check BIS standards: For quality requirements

3. Other Regulations:
  • BIS Certification: May be required for quality
  • FSSAI standards: For food-grade materials
  • Import regulations: Different for imported packaging
  • State regulations: Some states may have additional rules

4. For Food Businesses:
  • Must use food-grade packaging
  • Ensure packaging doesn't contaminate food
  • Follow FSSAI packaging regulations
  • Maintain packaging quality records

Re-applying after License cancellation:

1. Waiting Period:
  • 3 months: Must wait 3 months from cancellation date
  • Regulation: As per Regulation 2.1.8(3)
  • No early application: Cannot apply before 3 months
  • Fresh application: Treated as new application

2. Requirements for Re-application:
  • Address all issues from improvement notice
  • Submit compliance proof for previous observations
  • Correct all violations that caused cancellation
  • Submit fresh documents

3. Application Process:
  1. Wait for 3 months after cancellation
  2. Correct all previous violations
  3. Gather fresh documents
  4. Apply as new application on FoSCoS
  5. Pay all applicable fees
  6. May face stricter scrutiny

4. Important Considerations:
  • Cannot operate during waiting period
  • New License number will be issued
  • May need additional inspections
  • Higher scrutiny during processing

Recommendation: Maintain compliance to avoid cancellation.

License requirements for pulses/grains milling:

1. License Type:
  • State License: Required for all milling units
  • Category: Manufacturing business
  • Capacity: Regardless of production capacity
  • No Basic Registration: Cannot get Basic Registration

2. Why State License:
  • Milling is considered manufacturing
  • Involves processing of food grains
  • Higher risk category than trading
  • Specific regulations apply

3. Documents Required:
  • List of milling machinery with capacity
  • Layout plan of milling unit
  • Food safety management plan
  • Water test report
  • Waste management plan
  • List of grains to be processed

4. Additional Requirements:
  • Quality control measures
  • Storage facility details
  • Pest control measures
  • Employee hygiene practices

5. Display Requirements:
  • Display License at milling unit
  • Mention License number on packages
  • Keep records of grains processed
  • Maintain quality testing records

Methods to search FSSAI License details:

1. Current System Limitations:
  • No direct name search: FoSCoS portal doesn't allow name search
  • License number required: Need 14-digit number to search
  • Partial solutions: Some alternative methods available

2. Search Methods:
  • By License Number: Use FBO Search on FoSCoS website
  • QR Code Scan: Scan QR code on License certificate
  • Mobile App: Use FSSAI mobile application
  • Local Authorities: Contact state food safety department

3. Information Available:
  • Business name and address
  • License type and validity
  • Issuing authority details
  • Business activities permitted

4. Finding License Number:
  • On food package: Printed on label (mandatory)
  • Business premises: Displayed certificate
  • Invoice/bill: Mentioned in business documents
  • Ask business: Request from business owner

5. Future Updates:
  • FSSAI working on enhanced search features
  • May introduce name search in future
  • Check FoSCoS portal for updates

FSSAI requirements for import/export businesses:

1. License Requirements:
  • Central License required: For all import/export businesses
  • Additional to regular License: Need both if also manufacturing/trading
  • Mandatory: Cannot import/export without FSSAI License

2. Special Requirements:
  • Import-Export Code: Must have IEC from DGFT
  • Customs procedures: Follow customs regulations
  • Food testing: Mandatory testing for imported food
  • Documentation: Additional documents required

3. Documents Required:
  • Import-Export Code (IEC) copy
  • Customs license details
  • List of countries for import/export
  • Food product details with codes
  • Storage facility details
  • Transport arrangements

4. Display Requirements:
  • Display License at business premises
  • Mention License number on shipping documents
  • Include in all import/export paperwork
  • Keep records of all transactions

5. Important Notes:
  • Strict quality checks for imports
  • Follow destination country regulations for exports
  • Regular inspections likely
  • Higher compliance requirements
Why Choose Compliance 360

FSSAI Registration & License Service

  • Expert FSSAI Guidance

    Our team understands FSSAI rules in detail and guides you on whether you need Basic Registration, State License, or Central License.

  • Complete Documentation Support

    We assist in collecting, preparing, and verifying all required documents to ensure a smooth and error-free application.

  • Category-Based Solutions

    Whether you run a restaurant, cloud kitchen, food manufacturing unit, or home-based food business, we provide solutions tailored to your needs.

Business_Goal
  • Fast & Hassle-Free Processing

    We follow a streamlined process to help you get your FSSAI certificate quickly without unnecessary delays.

  • Compliance & Food Safety Support

    Our experts guide you on basic food safety and hygiene requirements as per FSSAI norms for your business size.

  • Renewal & Ongoing Assistance

    We provide timely renewal reminders and continued support so your FSSAI registration always remains valid and compliant.