FSSAI Central License for Multi-State Food Operations

FSSAI Central License is a mandatory certification issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India for large food businesses with annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores. It's also required for businesses operating in multiple states, food importers, e-commerce food businesses, and certain specialized food categories.

Food businesses with annual turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores, dairy units handling more than 50,000 liters per day, and vegetable oil processors with capacity over 2 MT per day need Central License. Also required for businesses operating in multiple states, food importers, e-commerce food businesses, 100% export-oriented units, and manufacturers of specialized food products.

Central License is for businesses with turnover above Rs. 20 crores, operating in multiple states, or dealing with specialized food categories. State License is for businesses with turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores operating within a single state. Central License is issued by FSSAI headquarters or regional offices, while State License is issued by state food safety departments.

Visit the FSSAI's Food Licensing & Registration System (FLRS) portal at foscos.fssai.gov.in. Register, log in, and fill Form B for Central License. Upload required documents, pay the applicable fee online, and submit the application. After document verification and possible inspection, the license is issued if all requirements are met.

Required documents include form of business (company/partnership registration), photo ID and address proof of directors/partners, business premise layout plan, list of equipment and machinery, water test report, and medical fitness certificates of food handlers. Additional documents include NOC from local authority, food safety management system plan, analysis reports of food products, and import-related documents for importers.

The basic fee for FSSAI Central License is Rs. 7,500 for 1-5 years. Additional charges apply based on the number of years, kind of business, and processing capacity. For food importers, the fee is Rs. 10,000. Late fee for renewal is Rs. 100 per day up to Rs. 10,000 maximum.

FSSAI Central License is valid for 1 to 5 years from the date of issue, as per the applicant's choice. The license holder can select the validity period at the time of application by paying the corresponding fee.

The processing time for FSSAI Central License is typically 60-90 days from the date of application submission. This includes document verification, mandatory inspection of premises, and final approval. The timeline may vary based on the completeness of your application and the complexity of your food business operations.

Log in to the FSSAI portal, select the renewal option, and submit Form B along with required documents and renewal fee. Apply for renewal at least 30 days before the expiry date to avoid late fees. The license can be renewed up to 90 days before expiry.

Operating with an expired license is illegal and can result in penalties up to Rs. 10 lakhs. You can still renew within 30 days after expiry by paying a late fee. Beyond 30 days, you may need to apply for a fresh license and face potential legal consequences for operating without a valid license.

The FSSAI Central License number is a 14-digit number. The first two digits are 10, followed by five digits for the license number, one check digit, and six digits representing the date of issue or renewal (DD/MM/YY format).

A Food Safety Management System (FSMS) is a systematic approach to controlling food safety hazards within a food business. It includes procedures for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Hygiene Practices (GHP), and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP). Central License holders must implement and document an FSMS appropriate to their business scale and nature.

Yes, businesses with FSSAI Central License must appoint at least one qualified Food Safety Officer/Manager. This person should have a degree in Food Technology, Food Science, or related field with relevant experience. They are responsible for ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and implementing the Food Safety Management System.

Food importers must obtain FSSAI Central License and register each imported food product. They need to provide additional documents like import-export code, details of foreign manufacturers, certificates of analysis, and labels complying with Indian regulations. Each food consignment is subject to inspection and testing at ports before clearance.

Central License holders must implement a documented Food Safety Management System, conduct regular audits, and maintain records of production, testing, and distribution. They must submit annual returns, ensure proper labeling of products, conduct regular training of food handlers, and facilitate inspections by food safety authorities. Mandatory testing of food products at accredited laboratories is also required.

Yes, you can modify your FSSAI Central License by submitting Form B with the required changes and supporting documents through the FSSAI portal. Modifications can be made for changes in business name, address, food categories, production capacity, or ownership. A modification fee applies based on the nature of changes.

Operating a large food business without an FSSAI Central License can result in penalties up to Rs. 10 lakhs under the Food Safety and Standards Act. Authorities can shut down the business, seize food items, and file legal proceedings against the business owner. Repeated violations may lead to imprisonment up to 6 months.

Yes, each manufacturing unit, storage facility, or business location requires a separate FSSAI license. However, if you have multiple units in the same premise engaged in the same kind of business, you may apply for a single license covering all units. Distribution centers and warehouses also need separate licenses.