FSSAI State & Central Licenses: Compliance for Growing Food Businesses

FSSAI State (₹12L-₹20Cr turnover) and Central Licenses (>₹20Cr turnover) are mandatory for medium-to-large food businesses in India. These licenses validate compliance with national food safety standards, protect consumers, and enable legal operations. Operating without the correct license risks ₹5 lakh fines, imprisonment, or permanent shutdown. CA Vakeel secures your license in 15-30 days.

State vs. Central License: Choose Your Category

License Type	Eligibility	Examples	Fee
State License	Turnover ₹12L–₹20Cr Single-state operations	Mid-sized restaurants, food processors, distributors	₹2,000–₹5,000/year
Central License	Turnover >₹20Cr Importers/exporters Pan-India chains 100% EOUs	Large manufacturers, e-commerce platforms, importers	₹7,500/year

Note: Businesses under ₹12L turnover require Basic FSSAI Registration.

Mandatory for These Food Operations

You need State/Central License if involved in:

🏭 Manufacturing: Factories, bakeries, dairy units (>500L/day)
🚛 Storage/Transport: Cold chains, warehouses, specialized food vehicles
🛒 Large Retail: Supermarkets, hotel chains
🌍 International Trade: Food importers/exporters
🛍️ E-commerce: Cloud kitchens supplying pan-India
🥩 Processing: Meat/fish units, slaughterhouses

Advantages of Proper Licensing

Legal Protection: Avoid ₹5 lakh fines + 6-month imprisonment Consumer Trust: Display 14-digit license number on packaging Market Access: Required for Amazon/Flipkart listings Export Readiness: Central License mandatory for international shipments Investor Confidence: Compliance attracts funding Brand Reputation: Differentiate from unlicensed competitors

State vs. Central Checklist

All Applicants:

ID/Address Proof of Owners/Directors (Aadhaar/PAN)
Business Proof: Incorporation certificate, partnership deed
Premises Proof: Lease agreement + utility bill

State License Additions:

🧪 Water test report (for restaurants)
📸 Production unit photos

Central License Additions:

🌐 Import-Export Code (IEC)
🏭 Equipment list + factory layout plan
🏷️ Ingredient details for all products
🧫 Lab reports for water/raw materials

5-Step Licensing Journey

Eligibility Assessment: We confirm State/Central requirement.
Document Compilation: Prepare business-specific files.
FoSCoS Portal Filing: Submit Form B with digital signature.
Inspection: Accompany FSSAI officer during site visit.
Issuance: Receive license in 15 days (State) / 30 days (Central).

⚠️ Critical: Apply before operations begin!

Maintain Compliance, Avoid Penalties

Validity: 1-5 years (select during application)
Renewal: Apply 30 days before expiry via FoSCoS
Late Fees: 50% penalty on license fee
Non-Renewal Risks:
- ₹5 lakh fines + criminal charges
- License cancellation
- Business closure

Your FSSAI Licensing Partner

We handle complexities:

🔹 License Selection: Right category for your operations 🔹 Document Drafting: Custom food safety plans + layouts 🔹 Portal Management: Error-free FoSCoS submissions 🔹 Inspection Prep: Mock audits for 100% compliance 🔹 Renewal Alerts: Never miss deadlines

Quick Clarifications

Q1: Can I upgrade from State to Central License?

Yes! We manage license upgrades when turnover exceeds ₹20Cr.

Q2: Is Central License needed for cloud kitchens?

Only if supplying to multiple states – else State License suffices.

Q3: What if I import small food quantities?

Central License mandatory regardless of volume.

Q4: How long are inspections?

Typically 2-4 hours (we prepare your facility).

Secure Your License in 15 Days!

Don’t risk fines or shutdowns. CA Vakeel guarantees compliant licensing: 📞 Call: +91 98765 43210 📧 Email: contact@yourlegalfirm.com "Scale Legally, Serve Safely: License Your Food Business Today!"

FSSAI License Registration: State & Central License for Food Businesses

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