Ensuring food safety is the top priority for every food business.The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates the food industry. It ensures food is safe, hygienic, and meets quality standards.

You need to obtain an FSSAI license if you run a food business. This is true for eateries, food producers, merchants, and carriers. Your company’s location, turnover, and size all affect the kind of license you need.

There are two main types of licenses:

  • FSSAI State License – For medium businesses operating in a single state.
  • FSSAI Central License – for companies that operate in several states or are substantial.

It is crucial to get the appropriate FSSAI licence. It helps them avoid trouble and maintain customer trust. The distinctions between FSSAI state and central licenses will be discussed in this essay.

What is FSSAI State License?

Medium-sized food firms must have an FSSAI state license. The State FSSAI Department is the one that issues it. Businesses that operate in a single state must get this license.

Who Needs an FSSAI State License?

  • companies that generate between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore in revenue.
  • companies that only operate in one state.
  • Restaurants, small food manufacturers, and food storage units.
  • Over 500 liters of milk are handled daily by dairy farms.
  • Transporters moving food within one state.

Application Process for FSSAI State License

  1. Go to the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) portal.
  2. Register and fill out the state license application form.
  3. Upload required documents (business proof, food safety plan, etc.).
  4. Pay the application fee based on turnover and business type.
  5. Wait for FSSAI officials to inspect your business.
  6. The license is granted within 30 to 60 days of approval.

Validity & Renewal

  • The license remains valid for a period of 1 to 5 years.
  • Businesses must renew before the expiry date.
  • Late renewal may lead to penalties and legal issues.

For compliance, obtaining an FSSAI state license is essential. It guarantees that your company complies with food safety regulations.

What is FSSAI Central License?

Large food businesses must obtain an FSSAI central license. In India, the FSSAI Central Authority issues this license. It is mandatory for companies operating in multiple states.

Who Needs an FSSAI Central License?

  • Companies with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 crore.
  • Food companies with operations in many states.
  • Exporters, importers, and large-scale food manufacturers.
  • E-commerce platforms selling food across India.
  • Storage units handling more than 50,000 metric tons of food.
  • Airlines and international food supply chains.

Application Process for FSSAI Central License

  1. Food companies with operations in many states.
  2. Register and complete the application for a central license.
  3. Upload required documents (business registration, food safety plan, etc.).
  4. Pay the license fee based on business type and turnover.
  5. FSSAI officials inspect the business location if required.
  6. The license is granted within 30 to 60 days of approval.

Validity & Renewal

  • For one to five years, the FSSAI central license is in effect.
  • To avoid fines, businesses must renew before the expiration date.
  • Late renewal may result in fines or license cancellation.

For large companies, having a central FSSAI license is crucial. It guarantees that food items adhere to both international and national safety regulations.

Differences Between FSSAI State License and Central License

Understanding the difference between FSSAI state and central licenses is important. The right license helps businesses follow food safety rules and avoid penalties. Below are the key differences.

Business Size & Turnover

  • The FSSAI state license is available to companies with an annual turnover between 12 lakh and 20 crore.
  • Businesses having a revenue of at least 20 crore require a central license from the FSSAI.

Business Location

  • Businesses operating within one state need an FSSAI state license.
  • Businesses that operate in many states must get an FSSAI central license.
  • State licenses for branches and a central license for the head office are required for a company with locations in many states.

Issuing Authority

  • The State FSSAI Authority is responsible for issuing the state food license registration.
  • The FSSAI Central Authority in Delhi is responsible for issuing the FSSAI central license.

Types of Businesses Covered

  • State licenses are for restaurants, medium-sized food manufacturers, and small transporters.
  • Central License is required for importers, exporters, large food chains, and MNCs.

Application Platform

  • Applications for both licenses are submitted online at the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS).
  • The approval process includes document submission and business inspection.

Selecting the appropriate FSSAI license is crucial. It guarantees adherence to food safety regulations and assists companies in avoiding legal problems.

How to Apply for an FSSAI License?

Applying for an FSSAI license is simple. Businesses must follow the correct steps to get approval.

Step 1: Identify the Correct License Type

  • Turnover below ₹12 lakh → Go for FSSAI food registration.
  • Turnover between ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore → Apply for FSSAI state license.
  • Turnover above ₹20 crore or multiple states → Apply for FSSAI central license.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

  • Business registration proof (GST, MSME certificate, etc.).
  • Identity and address proof of the owner.
  • Food safety management plan.
  • Manufacturing or storage details.

Step 3: Apply Online via FoSCoS

  • Go to the FoSCoS webpage and register.
  • After deciding on a license type, complete the application.
  • Upload the required documents.
  • Pay the required license fee according to your business turnover.

Step 4: Inspection & Approval

  • The FSSAI authority may inspect the business premises.
  • If all standards are met, the license is issued within 30-60 days.

Step 5: License Issuance & Renewal

  • The FSSAI license has a one- to five-year validity period.
  • Businesses must renew the license before expiry.
  • Late renewal may result in fines or suspension.

Getting an FSSAI license is essential for Indian food companies. It ensures quality, legal compliance, and hygienic conditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying For FSSAI License

When seeking an FSSAI license, a lot of food firms commit blunders. Delays, fines, or rejections may result from these errors. Here are some frequent mistakes to watch out for.

Choosing the Wrong License Type

  • Some businesses apply for a state license instead of a central license.
  • Your business must get a central license if it operates in many jurisdictions.

Incomplete Documentation

  • Missing or incorrect documents can delay the approval process.
  • Ensure all business, identity, and food safety documents are correct.

Ignoring Renewal Deadlines

  • FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years.
  • Late renewal may result in penalties or business suspension.

Incorrect Business Details

  • Ensure that your business name, address, and category are correct.
  • Any change in business size or location must be updated.

Not Following Food Safety Guidelines

  • FSSAI conducts inspections before issuing the license.
  • Businesses must follow hygiene and safety rules to pass inspection.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures a smooth application process and helps businesses stay compliant with food safety laws.

Conclusion

For Indian food businesses, the right FSSAI license is essential. It ensures food safety, legal compliance, and customer trust.

  • The FSSAI state license is for businesses operating in a single state with a turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore.
  • Businesses having a revenue of more than 20 crore or those operating in many states are eligible for the FSSAI central license.

Businesses must follow FSSAI guidelines to avoid penalties. Applying for the correct food license helps businesses grow without legal issues.

For a smooth process, businesses should apply on time, submit correct documents, and follow food safety rules. This ensures safe food for consumers and a strong business reputation.