There are three types of FSSAI licenses based on the size and scale of the business:
✅ Basic Registration – For small businesses with turnover ≤ ₹12 lakh
✅ State License – For medium-sized businesses with turnover ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore
✅ Central License – For large businesses with turnover above ₹20 crore or operating in multiple states
This guide, provided by Satilapur GST Suvidha Kendra, will help you understand the difference between FSSAI State and Central Licenses, their eligibility criteria, application process, and required documents.
FSSAI State License: Who Needs It?
An FSSAI State License is mandatory for food businesses operating within a single state with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore. It is required for:
- Food manufacturers and processors
- Dairy units producing 501 – 50,000 liters of milk per day
- Storage and warehouse facilities (1000 – 10,000 MT capacity)
- Hotels (3-star and below)
- Transporters handling food within the state
How to Apply for an FSSAI State License?
- Register on the FSSAI FoSCoS portal
- Complete Form B and upload required documents
- Pay the applicable fee
- Inspection by FSSAI authorities
- License approval and issuance
FSSAI Central License: Who Needs It?
A Central License is required for large-scale food businesses, including those operating in multiple states or having an annual turnover above ₹20 crore. It applies to:
- Large-scale food manufacturers
- Dairy units handling more than 50,000 liters/day
- Importers and exporters of food products
- Hotels with 5-star ratings and above
- E-commerce food businesses (
Swiggy, Zomato, Amazon, etc.) - Food chains and franchises (
McDonald's, Domino’s)
How to Apply for an FSSAI Central License?
- Go to the FSSAI online portal (FoSCoS)
- Fill out Form B and submit the necessary documents
- Pay the Central License fee
- Await FSSAI inspection
- Receive your license digitally
Key Differences Between FSSAI State and Central Licenses
| Feature | FSSAI State License | FSSAI Central License |
|---|---|---|
| Turnover Limit | ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore | Above ₹20 crore |
| Applicable To | State-based businesses | Multi-state operations |
| Issuing Authority | State FSSAI office | FSSAI Central Authority |
| Validity | 1 – 5 years | 1 – 5 years |
| Processing Time | 15 – 30 days | 30 – 60 days |
Documents Required for FSSAI License Application
To apply for an FSSAI State or Central License, the following documents are required:
✅ Form B (completed and signed)
✅ Business owner's PAN card
✅ Identity proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, etc.)
✅ Business address proof (electricity bill, rental agreement)
✅ Food safety management plan
✅ List of food products manufactured or sold
✅ NOC from the municipal authority
✅ Water quality test report (for food processing businesses)
Why is an FSSAI License Important?
✔ Legal Compliance – Avoid fines and legal issues
✔ Consumer Trust – Builds brand credibility
✔ Market Expansion – Required for food exports and retail chains
✔ Better Business Growth – Essential for partnerships with e-commerce platforms
Conclusion
Whether you need an FSSAI State License or a Central License depends on your annual turnover, business scale, and operational locations. If you operate in multiple states or have a large-scale food business, you must apply for a Central License.
💡 Need help with FSSAI registration? Satilapur GST Suvidha Kendra provides professional assistance to get your license hassle-free!
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