Central FSSAI Licence

Central FSSAI Licence is required for: (1) Food businesses with annual turnover above ₹20 crore, (2) Food importers and exporters, (3) Food operators in airports, seaports, and railway stations, (4) Large food manufacturers operating in multiple states, (5) E-commerce food platforms, (6) Central government agencies and canteens. It is issued by FSSAI headquarters in New Delhi.

The government fee for Central FSSAI Licence is ₹16,875 per year. You can choose validity from 1 to 5 years. For 5 years, the total government fee is ₹75,000. This is significantly higher than State or Basic licence fees due to the comprehensive inspection and monitoring requirements at the central level.

The Central FSSAI Licence process typically takes 30-45 working days. This includes document verification, quality test report evaluation, physical inspection by FSSAI officials, and final approval from the central authority. Our team manages the entire process and ensures timely follow-up with FSSAI HQ.

Yes, a Food Recall Plan is mandatory for Central FSSAI Licence holders. It is a document that outlines the procedure to withdraw food products from the market if a safety issue is detected. We help prepare a comprehensive Food Recall Plan as per FSSAI standards, which is also required during the licence application and inspection.

Yes, a Central FSSAI Licence is mandatory for food exporters in India. To export food products, you need the Central Licence along with compliance to the destination country's food safety standards. Our team can assist with both FSSAI Central Licence and export-related compliance documentation.

The Central FSSAI inspection is comprehensive and covers: thorough review of your Food Safety Management Plan (FSMP), facility inspection including plant layout and equipment, quality control laboratory checks, product testing and traceability systems, recall plan verification, staff training records, and hygiene audits. Inspectors from FSSAI HQ conduct the inspection.

Yes, a Central FSSAI Licence is mandatory for importing food products into India. Imported food must comply with FSSAI standards and regulations. Each imported consignment requires clearance and may be subject to testing at the port of entry. Our team assists with import documentation and FSSAI compliance for smooth customs clearance.

Yes, e-commerce food business operators and aggregators (like online food delivery platforms) are required to hold a Central FSSAI Licence. They must also ensure that all food business operators listed on their platform hold valid FSSAI registrations. The central licence ensures regulatory oversight of digital food platforms.

Central licence holders must: (1) File Annual Return (Form D-1) by May 31 each year, (2) Maintain updated Food Safety Management Plan, (3) Conduct periodic food testing at NABL-accredited labs, (4) Maintain traceability records, (5) Conduct mock recall exercises annually, (6) Renew licence before expiry. Non-compliance can lead to penalties up to ₹8 lakh.

Yes, if your business turnover falls below ₹20 crore or you no longer meet Central licence criteria, you can apply for a downgrade to a State FSSAI Licence. The process involves submitting a new application under the State category and surrendering the Central licence. Our team can guide you through the downgrade process.