Central FSSAI License Requirement for E-Commerce Food Businesses (2026)

Running a food business online sounds easy today. You can sell through your own website, list products on Amazon or Flipkart, or run a food delivery platform. But when it comes to legality, many e-commerce food businesses get confused about which FSSAI license they actually need.

This confusion usually starts with one simple question:

“Do I need a Central FSSAI License for my e-commerce food business?”

In most cases, the answer is yes.

This blog explains everything in simple words - what the Central FSSAI License is, who needs it, why it is compulsory for e-commerce food businesses, and how you can apply without stress in 2026.

What Is a Central FSSAI License?

An FSSAI license is a legal permission given by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to operate a food business.

There are three types of FSSAI registrations:

• Basic Registration
• State License
• Central License

A Central FSSAI License is required for large food businesses, businesses operating in multiple states, or businesses involved in import, export, or e-commerce.

If your food business runs online and connects buyers and sellers across cities or states, it usually falls under Central License category.

What Is an E-Commerce Food Business?

An e-commerce food business is any business that sells, lists, delivers, or facilitates the sale of food products through online platforms.

This includes:

➤ Online food marketplaces

➤ Food delivery apps

➤ E-commerce websites selling packaged food

➤ Aggregator platforms connecting sellers and customers

➤ Online grocery platforms

Even if you don’t manufacture food yourself, but your platform helps sell food, you are still considered a food business operator under FSSAI rules.

Why Central FSSAI License Is Mandatory for E-Commerce Food Businesses

Many people think that sellers’ licenses are enough. That is not true.

According to FSSAI regulations, e-commerce food business operators must hold a Central FSSAI License, regardless of turnover.

Here’s why:

➝ E-commerce platforms operate across multiple locations

➝ They connect different food sellers

➝ They influence storage, transport, and delivery

➝ They impact food safety and traceability

Because of this wide reach, FSSAI has clearly made Central License compulsory for e-commerce food businesses.

Who Needs a Central FSSAI License in E-Commerce?

You need a Central FSSAI License if you are:

• Running an online food delivery platform

• Operating a food marketplace website

• Managing an online grocery or packaged food portal

• Acting as a food aggregator

• Operating an app that lists restaurants or food sellers

• Running an e-commerce platform that stores, packs, or delivers food

Even startups and new platforms must apply before starting operations.

Do Food Sellers on E-Commerce Platforms Also Need a License?

Yes, but their requirement is different.

➡ Platform / aggregator → Central FSSAI License

➡ Individual sellers or restaurants → Basic or State or Central License (based on size and turnover)

The platform must also ensure that every seller listed has a valid FSSAI registration or license.

Key Conditions Set by FSSAI for E-Commerce Food Businesses

FSSAI has laid down clear responsibilities for e-commerce operators:

– Display FSSAI license numbers of sellers on the platform

– Remove sellers who don’t have valid registration

– Ensure food safety during storage and delivery

– Maintain records of suppliers and transactions

– Follow hygiene and food safety guidelines

Ignoring these rules can lead to penalties or suspension of license.

Central FSSAI License vs State License 

If your business is online and multi-location, State License is not sufficient.

How Central FSSAI License Application Works

➝ Create an account on the official FSSAI portal

➝ Choose Central FSSAI License while applying

➝ Enter basic business and e-commerce platform details

➝ Upload required documents

➝ Pay the government fees online

➝ FSSAI reviews the application and may inspect if required

➝ License is issued online once approved

If all documents are correct, the process usually goes smoothly without delays.

Documents Required for Central FSSAI License (E-Commerce)

The document list may vary slightly, but generally includes:

→ Company incorporation documents (COI, MOA, AOA)

→ PAN and GST certificate

→ Address proof of office

→ List of directors or partners

→ Food safety management plan

→ Details of food handling or delivery process

→ Platform or website details

→ Declaration and authorization letters

Having correct documents ready saves time and avoids rejection.

How Long Does It Take to Get the License?

The timeline depends on document quality and verification.

Usually:

• Application review: 15–30 days
• Clarifications (if any): additional time
• License validity: up to 5 years

Choosing the right license period helps reduce future renewals.

Common Mistakes E-Commerce Food Businesses Make

Many platforms face problems because of simple mistakes:

⚠ Applying for State License instead of Central

⚠ Starting operations without license

⚠ Listing sellers without FSSAI registration

⚠ Not updating seller details

⚠ Ignoring renewal deadlines

These mistakes can lead to penalties, platform shutdown, or legal notices.

Penalties for Not Having Central FSSAI License

If an e-commerce food business operates without a Central License:

▪ Heavy fines may be imposed

▪ Platform operations can be stopped

▪ Sellers can be removed forcefully

▪ Legal action under FSS Act can be taken

▪ Compliance is always cheaper than penalties.

Why Getting It Right Matters in 2026

In 2026, FSSAI is focusing more on:

🗸 Online food safety

🗸 Platform accountability

🗸 Consumer transparency

🗸 Traceability of food sellers

E-commerce food businesses are under strict observation, and compliance is no longer optional

Need help with your Central FSSAI License for an e-commerce food business?
PSR Compliance makes the process simple and stress-free. Call us today at 7065883416 and get clear guidance before you apply.

FAQs on Central FSSAI License

1. Is a Central FSSAI License mandatory for all e-commerce platforms?

Yes, all e-commerce food businesses must obtain a Central FSSAI License for their head office, regardless of turnover.

2. Do small or home-based online food sellers need a Central License?

Yes, all online food sellers, including home chefs and cloud kitchens, require a Central FSSAI License.

3. Is a separate license required for each warehouse or cloud kitchen?

Yes, every warehouse or cloud kitchen must have its own FSSAI license or be covered under the central application.

4. What is the shelf-life requirement for food sold online?

Food products must have at least 30% or 45 days of remaining shelf life at the time of delivery.

5. Are e-commerce aggregators responsible for listing only licensed sellers?

Yes, platforms must ensure only FSSAI-licensed sellers are listed and display their license numbers.

6. What documents are required for an e-commerce Central License?

Key documents include Form B, premise proof, product list, FSMS plan, and IEC (if applicable).

7. Do I need to update my FSSAI license when adding new products?

Yes, all new food products must be endorsed on the existing FSSAI license.

8. What happens if I operate without an FSSAI license?

Operating without a license can lead to business closure, product seizure, and fines up to ₹5 lakh.

9. How can I modify an existing FSSAI license?

License modifications can be done online through the FoSCoS portal with the applicable fee.

10. How long does it take to get a Central FSSAI License?

Approval usually takes 25–35 working days, subject to document verification and inspection.