FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen

The food industry in India has seen rapid growth with the rise of online food delivery services and cloud kitchens. A cloud kitchen operates as a delivery-only kitchen without a dine-in facility, focusing solely on fulfilling online orders. If you’re planning to start a cloud kitchen in India, one of the most important legal requirements is obtaining an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license.

In this guide, we’ll provide detailed insights into the FSSAI license for cloud kitchens, including its importance, the application process, required documents, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and why it’s essential for your business.

The FSSAI is a regulatory authority established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, to ensure that food products are safe for consumption. All food business operators (FBOs) in India, including cloud kitchens, are required to obtain an FSSAI license or registration to legally operate.

An FSSAI license is proof that your cloud kitchen complies with the government’s food safety regulations. It serves as a trust factor for customers and ensures that the food you’re delivering is safe and of good quality.

There are three types of FSSAI licenses, and the one your cloud kitchen requires depends on the size and turnover of your business:

1. Basic FSSAI Registration: For small-scale cloud kitchens with an annual turnover of up to INR 12 lakhs.
2. State FSSAI License: For medium-sized cloud kitchens with an annual turnover between INR 12 lakhs and INR 20 crores.
3. Central FSSAI License: For large cloud kitchens with an annual turnover exceeding INR 20 crores or those operating in multiple states.

An FSSAI license is crucial for cloud kitchens for several reasons:

1. Legal Compliance

Every food business in India, including cloud kitchens, must obtain an FSSAI license. Operating without a valid license is illegal and can lead to penalties, fines, and even the closure of the business.

2. Building Customer Trust

An FSSAI license assures your customers that your cloud kitchen adheres to food safety standards. This builds trust and enhances your brand’s reputation.

3. Ensuring Food Safety

The FSSAI license ensures that your cloud kitchen follows the necessary hygiene and food safety practices, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

4. Expansion Opportunities

Having an FSSAI license allows your cloud kitchen to expand operations legally, including partnering with food delivery platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber Eats, which mandate the license for listing.

5. Avoiding Penalties

Operating without an FSSAI license can result in penalties, fines, and legal actions. The penalty for non-compliance can be as high as INR 5 lakhs, and the business may be forced to shut down.

The application process for an FSSAI license can be completed online through the FSSAI Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal. Follow these steps to obtain your license:

Step 1: Visit the FSSAI Portal

Visit the official FSSAI website or our website Link

Step 2: Register an Account

Register by creating an account on the FSSAI portal using your email ID and mobile number.

Step 3: Determine the Type of License

Based on your cloud kitchen’s turnover, select the appropriate license (Basic, State, or Central). Make sure you choose the correct type to avoid any delays or complications.

Step 4: Fill in the Application Form

Complete the online application form by providing all the necessary details about your cloud kitchen, including business name, address, contact details, and type of food products you will serve.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Upload the required documents (discussed below) as per the type of license you’re applying for.

Step 6: Pay the Application Fee

Pay the required fee based on the license type. The fee varies according to the type of license and the number of years for which you are applying.

Step 7: Submit the Application

After completing the form and uploading the documents, submit your application for review. You will receive an application reference number to track the status.

Step 8: Inspection and Approval

Once the application is submitted, an FSSAI inspector may visit your cloud kitchen for an inspection to ensure compliance with food safety guidelines. After the inspection, if all conditions are met, your FSSAI license will be issued.

The following documents are typically required when applying for an FSSAI license for your cloud kitchen:

1. Passport-sized Photograph of the business owner or authorized personnel
2. Identity Proof (Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or Passport)
3. Business Address Proof (utility bill, rent agreement, or property documents)
4. Kitchen Layout Plan
5. List of Food Products to be served or manufactured
6. NOC from the Municipality or local authority (if required)
7. Food Safety Management Plan
8. Water Testing Report
9. Copy of the Partnership Deed (if applicable)
10. Proof of Annual Turnover

The fees for an FSSAI license depend on the type of license and the duration for which you are applying. Here’s an overview:

• Basic FSSAI Registration: INR 999 per year
• State FSSAI License: INR 5,000 to INR 25,000 per year (depending on business size)
• Central FSSAI License: INR 9,500 per year

You can apply for a license for up to 5 years, with the fee increasing proportionately.

Operating a cloud kitchen without a valid FSSAI license can lead to severe penalties. The penalties for non-compliance are as follows:

• Fine for Non-Registration: INR 25,000
• Fine for Non-Renewal of License: INR 100 per day after license expiry
• Fine for Operating without an FSSAI License: Up to INR 5 lakhs

An FSSAI license is valid for a specific period (1 to 5 years) and must be renewed before its expiry. It’s advisable to apply for renewal at least 30 days before the expiration date. The renewal process is similar to the initial application process and can also be completed online.

1. Late Application for Renewal: Apply for renewal at least 30 days before the license expires to avoid penalties.
2. Incorrect Information: Ensure that all the details you provide in the application form are accurate to avoid delays in the approval process.
3. Incomplete Documentation: Missing or incorrect documents can lead to rejection or delays in issuing the license.
4. Applying for the Wrong License Type: Make sure to choose the right license based on your cloud kitchen’s turnover and scale of operations.

1. Is an FSSAI license mandatory for cloud kitchens?

Yes, an FSSAI license is mandatory for all food businesses, including cloud kitchens, to operate legally in India.

2. Which FSSAI license is required for a cloud kitchen?

The type of FSSAI license depends on the annual turnover of your cloud kitchen. Small kitchens with a turnover below INR 12 lakhs require a Basic FSSAI Registration, while larger operations require a State or Central license.

3. How long is the FSSAI license valid for cloud kitchens?

The FSSAI license is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the duration chosen during the application process. It must be renewed before it expires.

4. How much does an FSSAI license for a cloud kitchen cost?

The cost varies depending on the type of license. Basic registration costs INR 100 per year, while State and Central licenses range from INR 2,000 to INR 7,500 per year.

5. Can I apply for an FSSAI license online?

Yes, the entire FSSAI license application process can be completed online through the FSSAI Food Licensing and Registration System (FLRS) portal.

6. Do cloud kitchens need to undergo FSSAI inspections?

Yes, an FSSAI official may inspect your cloud kitchen to ensure it complies with food safety standards before approving the license.

7. What happens if I operate a cloud kitchen without an FSSAI license?

Operating without an FSSAI license is illegal and can result in fines of up to INR 5 lakhs, business closure, and other legal consequences.

8. How do I renew my FSSAI license?

You can renew your FSSAI license through the FLRS portal by submitting the renewal application and paying the applicable fees. It’s essential to renew your license at least 30 days before it expires.

9. What documents are required to apply for an FSSAI license?

Key documents include the business owner’s photo ID, business address proof, kitchen layout plan, list of food products, and water testing reports.

10. Can I expand my cloud kitchen to other states with the same FSSAI license?

If you expand to other states, you will need to obtain a Central FSSAI license, which covers multi-state operations.

Obtaining an FSSAI license is an essential step in launching and operating a cloud kitchen in India. It not only ensures legal compliance but also helps in building trust with customers. By following the steps outlined in this guide and maintaining proper food safety standards, your cloud kitchen can flourish in the competitive food delivery market.