If you're planning to start a food business in Delhi, whether it's a restaurant, cloud kitchen, food truck, or even a home-based tiffin service, there is one important thing you need to know — you must have a Food License in Delhi.
But why is it so important?
Well, running a food business is not just about cooking delicious meals or offering great service. It's also about making sure that your food is safe to eat. This is where the Food License comes in. It shows your customers that you care about hygiene and food safety. It also means you're following the rules set by the government.
Now, you might feel that the process is complicated or expensive. But don’t worry. In this blog, we will explain everything step-by-step in the simplest way possible. From what a Food License is, who needs it, the types of licenses, how to apply, documents required, fees, and common mistakes to avoid — we will cover it all.
Moreover, getting your Food License in Delhi can help you build trust with your customers, grow your business legally, and avoid heavy penalties. In fact, it’s the first step toward becoming a professional and responsible food business owner.
So, whether you're just starting out or have been running your business without a license, now is the right time to take action.
In the following sections, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the Food License in Delhi — in a simple, clear, and practical way.
Let’s begin!
1. What is a Food License?
A Food License is a legal certificate issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This certificate gives permission to any person or business to operate in the food industry.
The license ensures that the food you prepare, store, sell, or distribute meets certain safety and hygiene standards. It helps prevent food contamination and ensures that your food is fit for human consumption.
There are different types of Food License in Delhi depending on the size and nature of your business, which we will explain below.
2. Why is a Food License Important?
Getting a Food License in Delhi is not just a legal formality. It offers several benefits:
Legal Compliance: Operating without a license is illegal and can lead to fines or even closure.
Trust and Credibility: Customers trust businesses that follow safety rules.
Business Growth: It allows you to expand your business easily and participate in online food delivery platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, etc.
Avoid Penalties: Avoid heavy fines and legal issues by complying with FSSAI regulations.
3. Who Needs a Food License in Delhi?
You need a food license if you are involved in any of the following activities:
Restaurants and Cafes
Cloud Kitchens
Street Food Vendors
Food Trucks
Catering Services
Bakery and Confectionery Units
Home-based Tiffin Services
Packaged Food Sellers
Importers/Exporters of Food Items
Online Food Sellers or Aggregators
Even small food vendors or home chefs must register with FSSAI.
4. Types of Food Licenses in Delhi
There are three main types of FSSAI Food Licenses:
a) Basic Registration (For small businesses)
For businesses with annual turnover below Rs. 12 lakhs
Ideal for home kitchens, small vendors, and startups
For businesses with annual turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores
Suitable for medium-sized food manufacturers, restaurants, etc.
For businesses with annual turnover above Rs. 20 crores
Required for importers/exporters, large manufacturers, and online aggregators
5. Documents Required for Food License in Delhi
Here are the documents you need depending on the license type:
Basic Registration
State/Central License
Identity and address proof
Business registration certificate (GST, Shops & Establishment, etc.)
Proof of premises (rent agreement or property papers)
Food safety management plan
List of food products
Layout plan of kitchen or premises
NOC from local authorities (if required)
6. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Food License in Delhi
Step 1: Visit the FSSAI website
Go to https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Step 2: Sign up and create an account
Register yourself as a user with a valid email ID and mobile number.
Step 3: Select the type of license
Choose Basic, State, or Central based on your business turnover.
Step 4: Fill in the application form
Provide details like business name, address, food category, contact info, etc.
Make sure you upload all the documents as per the license type.
Online payment is available for convenience.
Once everything is filled and documents are uploaded, submit your application.
Step 8: Inspection (if needed)
For some businesses, the food safety officer may visit your location.
If everything is correct, your license will be issued within 7-30 days.
7. Cost of Food License in Delhi
Here is an approximate idea of the costs involved:
Basic Registration: Rs. 100 to Rs. 500 per year
State License: Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 per year
Central License: Rs. 7,500 per year
Note: Prices may vary based on your business and food category.
8. Renewal and Validity of Food License
Food Licenses are usually valid for 1 to 5 years.
You must apply for renewal 30 days before the license expires.
Late renewals may attract fines or suspension.
9. Penalties for Not Having a Food License
If you operate a food business without a valid license, you may face the following:
That’s why it’s always better to get a Food License in Delhi before starting operations.