Starting a food business in Gurgaon is an exciting journey. The city is full of opportunities — from trendy cafes to delivery kitchens and food trucks. However, before you get started, there’s one very important legal step: getting a Food License in Gurgaon.
This guide will explain everything you need to know in a clear and easy-to-understand manner. Whether you’re just exploring your options or ready to launch, this article will help you move forward confidently.
A food license, also known as an Food License in Gurgaon , is a legal requirement for anyone involved in the food business. It is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
In short, this license proves that your food business follows all the rules and regulations related to food safety. It ensures that the food you prepare, store, or sell is safe for consumption.
Why Do You Need a Food License in Gurgaon?
You might ask, “Is it really necessary?” The answer is yes — and here’s why:
As per the FSSAI Act, 2006, all food business operators (FBOs) must get a license. Running a food business without one can lead to penalties or even closure.
Customers are more likely to trust and buy from a business that is licensed. It shows that you care about their health and are committed to hygiene.
When you have a valid Food License in Gurgaon, you can display your FSSAI number on your packaging and menu. This gives your brand a more professional image.
4. Required for Online Platforms
If you plan to sell food through platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, or Amazon Pantry, an FSSAI license is a must.
Types of FSSAI Food Licenses
Depending on the size and nature of your business, you can apply for one of the following:
1. Basic Registration (For Small Businesses)
For businesses with a turnover of less than ₹12 lakhs per year.
Ideal for home kitchens, small food vendors, or local suppliers.
2. State License (For Medium-Sized Businesses)
For businesses with an annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores.
Suitable for mid-sized restaurants, food manufacturers, and caterers.
3. Central License (For Large Businesses)
For businesses with a turnover of over ₹20 crores or who operate in multiple states.
Necessary for large-scale manufacturers, importers, or big restaurant chains.
Who Needs a Food License in Gurgaon?
If you fall under any of the categories below, you are required to get a Food License in Gurgaon:
Restaurants and Cafés
Cloud Kitchens and Takeaways
Food Trucks and Street Vendors
Bakeries and Confectioneries
Canteens in offices or schools
Dairy Units and Milk Processors
Packaged Food Manufacturers
Sweet Shops and Snack Makers
Grocery Shops and Retailers
Food Wholesalers and Distributors
Online food sellers or aggregators
Even if you are running a small home-based kitchen, you still need to apply for basic registration.
Documents Required for Food License in Gurgaon
Before you start the application process, keep these documents ready:
Passport-size photo of the applicant
Identity proof (Aadhar Card, Voter ID, etc.)
Proof of address
Details of the food business
Declaration of food safety management plan
For State or Central License (Additional)
PAN card of the business
Business registration certificate
Layout plan of the kitchen or unit
NOC from Municipality or Health Department
List of food products to be dealt with
Water test report (if applicable)
Import/export code (if applicable)
How to Apply for a Food License in Gurgaon
You can apply in two ways: Online or Offline.
Here are the steps:
Visit the FSSAI portal: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
Register using your email and mobile number.
Choose the type of license based on your turnover.
Fill in the application form (Form A or Form B).
Upload the required documents.
Pay the application fee online.
Submit the application and wait for approval.
Once submitted, you’ll receive a reference number. You can use it to check the status of your application.
You can also apply by visiting the FSSAI office in Gurgaon. You will need to fill out the physical form, attach documents, and submit the application along with the fee.
Fees for Food License in Gurgaon
The fees depend on the type of license:
Basic Registration: ₹100 per year
State License: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per year (varies by type of business)
Central License: ₹7,500 per year
The license is usually issued for a period of 1 to 5 years. You can choose the duration at the time of applying.
Basic Registration: 7–10 working days
State License: 15–30 working days
Central License: 30–60 working days
If any documents are missing or there is an issue, the timeline may increase. It’s always better to double-check everything before submitting.
How to Renew Your Food License in Gurgaon
A food license is not forever. You need to renew it before it expires.
Log in to the FSSAI portal.
Choose “Renew License” from the dashboard.
Upload updated documents, if required.
Pay the renewal fee.
Submit the application.
Make sure to apply for renewal at least 30 days before the expiry date to avoid penalties.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a License?
Running a food business without a valid Food License in Gurgaon can lead to:
Fines up to ₹5 lakhs
Closure of business
Seizure of food stock
Legal action
In short, it’s just not worth the risk. Getting licensed is not only the smart thing to do — it’s also the right thing.
Let’s look at some common errors people make when applying for a food license:
Applying under the wrong category
Missing or unclear documents
Not renewing the license on time
Giving incorrect business details
Not displaying the FSSAI number on packaging
By avoiding these mistakes, you can save time and avoid trouble.