FSSAI License: Complete Guide to FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen Businesses
FSSAI License: Complete Guide to FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen Businesses
Starting a food business in India requires more than just great recipes and smart marketing. Whether you are running a restaurant, café, home kitchen, or a modern cloud kitchen, obtaining an FSSAI License is a legal necessity. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food safety and ensures that food businesses maintain hygiene, quality, and safety standards.
In recent years, cloud kitchens have become extremely popular due to low operational costs and high online demand. However, many entrepreneurs are unaware that an FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen is mandatory, just like for any other food business. In this detailed guide, we will explain everything about the FSSAI License, its importance, types, eligibility, documents required, and the complete process to obtain an FSSAI License for cloud kitchens.
An FSSAI License is an official approval issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India under the FSS Act, 2006. It authorizes food business operators (FBOs) to manufacture, process, store, distribute, or sell food products in India.
Every FSSAI-registered business receives a 14-digit FSSAI license number, which must be displayed on food packaging, invoices, menus, and online food delivery platforms. This license ensures that the food being prepared and sold meets the prescribed safety and hygiene standards.
Obtaining an FSSAI License is not just a legal requirement—it also helps build credibility and trust among customers.
Ensures compliance with food safety laws
Builds customer trust and brand credibility
Mandatory for listing on food delivery apps like Zomato and Swiggy
Helps avoid heavy penalties and legal action
Improves food quality, hygiene, and operational standards
Without an FSSAI License, a food business can face penalties of up to ₹5 lakhs and even imprisonment in severe cases.
A cloud kitchen, also known as a ghost kitchen or virtual kitchen, is a food business that operates without a dine-in facility. It prepares food exclusively for online orders through food delivery platforms or its own website.
Because cloud kitchens handle food preparation and delivery, they fall directly under the category of food business operators. Therefore, obtaining an FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen is compulsory, irrespective of the size or turnover of the business.
Yes, FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen is mandatory in India. Whether the cloud kitchen is operated from home, a rented commercial space, or a shared kitchen, FSSAI registration or licensing is required.
Even small home-based cloud kitchens must obtain at least a Basic FSSAI Registration. Food delivery platforms strictly ask for a valid FSSAI License before onboarding any cloud kitchen.
Depending on the turnover and scale of operations, FSSAI offers three types of licenses:
Annual turnover up to ₹12 lakhs
Suitable for small cloud kitchens and home kitchens
Issued by State FSSAI Authority
Annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores
Ideal for medium-sized cloud kitchens
Required if operating within one state
Annual turnover above ₹20 crores
Required for large cloud kitchens, franchises, or businesses operating in multiple states
Mandatory for import/export of food items
Choosing the correct type of FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen is crucial to avoid rejection or compliance issues.
An FSSAI License is required by:
Cloud kitchens
Restaurants and cafés
Home-based food businesses
Food manufacturers and processors
Food delivery aggregators
Caterers and bakers
Online food sellers
If your business handles food at any stage, you must obtain an FSSAI License.
The documents required may vary based on the type of license, but generally include:
PAN card of the applicant
Aadhaar card or identity proof
Address proof of kitchen premises
Rental agreement or ownership proof
Kitchen layout plan
List of food items to be prepared
Passport-size photograph
Partnership deed or incorporation certificate (if applicable)
Water test report (for State/Central License)
GST registration (optional but recommended)
Having accurate documents helps ensure smooth approval of the FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen.
Based on turnover and business scale, select Basic, State, or Central FSSAI License.
Submit the application form on the official FSSAI portal with required details.
Upload all supporting documents carefully to avoid rejection.
The food safety officer may inspect the cloud kitchen premises.
Once approved, the FSSAI License is issued with a unique 14-digit number.
The entire process usually takes 7–30 working days, depending on the license type.
An FSSAI License is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the selection at the time of application. Renewal must be done before expiry to avoid penalties.
Late renewal can attract a fine of ₹100 per day. Operating with an expired FSSAI License is illegal.
Running a cloud kitchen without an FSSAI License can lead to:
Fine up to ₹5 lakhs
Cancellation of food delivery platform listings
Legal action and business closure
Loss of customer trust
Hence, obtaining an FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen is essential for smooth and legal operations.
Enables partnerships with food delivery apps
Improves customer confidence
Supports business expansion and franchising
Ensures food safety compliance
Strengthens brand image
A valid FSSAI License adds professionalism and long-term sustainability to your cloud kitchen business.
Yes, even home-based cloud kitchens must obtain at least a Basic FSSAI Registration.
The license depends on turnover. Small kitchens need Basic Registration, while larger ones require State or Central FSSAI License.
No, selling food online without an FSSAI License is illegal and can attract heavy penalties.
It usually takes 7–30 working days, depending on the license category and document verification.
Yes, food delivery platforms mandatorily ask for a valid FSSAI License before onboarding sellers.
An FSSAI License is valid for 1 to 5 years and must be renewed before expiry.
An FSSAI License is a mandatory and crucial requirement for anyone involved in the food business in India. With the rapid growth of online food delivery, obtaining an FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen has become even more important. It ensures legal compliance, food safety, customer trust, and long-term business success.
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