FSSAI License | FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen – Process, Fees & Benefits
FSSAI License | FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen – Process, Fees & Benefits
A cloud kitchen is a food business that prepares food only for delivery. There is no dining space for customers. In today’s time, cloud kitchens are growing very fast because people prefer ordering food online through apps. If you are planning to start a cloud kitchen in India, getting an FSSAI License is very important. Without this license, running a food business is illegal.
The FSSAI License is issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This authority controls food safety and quality in the country. The license makes sure that the food prepared and delivered to customers is safe, clean, and fit for eating. Whether your cloud kitchen is small or large, FSSAI registration or license is mandatory.
The FSSAI License is a legal approval that allows a food business to operate in India. It shows that your cloud kitchen follows food safety rules. Customers also trust food businesses that have an FSSAI License number mentioned on food bills, packaging, and online platforms.
For cloud kitchens, food is prepared in bulk and delivered to many customers daily. Because of this, food safety becomes very important. An FSSAI License helps avoid food-related problems and protects both the business owner and the customers.
Yes, FSSAI License is compulsory for every cloud kitchen in India. Even if you are operating from home or running a small kitchen with limited orders, you still need FSSAI registration. Food delivery apps like Zomato and Swiggy also ask for FSSAI License details before listing your cloud kitchen on their platform.
Without an FSSAI License, your cloud kitchen can face heavy penalties, fines, or even closure by the food department.
The type of FSSAI License for a cloud kitchen depends on the size of the business and yearly turnover. Small cloud kitchens with low turnover can apply for Basic FSSAI Registration. Medium-sized cloud kitchens usually require a State FSSAI License. Large cloud kitchens or brands operating in multiple states need a Central FSSAI License.
Choosing the correct license type is important. Applying for the wrong category can cause delays or rejection of the application.
Any individual, partnership firm, private limited company, or LLP can apply for an FSSAI License for a cloud kitchen. The kitchen must follow hygiene rules, use clean water, and store food properly. The place where food is prepared should be clean and well maintained.
The business owner should ensure that raw materials are safe and cooking staff follow basic hygiene practices.
To apply for an FSSAI License, some documents are required. These documents help the authority verify the business details. Common documents include identity proof of the owner, address proof of the kitchen location, passport-size photo, food safety management plan, and details of food items prepared.
For higher license categories, additional documents like company registration certificate and kitchen layout plan may be required.
The process of applying for an FSSAI License for a cloud kitchen is simple and online. First, the applicant needs to choose the correct license category based on turnover. After selecting the category, the application form is filled with business and personal details.
Next, all required documents are uploaded on the FSSAI portal. After submission, the application is reviewed by the food department. In some cases, an inspection of the kitchen may be done before approval. Once approved, the FSSAI License is issued with a unique 14-digit number.
This number must be printed on food packaging, invoices, and displayed in the kitchen.
The FSSAI License fee depends on the type of license chosen. Basic registration has a low fee and is suitable for small cloud kitchens. State and Central licenses have higher fees depending on the number of years selected.
The license can be applied for one year up to five years. Choosing a longer duration helps save renewal effort every year.
An FSSAI License is not permanent and must be renewed before expiry. The validity period depends on what you selected during application. Renewal should be done at least thirty days before the license expires.
If the license is not renewed on time, late fees are charged, and in serious cases, the license can be cancelled. Running a cloud kitchen with an expired FSSAI License is treated as illegal.
One major benefit of having an FSSAI License is legal safety. It allows you to run your cloud kitchen without fear of penalties. Another benefit is customer trust. People feel safer ordering food from licensed kitchens.
The FSSAI License also helps in business growth. Food delivery platforms, investors, and partners prefer working with licensed food businesses. It improves brand image and increases chances of repeat orders.
Having an FSSAI License also ensures better food quality control. It encourages hygiene, cleanliness, and proper food handling practices.
Running a cloud kitchen without an FSSAI License can lead to serious trouble. The food department can impose heavy fines or even shut down the kitchen. In some cases, legal action can also be taken against the owner.
Food delivery apps can remove your cloud kitchen from their platform if the license is not available or valid.
Cloud kitchens depend heavily on online orders. Platforms like Zomato and Swiggy require FSSAI License details during registration. Without it, listing approval is not possible.
Displaying the FSSAI License number on packaging and invoices also builds customer confidence. It shows that your kitchen follows food safety standards set by the government.
The FSSAI License for cloud kitchen is not just a legal requirement but a strong foundation for a successful food delivery business. It ensures food safety, builds customer trust, and helps your business grow smoothly. Whether you are starting a small home-based cloud kitchen or planning a large food brand, getting the correct FSSAI License is the first and most important step.
Applying for the license on time and renewing it regularly will keep your cloud kitchen compliant and trusted. In today’s competitive food delivery market, an FSSAI License gives your business the right start and long-term stability.
Is FSSAI License mandatory for a cloud kitchen in India
Yes, FSSAI License is compulsory for every cloud kitchen in India. Even if the kitchen operates from home and only delivers food online, FSSAI registration or license is required by law.
Which FSSAI License is required for a cloud kitchen
The type of FSSAI License depends on the yearly turnover of the cloud kitchen. Small kitchens can apply for Basic FSSAI Registration, medium businesses need a State FSSAI License, and large food brands require a Central FSSAI License.
Can a home-based cloud kitchen apply for FSSAI License
Yes, a home-based cloud kitchen can apply for FSSAI registration. The kitchen must follow hygiene and food safety rules and submit the required documents during the application process.
What is the validity period of FSSAI License for cloud kitchen
The FSSAI License can be taken for a minimum of one year and a maximum of five years. The license must be renewed before expiry to avoid penalties.
Is FSSAI License required to list cloud kitchen on Zomato or Swiggy
Yes, food delivery platforms like Zomato and Swiggy ask for valid FSSAI License details before approving a cloud kitchen listing on their platform.
What happens if a cloud kitchen operates without FSSAI License
Running a cloud kitchen without an FSSAI License can result in heavy fines, business closure, or legal action by the food safety department.
How long does it take to get FSSAI License for a cloud kitchen
The approval time usually depends on the license category and document verification. In most cases, it takes a few days to a few weeks to receive the FSSAI License.