Reasons to obtain an FSSAI licence for cloud kitchens
Obtaining an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license is essential for operating a cloud kitchen in India. Here’s why it matters:
Legal Requirement: Every food business in India, including cloud kitchens, must have an FSSAI license to operate legally. It ensures compliance with national food safety laws and helps avoid legal complications and penalties.
Food Safety Assurance: The license confirms that the cloud kitchen meets the safety and hygiene standards set by FSSAI, ensuring that the food prepared and delivered is safe for consumption.
Building Consumer Trust: In a highly competitive food industry, an FSSAI license acts as a symbol of credibility. It reassures customers about the quality and safety of the food, which is crucial for repeat business and customer loyalty.
Strengthening Business Reputation: An FSSAI license enhances your brand image, positioning your cloud kitchen as a responsible and compliant food business in the eyes of both consumers and partners.
Enabling Growth and Partnerships: Food delivery platforms and potential business partners often require FSSAI certification. Having the license opens up new avenues for expansion and increased market access.
Ensuring Ongoing Compliance: Licensed cloud kitchens are subject to periodic inspections and must stay updated with evolving food safety standards, helping maintain high operational and safety standards over time.
Documents required for FSSAI registration of a cloud kitchen
The documentation required for FSSAI registration depends on the type of license being applied for—Basic, State, or Central. Each level of registration has its own set of requirements based on the scale and nature of the business.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration
For small-scale cloud kitchens:
Proof of address for the authorized person
Passport-sized photograph of the applicant
Business name and address details
Duly filled FSSAI declaration form
2. State FSSAI License
For mid-sized operations operating within a single state:
Commercial property rental agreement (if applicable)
Identity proof (Aadhaar card, driver’s license, passport, or voter ID)
Government-issued registration certificates (as applicable):
Company Incorporation Certificate
Partnership Deed
GST Registration
PAN Card
Shop and Establishment Certificate
Trade License or Commercial License
MOA and AOA for private limited companies or Partnership Deed for firms
Relevant local licenses: Panchayat, Municipality, Corporation license, etc.
Specification of business type
FSSAI declaration form
3. Central FSSAI License
For large-scale cloud kitchens or those involved in import/export:
Commercial property rental agreement
Identity proof of the concerned individual (Aadhaar card, driver’s license, passport, or voter ID)
Government registration documents (as applicable):
Company Incorporation Certificate
Partnership Deed or Firm Registration
PAN Card
GST Registration
Shop and Establishment Certificate
Trade License
MOA and AOA for private limited companies or Partnership Deed for partnership firms
Import Export Code (IEC), if applicable
Authorization letter on company letterhead authorizing an individual to file the application
List of food categories the business plans to manufacture or handle
These documents are necessary to demonstrate compliance with FSSAI’s food safety and quality regulations and are critical for securing legal approval to operate a cloud kitchen in India.
Eligibility criteria for cloud kitchens to acquire an FSSAI license
To secure an FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license, cloud kitchens must meet a set of specific eligibility requirements that ensure safe and hygienic food operations:
Proper Infrastructure: The kitchen must be equipped with adequate facilities for food preparation, cooking, and storage. These should comply with FSSAI’s standards for hygiene, ventilation, and safety.
Trained Staff: All personnel involved in food handling, preparation, and delivery should be properly trained in food safety practices and hygiene protocols.
Hygiene and Sanitation Compliance: The kitchen must maintain high levels of cleanliness, with regular cleaning schedules, effective waste management, and pest control measures in place.
Food Safety Management System (FSMS): An FSMS plan must be implemented and maintained in accordance with FSSAI guidelines. This includes procedures that cover all aspects of food handling to minimize contamination and health risks.
Required Documentation: All necessary documents must be readily available for submission. This includes identity and address proof of the owner, kitchen layout plan, list of food categories handled, and other supporting documents as specified by FSSAI.
Regulatory Compliance: The cloud kitchen must also comply with other applicable laws, such as obtaining a trade license, GST registration, and adhering to local municipal regulations.
Food Testing and Quality Assurance: Provisions should be in place for regular food testing and quality checks to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Meeting these eligibility conditions not only improves the chances of securing an FSSAI license but also demonstrates the cloud kitchen’s commitment to safe and responsible food service operations.
Step-by-step process to get FSSAI license for cloud kitchen
Access the FoSCOS Official Website: Begin by visiting the official FoSCOS (Food Safety Compliance System) website.
Identify the Required License Type: Determine whether you need a Central or State license based on your location. Enter the address for each site separately to check eligibility.
Register on FoSCOS: Click on the “Sign-up” option for the relevant license type. Complete the registration form with accurate contact information, ensuring that the phone number and email provided are active.
Create Username and Password: Choose a unique username and password during registration. After filling out the form, click ‘Register’ to complete the sign-up process.
Account Activation Confirmation: You will receive an SMS and email confirming that your account has been successfully activated.
Log In and Complete the Application: Use your new credentials to log in and fill out the online FSSAI Registration Application Form. Make sure all information entered is accurate and complete.
Print and Submit Your Application: Print a copy of your completed application before submitting it online. After submission, a reference number will be displayed—keep this for tracking your application status.
Send Hard Copy Offline: Within 15 days of your online submission, send a printed copy of the completed application to the regional or state FSSAI office. This step is mandatory for your application to be processed.
Following these steps will help you efficiently apply for an FSSAI license, ensuring your cloud kitchen complies with food safety regulations.
FSSAI license fees for cloud kitchens
License type
|
Turnover range
|
Fee structure
|
Basic registration
|
Up to Rs. 12 lakhs
|
Rs. 100 - Rs. 500
|
State license
|
Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs. 20 crores
|
Rs. 2,000 - Rs. 5,000
|
Central license
|
Above Rs. 20 crores
|
Rs. 7,500 and above
|
*Fees may vary depending on specific state policies.
Penalties for running cloud kitchen without FSSAI license
Operating without an FSSAI license can lead to:
Heavy fines up to Rs. 5 lakhs.
Business closure by authorities.
Legal prosecution and penalties.
Loss of customer trust and business credibility.
Conclusion
Securing an FSSAI license is essential for cloud kitchens to operate legally and build consumer trust. Proper registration not only ensures compliance but also enhances business prospects. If you need financial assistance to set up or expand your cloud kitchen, consider applying for a business loan to support your venture.
