Starting a home kitchen business in India? Whether you're selling homemade snacks, meals, or baked goods, obtaining the appropriate food safety certifications is crucial. The FSSAI license ensures that your home-based food venture complies with food safety and hygiene standards as mandated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
What is an FSSAI License for home kitchen?
A home kitchen FSSAI license is a mandatory registration or license issued to individuals preparing and selling food from home. It validates the quality and safety of your offerings, boosts customer trust, and enables you to operate legally under the FSSAI license framework. You can also check your business loan eligibility if you're considering financial support to formalise your food business.
Who needs an FSSAI license for home kitchen?
You need an FSSAI license if you:
- Sell food directly from your home
- Supply food to online delivery platforms
- Offer catering or tiffin services from home
- Sell packaged food products or baked goods
- Earn revenue through any form of home-based food business
Types of FSSAI licenses for home kitchens
Based on the size and turnover of your business, FSSAI offers:
- Basic FSSAI registration – For turnover up to Rs. 12 lakhs
- State FSSAI license – For turnover between Rs. 12 lakhs and Rs. 20 crores
- Central FSSAI license – For turnover exceeding Rs. 20 crores or export operations
Learn more about FSSAI registration and which type fits your business needs.
Documents required for FSSAI home kitchen license
You'll need the following documents:
- Passport-size photo and ID proof
- Address proof and proof of business location
- Food safety management plan
- Business registration proof (if applicable)
- Articles of association for companies
- Partnership deed in case of partnership
- Import export code (for export of homemade food)
Step-by-step process to apply for FSSAI home kitchen license
- Visit the FSSAI registration portal
- Select appropriate license type based on turnover
- Fill out the online application (Form A or B)
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee online
- Await inspection or document verification (if required)
- Receive your license within 7–30 working days
FSSAI license fees for home kitchen
| License type | Annual turnover | Government fee |
|---|---|---|
| Basic registration | Up to Rs. 12 lakhs | Rs. 100 – Rs. 500 |
| State license | Rs. 12 lakhs – Rs. 20 crores | Rs. 2,000 – Rs. 5,000 |
| Central license | Above Rs. 20 crores | Rs. 7,500 and above |
Note: Fees may vary by state and business type.
FSSAI license renewal process for home kitchen
- Apply for renewal at least 30 days before license expiry
- Use the FSSAI online portal to log in and submit renewal request
- Update any expired or changed documents
- Pay the renewal fee as per license type
- Wait for approval or further instructions from the authority
Conclusion
An FSSAI license not only makes your home kitchen legally compliant but also builds credibility with customers and delivery partners. Staying updated on license types, documents, and renewal steps ensures smooth operations. If you're looking to scale your food business, consider applying for a business loan to support your growth. You can also check your pre-approved business loan offer for quicker access to funds.
