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September 15, 2025
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ByDhruvi
FSSAI License Requirements for Cloud Kitchens: A Complete Guide for 2025
Introduction
Starting a cloud kitchen in India is one of the fastest-growing food business models, but it comes with its own compliance needs. One of the most important legal requirements is obtaining an FSSAI license for cloud kitchen. In 2025, FSSAI has made the rules stricter to ensure hygiene, food safety, and proper business registration for all food operators, including delivery-only kitchens.
What is FSSAI and Why is it Required for Cloud Kitchens?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food safety standards in India. Whether you operate a physical restaurant or a delivery-only kitchen, FSSAI registration ensures that your business follows hygiene protocols and serves safe food to consumers.
Cloud kitchens handle food preparation and packaging, making them equally responsible for food safety. Without a valid cloud kitchen FSSAI registration, your business risks penalties, poor credibility, and removal from food delivery platforms like Swiggy or Zomato.
Types of FSSAI Licenses for Cloud Kitchens
License Type |
Eligibility Criteria |
Annual Turnover Limit |
Validity Period |
Fees (Per Year) |
Basic Registration |
Small businesses and start-ups |
Up to ₹12 lakh |
1–5 years |
₹100 |
State License |
Medium-scale businesses |
₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore |
1–5 years |
₹2,000–₹5,000 |
Central License |
Large-scale businesses or inter-state operations |
Above ₹20 crore |
1–5 years |
₹7,500 |
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen
Step 1: Determine the Type of License
Check your expected annual turnover and decide whether you need Basic, State, or Central registration.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
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ID and address proof of the owner
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Passport-size photograph
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Business address proof (rent agreement or utility bill)
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Kitchen layout plan
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List of food products to be handled
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NOC from the landlord (if rented)
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Food safety management plan
Step 3: Apply Online via FoSCoS Portal
Visit foscos.fssai.gov.in and fill in the application form with correct business details. Upload scanned copies of the documents.
Step 4: Pay the Applicable Fees
Fees depend on your license category and validity period (1 to 5 years).
Step 5: Inspection by Authorities (if applicable)
For State and Central licenses, an inspection may be conducted to verify hygiene and safety standards.
Step 6: Receive Your License
Once approved, you will receive the FSSAI license number, which must be displayed on your kitchen premises and food packages.
FSSAI License Fees for Cloud Kitchens in 2025
License Type |
Minimum Fee |
Maximum Fee |
Basic Registration |
₹100/year |
₹100/year |
State License |
₹2,000/year |
₹5,000/year |
Central License |
₹7,500/year |
₹7,500/year |
Advantages of FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchens
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Legal Authorization – Ensures your business is identified and runs legally.
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Customer Trust – Displays credibility to customers and delivery platforms.
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Business Expansion – Required for Listing on Food Aggregator Apps.
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Quality Assurance – Helps maintain hygiene and food safety standards.
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Avoid Penalties – Protects against heavy fines for unregistered operations.
Penalties for Operating Without FSSAI License
Operating without an FSSAI license can lead to:
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Fine of up to ₹5 lakh
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Imprisonment in severe cases
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Delisting from food delivery platforms
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Damage to business reputation
FSSAI Compliance for Cloud Kitchens in 2025
To maintain your FSSAI for cloud kitchen compliance, you must:
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Renew your license before expiry
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Follow hygiene standards mentioned in Schedule 4 of FSSAI regulations
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Maintain proper storage and packaging practices
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Display FSSAI license number on invoices and food packages
Conclusion
Obtaining an FSSAI license for cloud kitchen is essential for legal compliance and customer trust. In 2025, FSSAI introduced stricter guidelines to ensure hygiene, food safety, and proper registration, and non-compliance can lead to heavy penalties. For a clear and guided licensing experience, Ebizfiling handles everything from application to renewal, letting you focus on growing your cloud kitchen.
Suggested Read :
FSSAI License for Food Trucks: All You Need to Know
How to transfer a Food License in India?
5 Types and Process to start a food Franchise business in India
Food Item Patented in India – Is it possible to patent a food item in India?
How to start a Food Van Business / Food Truck Business in India?
FAQs
1. Is FSSAI license mandatory for cloud kitchens?
Yes, it is compulsory for all cloud kitchens operating in India, regardless of size or sales volume. The license ensures you meet the hygiene and safety standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
2. Which license should I apply for if my turnover is ₹10 lakh?
If your annual turnover is up to ₹12 lakh, you need a Basic FSSAI registration. This is suitable for small-scale food businesses and can be upgraded as your sales grow.
3. Can I apply for FSSAI license online?
Yes. You can apply through the official FoSCoS portal by filling out the form, uploading documents, and paying the applicable fees. The process is straightforward if you have all documents ready.
4. What is the validity of an FSSAI license?
The FSSAI license is valid for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on the term you select during application. Renew it before expiry to avoid penalties or business interruptions.
5. What happens if I operate without an FSSAI license?
Operating without a license can attract fines of up to ₹5 lakh, possible business closure, and loss of credibility. You may also be removed from food delivery platforms.
6. Can I change from Basic to State license later?
Yes, you can upgrade your license type as your turnover increases. This ensures your registration matches your business size and meets regulatory requirements.
7. Do food delivery platforms check FSSAI license?
Absolutely. Platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Uber Eats require a valid FSSAI license to list your cloud kitchen on their apps and websites.
8. How much does FSSAI license for cloud kitchen fees cost?
The cost ranges from ₹100 to ₹7,500 per year depending on the license type — Basic, State, or Central. Fees also vary by validity period.
9. Is inspection mandatory for all cloud kitchens?
No. For Basic registration, inspection is generally not required. However, State and Central licenses often involve a site inspection to verify hygiene and safety compliance.
10. Can one FSSAI license cover multiple outlets?
A single Central FSSAI license can cover multiple units under certain conditions. For State and Basic registrations, each outlet usually needs its own license.
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