FSSAI Compliance for Export Cloud Kitchens | Licensing, Labeling & Audit Rules

Introduction to FSSAI Rules for Export Cloud Kitchens

With the rise of digital platforms and global demand for Indian food products, many cloud kitchens are now targeting international markets through e-commerce, direct exports, or third-party logistics.

If you're running an **export cloud kitchen**, you must comply with strict **FSSAI regulations**, including licensing, labeling, hygiene standards, and documentation for customs clearance.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• What is an export cloud kitchen?
• FSSAI license requirements for export units
• Mandatory labeling and packaging norms
• Hygiene and safety standards for export kitchens
• Staff training and audit preparation
• Latest updates for 2024

💡 Tip: Export cloud kitchens must follow both domestic FSSAI law and international food safety standards like HACCP and ISO 22000.

What Is an Export Cloud Kitchen?

An **export cloud kitchen** is a delivery-only or online-based food preparation unit that ships its products outside India via e-commerce platforms, exporters, or B2B contracts.

This includes:

• Export of pre-packed meals and snacks
• Overseas orders for traditional sweets and confectionery
• Cloud kitchens supplying to international food aggregators
• Franchise brands expanding to foreign markets

Do I Need FSSAI License for Export Cloud Kitchen?

Yes, every food business exporting from India must obtain an **FSSAI Central License (Form B)** issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

Type of Operation	Annual Turnover	FSSAI Requirement
Domestic Cloud Kitchen	< ₹12 lakhs	Basic Registration (Form A)
Medium Export Unit	₹12 lakhs – ₹20 crores	State License + NOC for export
Export Cloud Kitchen	> ₹20 crores or export operations	Central License + Export Documents

Documents Required for FSSAI Central License for Export Cloud Kitchens

To apply for FSSAI Central License, you must submit the following documents:

Document	Description
Aadhaar Card of Owner/Operator	Identity proof
PAN Card of Business Entity	Tax identification
Proof of Premises	Rent agreement or property papers
NOC from Local Authority	No Objection Certificate from municipal office
Kitchen Layout Plan	Detailed layout showing processing and packaging areas
List of Machinery and Equipment	With production capacity details
Water Quality Test Report	From an accredited lab
Export Import Code (IEC)	Mandatory for customs clearance
Copies of Product Formulation and Labeling	In English and destination language (if applicable)

How to Apply for FSSAI Central License for Export Cloud Kitchen

The entire FSSAI license application is done online via the official portal. Here’s how to apply:

1. Visit the FSSAI Portal: Go to https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in/
2. Create an Account using your mobile number and email ID
3. Select “Apply” > “New License” > Choose “Central License”
4. Fill out Form B with business and operational details
5. Upload scanned copies of required documents
6. Pay the application fee (₹7500–₹15,000/year)
7. Submit and download acknowledgment receipt
8. Wait for verification and approval (usually 15–30 days)

📌 Pro Tip: Always double-check your application before submission — rejections delay export timelines and increase costs.

Labeling Requirements for Export Cloud Kitchens

All exported food products must carry detailed labels in both **English** and the local language of the destination country:

• Name and brand of the product
• List of ingredients and allergens
• Nutritional information (where applicable)
• Net quantity and weight
• Date of manufacture and shelf life
• Exporter address and contact info
• Country of origin (India)
• Storage instructions
• FSSAI logo and license number
• Health certificate (if required by importing country)

✅ Note: Some countries require additional certifications like Halal, Kosher, or organic certification along with FSSAI approval.

Packaging Norms for Export Cloud Kitchens Under FSSAI

Export cloud kitchens must use safe, tamper-proof, and leak-free packaging materials approved by FSSAI:

Material	Status	Notes
Food-grade plastic containers (PP, PET, HDPE)	✅ Allowed	Avoid reuse beyond recommended cycles
Biodegradable containers (paper, bamboo)	✅ Allowed	Eco-friendly and preferred by many markets
Old or reused containers	❌ Prohibited	May cause contamination or legal action
Aluminum Foil Wraps	✅ Allowed	Safe for short-term hot food shipments
Plastic cutlery and covers	⚠️ Limited	Some cities have banned single-use plastics — check local laws

Hygiene and Sanitation Norms for Export Cloud Kitchens

All export cloud kitchens must follow strict hygiene rules:

• No direct hand contact during packing
• Use of gloves and masks by staff handling food
• Sealed packaging to prevent leakage and tampering
• Temperature-controlled packaging for sensitive items
• Separate storage for raw and cooked items
• Clean washrooms and handwashing stations available at all times

⚠️ Note: Export kitchens often face stricter hygiene checks than domestic ones due to higher scrutiny from foreign buyers and customs.

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Penalties for Non-Compliance by Export Cloud Kitchens

Export cloud kitchens failing to meet FSSAI standards may face:

• Late Fees: ₹100/day after expiry
• Suspension or Cancellation of license
• Product seizure at customs or destination country
• Loss of buyer trust and cancellation of bulk orders
• Legal action under the FSS Act, 2006

Special Requirements for Export Cloud Kitchens

Export-oriented cloud kitchens must follow additional norms beyond regular licensing:

• Bilingual Labeling: Must include English and local language of the destination country
• Health Certificate: Issued by FSSAI or APEDA for international shipments
• Product Testing: Submit samples to NABL-certified labs for quality checks
• Customs Clearance: Provide FSSAI license along with IEC during customs inspection
• Import Rules of Destination Country: Some countries require additional certifications like ISO, HACCP, or Halal

Steps to Renew Your FSSAI Export Cloud Kitchen License

All FSSAI licenses must be renewed before they expire (validity: 1–5 years). To renew:

1. Log in to the FSSAI licensing portal
2. Go to the “Renew Application” section
3. Click on “Apply for Renewal”
4. Update any changed business details
5. Re-upload relevant documents if needed
6. Pay renewal fee
7. Submit and track status

FAQs About FSSAI Export Cloud Kitchen Compliance

Q1. Do I need both FSSAI and AGMARK for exporting food?

FSSAI is mandatory for all food exports. AGMARK is optional but preferred for agricultural commodities like rice, ghee, and honey.

Q2. Can I start an export cloud kitchen from home?

Only small-scale packaged items made under FSSAI Basic Registration may be allowed for export to certain countries. Larger operations must have a Central License.

Q3. What is the validity of FSSAI export cloud kitchen license?

It can be issued for 1 to 5 years, depending on the payment made during application or renewal.

Q4. Are cloud kitchens also audited by FSSAI?

Yes, cloud kitchens fall under FSSAI audit scope and must maintain same hygiene standards as physical restaurants.

Q5. What should I print on my export food package under FSSAI?

You must include your FSSAI license number, product name, ingredients, net quantity, manufacturing and expiry dates, and country of origin.

Best Practices for FSSAI Compliance in Export Cloud Kitchens

Use these best practices to ensure your export cloud kitchen stays compliant:

• Conduct monthly internal audits
• Update staff training records annually
• Maintain cleaning and maintenance logs
• Use digital tools to track expiry dates and stock rotation
• Keep copies of all documents on hand

Conclusion

Running an **export cloud kitchen** requires not only creativity and quality food but also strict adherence to **FSSAI compliance rules**.

From licensing to labeling, packaging to staff training, every step plays a role in ensuring smooth international trade and customer satisfaction.

Use this guide to stay updated with the latest FSSAI guidelines and grow your export cloud kitchen safely in 2024 and beyond.

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Related Articles

• FSSAI Penalty List 2024
• FSSAI License for Food Export Business
• FSSAI Star Rating System for Export Units
• FSSAI NOC Application Process

Need Help With FSSAI Compliance for Your Export Cloud Kitchen?

Contact us today or visit the official FSSAI website to learn how to apply and stay compliant with food export laws.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always refer to the official FSSAI website or consult a licensed professional for accurate guidance.