FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen | How to Apply Online | 2025 Guide

FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen | How to Apply Online | 2024 Guide

Introduction to FSSAI Licensing for Cloud Kitchens

The rise of food aggregators like Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber Eats has led to a boom in **cloud kitchens** — also known as **ghost kitchens** or **delivery-only units**.

If you're starting or running a cloud kitchen in India, you must comply with **FSSAI regulations** just like any other food business operator (FBO).

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

What is a cloud kitchen?
Do you need FSSAI license for a cloud kitchen?
Difference between Basic Registration, State & Central License
Documents required
Step-by-step online application process
Latest compliance updates for 2024

💡 Tip: All cloud kitchens must have at least FSSAI Basic Registration — larger operations may require a State or Central License.

What Is a Cloud Kitchen?

A **cloud kitchen** is a food preparation unit that operates without a dine-in facility and focuses solely on **online orders and deliveries**. These kitchens are often run from commercial or home-based spaces and listed on food delivery platforms.

Also called:

Ghost kitchen
Virtual kitchen
Delivery-only kitchen
Dark kitchen

Is FSSAI License Required for Cloud Kitchens?

Yes, every cloud kitchen in India must obtain an FSSAI license or registration based on its size and turnover.

Type of Operation	Annual Turnover	FSSAI Requirement
Small Cloud Kitchen	< ₹12 lakhs	Basic Registration (Form A)
Medium Cloud Kitchen	₹12 lakhs – ₹20 crores	State License (Form B)
Large Chain / Multi-State Cloud Kitchen	> ₹20 crores or export	Central License (Form B)

⚠️ Note: Operating without an FSSAI license can result in heavy fines or closure of your cloud kitchen.

Types of FSSAI Licenses for Cloud Kitchens

There are three main types of FSSAI licenses applicable to cloud kitchens:

Basic Registration (Form A): For small kitchens with turnover under ₹12 lakhs/year
State License (Form B): For kitchens with annual turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores
Central License (Form B): For large-scale or multi-state cloud kitchens

Documents Required for FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen

The exact documents depend on whether you're applying for Basic Registration or a full license:

Document	For Basic	For State/Central
Aadhaar Card	✔️	✔️
PAN Card	✔️	✔️
Business Address Proof	✔️	✔️
NOC from Local Authority	❌	✔️
Layout Plan of Kitchen	❌	✔️
Water Quality Test Report	❌	✔️

How to Apply for FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen (Online Process)

Follow these steps to apply for your FSSAI license or registration:

Visit the FSSAI Portal: https://foodlicensing.fssai.gov.in/
Create an Account using your mobile number and email ID
Select your license type: Form A (Basic) or Form B (State/Central)
Fill out the application form with all details
Upload scanned copies of required documents
Pay the license fee online
Submit the application and take a printout
Wait for approval (usually takes 7–30 days)

✅ Pro Tip: Always keep a printed copy of your FSSAI certificate in your kitchen or office during inspections.

Cloud Kitchen vs Traditional Restaurant: FSSAI Rules Comparison

Aspect	Traditional Restaurant	Cloud Kitchen
Dine-In Facility	Yes	No
Seating Area	Required	Not needed
FSSAI License Type	State License	Varies by turnover
Labeling Requirements	Mandatory	Mandatory for packaged items
Hygiene Norms	Strictly enforced	Same standards applied

Special FSSAI Compliance for Cloud Kitchens

Since cloud kitchens operate remotely, FSSAI has set special guidelines to ensure safety and transparency:

Labeling: Delivery packages must carry FSSAI license number and product details
Traceability: Maintain records of raw materials and production batches
Inspections: Be prepared for surprise visits by local authorities
Hygiene: Follow same food safety and sanitation norms as physical restaurants

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Penalties for Not Having FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen

Running a cloud kitchen without a valid FSSAI license is illegal and can lead to:

Late Fees: ₹100/day of delay
Suspension or Cancellation of license after grace period
Fines up to ₹5 lakh per violation
Legal action under the FSS Act, 2006

🛑 Warning: Food delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato now verify FSSAI status before listing new kitchens.

How to Renew FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen

All FSSAI licenses and registrations must be renewed before they expire. The process is fully online:

Log in to the FSSAI portal
Go to “Renew Application” section
Click on “Apply for Renewal”
Update any necessary information
Upload updated documents if changed
Pay renewal fees
Submit and download acknowledgment

FAQs About FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen

Q1. Can I operate a cloud kitchen without FSSAI license?

No, all food businesses in India must have at least FSSAI Basic Registration.

Q2. What is the cost of FSSAI license for cloud kitchen?

Basic Registration: ₹100/year State License: ₹2000–₹5000/year Central License: ₹7500–₹15,000/year

Q3. Do I need NOC for cloud kitchen?

Yes, if you're operating from a commercial space, you must get NOC from the local authority.

Q4. Can I use home kitchen for cloud business?

Yes, but only if you have FSSAI Basic Registration and follow hygiene and labeling rules.

Q5. How do I display FSSAI license in a cloud kitchen?

You must include your FSSAI license number on packaging labels, website, and delivery apps where applicable.

Best Practices for FSSAI Compliance in Cloud Kitchens

To stay compliant and avoid penalties:

Keep your kitchen clean and audit-ready
Store ingredients properly and maintain records
Use FSSAI-certified packaging material
Train staff in food safety and hygiene
Ensure your label includes all mandatory info

Conclusion

Whether you’re starting a **single-unit ghost kitchen** or planning to scale into a **multi-city virtual brand**, having the correct **FSSAI license** is essential.

Make sure you understand which license applies to your business model and complete the application process early to avoid legal issues.

By following this guide, you can legally launch and grow your cloud kitchen while staying fully compliant with Indian food safety laws.

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Need Help With FSSAI License for Your Cloud Kitchen?

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

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