The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a regulatory body that ensures the quality and safety of food products in India. Any food business, including cloud kitchens, restaurants, food manufacturers, and retailers, must obtain an FSSAI license to legally operate. This license helps in maintaining hygiene standards and builds consumer trust.
Types of FSSAI Licenses
The type of FSSAI license required depends on the scale of operations and business turnover. There are three main categories:
- Basic FSSAI Registration: For small food businesses with an annual turnover of less than ₹12 lakh.
- State FSSAI License: Required for businesses with a turnover between ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore.
- Central FSSAI License: Mandatory for large-scale businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crore, import/export businesses, and those operating in multiple states.
Documents Required for FSSAI License
The documents required vary based on the type of license you are applying for.
1. Basic FSSAI Registration (Small Businesses – Turnover < ₹12 lakh)
- Passport-size photograph of the applicant
- Identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License)
- Address proof of business premises (Utility bill, Rent Agreement, or NOC from the landlord)
- Business name and contact details
2. State FSSAI License (Turnover ₹12 lakh – ₹20 crore)
- All documents from Basic Registration
- Food Safety Management Plan (FSMS) declaration
- Proof of business ownership (Partnership deed, Incorporation certificate, Shop & Establishment Act registration, etc.)
- Kitchen layout or processing unit layout
- List of food products to be manufactured/sold
- Water test report (for safety standards compliance)
- NOC from the local municipal authority
- Employee health and safety certificates
3. Central FSSAI License (Turnover > ₹20 crore or Multi-State Operations)
- All documents from State License
- Import Export Code (IEC) Certificate (for importers/exporters)
- Proof of premises ownership (Sale deed, Rental Agreement, NOC from landlord)
- Analysis report of water used in food production
- Nomination of an authorized signatory
- List of machinery and equipment used in food production
- Food category details for which the license is required
- Copy of certificates obtained under other regulations (if applicable)
Step-by-Step Application Process for FSSAI License
- Determine the type of license required based on your business turnover and operations.
- Gather all required documents as per your license type.
- Visit the FSSAI online portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in) and register your account.
- Fill out the application form (Form A for Basic, Form B for State & Central License).
- Upload all necessary documents and pay the applicable fees.
- Submit the application and wait for verification.
- An FSSAI official may conduct an inspection of the premises (for State & Central Licenses).
- If approved, the license will be issued within 7–60 days, depending on the category.
Fees & Processing Time
- Basic Registration: ₹100 – ₹500/year (Processing time: ~7 working days)
- State License: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000/year (Processing time: ~30 working days)
- Central License: ₹7,500/year (Processing time: ~60 working days)
Renewal & Compliance
- FSSAI licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years and must be renewed before expiration.
- A penalty will be charged if the renewal is not completed on time.
- Businesses must ensure compliance with FSSAI food safety regulations.
- Regular audits and inspections may be conducted to ensure food safety standards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an License
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
- Applying for the wrong type of license
- Delaying the renewal process
- Ignoring FSSAI compliance and regulations
- Not maintaining proper food safety records
Conclusion
Obtaining an FSSAI license is a crucial step for starting a cloud kitchen or any food business in India. It ensures compliance with food safety regulations and builds customer trust. By following the step-by-step guide and submitting the right documents, you can streamline the licensing process and operate legally without hassles.
Want to know more? Check out our detailed guide on How to Open a Cloud Kitchen to start your food business successfully!
FAQ’s
A: The processing time varies. Basic Registration takes around 7 working days, a State License takes 30 days, and a Central License may take up to 60 days.
A: Yes, even home-based food businesses must obtain an FSSAI Basic Registration if the annual turnover is below ₹12 lakh, and a State or Central License for higher turnovers.
A: Yes, you can apply for an FSSAI license through the FoSCoS portal (foscos.fssai.gov.in).
A: Running a food business without an FSSAI license can result in penalties up to ₹5 lakh and imprisonment.
A: You can track your application status on the FoSCoS portal using your application reference number.
MoneyMantra, is a passionate content creator with over 5 years of experience in writing about the intersection of technology, business, finance, education, and more. With a deep understanding of how these fields empower both individuals and businesses
