Quick Answer
Cloud kitchens (dark kitchens) are delivery-only food businesses with no dine-in setup. They require the same mandatory FSSAI compliance as traditional restaurants. Both Swiggy and Zomato require a valid FSSAI License before onboarding any cloud kitchen partner.
Who Needs FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen?
- Delivery-only kitchen businesses
- Multi-brand virtual restaurant operators
- Home chefs scaling into cloud kitchen format
- Shared commercial kitchens renting to food brands
💡 The 14-digit FSSAI License number must be displayed at your premises and printed on all packaging, bills, and menus.
Which License Type Do You Need?
| Annual Turnover | License Type | Issued By |
|---|
| Below ₹12 Lakh | Basic FSSAI Registration | State Food Authority |
| ₹12 Lakh – ₹20 Crore | State FSSAI License | State Food Authority |
| Above ₹20 Crore | Central FSSAI License | FSSAI Central Office |
⚠️ If your business operates across multiple states, a Central FSSAI License is required regardless of turnover.
Documents Required
- PAN & Aadhaar of owner
- Kitchen premises proof (rent agreement)
- NOC from building owner
- List of food brands and menus operated
- Kitchen layout plan
- FSMS plan
- Food handling staff details
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Determine License Type — Based on annual turnover decide Basic, State, or Central License.
- Register on FoSCoS Portal — Visit foscos.fssai.gov.in and create an applicant account.
- Fill Application Form — Complete Form A (Basic) or Form B (State/Central) with your details.
- Upload Documents — Attach all required documents in prescribed formats.
- Pay Government Fee — Pay online via UPI, net banking, or debit/credit card.
- Await Inspection — An FSSAI officer may inspect your premises within 30 days.
- Receive License — Download your FSSAI License certificate from the FoSCoS portal.
Complete Document Checklist
Below is the full list of documents required. Items marked * vary by state and business type:
- Aadhaar card / PAN card of proprietor or director
- Proof of business premises address (rent agreement or NOC from owner)
- Passport-size photograph of the applicant
- Business registration certificate (GST, Shop Act, or Partnership deed)
- List of all food products and categories to be handled
- Water test report from approved lab (required for manufacturing units)
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) plan (for State/Central license)
- Local municipality Trade License or NOC (city-specific — see city guides below)
Get Your FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen Fast
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Fees & Timeline
| License Type | Government Fee | Processing Time |
|---|
| Basic Registration | ₹100/year | 7–10 working days |
| State License | ₹2,000–₹5,000/year | 15–30 working days |
| Central License | ₹7,500/year | 30–60 working days |
FSSAI Licenses are valid for 1 to 5 years. Renewal must be done at least 30 days before expiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Swiggy or Zomato require FSSAI for cloud kitchens?
Yes. Both Swiggy and Zomato mandate a valid FSSAI License before onboarding any cloud kitchen. Without it, your listing will not be approved.
Can one FSSAI License cover multiple virtual brands?
Yes. Multiple virtual brands operating from a single kitchen address are covered under one FSSAI License for that premises.
What kitchen standards does FSSAI require?
Food-grade surfaces, proper ventilation, pest control, clean water, separate storage for raw and cooked food, refrigeration, and trained staff.
Do I need a new FSSAI License if I move my cloud kitchen?
Yes. FSSAI License is address-specific. Relocation requires a fresh license application for the new premises.
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