Complete Guide to FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen
Posted on December 20, 2025 by Nitin Rawat
Starting a home-based food business or cloud kitchen in India has become one of the most popular and low-investment business ideas. From home chefs and bakers to people selling food through Instagram, WhatsApp, Zomato, or Swiggy—one legal question always comes first:
Is FSSAI license mandatory for home kitchen or cloud kitchen?
The clear and legal answer is YES.
If you sell food for money, even from your home, you must obtain an FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen.
This blog explains the requirement in simple language, along with step-by-step guidance, real examples, and practical clarity.
What Is FSSAI and Why It Is Required?
FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is the government body that regulates food safety, hygiene, and quality across India.
If you are involved in:
- Cooking food
- Packing or processing food
- Selling food
- Delivering food
You are legally classified as a Food Business Operator (FBO).
Every FBO must have a valid FSSAI registration or license.
Is FSSAI License Mandatory for Home Kitchen?
Yes, FSSAI license is mandatory for a home kitchen if you sell food.
You need FSSAI if:
- You sell homemade food to customers
- You accept online or cash payments
- You take orders via WhatsApp or Instagram
- You sell through Zomato, Swiggy, or any online platform
You do not need FSSAI if:
- You cook only for personal or family consumption
- There is no sale, promotion, or delivery
Important point:
The law does not differentiate between home kitchen and commercial kitchen.
If food is sold, FSSAI is compulsory.
FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen Explained
A cloud kitchen is a delivery-only food business with no dine-in facility. It can operate from:
- A commercial kitchen, or
- A residential/home kitchen
For a home-based cloud kitchen, FSSAI allows registration using your home address.
This makes it legally possible to run a cloud kitchen from home, provided all food safety norms are followed.
Cloud Kitchen License Requirements (From Home)
Basic Documents Required
- Aadhaar card
- PAN card
- Address proof of home kitchen
- Food category details
- Water source declaration
- Passport-size photograph
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- NOC from the property owner (for rented premises)
- Simple kitchen layout plan
- Food Safety Management System (FSMS) declaration
How to Get FSSAI License for Cloud Kitchen from Home (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose the Correct License Type
| Annual Turnover | FSSAI License Type |
|---|---|
| Below ₹12 lakh | Basic FSSAI Registration |
| ₹12 lakh to ₹20 crore | State FSSAI License |
Most home-based cloud kitchens fall under Basic Registration.
Step 2: Select Business Activity
While applying, select:
Food Services → Cloud Kitchen / Home-Based Kitchen
Step 3: Upload Documents Carefully
Ensure that:
- Address matches Aadhaar or address proof
- Correct food category is selected
- Details are accurate and consistent
Step 4: Pay Government Fees
Fees range between ₹100 to ₹5,000 per year, depending on license type and validity period.
Step 5: Verification and Approval
- Basic Registration: 7–10 working days
- State License: 15–30 working days
Example / Case Study
Riya runs a home-based cloud kitchen in Delhi selling momos and ramen.
Her monthly turnover is around ₹8,000.0
She:
- Operates from her home kitchen
- Takes orders through Instagram and Zomato
- Applied for Basic FSSAI Registration using her home address
Result:
- FSSAI license approved
- Zomato onboarding completed
- Customer trust and business credibility increased
Cost, Validity, and Timeline
| License Type | Approximate Cost | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Registration | ₹100 per year | 1 to 5 years |
| State License | ₹2,000–₹5,000 per year | 1 to 5 years |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Selling food without FSSAI registration
- Selecting the wrong food category
- Uploading incorrect address proof
- Ignoring license renewal
Selling food without an FSSAI license can attract penalties of up to ₹5 lakh.
Conclusion
If you plan to sell homemade food in India, obtaining an FSSAI License for a Cloud Kitchen is mandatory.
Whether you are:
- Running a home-based kitchen
- Starting a cloud kitchen from home
- Selling food online through delivery platforms
Having an FSSAI license ensures legal compliance, platform approval, and customer trust.
Why Trust Us
- Over 10 years of experience in food and business compliance
- Helped 500+ food businesses get FSSAI approval
- Specialized in home kitchens and cloud kitchens
- Practical, updated, and legally accurate guidance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is FSSAI license mandatory for home kitchen?
Yes, if you sell food for money. - Can I get FSSAI license using my home address?
Yes, home address is permitted. - Which FSSAI license is best for cloud kitchen from home?
Basic FSSAI Registration if turnover is below ₹12 lakh. - Can I sell on Zomato without FSSAI license?
No, FSSAI is mandatory for onboarding. - How long does FSSAI approval take?
Between 7 and 30 days, depending on license type. - What is the penalty for selling food without FSSAI?
Penalty can go up to ₹5 lakh.