FSSAI Registration for Cloud Kitchen & Homebased Food Products in India

Cloud kitchen & Homebased Food products

FSSAI Registration for Cloud Kitchen & Homebased Food Products in India: A cloud kitchen refers to a commercial kitchen space that exclusively focuses on delivery services with no provision for dining or any physical presence. It is commonly referred to as a virtual kitchen. These cloud kitchens utilize delivery applications such as Swiggy, Zomato, Uber Delivery, and others to deliver their food offerings.

On the other hand, home-based food products or businesses entail the preparation of food at individuals’ homes or other locations and subsequently supplying them to customers in various ways, such as event catering, online food sales, and supplying to hostels.
Given the increasing popularity of both cloud kitchens and home-based food businesses, it becomes crucial to ensure the quality of the food products they offer. To operate a food business in India, it is important for them to obtain the necessary FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) license.

What is FSSAI?

The FSSAI is a statutory organization set up under the FSS Act, 2006 and operates under the purview of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Its primary role is to administer all food safety concerns in India by implementing comprehensive regulations under one legislation.
It maintains the records of Food Business Operators (FBO) and provides them with licenses to operate. Additionally, FSSAI sets standards for the food industry in India. In order to effectively monitor the Indian food business, FSSAI established the FSSAI Registration and License.

What is FSSAI Registration?

Firms involved in food-related activities in India must comply with the regulations set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) earlier than enticing within side the production, preparation, storage, distribution, or sale of food. This includes obtaining a registration or license, depending on the size and nature of the business.
The FSSAI offers two options for food business operators (FBOs): Basic FSSAI Registration and FSSAI License. The appropriate choice between the two depends on the scale and operations of the business.

Every food business is provided with a 14-digit registration or license number that is individual to them and must be showcased on all food packaging. The registration process aims to ensure that FBOs take responsibility for maintaining the consistency and safety of their food products. The guidelines and requirements for obtaining a license or registration for a food business are governed by the Food Safety & Standards Regulations, 2011.

Importance of FSSAI Registration for Selling Homemade Products & Cloud Kitchen Products in India

Companies that sell homemade food products and Cloud Kitchen Products must complete the registration process with the FSSAI or obtain a basic registration. If your annual turnover exceeds Rs 12 lakh, you will need to obtain an FSSAI License.
Different categories exist within the field of acquiring a license. The respective state’s FSSAI office will issue a license to those with annual sales over Rs 12 lakh but less than Rs 20 crore. For those with annual sales exceeding Rs 20 crore, the application must be submitted to the Central FSSAI office.

The license granted to you upon completion of the registration process is valid only within the state where you initially applied for it and cannot be used in any other state.

The duration of the FSSAI registration can vary from one to five years and can be renewed if necessary.
Businesses that sell homemade products and Cloud Kitchen Products must submit a renewal application 30 days prior to the expiration of their FSSAI license.

Any delay in submitting the registration renewal will incur a penalty of 100 per day.
According to the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, individuals selling homemade products without the required registration may face a penalty of up to Rs 2 lakh.

FSSAI Standards for Homemade and Cloud Kitchen Produce in India

  • Ensure that the area where food is being prepared remains tidy and hygienic all the time.
  • Proper ventilation, adequate lighting, and periodic sanitation are crucial elements to maintain.
  • Clean drinking water must be conveniently available.
  • Follow all procedures to prevent the accumulation of filth and harmful microorganisms on kitchen tools, and make every attempt to use the cleanest equipment.
  • Employees must have access to protective gear like clean aprons, hard hats, and gloves, as well as emphasized personal hygiene practices.

Why Do Homemade and Cloud Kitchen Products Need an FSSAI License?

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare serves as the operational hub for the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI). It is an essential requirement for companies involved in the food industry to obtain registration from the FSSAI. This registration ensures the safety and hygiene of the food products they produce. It encompasses various aspects such as meal preparation, food delivery, distribution, catering, and retailing operations. To facilitate the process of obtaining the FSSAI certificate, the FSSAI established FoSCos (Food Safety Compliance).

In order to conduct their business, online home kitchens and Cloud Kitchens are obligated to register with the FSSAI. Without the FSSAI certificate, these establishments will be unable to operate. Swiggy and Zomato play a significant role in facilitating the delivery of orders from online home kitchens. However, these platforms strictly prohibit the listing of products without the necessary FSSAI license. This guarantees that customers can trust the quality and safety of the food and services offered.

By obtaining an FSSAI accreditation, businesses can not only meet regulatory requirements but also take their operations to the next level. Here are five different ways in which an FSSAI accreditation can benefit your business:

  • By prioritizing quality, you can establish a reliable and trustworthy brand for your online homemade food products.
  • With your FSSAI registration in place, any legal proceedings involving your company will be simplified and more likely to succeed.
  • Expanding your business becomes easier as you can effortlessly open new locations.
  • Displaying the FSSAI licensing logo allows you to communicate to your clients that you prioritize quality and adhere to food safety standards.
  • The FSSAI license can also attract potential investments and streamline the loan application process, making it easier for your business to grow and thrive.

Guidance on acquiring an FSSAI License

To obtain an FSSAI License, it is crucial to select the correct type of certificate based on your business’s capacity. There are three options available:

  1. Basic FSSAI Registration
  2. State FSSAI License
  3. Central FSSAI License

Basic FSSAI Registration

Startups and small businesses can obtain Basic FSSAI permits. These permits are available for enterprises with an annual turnover of less than Rs. 12 lakhs. For your tiny enterprise to operate, all you need is a Basic Food licence.
If your online home kitchen and Cloud Kitchen business generates revenue below Rs. 12 lakhs, you fall under the small business category. To obtain a Basic FSSAI registration/FSSAI certificate, you must fill out Form A. However, as quickly as your business’s annual income exceeds Rs. 12 lakhs, it becomes necessary to upgrade your food licence from Basic FSSAI registration to state FSSAI registration.
To successfully complete the registration process, you will be required to submit the following documents:

  • Proof of address
  • Photos in passport size
  • Details of the business
  • Form for FSSAI declaration

State FSSAI License

Businesses falling within the revenue range of Rs. 12 lakhs to Rs.20 crores are obligated to steady a state-issued FSSAI license or certificate.

Online home kitchens and Cloud Kitchens falling under this revenue threshold are eligible for a food license from the state. To apply for this license, applicants must complete Form B.

Kindly take note that you would need to provide the following documents to complete the application process:

  • Proof of business premises which could be a rental/lease agreement.
  • Valid identification proof of the business owner such as Aadhar, Voter ID, Driving License or Passport.
  • Incorporation Certificate or GST Registration or Trading License.
  • Memorandum of Association & Articles of Association .
  • You would also need to provide one of the following licenses – trade license, establishment registration, panchayath license, corporation license or municipality license.
  • Business details.
  • FSSAI declaration forms.

Central FSSAI License

In order to operate a nationwide chain of online home kitchens and Cloud Kitchens, it is mandatory to have a Central FSSAI food licence. Small companies that generate annual earnings of extra than Rs. 20 Crores must also fall under this category. Therefore, if your mid-cap business generates more than Rs. 20 crores in annual revenue, you must apply for a Central food licence and fill out Form B.
The submission of the following documents is mandatory:

  • Documents pertaining to the business premises, such as the rental or lease agreement.
  • Identification proof of the business owner, which can be Aadhar card, voter ID, driving license, or passport.
  • Incorporation certificate, GST registration, or trade license.
  • Import and export code.
  • Memorandum of Association & Articles of Association.
  • Any one of the following licenses: trade license, establishment registration, Panchayath license, corporation license, or municipality license.
  • List of partners, if applicable.
  • Detailed information about the business.
  • FSSAI declaration forms.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain an FSSAI Certificate.

  1. Prepare a whole advertising and marketing method to your on-line home kitchen and Cloud Kitchen business.
  2. Determine your annual turnover to understand the financial performance of your business.
  3. Carefully pick the proper licensing type.
  4. Ensure that you fill out the application and all necessary paperwork accurately and completely.
  5. Make the required fee payment to complete the registration process.
  6. Submit the completed application form through the designated portal.
  7. It is crucial to exercise caution and provide accurate information in your application to avoid cancellation of your registration by FSSAI. If any changes occur, promptly update the form and submit it within thirty days.
  8. The approval process for your FSSAI license may take anywhere between 15 and 45 days. During this time, it is critical to cautiously show the way for any inconsistencies or delays.

You may perceive the process of obtaining an FSSAI certificate as daunting. However, engaging the services of a consultancy can simplify the procedure. Legal Guides Associates, the market leader in FSSAI license registration services, can assist you. Our professionals will take care of all of the important obligations to make sure you’re a success FSSAI registration. With the support of Legal Guides Associates, you can obtain your FSSAI food license conveniently at your doorstep.

Benefits of acquiring FSSAI Registration

  • Obtaining the FSSAI Registration grants food businesses the ability to legally operate, build a reputable image, guarantee product quality and safety, expand their customer base, and facilitate their growth.
  • When food businesses are registered with the FSSAI, it becomes easier for them to secure financing, including business loans or seed money.
  • The FSSAI Registration is particularly advantageous for businesses selling homemade food products and Cloud Kitchen Products as it showcases their commitment to customer health and food safety, which are essential for cultivating a loyal customer following.

Conclusion

In conclusion, acquiring FSSAI Registration is a obligatory requirement for running your home-primarily based totally meals commercial enterprise in compliance with the law. Adhering to FSSAI regulations and securing FSSAI registration are crucial steps towards expanding your business and boosting your profits. If you require any guidance with the FSSAI Registration process, please visit our Legal Guides Associates website.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *