Need FSSAI License for Zomato? Know All You Need to Do
With the surge in online food ordering, platforms like Zomato have become essential for restaurants, cloud kitchens, and home-based food businesses. To maintain quality and safety standards, India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) mandates that any entity involved in food production, processing, distribution, and sale must have an FSSAI License. For businesses operating through Zomato, obtaining an FSSAI License is not just a regulatory requirement but also a mark of credibility and safety assurance.
This article provides a detailed guide on FSSAI License for Zomato, covering all details about its necessity, types, application process, and costs.
Is the FSSAI License Mandatory to Sell Food on Zomato?
An FSSAI License is mandatory to sell food on Zomato. The Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, mandates that every food business operator (FBO), including those on online platforms, must obtain an FSSAI license or registration, depending on their scale and turnover. This requirement applies to all food businesses on Zomato, whether operating as a restaurant, cloud kitchen, or home-based food vendor.
Why is it Mandatory?
- Ensures Food Safety Compliance: FSSAI licenses ensure that all food business operators meet FSSAI food safety standards.
- Consumer Trust: An FSSAI license number on Zomato listings assures customers of food quality and safety.
- Regulatory Compliance: Failing to have an FSSAI license may lead to penalties, suspensions, or legal consequences, affecting the business’s reputation.
Benefits of Having an FSSAI License for Online Food Business
Obtaining an FSSAI License for your Zomato-listed business has several advantages:
- Legal Authorization: Legally permits food operations on Zomato, avoiding legal issues or fines.
- Builds Customer Confidence: Shows customers that the business adheres to stringent food safety norms.
- Improves Business Reach: An FSSAI-certified business can expand on platforms like Zomato, gaining higher visibility and credibility.
- Access to Government Schemes: Licensed food businesses can apply for various government schemes, financing, and certifications.
- Facilitates Brand Value: An FSSAI license adds value and trust to the brand, promoting customer loyalty.
Types of FSSAI License
The FSSAI provides three types of licenses based on the business size, turnover, and operational scope:
License Type | Eligibility | Description |
Basic Registration | Annual turnover up to ₹12 lakh | For small food vendors, home kitchens, and petty food businesses. |
State License | Annual turnover between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore | Suitable for medium-sized food businesses, small restaurants, and mid-sized cloud kitchens. |
Central License | Annual turnover above ₹20 crore or businesses operating in multiple states | Required for large restaurants, large-scale food businesses, and those involved in food import/export. |
Steps to Obtain FSSAI License for Zomato Food Business
The application process for obtaining an FSSAI License for Zomato is straightforward and can be done online and offline.
Online Process:
- Create an Account on the FoSCoS Portal: Visit the FoSCoS portal and create an account.
- Select License Type: Choose the type of FSSAI license based on your business’s turnover and operational scale (Basic, State, or Central License).
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in Form A for basic registration or Form B for State or Central licenses. Ensure all business details are correctly entered.
- Upload Necessary Documents: Upload documents like identity proof, address proof, and specific documents based on the business type (details below).
- Pay the Fee: Submit the applicable FSSAI license fee online.
- Application Review and Inspection: The application will be reviewed, and in some cases, an inspection may be conducted.
- Receive the License: Once approved, the FSSAI license will be issued, allowing the business to operate legally on Zomato.
Offline Process:
- Visit the Nearest FSSAI Office: Locate and visit the closest regional FSSAI office.
- Complete Application Form: Fill out Form A (Basic) or Form B (State/Central) with business details.
- Attach Documents: Provide copies of required documents like business registration, PAN, and premises proof.
- Pay Fees: Pay by cheque, demand draft, or cash.
- Submit Application: Submit the form and documents, receive a receipt, and collect the certificate after approval.
Documents Required for FSSAI License
The documents required for an FSSAI License may vary based on the license. Here’s a quick look:
License Type | Required Documents |
Basic Registration | Passport-sized photo, identity proof, and address proof. |
State License | ID proof, address proof, NOC from local authorities, kitchen layout, food safety management plan, and turnover proof. |
Central License | All State license documents, Import Export Code (if applicable), water testing report, and proof of multi-state operations. |
FSSAI License Fee for Zomato
The FSSAI license fee for businesses on Zomato depends on the type and duration of the license.
License Type | Fee (per year) | Duration |
Basic Registration | ₹100 – ₹500 | 1 to 5 years |
State License | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 | 1 to 5 years |
Central License | ₹7,500 | 1 to 5 years |
FSSAI Compliance for Food Businesses Cloud Kitchens
Post-licensing, food businesses must maintain compliance with FSSAI regulations to avoid fines or cancellation of the license. This includes:
- Hygiene and Sanitation: Adhering to cleanliness standards.
- Regular Food Testing: Periodic food quality checks.
- Record Keeping: Maintaining detailed food procurement, production, and sales records.
Inspections and Audits
FSSAI officials conduct periodic inspections and audits to ensure cloud kitchens comply with food safety standards. In cases of non-compliance, kitchens are given a timeline to rectify the issues.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with FSSAI regulations can lead to:
- Fines ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹10 lakh.
- Suspension or cancellation of the FSSAI license.
- Legal actions as per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
Conclusion
- Obtaining an FSSAI License for Zomato is essential for all food businesses, regardless of size.
- It ensures compliance with food safety standards, builds customer trust, and provides a legal foundation for operations.
- By following FSSAI requirements and securing a license, food businesses on Zomato can operate smoothly, expand reach, and enhance credibility.
- The process is straightforward, and with proper documentation, any food business can gain the legal compliance needed to thrive in the online food marketplace.
FAQs
How to get an FSSAI license for Zomato?
Register on the FoSCoS portal, complete the required form based on your business type, and submit the necessary documents and fees.
What is the FSSAI license cost for Zomato?
The cost varies based on license type: Basic Registration (₹100 – ₹500), State License (₹2,000 – ₹5,000), Central License (₹7,500) annually.
Can I register on Zomato without an FSSAI license?
No, an FSSAI license is mandatory to operate on Zomato, as per food safety regulations.
Is an FSSAI license mandatory for a home kitchen?
Yes, even home kitchens require a basic FSSAI registration to sell food on Zomato or any online platform.
Which FSSAI license is required for Zomato?
The required license type depends on the business’s size and turnover:
- Basic Registration for small businesses.
- State License for mid-sized businesses.
- Central License for large businesses or those operating in multiple states.
