Cloud Kitchen: What is it?
A cloud kitchen is a notable innovation in the food industry. A ghost or dark kitchen is a business kitchen that solely serves takeout or delivery. The user orders food using a mobile app or website, which is produced in a “ghost kitchen” and delivered to the home.
When food distributors like Zomato and Swiggy capitalized on the social distancing order to pick up food from the kitchens and bring it to customers’ doorsteps, sales soared during the pandemic. So, since there’s nothing revolutionary about cloud kitchens, why not just order meals online and have them delivered to your door? Cloud kitchens aren’t available for dining in, unlike traditional eateries that provide cuisine for home delivery.
Why are there “Ghost Kitchens”
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Spending restraints:
These days, everyone has an interest in being self-employed. Why not start a food business, since you enjoy cooking so much? However, traditional eating establishments require a pleasant setting, nice music, comfortable seating, and modest service. None of them are necessary in a cloud kitchen.
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Adaptation of consumer habits:
Since the epidemic began, everything has shifted to the internet. People are now more at ease with buying meals online for delivery than going out to a restaurant.
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Location is irrelevant:
No need to worry about parking or a good location. Additionally, your target market and the menu you’d like to offer should inform your decision on where to shop.
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A Little Bit of Obedience:
You may also need to obtain additional certifications to keep your business running smoothly. You also need to get the following certifications:
- Incorporation for GST
- Fire Safety Report
- Local governments issue health insurance permits.
- FSSAI certification for the virtual kitchen
Cloud kitchens are gaining popularity as more people utilize online food delivery and takeout services. Delivery-only restaurants, often referred to as “ghost kitchens” or “virtual kitchens,” exclusively accept online orders. Instead of creating new sites, cloud kitchens may save restaurants money and grow their consumer base. Like other food service establishments, cloud kitchens must adhere to food safety regulations. All you need to know about getting an FSSAI license is here.
Cloud Kitchen Requires FSSAI Certification.
A cloud kitchen in India is required to obtain an FSSAI license. FSSAI licenses are required for all food businesses, including cloud kitchens, and they ensure public food safety.
Categories of Permits
FSSAI licenses can be one of three varieties:
- Simple FSSAI Application – A food company’s yearly revenue must be less than Rs 12 lakh to qualify for this registration. The basic online registration procedure is simple and can be completed in minutes.
- Valid State FSSAI Licence – Businesses with yearly sales of Rs 12 lakhs and Rs 20 crores are medium-sized and must obtain a state FSSAI licence. The application entails submitting the necessary paperwork to the relevant State government agency.
- A Single Licence From The Central FSSAI – Businesses in the food industry with annual revenue of more than Rs 20 crores are legally required to obtain a central FSSAI licence. Central licence applications are more involved and need more documentation than those for the other two licences. The FSSAI licence for a cloud kitchen is necessary for various functions, including processing, storing, and delivering food.
Cloud Kitchen’s FSSAI Application Procedure
The steps required to apply for an FSSAI license are outlined below.
- To establish the category of licence essential for your business.
- Compile all relevant paperwork. The documentation required for this role includes a declaration form, an authorization letter, copies of applicable licenses and permits, a food security administration plan, a list of food items to be handled, and evidence of name and residence.
- To apply for an FSSAI licence online using the FSSAI website or the FoSCoS portal, including all the essential information and attachments.
- To that aim, submit the appropriate application fee (which varies with licence category and length of time).
- After that, an FSSAI inspector will visit your firm to double-check the information you submitted on the application and evaluate your food safety administration program.
- Your 14-digit licence number and certificate will finally arrive. Put that number prominently on your promotional materials and food items. It demonstrates that your company adheres to all FSSAI guidelines.
Information Needed to Register with FSSAI
The following materials must be submitted to the FSSAI to receive a cloud kitchen licence:
- The applicant’s photo identification
- Possession documents (Rental Contract, Utility Bill, Title to the Property, etc.)
- Kitchen Design Schematic
- An inventory of the dishes you cook
- Permission from the Local Government
- Form B declaration, signed by the owner, partner, or authorized signer.
- Management strategy for food safety
- Water Quality Report
- An inventory of cooking-related tools
Conclusion
A real Indian food enterprise needs an FSSAI license. This license guarantees food quality and safety. The extent of your business determines which of the three FSSAI licences you need. You must submit documents to the FSSAI to get a cloud kitchen license. Your cloud kitchen license may be lengthy and complicated, but it’s crucial to its success.
FAQs
- Regarding cloud kitchens, why is FSSAI registration so crucial?
Cloud kitchens can rest easy knowing their food is safe and up to par if it is FSSAI-registered. It’s required for all Indian food enterprises, including cloud kitchens, and builds consumer trust.
- How can cloud kitchen enterprises obtain FSSAI certifications?
Three FSSAI licenses—the Basic, State, and Central Licences—are available to cloud kitchens. The volume and type of the cloud kitchen’s activities will determine the licence needed.
- How much time does it take to process an application for FSSAI registration?
FSSAI registration applications may take several weeks to several months to process. The exact timeframe may depend on the FSSAI authorities’ workload and the thoroughness of the application.
- Can I get FSSAI approval for my home-based cloud kitchen?
The FSSAI does indeed accept applications from home-based cloud kitchens. However, they must adhere to the FSSAI-mandated guidelines for cleanliness and safety.
- What paperwork is needed to register with FSSAI?
When applying for FSSAI registration, a roof of identification and address, a food safety management plan, evidence of business organization status, and a kitchen layout design are all required.
- Is an FSSAI registration different from an FSSAI license?
There’s indeed a distinction. All food enterprises are required to register with the FSSAI. However, only those with a specific sales volume are needed to obtain an FSSAI license. Both come from FSSAI and attest to the company’s dedication to maintaining a safe food supply.
- What is the frequency of FSSAI inspections following registration?
Cloud kitchens registered with FSSAI are subject to routine inspections to ensure continued adherence to food safety regulations.
- Can I take my FSSAI certification with me if I move my cloud kitchen?
Incorrect; FSSAI approval is only valid in the geographic area specified during the application process. A new FSSAI registration must be submitted if your cloud kitchen relocates to a new location. Whenever your company relocates, it is essential to notify FSSAI immediately.
- Can tiny cloud kitchen firms avoid FSSAI registration requirements?
Yes, firms with yearly sales of less than a particular amount may be excluded from some FSSAI laws if they operate out of a cloud kitchen. However, the FSSAI or an expert advisor should be consulted to assess qualifications and thoroughly understand the exemptions.
- What are the consequences of running an unauthorized cloud kitchen without FSSAI approval?
Running a cloud kitchen without FSSAI registration might lead to fines or closure. As consumers become increasingly food safety-savvy, serving food without registration may damage your business’s reputation.
