Ordering food through Swiggy has become a part of our daily life. Whether it’s a quick snack, dinner from your favourite restaurant, a healthy salad, or anything else, everything is just one click away. But while we enjoy this convenience, food safety is equally important.
This is where the FSSAI license comes in. If you are running a restaurant, cloud kitchen or even a home-based food business and you want to sell it through Swiggy, you must have an FSSAI license.
In this blog, we’ll explain in simple words why the license is needed, how to get it, the benefits, and what happens if you don’t have it and also some other elements which is important to know.
What is FSSAI?
FSSAI stands for the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. It is a government body that makes sure the food we eat is safe and hygienic.
According to the law, every food business in India – whether small or big – must either register with FSSAI or get a license before selling food.
Do You Need an FSSAI License for Swiggy?
Yes. If you want to sell food through Swiggy, you must have an FSSAI license or registration. Without it, Swiggy will not allow you to list your business on their platform.
Here’s why:
- It’s the law – The Food Safety Act clearly says no one can run a food business without registration or a license.
- Customer trust – People feel safer ordering from outlets that are registered with FSSAI.
- Swiggy rules – Since Swiggy is a food delivery platform, they also have to follow FSSAI guidelines. That’s why they ask all partners to show their license number.
Who Should Get It?
If you are planning to sell food on Swiggy, you need an FSSAI license. This includes:
- Restaurants and cafés
- Cloud kitchens or dark kitchens
- Home kitchens and tiffin services
- Food trucks and stalls
- Bakeries and sweet shops
So, whether you are running a big restaurant or cooking from home, an FSSAI license is a must.
Types of FSSAI Registrations
The type of license depends on how big your business is:
- Basic Registration – For very small businesses with turnover up to ₹12 lakhs per year (example: home chefs, small tiffin services).
- State License – For medium businesses with turnover between ₹12 lakhs and ₹20 crores (example: mid-size restaurants, larger cloud kitchens).
- Central License – For big businesses with a turnover above ₹20 crores or those operating in more than one state (example: big food chains, exporters).
For Swiggy, most partners need either a Basic Registration or a State License.
Documents Needed
To apply for an FSSAI license, you usually need:
- A passport-size photo of the owner
- Aadhaar/PAN/Voter ID (ID proof)
- Address proof of your business (rent agreement, electricity bill, etc.)
- Food safety plan (basic hygiene measures)
- Kitchen details (for restaurants/cloud kitchens)
- Company registration certificate (if applicable)
- List of food items you want to sell
How to Apply for an FSSAI License?
The process is simple:
- Check eligibility – Find out which type of license you need (Basic, State, or Central).
- Collect documents – Prepare all the required papers.
- Apply online – Go to the FSSAI FoSCoS website and submit the application.
- Pay fees – Fees depend on the type of license.
- Inspection (if needed) – In some cases, officials may check your premises.
- Get a license – Once approved, you will receive a 14-digit FSSAI number.
Why is the FSSAI License Important for Swiggy Partners?
Getting an FSSAI license is not just about following rules. It also has many benefits:
- Mandatory for Swiggy – You cannot join Swiggy without it.
- Customer confidence – People trust licensed food outlets more.
- Business growth – Helpful when you expand to other cities or states.
- Legal protection – Saves you from fines and penalties.
- Better standards – Encourage you to maintain hygiene and quality.
What Happens if You Don’t Have It?
Running a food business without an FSSAI license can lead to:
- Fines up to ₹5 lakhs
- Suspension or closure of business
- Removal from Swiggy’s platform
- Bad reputation among customers
So, it’s better to get registered than take risks.
Swiggy and FSSAI Compliance
Swiggy checks your FSSAI license number before adding your outlet. The number is also displayed on the Swiggy app/website under your restaurant name. This ensures transparency and also builds trust with customers.
Conclusion
If you want to sell food through Swiggy, having an FSSAI license is 100% mandatory for it. It is not only a legal requirement but also helps build trust with your customers and gives your food business a professional identity.
Whether you are a home chef starting small or running a big restaurant, getting an FSSAI license should be your first step before joining Swiggy. It will keep you safe from the various legal issues, make your business look more credible and allow you to grow without any problems.
FAQs
1. Do all Swiggy partners need an FSSAI license?
Yes, it is compulsory for every food business.
2. Can home chefs apply for FSSAI registration?
Yes, home kitchens can apply for Basic Registration.
3. How long is the license valid?
It is valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on what you choose.
4. Can I apply online?
Yes, through the FoSCoS portal.
5. Do cloud kitchens need an FSSAI license?
Yes, it is mandatory.
6. What happens if I run without a license?
You may face fines, legal trouble, or delisting from Swiggy.
7. How much time does it take to get one?
Basic Registration: 7 days.
State/Central License: 30–60 days.
8. Which license do I need?
It depends on your turnover (Basic, State, or Central).
9. Is FSSAI needed for packaged food on Swiggy?
Yes, it is required for packaged food too.
10. Can I renew it after expiry?
Yes, but you should renew before expiry to avoid penalties.
