So far, nearly 200 small operations across the city have signed up for a trial registration scheme, which started in May. The new licences now require businesses to meet standards in food safety, hygiene, fire safety and the environment.
Those who are unable to reach these standards will not be allowed to register for a licence, according to Xu Jin, deputy director of the Shanghai Food and Drug Administration.
“The regulation is issued to serve the demand of the public for delicious and safe food with local specialties,” said Xu.
The temporary registration will be valid for three years.
Food businesses inside residential complexes will only be permitted to serve steamed and boiled products to “minimise the impact” of smoke in cooking, Shanghai Daily has reported.
Neighbourhood governments must seek the opinions of nearby residents and property management companies before they can approve small food businesses, the SFDA has ruled.
Caterers will also be shut down if they are the subject of frequent complaints by nearby residents, or if they are involved in food safety incidents.