The New Rule for Your Morning Brew
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has implemented a significant change in how coffee-chicory blends are labelled. As of July 1, 2026, all manufacturers are required to declare the exact percentage of both coffee and chicory prominently
on the front of the package. This means no more searching through tiny print on the back of the pack. The rule applies to both regular and instant coffee mixtures, aiming to bring complete transparency to one of India’s most beloved beverages. Previously, while brands had to mention the presence of chicory, the exact ratio was often obscured, leaving consumers in the dark about the composition of their drink. This simple change is a major step towards empowering millions of Indian coffee drinkers.
Why Is Chicory in Coffee Anyway?
Chicory, a roasted and ground plant root, has been a part of India's coffee culture for generations, especially in the South. Its popularity stems from a few key reasons. Firstly, it is significantly cheaper than coffee beans, which allows manufacturers to offer a more affordable product. Secondly, it transforms the drinking experience. Chicory adds a distinct woody and slightly bitter taste, creates a thicker, more full-bodied decoction, and imparts a rich, dark colour. Many filter coffee lovers prize this unique profile. Since chicory is naturally caffeine-free, blending it with coffee also reduces the overall caffeine content of the final cup, which can be a desirable trait for those sensitive to caffeine or who enjoy multiple cups a day.
From Vague to Clear: The Label Makeover
The new FSSAI mandate replaces ambiguity with clarity. Instead of a simple mention of a “coffee-chicory blend,” the front label will now explicitly state the proportions. For example, a package will now read something like: “Coffee Blended with Chicory – This mixture contains Coffee 70% and Chicory 30%.” This empowers you to understand the product at a glance. A blend with a higher chicory percentage (like 40%) will typically be more robust, bitter, and economical, ideal for a strong, milky filter coffee. A blend with less chicory (say, 15-20%) will have a more pronounced coffee flavour and aroma. This move ensures you’re not just buying a brand, but a specific taste profile you can rely on every time.
How This Puts Power in Your Hands
This new labelling regulation is a quiet victory for every consumer. It allows for an immediate, informed comparison between different brands. You can now easily assess both taste and value for money. If two brands are priced similarly, you can check the coffee-to-chicory ratio to see which one offers more actual coffee. For those who have always wondered why their favourite blend tastes different from others, the answer is now right on the front of the pack. It allows you to experiment with different ratios to find your perfect cup. Whether you prefer the strong, thick brew of a 60:40 blend or the more delicate notes of an 85:15 mix, the choice is finally, and clearly, yours to make. This transparency ensures you pay for what you want and get what you pay for.
