Decoding the New FSSAI Mandate
The FSSAI has introduced a significant change in how coffee products are labelled in India, which came into effect on July 1, 2026. The regulator has made it mandatory for all packages of coffee-chicory mixtures to prominently display the exact percentage
of both coffee and chicory on the front of the pack. This move is part of a broader effort to increase transparency and prevent misleading labelling practices, ensuring consumers are not mistaken about what they are purchasing. Until now, while regulations stipulated that any blend sold as a coffee-chicory mixture must contain at least 51% coffee, the specific ratio was often unclear to the buyer. This new rule closes that gap, empowering consumers with clear, upfront information.
The Tradition of Chicory in Coffee
The practice of blending chicory with coffee is a long-standing tradition in India, especially in the southern states. Historically, chicory, the roasted root of a plant in the dandelion family, was used as an extender to make coffee more affordable during times of scarcity. Over time, many developed a taste for the unique flavour it imparts. Chicory adds a slightly nutty, caramel-like sweetness and a fuller body to the brew, which helps balance the bitterness of robusta beans commonly used in Indian filter coffee. This blend has become a cultural staple, with many households and cafes preferring the distinct taste and aroma of a coffee-chicory mix. However, for those who prefer pure coffee, the lack of clear labelling was a significant issue.
What You'll See on the Shelves
Under the new amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, the labels on these products must be explicit. For ground coffee blends, the package must state: “Coffee Blended with Chicory – This mixture contains Coffee __% and Chicory __%.” A similar declaration is required for instant coffee variants, which must read: “Instant Coffee-Chicory Mixture made from blends of Coffee and Chicory – Coffee __%, Chicory __%.” This directive ensures that no matter the brand, the information is standardized and easy to find. The days of hunting through fine print to guess the composition of your coffee are over. This change applies to all manufacturers, packers, and importers of coffee-chicory blends.
How to Be a Smarter Coffee Shopper
This regulatory change puts the power directly into your hands. When you're next in the coffee aisle, you can now make a choice based on your exact preference. If you enjoy the traditional South Indian filter coffee taste, you might look for a blend with a higher chicory content, perhaps a 70% coffee and 30% chicory mix. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavour with just a hint of chicory's body and sweetness, a blend with 85% coffee and 15% chicory might be your ideal choice. And if you want nothing but pure coffee, you can now more easily distinguish those packs from the blends. By simply checking the front of the package, you can compare different brands and their ratios to find the perfect brew that suits your palate and your budget.
A Push for Greater Transparency
This move is consistent with FSSAI's recent crackdown on misleading health claims and ambiguous labelling across the food and beverage industry. By forcing brands to be upfront about product composition, the regulator is creating a more level playing field. Companies that sell 100% pure coffee can now be more clearly distinguished from those offering economical blends. It also encourages consumers to become more aware of what they are consuming. This is not just about coffee; it reflects a larger trend towards greater consumer awareness and the demand for honesty from brands in the packaged foods sector. This is a significant step towards building trust between manufacturers and the people who enjoy their products every day.
