What Exactly Is the New Rule?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a clear directive for all coffee-chicory mixtures. Manufacturers are now required to declare the exact percentage of both coffee and chicory on the front of the package. The label
must explicitly state “COFFEE… %, CHICORY… %”. This applies to both regular and instant coffee blends. The rule also specifies minimum font sizes for this declaration to ensure it is legible, putting an end to consumers having to hunt for this information in tiny print on the back of the pack. This move is part of a broader push by the FSSAI to combat misleading claims and improve transparency in food labelling across India.
The Old Problem: Vague and Hidden Information
Previously, while brands had to mention the presence of chicory, the specific percentage was often obscured or absent. Consumers knew they were buying a blend, but not in what proportion. This ambiguity made it difficult to compare products or understand the true value of what they were purchasing. The initial FSSAI notification in 2025 proposed a declaration within a box, but industry bodies raised concerns about fitting this onto smaller packages. Acknowledging these practical challenges, the FSSAI revised the directive to the simpler text-based percentage declaration now required. The compliance deadline for this updated rule has been set for July 1, 2027, giving companies ample time to update their packaging.
Why Is Chicory in Your Coffee Anyway?
Chicory is a root plant that, when roasted and ground, has a colour and aroma similar to coffee. Historically, it was used as a cost-effective extender during times of coffee scarcity. Today, it remains a popular additive in India for several reasons. Primarily, it lowers the production cost, as chicory is much cheaper than coffee beans. This allows brands to offer a more affordable product. Many consumers, particularly in South India, have also developed a taste for the blend, which creates a thicker, stronger decoction and a distinct woody or nutty flavour. Importantly, chicory is naturally caffeine-free. A blend, therefore, contains less caffeine than pure coffee, which can be a pro or a con depending on your preference.
Empowering the Indian Consumer
This labelling update is a significant win for consumer rights and informed choice. With a clear percentage breakdown on the front of the pack, you can now instantly assess what you are buying. Are you paying a premium price for a product that is mostly chicory? Do you prefer the taste of a 70/30 blend over an 80/20? Or do you want to ensure you're getting 100% coffee for a full caffeine kick? This transparency allows you to make decisions based on taste, budget, and desired caffeine content. By law, any coffee-chicory mixture must contain at least 51% coffee, but the range can be wide. This new rule closes the information gap between 51% and 100%, putting the power back in the hands of the person brewing the coffee.
What to Look For on Your Next Purchase
Starting now and leading up to the 2027 deadline, you will see packaging change. When you pick up a pack of instant or filter coffee that isn't explicitly labelled as '100% Coffee', look at the front label. You should see the “COFFEE… %, CHICORY… %” declaration. This simple line of text is your guide. It tells you the exact ratio and helps you understand the flavour profile and strength you can expect. A higher chicory percentage generally means a more bitter, earthy taste and lower caffeine. A higher coffee percentage means you are getting more of the authentic bean flavour and effect. This small change empowers you to see past the marketing and choose the blend that is truly right for you.
