What’s Changing on Your Coffee Label?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a significant change for all coffee drinkers. Under the new regulations, which came into effect on July 1, 2026, manufacturers of coffee-chicory blends must now declare the exact
percentage of both ingredients on the front of the package. This means no more searching through fine print on the back. The information will be displayed prominently, often in a box, making it easy for consumers to see exactly what they are buying at a glance. This move is part of FSSAI's broader effort to promote transparency and empower consumers to make informed choices about the food products they purchase.
The End of Vague Descriptions
For years, coffee packaging used general terms like “Coffee-Chicory Mixture” or “70-30 Blend” without always being upfront about which ingredient made up the larger share. The previous rules, under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011, simply required that any coffee-chicory mixture contain at least 51% coffee. While this ensured coffee was the main ingredient, it left a wide margin for the chicory content. The new amendment mandates specific declarations, such as “COFFEE BLENDED WITH CHICORY. THIS MIXTURE CONTAINS COFFEE… % AND CHICORY… %”. This clarity means the term “Pure Coffee” can only be used for products that are 100% coffee, putting an end to any potential confusion.
So, What Exactly Is Chicory?
Chicory is a plant whose root, when roasted and ground, serves as a coffee additive or substitute. It is naturally caffeine-free and shares a similar roasted, slightly bitter flavour profile with coffee. Historically, its use became popular in 19th-century France during times of coffee scarcity. The practice spread globally and was introduced to India, where it became integral to the South Indian filter coffee tradition. Many people grew to love the unique taste it creates. Economically, chicory is significantly cheaper than coffee beans, which has made it a popular choice for manufacturers to create more affordable blends.
Taste, Aroma, and Body: The Great Debate
The decision between pure coffee and a chicory blend comes down to personal preference. Pure coffee offers the unadulterated flavour of the beans, which can range from bright and acidic to nutty and chocolatey, depending on the origin and roast. Chicory introduces a different dimension. It adds a characteristic woody, somewhat earthy flavour and can create a beverage with a thicker, fuller body or mouthfeel. Many fans of traditional filter 'kaapi' swear by a chicory blend for its robust taste and darker colour. Furthermore, since chicory is caffeine-free, blending it with coffee naturally reduces the overall caffeine content of your cup.
How This Empowers You, the Consumer
These new labels are all about putting the power back in your hands. Now, you can directly compare products on the shelf. If you prefer the pure, unadulterated taste of coffee, you can confidently pick up a pack that says “100% Coffee.” If you enjoy the specific flavour and body that a chicory blend provides, you can now choose the exact ratio you like best, whether it's a mild 85/15 or a more traditional 60/40 blend. It allows you to make decisions based not just on brand loyalty or price, but on your personal taste preference for aroma, strength, and caffeine level. This transparency helps ensure you get exactly what you pay for every time.
