A New Brew of Label Transparency
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a significant update to its labelling regulations that directly impacts coffee drinkers. Starting from July 1, 2026, all packages of coffee-chicory mixtures must prominently display
the exact percentage of both coffee and chicory on the front of the pack. This applies to both regular and instant coffee blends. Previously, manufacturers were not required to specify these proportions so clearly, leaving consumers guessing about the composition of their brew. The new mandate, officially titled the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) First Amendment Regulations, 2025, aims to put an end to that ambiguity, ensuring what you see on the label is exactly what you get.
Why This Change Was Overdue
This regulatory shift was driven by a need for greater consumer transparency. For years, coffee-chicory blends have been popular across India, but the labelling was often vague. While existing rules stipulated that any such mixture must contain at least 51% coffee, the actual ratio was not always clear to the buyer at a glance. This created a market where consumers could not easily differentiate between a blend with 70% coffee and one with 55%. FSSAI noted that some brands were even marketing coffee-chicory blends in a way that could be mistaken for pure coffee, creating an erroneous impression. The new rules are designed to level the playing field, prevent misleading claims, and empower consumers to make genuinely informed decisions based on clear, standardized information right on the front of the package.
What Is Chicory, Anyway?
For many, especially in South India, chicory is a familiar component of a traditional filter coffee decoction. For others, it might be a less-known ingredient. Chicory is a plant whose roasted and ground root is used as a coffee additive or substitute. It is naturally caffeine-free and is valued for its ability to add a distinct, slightly bitter taste, enhance the colour, and create a thicker, more full-bodied decoction. It also helps reduce the overall cost of the final product. Chicory root contains inulin, a type of prebiotic fibre that can support gut health. The FSSAI's new rule isn't about judging chicory, but rather about acknowledging its role and ensuring consumers know exactly how much is in their coffee, allowing them to choose the blend that perfectly suits their taste and preference.
More Power to Your Purchase
This seemingly small change in labelling carries significant weight for you as a consumer. It shifts the power dynamic in the shopping aisle. Instead of relying on brand familiarity or ambiguous marketing terms, you can now make a direct, quantitative comparison between different products. If you prefer a stronger, more coffee-dominant flavour, you can look for blends with a higher coffee percentage, like 80% or 90%. If you enjoy the specific taste profile that chicory provides or are looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can confidently pick a blend with a different ratio, such as 60/40. This level of detail allows you to fine-tune your purchase to match your personal taste, health considerations (like caffeine intake), and budget, making you a much smarter and more informed coffee buyer.
How to Read the New Labels
Come July 2026, keep an eye out for the new packaging in stores. The FSSAI has specified the exact format for clarity. For ground coffee, the label will read: “COFFEE BLENDED WITH CHICORY – This mixture contains Coffee __% and Chicory __%”. For instant coffee, you’ll see a similar declaration, such as “INSTANT COFFEE-CHICORY MIXTURE – COFFEE …. %, CHICORY …… %”. The percentages will be filled in by the manufacturer. This simple, non-negotiable format replaces older, less informative labels. It’s a straightforward system designed for quick comprehension, ensuring that even with a quick glance during a busy shopping trip, you can get the essential information you need without having to search through fine print on the back of the pack.
