The New Rule on the Block
The FSSAI has directed manufacturers of coffee-chicory blends to clearly declare the exact percentage of both coffee and chicory on the front of the pack. This means that labels will now have to explicitly state: "COFFEE ….. %, CHICORY ….. %". This new
requirement applies to both regular and instant coffee-chicory mixtures. Initially, a more complex boxed declaration was proposed in August 2025, but after feedback from the industry about practical difficulties, especially on smaller packs, the FSSAI opted for this simpler, text-based format. The new, simplified rule will officially come into effect on July 1, 2027, giving companies ample time to update their packaging and comply.
Why This Change Was Needed
Previously, while regulations required that any coffee-chicory mixture must contain at least 51% coffee, the exact ratio was often not clearly presented to the consumer. Brands could sell a product as a "coffee-chicory blend" without specifying whether it was 70% coffee and 30% chicory, or 55% coffee and 45% chicory. This ambiguity made it difficult for shoppers to truly compare products. A consumer might be paying a premium for a blend that contained a much higher percentage of chicory, a cheaper ingredient, than a competing brand. The new mandate aims to eliminate this confusion, ensuring that a consumer knows exactly what they are purchasing and can make choices based on quality, taste preference, and value.
The Role of Chicory in Coffee
For many, especially in South India, chicory is an integral part of the traditional filter coffee experience. Chicory is a root that, when roasted and ground, provides a coffee-like flavour but is naturally caffeine-free. Its inclusion in coffee blends has a long history in India, originally gaining popularity as a way to make expensive coffee supplies last longer. Over time, people grew to love the distinct taste it provides. Chicory adds body, reduces the bitterness of some coffee beans, and imparts a slightly sweet, caramel-like note, creating the signature thick decoction many coffee lovers cherish. It also significantly increases the yield of a pack of coffee powder, making the final product more economical.
What This Means for You, the Consumer
This new labelling rule is a significant win for consumer transparency. When you're in the supermarket aisle, you will no longer have to guess the composition of your favourite coffee blend. You'll be able to directly compare a brand that offers an 80:20 coffee-to-chicory ratio with one that offers a 60:40 ratio. This empowers you to make a more informed decision based on your personal preferences. If you prefer a stronger, more authentic coffee taste, you can opt for a blend with a higher coffee percentage. If you enjoy the thicker body and milder taste that chicory provides, or are looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can choose a blend with more chicory. The choice will be clear and based on facts presented right on the pack.
Impact on the Coffee Industry
For coffee manufacturers and brands, this new regulation standardises transparency. While many companies already provide this information, the mandate ensures that all players in the market adhere to the same level of disclosure. The FSSAI has also specified minimum font sizes for the declaration to ensure it is legible, even on small packages. The extended deadline of July 2027 was given in response to industry feedback, allowing businesses to manage the transition smoothly without major disruptions to supply chains or incurring unnecessary costs from wasted packaging. This move is seen as a balanced approach, pushing for consumer benefit while acknowledging the operational realities of manufacturers.
