The New Brew of Rules
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed that all packaged coffee-chicory mixtures must prominently display the exact percentage of both ingredients on the front of the pack. The new format will be simple and clear, for example:
"COFFEE ….. %; CHICORY ….. %". This applies to both regular and instant coffee blends. While the rule was first discussed in 2025, it faced revisions after industry feedback. The final deadline for all companies to comply with this front-of-pack declaration is now set for July 1, 2027, giving them time to update packaging.
Why Chicory Is in Your Coffee
Chicory, a root from a plant in the dandelion family, has been a longtime partner to coffee in India, especially in the beloved South Indian filter coffee. When roasted and ground, it has a similar flavour profile to coffee but is naturally caffeine-free. Its addition serves several purposes: it adds body and a distinct bitterness, creates a darker, richer colour, and helps manage costs. Many consumers enjoy the unique taste that chicory brings to a blend, but until now, it was difficult to know just how much chicory was in any given product.
The Problem with Old Labels
Previously, while regulations required coffee-chicory mixtures to contain at least 51% coffee, the exact ratio was often buried in the fine print of the ingredient list, if it was specified at all. This lack of front-of-pack transparency meant consumers couldn't easily compare products or know if they were buying a coffee-dominant blend or one with a higher percentage of chicory. Many people were potentially buying products they thought were pure coffee or had minimal additives, only to find they contained significant amounts of chicory. The new rule aims to eliminate this confusion and prevent misleading labelling.
How to Be a Smarter Coffee Shopper
With this new rule, the power shifts to you, the consumer. When you pick up two different brands of coffee, you will be able to directly compare their composition. A pack that says "Coffee 80%, Chicory 20%" will offer a very different taste experience from one that is "Coffee 60%, Chicory 40%". This allows you to make choices based on your personal preference for taste, strength, and caffeine content. It also promotes fair competition, as companies can no longer obscure their blend ratios. Pay attention to the front of the package and look for this percentage declaration to understand exactly what you are brewing.
More Than Just a Percentage
This regulatory update is part of a larger push by FSSAI for greater transparency in food labelling across India. For coffee drinkers, it marks a significant win. It acknowledges that while chicory blends are an integral part of India's coffee culture, consumers have the right to know the exact makeup of their beverage. Whether you prefer the sharp kick of a high-chicory blend or the pure taste of coffee, you can now make an informed decision with a simple glance at the package. This move empowers you to choose a product that perfectly matches your palate and your budget.
