A Clearer Cup of Coffee for All
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a significant change for coffee lovers across the country. As of July 1, 2026, all packages of blended coffee must prominently display the exact percentage of both coffee and chicory
on the front of the pack. This new mandate, part of the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) First Amendment Regulations, 2025, is designed to enhance consumer transparency. Before this, while manufacturers were required to state that chicory was present, the specific ratio was often unclear, leaving consumers guessing. Now, labels will explicitly state, for example, “This mixture contains Coffee 70% and Chicory 30%,” ending the ambiguity. The rule applies to both regular and instant coffee-chicory mixtures. The aim is simple: to ensure that when you buy coffee, you know exactly what you’re getting, preventing any misleading impressions about the product's composition.
The Chicory Conundrum Explained
Why is chicory in coffee in the first place? The practice has deep historical and cultural roots in India. Chicory, the roasted and ground root of the Cichorium intybus plant, became a popular additive during times when coffee was scarce or expensive, particularly during the British colonial era. It acted as an economical extender, making coffee more affordable for the masses. Over time, however, what started as a cost-saving measure evolved into a taste preference, especially in South India. Many people grew to love the distinct flavour profile chicory imparts. A traditional South Indian filter coffee blend can contain anywhere from 10% to 40% chicory, which gives the decoction its signature thickness, rich colour, and a unique, slightly woody and caramel-like sweetness.
How Chicory Changes Your Brew
The presence and percentage of chicory significantly alter the sensory experience of your coffee. Pure coffee connoisseurs often seek the unadulterated notes of the coffee bean itself. Chicory, on the other hand, introduces a different set of characteristics. It is naturally caffeine-free and reduces the overall caffeine content of a blend. Flavour-wise, chicory has a roasted, somewhat nutty and earthy taste that can balance the bitterness of dark-roasted coffee beans, particularly Robusta. It adds body and creates a more viscous, thicker decoction, a quality highly prized in traditional filter coffee. Chicory also contains inulin, a type of prebiotic fibre, which some believe offers digestive benefits. The new FSSAI rule empowers consumers to choose their preferred profile: a high-coffee blend for a more authentic coffee kick or a chicory-heavy mix for a milder, traditionally styled cup.
Decoding Your New Coffee Label
So, how do you use this new information at the supermarket? It's straightforward. Look at the front of any package labelled “Coffee-Chicory Mixture” or “Instant Coffee-Chicory Mixture.” You will now find a clear declaration within a box stating the percentages. For a product to be called a coffee-chicory mixture, it must contain at least 51% coffee by mass, a rule that has been in place for some time. The new labelling takes this a step further by revealing the precise ratio. If you prefer a strong, coffee-forward taste, look for packs with a higher coffee percentage, like 80% or 90%. If you enjoy the classic, mellow, and thick quality of South Indian filter coffee, a blend with 20-30% chicory might be your ideal choice. This transparency allows you to move beyond brand loyalty and make decisions based on your actual taste and preference.
Ripple Effects on Consumers and Industry
This regulation is a major win for consumer rights in India, aligning with a broader push for greater transparency in food labelling. It empowers individuals to make informed choices that suit their palate, budget, and health considerations. For the coffee industry, this means an adjustment in packaging and marketing. Major players like Nestlé and Hindustan Unilever, along with numerous other brands, must comply with the new front-of-pack display norms. While it may require an overhaul of packaging artwork, the move ultimately levels the playing field. Brands that pride themselves on a higher coffee content can now clearly communicate that value, while those catering to traditional tastes for chicory blends can target their audience more effectively. This shift ensures that 'pure coffee' and 'blended coffee' are no longer confused, fostering a more honest marketplace.
