A New Rule Brewing
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed manufacturers of coffee-chicory mixtures to prominently declare the percentage of each ingredient on the front of the package. This new rule, which is set to come into effect on July
1, 2027, aims to boost transparency and help consumers make more informed decisions. Previously, an initial notification was issued in August 2025 with a 2026 deadline, but after industry stakeholders raised concerns about the practicalities of a boxed format on small packs, FSSAI revised the directive and extended the timeline. Now, brands must simply state the percentages, for example, “COFFEE … %, CHICORY … %,” ensuring the information is clear and accessible.
What is Chicory, Anyway?
For many, especially in South India, chicory is a familiar part of their daily coffee ritual. Chicory is a plant whose roasted root is ground and blended with coffee. Historically, this practice gained popularity as a way to make expensive coffee supplies last longer, particularly in 19th-century France. The tradition travelled to India, where the blend became cherished for its unique flavour profile and affordability. Chicory adds a distinct, slightly woody and nutty taste, reduces the bitterness of coffee, and creates a thicker, fuller-bodied decoction that many people love. It is also naturally caffeine-free.
From Fine Print to Front Page
Under existing regulations, any product sold as a coffee-chicory mixture must contain at least 51% coffee. While brands were required to mention the ingredients, the new rule makes a crucial change: the information must move from the back of the pack to the front, and the exact percentages must be clearly displayed. Before this mandate, consumers were often unaware of the exact proportion of chicory in their coffee. A blend could be anywhere from 51% coffee and 49% chicory to 90% coffee and 10% chicory, with both legally sold as a 'coffee-chicory mixture'. This lack of transparency made it difficult for consumers to judge a product's true value and flavour profile before buying it.
Why the Proportions Really Matter
The ratio of coffee to chicory significantly impacts three key aspects of your brew: taste, caffeine content, and cost. A higher chicory content, often found in more economical blends, results in a more roasted, earthy, and less bitter flavour, but it also means less coffee aroma and a lower caffeine kick. For those who enjoy the classic South Indian filter coffee taste, a blend with 20-35% chicory might be ideal. Conversely, someone seeking a stronger coffee flavour and higher caffeine content would want a blend with minimal chicory. Since coffee beans are significantly more expensive than chicory root, a higher chicory percentage generally means a lower-cost product. The new labelling empowers you to pay for what you truly want—be it pure coffee, a traditional blend, or a cost-effective mix.
Power in Your Hands
This FSSAI directive is a significant step towards consumer empowerment in India's large coffee market. By mandating these declarations, the regulator is ensuring that brands compete on a level playing field and that consumers have the clear, upfront information needed to choose the product that best suits their budget and palate. It moves the needle from a one-size-fits-all category of 'blended coffee' to a transparent spectrum of choices. Now, a quick glance at the front of the pack will tell you everything you need to know about the contents of your cup.
