What the New FSSAI Rule Says
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has updated its labelling regulations for coffee-chicory mixtures, aiming to end consumer confusion. The new mandate requires all packages of blended coffee to prominently display the exact percentage
of both coffee and chicory on the front of the pack. The declaration must be clear, for example: “COFFEE ….. % CHICORY ….. %”. This rule ensures that brands cannot obscure the ratio of the blend. Under existing regulations, any mixture sold as a coffee-chicory blend must contain at least 51% coffee. The new change is that this composition must now be spelled out for the consumer right on the label, making it easier than ever to understand the product at a glance.
From Vague Claims to Clear Percentages
Previously, while rules existed, their enforcement on the front label was not as stringent, leaving consumers to hunt through the fine print on the back of the pack. Many brands used descriptive names or traditional ratios like '80:20' in their marketing, but the precise breakdown was not always obvious. This lack of clarity meant that a consumer might buy a blend assuming it was mostly coffee, only to find it had a higher chicory content than they preferred. The FSSAI's move is part of a broader push towards transparency and cracking down on misleading claims like '100% pure' when additives are present. This specific rule for coffee aims to prevent blended coffee from being mistaken for pure coffee and to empower consumers with precise information.
Why is Chicory in Coffee Anyway?
The practice of blending chicory with coffee has a long history in India, especially in the South. Chicory, the roasted root of the Cichorium intybus plant, was first used as a coffee extender during times of scarcity in 19th-century Europe. The tradition made its way to India, where it became an integral part of the iconic South Indian filter coffee, or 'kaapi'. Far from just being a filler, chicory adds a distinct flavour and character. It imparts a bittersweet, almost chocolatey note, reduces the overall bitterness of strong coffee beans, and creates a thicker, richer decoction. Over time, this blend became a beloved tradition, with many people developing a preference for its unique taste profile.
A Win for the Informed Consumer
This updated regulation is a significant victory for consumer choice. Knowing the exact coffee-to-chicory ratio allows you to tailor your purchase to your personal taste. If you prefer a stronger, more aromatic cup with a higher caffeine kick, you can now easily select a blend with 90% or more coffee. If you enjoy the full-bodied, bittersweet taste characteristic of traditional filter coffee and want less caffeine, a blend with a higher chicory content (like 30% or 40%) might be your ideal choice. This transparency demystifies the product, enabling you to experiment and find the perfect blend that suits your palate and dietary preferences, whether you're making a frothy tumbler of filter coffee or a strong black brew.
What to Look For on Your Next Purchase
The FSSAI has set a final implementation date of July 1, 2027, to give businesses ample time to update their packaging and use up old stock. However, many forward-thinking brands are already rolling out the new labels. When you're next in the coffee aisle, take a closer look at the front of the package. You should start seeing the explicit "COFFEE X% CHICORY Y%" declaration. This small line of text is your new guide to brewing a better cup at home. By paying attention to it, you are not just buying a product; you are making an informed choice based on transparency, flavour, and tradition.
