The New Rule from FSSAI
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a new directive focused on transparency for coffee drinkers. The updated regulation mandates that all packaged coffee-chicory mixtures must prominently display the exact percentage
of both coffee and chicory on the front of the pack. This means instead of a simple mention, you will see a clear declaration, such as “COFFEE ….. %, CHICORY ….. %”. The rule, which was initially proposed in 2025, has been updated following feedback from the industry about practical challenges, especially with smaller packs. After some deliberation, FSSAI has deferred the original start date, and the revised, simplified labelling requirements are now set to come into force from July 1, 2027.
Why Is Chicory in Coffee Anyway?
The practice of blending coffee with chicory root is a long-standing tradition in India, particularly in the South. Historically, chicory was used as an economical extender during times when coffee beans were expensive or scarce. The roasted and ground root of the chicory plant, which is naturally caffeine-free, mimics the appearance of coffee powder. Over time, consumers developed a taste for the blend. Chicory adds a distinct flavour, enhances the colour, and creates a thicker, more robust decoction that many coffee lovers, especially those who enjoy South Indian filter coffee, have come to appreciate. It can also temper the bitterness of certain coffee beans, resulting in a smoother, slightly sweeter cup.
From Vague Mentions to Clear Percentages
Previously, while regulations required the presence of chicory to be mentioned, the rules were not as specific about the prominence and format of this disclosure. Consumers often had no clear idea of the actual ratio of coffee to chicory in their blend. Under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, any mixture sold as a coffee-chicory blend must contain at least 51% coffee, but the chicory content could vary significantly beyond that. The new mandate changes this by requiring a clear, front-of-pack percentage declaration. This move is designed to prevent any possibility of consumers mistaking a blended product for pure coffee and allows them to understand the composition at a glance.
What This Means for You, the Consumer
This regulatory update is fundamentally about empowering the consumer. With the exact percentages clearly displayed, you can make more informed choices based on your personal preference for taste, body, and caffeine content. If you prefer a stronger, purer coffee flavour, you can now easily opt for products with a higher coffee percentage or those with no chicory at all. Conversely, if you enjoy the specific taste and thickness that chicory provides, you can choose blends that suit your palate. The rule standardises labelling across the industry, promoting fair competition and ensuring that what you see on the label is exactly what you get in the cup. It transforms a simple purchase into a more transparent and conscious decision.
A Step Towards Greater Transparency
The FSSAI's decision on coffee-chicory labelling is part of a broader push towards greater clarity and honesty in food packaging in India. The regulator has been focusing on various aspects of front-of-pack labelling to help consumers better understand the nutritional value and composition of packaged foods. While the industry cited practical issues with the initial proposal, leading to the revised deadline, the FSSAI's compromise shows a willingness to work with stakeholders while keeping the core objective of consumer transparency intact. This ensures that while businesses get adequate time to comply, the end goal of a more informed marketplace remains firmly in sight.
