The New Rule Explained
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has mandated a significant change in how coffee-chicory mixtures are labelled. Under the new directive, every package of blended coffee must now prominently display the exact percentage of both
coffee and chicory on the front of the pack. This means no more searching through the fine print on the back to understand what you're buying. The declaration, such as “COFFEE 70%, CHICORY 30%,” must be clearly visible, allowing consumers to compare products at a glance. While the original regulations were slated for an earlier start, the final enforcement date has been set for July 1, 2027, giving businesses time to adapt their packaging. This move is a direct response to the need for greater transparency and to ensure consumers are not misled into thinking a blend is pure coffee.
Why Chicory is in Your Coffee
The practice of blending coffee with chicory has a long history in India, particularly in the South. Chicory is a plant whose root, when roasted and ground, serves as a coffee additive or substitute. It was historically used to extend coffee supplies and make the beverage more affordable. Over time, many developed a taste for its unique characteristics. Chicory is naturally caffeine-free and adds a distinct earthy flavour, reduces bitterness, and creates a thicker, darker decoction that is central to the traditional filter 'kaapi' experience. While it became a cultural preference for some, its presence also significantly impacts the final taste, caffeine kick, and cost of the product. A higher chicory content makes the blend more economical but dilutes the pure coffee flavour and strength.
Putting the Consumer First
For years, regulations stipulated that any coffee-chicory mixture must contain at least 51% coffee to be legally sold as such. However, the declaration of the exact blend was often hidden in small print, making it difficult for shoppers to make a truly informed choice. The FSSAI's push for front-of-pack labelling is a major step toward empowering consumers. This change ensures that the choice between a pure 100% coffee, a robust 80/20 blend, or a traditional 60/40 mix is clear from the moment you pick up the package. By bringing this vital information to the forefront, the regulator aims to standardize labelling practices, promote fair competition, and boost consumer confidence in the packaged foods they purchase every day.
Your New Coffee Shopping Checklist
With this new rule, your shopping habits might need a small adjustment. The next time you're in the coffee aisle, make it a point to check the front label for the explicit percentage breakdown. Here's a quick guide to what the numbers mean for your cup: Low Chicory (Under 20%): This blend will taste very close to pure coffee. The chicory primarily adds body and smoothness without significantly altering the coffee's natural flavour and aroma. You'll get a stronger caffeine kick from these blends. Medium Chicory (20-35%): This is the sweet spot for many traditional South Indian filter coffee lovers. The chicory's earthy notes are more noticeable, and the decoction is thicker, providing that classic, comforting taste. * High Chicory (35-49%): In these blends, the chicory flavour becomes much more dominant. While very budget-friendly, the coffee character and caffeine content are noticeably lower. By checking the label, you can finally stop guessing and start buying the exact blend that matches your personal preference for taste, strength, and budget.
