The New Rule on the Block
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a new amendment that makes your coffee shopping much clearer. As of July 1, 2026, all packages of coffee-chicory mixtures must prominently display the exact percentage of both coffee and chicory on
the front of the label. This means no more guessing or turning the pack over to search for tiny print. The rule mandates a clear declaration, such as “This blend contains Coffee X% and Chicory Y%,” making it easy to see exactly what you’re buying. This move is all about consumer transparency, ensuring you are not misled into thinking a blended product is pure coffee.
So, What is Chicory Anyway?
Chicory is a plant whose roasted root has been a companion to coffee for centuries. Historically, it was used to extend coffee supplies during times of scarcity, a practice that became popular in India partly through British 'Camp Coffee' during colonial times. Over time, however, it became more than just a filler. Many people in South India, in particular, grew to love the distinct flavour profile it creates. Roasted chicory root is caffeine-free and adds a slightly woody, nutty sweetness that balances the bitterness of coffee beans. It also gives the final brew, or decoction, a thicker body and darker colour, characteristics that are now hallmarks of traditional filter coffee.
More Than Just a Filler
While coffee purists may sometimes look down on it, chicory has its own merits. From a cost perspective, it is significantly cheaper than coffee beans, which makes coffee blends more affordable and accessible. But the tradition of blending is now firmly rooted in taste. The ratio of coffee to chicory is a carefully guarded secret in many households and small coffee houses, defining their unique version of the perfect 'kaapi'. A higher chicory content results in a bolder, more bitter-sweet flavour and a thicker consistency, while a lower percentage lets the delicate notes of the coffee bean shine through. Chicory also contains a prebiotic fibre called inulin, which can be beneficial for gut health.
How This Empowers Your Choice
Previously, brands were required to have at least 51% coffee in any blend, but the exact proportions were often unclear to the average shopper. This lack of transparency meant you could be buying a product with 49% chicory without easily knowing it. The new FSSAI rule changes this dynamic completely. By having the percentages displayed clearly on the front of the pack, you are now in control. You can make decisions based on your personal preference for taste, your budget, and even your sensitivity to caffeine. If you enjoy a strong, robust, and earthy flavour, you might consciously choose a blend with a higher chicory content, like 70/30 or 60/40. If you prefer the pure, aromatic taste of coffee, you can confidently reach for a 100% coffee pack or a blend with minimal chicory, like 90/10.
Navigating the Coffee Aisle
When you next go shopping for your favourite brew, take a moment to look at the front of the package. Brands have had a transition period to update their labels for the July 2026 deadline, so many new packs may already feature this information. Don't be surprised to see a wide range of percentages on offer from the same brand, catering to different tastes. This is an excellent opportunity to experiment. If you have always bought the same brand out of habit, you now have the information to try a different blend with confidence. The power has shifted from the manufacturer to the consumer, allowing every coffee lover to find their ideal mix and master their morning cup.
