The New Rule in Your Cup
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed that all packaged coffee-chicory mixtures must now prominently display the exact percentage of both ingredients on the front of the pack. This means a label might read “Coffee 70%,
Chicory 30%”, leaving no room for ambiguity. This change is an evolution of a directive first notified in August 2025 and is part of a broader push for consumer transparency. After industry consultations regarding practical issues like fitting information on small packets, the FSSAI refined the requirement, which will be mandatory for all relevant products starting July 1, 2027, giving brands ample time to comply.
From ‘French Coffee’ to Facts
This regulation is about more than just numbers; it fundamentally affects how these products can be named and marketed. The rule aims to prevent potentially misleading branding. For years, consumers may have purchased blends with evocative but vague names that didn't disclose the significant presence of chicory. By mandating a clear percentage breakdown on the front label, the FSSAI is ensuring that the product's “true nature” is clear at a glance. This is in line with FSSAI's recent actions against other misleading terms like '100% Pure' or using 'tea' for herbal infusions, all aimed at protecting consumer rights and promoting fair competition.
Why Is Chicory in Coffee Anyway?
The practice of blending chicory with coffee has deep roots in India, particularly in the South. Historically, it began as an economic measure, a way to make expensive coffee supplies last longer. The practice was introduced during the colonial era and became a staple. Over time, however, many developed a taste for the unique flavour profile chicory provides. The roasted root adds a distinct, slightly sweet, and nutty character that balances the bitterness of coffee, and it creates a thicker, more viscous brew—a hallmark of traditional South Indian filter coffee. While some purists view chicory as an adulterant, for millions it is an essential part of their daily coffee ritual and cultural identity.
A Win for Consumer Choice
At its core, this new regulation empowers the Indian consumer. The primary objective is to enable informed choices. Many people enjoy the taste of chicory blends, while others may prefer 100% coffee for its flavour or higher caffeine content. Some might even want to try chicory for its potential digestive benefits, as it contains inulin, a prebiotic fibre. Previously, it was difficult to tell the exact composition without scrutinizing the fine print, if it was available at all. This new front-of-pack declaration ensures that whether you're a chicory lover, a coffee purist, or someone watching their budget, you know exactly what you are buying.
The Industry's New Grind
For coffee manufacturers, blenders, and importers, this rule means significant operational adjustments. While the transition period until mid-2027 is generous, the process isn't simple. Companies will need to undertake a massive relabelling exercise across their entire portfolio of coffee-chicory blends, which includes redesigning packaging artwork, replacing printing plates, and managing the transition of old and new stock in the supply chain. This entails costs and logistical planning to ensure all products on the market meet the new standard by the deadline. However, it also standardises labelling practices across the industry, creating a more level playing field where transparency is the baseline.
