The New Rule Explained
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a new labelling mandate for all coffee-chicory mixtures. Effective from July 1, 2026, every package of “Coffee Blended with Chicory” or “Instant Coffee-Chicory Mixture” must prominently
display the exact percentage of both coffee and chicory on the front of the pack. This amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations aims to bring greater transparency to consumers, ensuring that blended coffee isn't mistaken for 100% pure coffee. Previously, regulations only stipulated that the coffee content must be at least 51% by mass in any such mixture. This new rule, however, requires a clear, upfront declaration, allowing buyers to make a fully informed decision at a glance.
Why Is Chicory in Coffee Anyway?
The practice of blending chicory with coffee has a long history in India, rooted in both economics and taste. Historically, chicory was added as an extender when coffee beans were expensive or scarce, a practice that gained popularity during the colonial era. Over time, however, what began as a cost-saving measure became a beloved flavour profile in its own right, especially in South India. The roasted and ground chicory root, which is naturally caffeine-free, adds a distinct body, a darker colour, and a unique flavour with notes of caramel and nuts. It also helps to balance the bitterness of some coffee beans, creating the smooth, thick decoction that is characteristic of traditional filter 'kaapi'.
How to Decode the Percentages
The new labels will empower you to become the master of your own brew. Understanding the coffee-to-chicory ratio is key to finding the blend that perfectly suits your palate. A typical range for blends is between 10% and 40% chicory. Here’s a quick guide: 90/10 (Coffee/Chicory): This blend is for those who prefer just a hint of chicory. It offers a clean, aromatic cup with a light body, where the coffee's origin characteristics still shine through. 80/20 (Coffee/Chicory): Often considered the 'gold standard' for traditional South Indian filter coffee, this ratio provides a rich crema, a fuller body, and a balanced bitterness. It's smooth, bold, and a popular choice for daily brewing. * 70/30 or 60/40 (Coffee/Chicory): These blends are for those who enjoy a very strong, heavy-bodied coffee with a pronounced earthy finish. The higher chicory content creates a thicker, creamier decoction and reduces the overall caffeine content, as chicory itself is caffeine-free.
What This Means for Your Morning Cup
This regulatory change is a significant win for consumer awareness. For years, the amount of chicory in a blend was often a mystery, leaving buyers to guess based on brand reputation or taste. Now, you can directly compare products and choose based on your preference for flavour, strength, and price. If you enjoy the pure, unadulterated taste of coffee, you can confidently pick up packs that state '100% Coffee'. But if you relish the traditional, full-bodied flavour of a chicory blend, you now have the power to select the exact ratio that creates your perfect cup. This transparency also encourages fair competition among manufacturers, who must now be upfront about the composition of their products. It allows you to know precisely what you are paying for—the premium beans or the flavourful, economical chicory.
