The New Rule on the Block
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a key amendment to its labelling regulations that directly impacts the coffee industry. Starting 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 pack. This declaration must be clear, legible, and housed in a rectangular box on the main display panel. The prescribed format will read: “COFFEE BLENDED WITH CHICORY. THIS MIXTURE CONTAINS COFFEE… PERCENT, CHICORY… PERCENT.” This mandate applies to both regular and instant coffee blends, ending the era where the precise composition of these popular products remained a trade secret known only to the manufacturers.
From Brand Trust to Ingredient Truth
For generations, Indian consumers, particularly in the southern states, have purchased coffee blends based on the reputation of a brand name. The specific ratio of coffee to chicory was often a closely guarded secret, part of a proprietary formula that gave each brand its unique taste and aroma. The new FSSAI rule fundamentally alters this dynamic. The move is part of a broader push for greater transparency in the food industry, empowering consumers to make informed decisions based on clear facts rather than just branding. By placing the composition front and center, the regulator ensures that consumers know exactly what they are paying for and consuming.
The Chicory Connection
Chicory, a root that is roasted and ground, has long been a key component of Indian filter coffee. It is valued for its ability to add body, a slightly bitter taste, and a dark, rich colour to the decoction. Economically, chicory is also significantly cheaper than coffee beans, making blends more affordable for a wider audience. However, it is naturally caffeine-free and has a different flavour profile. The FSSAI's regulation doesn't aim to eliminate chicory but to ensure consumers are aware of its presence and proportion. Under existing rules, any coffee-chicory mixture must contain at least 51% coffee, and the new labelling requirement builds on this by providing full disclosure.
A Jolt for Legacy Brands
This regulatory shift presents a significant challenge for legacy brands that have built their empires on specific, undisclosed blends. Companies will need to overhaul their packaging and marketing strategies before the July 2026 deadline. For years, the focus was on the brand's heritage and the evocative experience promised by the packaging. Now, the conversation must also include hard numbers. This could potentially level the playing field, allowing smaller or newer brands that lead with transparency to compete more effectively. The change forces all manufacturers, big and small, to be upfront about their product's composition, moving the competitive focus from mystique to material facts.
What This Means for Your Morning Cup
For the average consumer, this change is a clear win. When you pick up a pack of coffee, you will no longer have to guess its contents. You'll be able to directly compare a 70/30 blend with an 80/20 blend and decide which one you prefer based on taste, caffeine preference, and budget. This transparency allows you to be more discerning, choosing a product that perfectly matches your definition of a great cup of coffee. As you see new packaging roll out, take a look at the front label. The small print that was once hidden on the back is now taking centre stage, giving you more power over your purchase than ever before.
