Coffee’s new status symbol is a machine without plastic
New York — For decades, it was the all the bells and whistles that was the selling point for a fancy coffee machine. Now, consumers are looking for what it lacks. Growing concern over microplastics and sustainability is sparking a wave of plastic-free coffee pods and machines. Coffee companies and appliance makers have released new machines … The post Coffee’s new status symbol is a machine…
In recent years, the design of coffee machines has shifted away from a focus on advanced features and towards the absence of plastic. This change is driven by growing concerns over microplastics and sustainability. Companies such as Keurig and Lavazza have recently released new machines and redesigned capsules that eliminate traditional plastic components.
For instance, Keurig's new compostable pods and Lavazza's single-serve espresso tablets made with compressed ground coffee are gaining popularity among eco-conscious consumers. A 2025 poll conducted by environmental organization 5 Gyres revealed that 90% of Americans are worried about the impact of microplastics on the environment and human health, with studies confirming that coffee pods shed microplastics.
This growing trend in luxury home coffee equipment can be attributed to health concerns, environmental awareness, and the perception that metal and glass are more luxurious materials than plastic. Lavazza's new $129 Tablì machine, launched in the US in June, represents a significant investment in the United States as the company aims to double its revenue to $1 billion by 2029.
The machine uses single-serve espresso tablets made from compressed, tamped ground coffee, eliminating the need for traditional plastic and aluminum capsules. Similarly, Keurig introduced a line of compostable pods called AltaRounds, which have been in development since 2020 in response to consumer demand for sustainable and plastic-free coffee options.
The new pods are designed to fit Keurig's Alta machine, signifying a significant reduction in plastic compared to their K-Cup pods.
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