Keurig's Biodegradable Coffee: A New Era?

Keurig is transitioning from its popular K-Cup coffee pods to innovative AltaRounds, which are fully biodegradable compressed coffee tablets, aiming to eliminate plastic waste. The new Keurig Alta Coffee and Espresso Maker, available for $499.99, is a substantial appliance with a sleek design and a 10.84 x 11.7 x 19-inch footprint. It boasts a touchscreen interface and optional Wi-Fi connectivity, offering a premium user experience.

This versatile machine brews both espresso and longer coffee drinks and remains compatible with existing K-Cups during the transition. AltaRounds are distinguished by a plant-based coating with QR codes that the brewer's camera reads to suggest tailored brewing options and recipes. For instance, a Double Shot pod might suggest an espresso, while a Sweet Spot pod could be brewed hot or over ice.

AltaRounds cannot be brewed cold directly; the 'over ice' option produces a concentrated hot shot to prevent dilution. The machine features an integrated steam wand for frothing milk, with presets for dairy and plant-based alternatives, and can create both hot and cold froth. Early impressions suggest AltaRounds deliver a more intense coffee flavor than competing systems, with a rich espresso and crema noted.

Used AltaRounds automatically drop into a collection bin, where they drain and stay intact for disposal in food waste bins, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional coffee grounds. The brewer's ongoing testing will assess its long-term performance against conventional coffee makers.