STiR coffee and tea magazine

STiR coffee and tea 39 Target market data and requirements should be analyzed before deciding which material (aluminum, plastic, or biodegradable) to work with. Photo courtesy Rychiger Several leading single-serve manufacturers, such as Nestlé/Nespresso, Nescafé, and JDE Peet's, have joined forces with private waste management and recycling companies all over Europe to accommodate the appropriate sorting, recycling, or composting of capsules. "Aluminum capsules benefit from well-established [European] collection and recycling systems, while bio- degradable capsules must meet strict compostability standards to gain accep- tance," adds Kathriner. He also points out that the US places more emphasis on convenience, while quality and brand perception remain the dominant factors for purchas- ing in Asia. In his presentation on the coffee capsule market at World of Coffee Dubai in February, Kathriner stated, "The Middle East leans toward premium coffee products, with aluminum capsules being a preferred choice due to their superior freshness and aroma retention. However, sustainability concerns are also increasing in this region." The Right Materials: Aluminum vs. Biodegradable When it comes to sealing in freshness, aluminum provides the best protec- tion. "However, this is only ensured if the processes of nitrogen flushing, filling, and sealing are carried out with precision," adds Kathriner. "Aluminum also offers a wider range of aesthetic and color options." The UK's popular recycling service Podback turns aluminum pods into ingots to manufacture new products and converts spent coffee grounds into biogas and fertilizer using anaerobic digestion. The prevalence of aluminum capsule recycling col- lection/drop-off sites and its ability to be recycled multiple times have made aluminum Europe's pre- ferred capsule material. Perceived as more environmentally friendly, biodegradable capsules made from moldable bio- plastics or paper can be home or industrial com- posted. Unfortunately, that's only true under par- ticular conditions. "Some countries have already implemented successful programs for processing biodegrad- able capsules in industrial composting facilities," Kathriner says. "However, home composting re- mains a challenge, as many so-called 'compostable' capsules on the market today require specific con- ditions to break down properly. Further techno- logical advancements are needed to create broader acceptance and practical solutions for consumers." The materials used in biodegradable capsules are also more susceptible to oxygen and moisture erosion, resulting in a shorter shelf life. Therefore, ethical messaging and marketing must inform con- sumers of these facts. Although, many customers are happy to buy smaller amounts of coffee more frequently if it aligns with their values. "That said, when both materials are consumed and disposed of correctly, they each offer advan- tages—and in both cases, the consumer can enjoy a great cup of coffee," Kathriner concludes. Future Directions Regarding Material Europe's preferred recyclable capsule material, aluminum, offers the advantage of prolonging freshness, however biodegradable capsules made from moldable bioplastics or paper can be composted under the right conditions. Infograph courtesy Rychiger A popular ad campaign promoting the UK's recycling service Podback, which turns aluminum pods into ingots to manufacture new products and converts spent coffee grounds into biogas and fertilizer using anaerobic digestion. Photo courtesy Podback

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