Having a pod-based, single-brew coffee machine is practically a lifesaver in college. Not only does it craft a 10-ounce drip coffee, tea, or latte in mere seconds, but it's also significantly cheaper than a typical Dunkin' or Starbucks order. Then again, a fancy coffee can turn a bad day into a bearable one. While Keurig machines and their off-brand counterparts are convenient, that convenience has come at a cost. On top of being difficult to recycle, plastic coffee pod waste is said to be able to circle the Earth more than 10 times. This is astounding simply because Keurig pods became widely available for purchase in grocery stores around 2008. Unsurprisingly, K-Cup creator John Sylvan notably regrets his invention due to its environmental impact. However, with all these growing, horrifying statistics, Keurig is trying to counteract its plastic waste with new K-Rounds. Here's what we know about Keurig's plastic-free K-cups.
What is the K-Round?
Announced on March 13, Keurig is showcasing its new plastic-free coffee pods. These pods are coffee grounds encased in plastic and a protective plant-based coating. K-Rounds will also soon be available in different sizes based on the type of coffee someone desires, whether it's espresso or drip coffee. Currently, the pods are only compatible with the forthcoming Keurig Alta brewing system.
These pods are not currently on grocery store shelves, but you can sign up here for information ahead of its wide release and even participate in its beta testing. Additionally, the coffee pods are not yet compostable, but the company says that "we're working through that process now."
What plastic-free pods are on the market for Keurig machines?
Of course, there are ways to avoid plastic in your single-serve coffee machine without upgrading to a fancy new Keurig. Some plastic-free pods available on Amazon and local grocery stores include:
Of course, you can also use a stainless steel reusable K-Cup as well.