Single-serve coffee pods have been a convenient choice for coffee lovers, but they come with significant environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradable nature. Swiss company CoffeeB is addressing these issues with their innovative Coffee Balls, which serve as a compostable alternative to traditional pods.
What Are Coffee Balls?

Coffee Balls are made from compressed ground coffee beans and are encased in a seaweed-derived outer layer that is fully compostable. They are designed specifically for use with the CoffeeB Globe machine, which offers a modern and eco-friendly brewing experience. Currently, CoffeeB offers eight different blends of certified organic and fair-trade coffee.
This solution eliminates the need to recycle plastic cups which is a hassle for consumbers but also has an evironmental impact.
Brewing Process
The brewing process is straightforward. The Globe machine moistens the Coffee Ball and then pierces its outer casing to extract the coffee under pressure. With a brewing pressure of 7 to 12 bar, the fresh coffee is served directly into your cup with a simple lever pull.
Environmental Impact
One of the key advantages of Coffee Balls is their biodegradability. While traditional single-use coffee pods can take months to decompose, Coffee Balls are reported to completely break down in just four weeks when composted at home. This innovative solution significantly reduces the waste typically associated with coffee consumption.
Availability and Pricing
Coffee Balls come in packs of nine, priced at approximately $4.60, while the Globe machine is expected to retail for about 169 Swiss francs (around $172). The machine also incorporates recycled materials and is designed to be repairable, aligning with sustainable practices.
A nice environmentally friendly option…
As consumers become more aware of their environmental footprint, CoffeeB’s Coffee Balls present an attractive, eco-friendly option for coffee aficionados who want to enjoy rich flavors without harming the planet. With their innovative design and commitment to sustainability, CoffeeB may redefine the way we think about single-serve coffee.
