Keurig’s new machine uses plastic-free compressed coffee pucks

The $500 Alta trades recyclable pods for 100 percent compostable pucks wrapped in a plant-based coating.

Keurig’s new single-serve coffee machine delivers the same convenience that helped popularize its appliances but without the use of recyclable pods made from plastic and aluminum. The company first showed off its Keurig Alta machine two years ago while introducing the puck-shaped pod replacements called AltaRounds that wrap pressed coffee grounds in a plant-based coating derived from seaweed. The pucks are 100 percent compostable, and while they currently come in plastic wrappers to keep them fresh, the company is working to transition to paper wrappers, according to CNET .

The Keurig Alta is now available for preorder for $499.99 with shipping expected to start on October 21st. Color options include graphite, sandstone, and sandstone mixed with a “satin stainless” gray finish. The Alta is currently only offered as part of a bundle that includes a collection of glassware and six boxes of the AltaRounds. At launch there will be six caffeinated varieties of AltaRounds available with light roast, medium roast, and flavored options.

The Alta is one of Keurig’s most expensive consumer-focused machines because in addition to traditional brewing methods it doubles as an espresso maker. Hot water is pushed through the AltaRounds at high pressure after the puck has been punctured by an array of spikes and finished with milk foam whipped up by a built-in frother.

Despite the added capabilities the Alta is designed to be as easy to use as Keurig’s older machines. You don’t need to use a grinder or even know what a tamper is. The AltaRounds are each printed with a QR code ready by the machine that specifies brewing instructions including what pressure and temperature are needed. Manual adjustments aren’t needed but the Alta features a large touchscreen display where different drink recipes can be selected. The machine is also Wi-Fi connected so as more varieties of AltaRounds are released it can be updated to include more recipes and options.