Nespresso discontinues compostable paper capsules
Nespresso’s shift follows concerns over paper capsules’ shelf life, while the company plans to expand aluminium recycling, with rates already at 73% in Switzerland.
UK – Nespresso has announced plans to discontinue its compostable paper-based coffee capsules and concentrate on its aluminium range, citing customer feedback and the need to preserve the quality of its freshly roasted coffee.
The Nestlé-owned coffee brand confirmed the decision to news agency AWP following media reports. The company also addressed the move in its frequently asked questions, explaining why it would end the Paper-Based Collection.
Nespresso said the paper capsules were introduced as a pilot project to give customers an additional option without compromising flavour. However, experience with the product reinforced the company’s preference for aluminium packaging.
“Our experience has reinforced more than ever that aluminium is the best option for optimally protecting the high quality of our freshly roasted coffee all the way to the cup,” the company said.
“For this reason, we have decided to discontinue the Paper-Based Collection and focus our efforts on our aluminium range going forward.”
Launched in 2023 after three years of development, the compostable capsules contained 82% paper-based packaging and were tested in 14 European markets.
In Switzerland, the capsules are expected to remain available in some Nespresso boutiques for approximately another month, depending on existing stock levels.
Nespresso had recommended that customers consume the paper capsules within four weeks of opening a pack. By comparison, the company says its aluminium packaging protects coffee from light, air and moisture for up to a year.
Despite ending the paper capsule initiative, Nespresso said the decision did not represent a retreat from its sustainability commitments.
According to a life-cycle analysis commissioned by the company, the carbon footprints of the two capsule types are almost identical. Producing a small cup of espresso generates 79 grams of carbon dioxide equivalent with the paper capsule, compared with 81 grams with the aluminium version.
Nespresso now plans to strengthen its focus on aluminium capsule recycling and increase the use of standard recycling systems.
In France, 80% of the population can already recycle Nespresso capsules through standard recycling schemes. Switzerland’s recycling rate stands at 73%, with the company seeking further improvements.
The decision ends Nespresso’s Paper-Based Collection as the company prioritises aluminium packaging for coffee freshness while continuing to develop its capsule recycling efforts.
The move follows the company’s assessment of the paper capsules’ performance, including their shelf life and overall customer experience, as it refocuses its packaging strategy on aluminium.
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