After three years of research and development, Nespresso has created a home compostable paper-based capsule that does not compromise on the taste experience.

The company said it decided on this approach as the consumer demand for compostable packaging is increasing.

Nespresso CEO Guillaume Le Cunff said, “Pushing the boundaries of fine coffee experiences is part of the Nespresso innovation, and since becoming a B Corp earlier this year, we’re more committed than ever to widening the sustainable choices we offer our consumers.

“We are excited to announce our first ever paper-based home compostable capsule, which will complement our offering of aluminium capsules that are both recyclable and made using 80 per cent recycled aluminium. This is about yet another sustainable choice, without compromising on quality.”

Retro-compatible with Nespresso Original machines, the new capsules will be piloted in France and Switzerland from early 2023. Several aspects of the capsule feature proprietary technology, including the biopolymer lining inside the capsule which protects the coffee against oxidisation.

Nespresso head of global R&D for systems and coffee machines Julia Lauricella said: “Our 40 years of experience in coffee systems allowed us, together with the Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences, to develop a home compostable paper-based capsule.

“We combined a high-precision paper pulp forming process with a biodegradable layer for protection against oxidation to preserve our coffee in transport, storage and during the high-pressure extraction in our machines.”

The company said the pilot will be further launched in several other European countries within a year.