NatureWorks and IMA create compostable coffee pod

In Minnesota, a two-year partnership between IMA Coffee and polylactic acid producer NatureWorks has resulted in the development of a compostable coffee pod. Unveiled at the recent AMI Single-Serve Capsules conference in Boston, the pod features a rigid capsule body, filter, and lidding made from Ingeo™️ PLA biopolymer. 

Every IMA Coffee pod filling and sealing machine can handle compostable coffee pods made from Ingeo™️ PLA biopolymer. Sophisticated microleakage detection testing performed at IMA Coffee Lab helped identify and achieve the optimal material sealing parameters and limits for the compostable components to ensure reliable performance when brewing pods. IMA was also able to define the suitable set up of IMA packaging machineries to handle the assembly, filling, and sealing of the pods successfully at commercial line speeds.

“This solution removes the burden from brands and roasters who are looking for a compostable pod with a long shelf life that preserves the taste and aroma of the coffee,” said Flavio Di Marcotullio, Strategic Marketing Manager, Single Serve Beverages, at NatureWorks. “These Ingeo pods provide a reliable brewing experience for consumers, can be produced at commercial speeds, and do not sacrifice expected performance for sustainability.”