Science & Tech · Gadgets & EVs · 1 hr ago
Keurig launches Alta brewer with plastic-free coffee pucks
Keurig has launched the Alta, a new single-serve coffee system built around a redesigned coffee puck called an AltaRound.
The puck holds coffee grounds in seaweed-derived gel, instead of the hard plastic used for K-Cups.
The system also includes a large brewer that extracts coffee at up to 10 bars of pressure and scans each puck’s QR code to suggest drinks.
Reviewers found the coffee impressive and praised the touchscreen and built-in milk frother, though one reviewer said the espresso lacked some body.
The pucks avoid the plastic used in K-Cups, but they currently ship in foil-based packaging; Keurig plans to move to paper-based packaging that can be recycled at the curb.
The machine costs $500, takes up substantial counter space and needs extra clearance above it.
The system is now available, with light, medium and dark roast pucks listed by one reviewer.
Keurig has introduced the Alta, a brewer designed for its new plastic-free AltaRound coffee pucks.
Each puck contains coffee grounds encased in seaweed-derived gel, and the machine extracts coffee at up to 10 bars of pressure.
The Alta scans QR codes on the pucks and suggests drinks through a touchscreen.
The system includes a steam wand for preparing milk drinks.
The reviewers praised the brewer’s interface and coffee, though CNET noted the machine’s size and $500 price.
The sources differ on the pucks’ current packaging: Wired describes foil-based packaging, while CNET says they are packaged in plastic.
- Who
- Keurig launched the Alta brewer and AltaRound pucks.
- What
- The Alta is a coffee machine designed to brew Keurig’s new plastic-free pucks.
- When
- The system was reported as having arrived in October 2026; CNET says it was first teased in 2024.
- Where
- Not stated.
- Why
- Keurig redesigned its K-Cup system, including its packaging and brewing technology.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Keurig’s plastic-free pod coffee system was first teased.
CNET published its review of the Alta system.
Wired published its review of the Alta brewer.
- Puck name
- AltaRound
- Puck material
- Coffee grounds encased in seaweed-derived gel
- Brewing pressure
- Up to 10 bars
- CNET-reported price
- $500
- Machine footprint
- 19 inches by 10 inches; 1 foot tall
- Water tank capacity
- 70 ounces
2 sources
What people are saying
This plastic-free coffee delivery system is a first for Keurig and really appeals to me.
The plastic-free pods are an achievement in themselves
The price is steep