
Coffee capsules are super practical: easy to portion and clean to handle. For peace of mind, they're even available in environmentally friendly versions! However, there are variations, as some capsules conserve resources more than others. Looking for particularly sustainable coffee capsules? Then you should know the difference between biodegradable and compostable coffee capsules !
What does “biodegradable” mean?
"Biodegradable coffee capsules" – that sounds pretty sustainable. But let's take a closer look: The term "biodegradable" generally means that a material can be broken down by biological mechanisms, for example, by microorganisms or enzymes. The only waste products left over from biodegradable materials are water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. However, the term "biodegradable" refers only to the chemical structure of the materials used, not to the raw materials used. For example, biodegradable plastics can contain biodegradable polyester. Their origin, in turn, can be biobased (e.g., wood) or fossil (petroleum).
What does biobased mean?
Biobased refers to the raw material from which something is made. A biobased polymer is made entirely or partially from biomass, i.e., from renewable raw materials such as trees, plants, crops, or grasses. Unlike fossil resources, biomass is a renewable, and therefore sustainable, resource. Therefore, not all biodegradable plastics are entirely biobased. They are often mixtures with fossil components, which in turn are not resource-efficient.Can I dispose of biodegradable coffee capsules in the compost?
Let's move on to the question of disposal. Can you put biodegradable coffee capsules in the compost or organic waste? The answer is no! Even though biodegradable plastic can decompose completely, it sometimes takes several years. Therefore, biodegradable coffee capsules end up in the general waste after the coffee has been consumed.
Compostable coffee capsules are more sustainable
In terms of sustainability, so-called compostable coffee capsules go a step further than the label "biodegradable." But what exactly does compostable mean? In this case: biodegradable under certain conditions and within a certain time period. A material is considered compostable if it decomposes under specified conditions in industrial composting facilities:
- within twelve weeks
- at about 60 degrees Celsius
- at least 90 percent
These requirements are usually not met in home compost. And according to the German Organic Waste Ordinance, compostable coffee capsules are not allowed in organic waste. Therefore, you should also dispose of them with the residual waste.

Next-generation compostable coffee capsules at Mamis Caffè
Things are different with the new coffee capsules from Mamis Caffè. They're a small revolution when it comes to compostability. Because sustainability is important to us, we package our delicious coffee in the innovative, TÜV-certified Capsul'in IML Zero Impact capsules – and you can actually just throw them in your home compost, because they decompose particularly well.
The innovative compostable coffee capsules are 100 percent bio-based, meaning they are completely plant-based and contain no materials from fossil fuels. Further advantages of the zero-impact capsules compared to other capsules include:
- its low weight
- fewer CO2 emissions during production
- no allergens
- Bisphenol-A-free
And not only is the capsule material particularly sustainable, a sophisticated technology also protects the contents:
- An oxygen barrier in the capsule optimally protects the coffee from external influences. This perfectly seals in the flavor and aroma, allowing them to unfold during brewing.
- The blend and texture of the coffee are also perfectly preserved.
Good to know : The compostable capsules are also compatible with Nespresso machines. So you can enjoy Mom's delicious Italian coffee from capsules with a clear conscience!
These are the advantages of coffee capsules
Coffee capsules are not only convenient to use. Many people also enjoy the taste of the coffee brewed from them. Capsule coffee boasts an excellent aroma and a particularly thick crema. Learn why and learn more about coffee capsules in our blog article: Small but mighty: What are the advantages of coffee capsules?