Keurig is going eco-friendly with its latest pods.
Keurig's new coffee maker, the Keurig Alta, runs on AltaRounds, plastic- and aluminum-free coffee pods that are ground, pressed and wrapped in a protective plant-based coating, according to the Keurig website. The pods are designed to be brewed at higher pressures than current single-serving options.
The Keurig Alta can make a variety of beverages, including a normal cup of coffee, iced coffee, an espresso shot, lattes, cappuccinos, cortados, flat whites and Americanos, according to the Keurig website. The coffee machine, also equipped with a steam wand and milk frother, can froth hot or cold milk. Unlike previous Keurig models, the Alta can automatically read AltaRounds recipe codes and adjust
brew styles, temperature and pressure accordingly.
Keurig announced the Alta system in 2024, but the machine and environmentally friendly pods are nearing their release and expected to hit the Keurig website later this fall.
Keurig put the Alta on sale as part of a limited-access bundle at 9 a.m. ET on Oct. 1 and sold out by 7 a.m. ET on Oct. 2, Keurig told USA TODAY in a statement. The bundles, which include one machine, six boxes of AltaRounds and a glass drinkware set, will begin shipping on Oct. 21. The company did not confirm how many units were sold.
For coffee lovers eager for the latest hardware, here's what to know about the Keurig Alta.
What does the Keurig Alta look like?
Take a look at the Keurig Alta and AltaRounds below. The coffee machine is available in three colors: sandstone, sandstone and satin stainless, or graphite.
How much does the Keurig Alta cost?
The Keurig Alta limited-access bundle, which included more than just the machine, was $499.99, Keurig told USA TODAY. The company did not disclose the price of a standalone machine.
When does the Keurig Alta go on sale?
Keurig said the Alta goes on sale later this fall. Interested customers can sign up on Keurig's website for more information when the machines become available.
What flavor AltaRounds are available?
As of Oct. 6, four AltaRounds flavors were listed on the Keurig website:
- Caramel-flavored coffee
- Medium roast coffee
- Dark roast coffee
- Dark roast double espresso
One box of AltaRounds contains eight pods.
Do normal K-Cup pods work with the Keurig Alta?
Yes, the Keurig Alta is backward-compatible, meaning it can run K-Cup pods. However, AltaRounds are only compatible with the Keurig Alta, not other Keurig machines, according to the company.
Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Keurig's new machine uses plastic-free coffee pods. How it works
