As experts in coffee culture and appliance hygiene, we've long highlighted the environmental drawbacks of capsule machines—even their inventor, John Sylvan, regrets the ecological footprint. Now, a new study in Scientific Reports uncovers another alarming issue: these machines are hotspots for bacteria growth.
Researchers at the University of Valencia in Spain examined nine Nespresso machines and one Krups model—top sellers on the market—over a full year. The results? "All machines revealed significant bacterial diversity, with 35 to 67 genera identified." Many belong to genera with known pathogenic properties, posing potential health risks.
Why? The used capsule compartment creates a warm, humid environment ideal for bacterial proliferation, which then spreads throughout the machine. To mitigate, rigorously clean the compartment with antibacterial products regularly, plus the drip tray—a thorough, frequent routine.
This underscores the appeal of filter coffee: more affordable, eco-friendly (grounds compost easily), and increasingly trendy. It's perfect for sharing from a pot, savoring slowly unlike a quick espresso. Consider gifting a stylish Bodum filter coffee maker this Christmas.
