Why Everyone Should Avoid Coffee Pods

As a coffee expert and master roaster, I'm still definitely not a “coffee snob.” However you like your brew, it doesn’t matter to me…except if it comes from a pod!

We all know that coffee pods harm the planet, and over time, various brands have attempted—with mixed results—to develop greener alternatives. But right now, I don’t want to focus on just the economic impact.

Single-serve pods are simply the lowest quality product on the market, especially compared to fresh roast coffee beans. Pods are an insult to specialty coffee industry artisans like myself, especially when the most common reason for the use of a pod is perceived convenience. However, let’s run through this…if you grind your coffee in advance it will stay fresh for a 1-3 weeks in a sealed container. So you have your grounds, now all you have to do is add a filter and water and push start. The entire process of loading the machine t pouring your first cup takes about five minutes. Just grind and brew your own at home! Not only does the extra effort return tenfold, there are other more concerning issues you’re avoiding by brewing fresh roasted Daydream Coffee….

With disposable pods, you have no idea when the coffee was ground or where it came from. Does it contain pesticides, fertilizer and other toxins? Who knows. The machines themselve are prone to mold and mildew buildup, which you will injest if the pod brewer is not regularly cleaned. What pod coffee cointains 100% of the time is plastic byproduct. The combination of acid and hot water leaches chemical byproduct and microplastics into your cup, every brew. Studies have shown that these particles leach into the beverage, especially under heat, and may enter the body, potentially contributing to chronic health issues like inflammation and toxicity over time, which leads to other issues like cancers. Additionally, some pods contain or release endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as bisphenol F (BPF) and bisphenol S (BPS), which mimic estrogen and can interfere with hormone balance. These compounds have been linked to problems like reproductive issues, fertility challenges, and an elevated risk of certain cancers with prolonged exposure. While many modern pods are labeled BPA-free (bisphenol A, a notorious EDC), the replacement chemicals like BPS and BPF exhibit similar disruptive effects. Daily pod comsumption should be considered a cumulative risk to all consumers and there simply is not enough readily available information on the subject out in the media.

If you must drink from a pod, pay attention to your labels to avoid toxins like pesticides, fertilizers, mold mildew, and potential chemical exposure. Otherwise get yourself a fresh bag of Daydream Coffee to enjoy risk-free!

Thanks for reading and, as always, please feel free to share your thoughts below.