Lavazza has introduced Tabli, a coffee system using compressed ground coffee pucks that eliminate individual capsule packaging, now available in the US for the first time after a European launch last year. According to TechRadar, each Tabli 'tab' is made entirely from compressed ground coffee, with a concave shape that expands on contact with hot water inside the machine. Used tabs are deposited into a bin after brewing.
Packaging and Sustainability Impact
The Tabli system addresses a key environmental drawback of capsule coffee: individual packaging. While Nespresso and Keurig pods use foil or plastic wrappers that require dedicated recycling facilities, Lavazza's tabs are unwrapped. The tabs are sold in a cardboard box with a thin plastic film layer, which TechRadar notes is necessary to protect the ground coffee from oxidation and flavor loss. The absence of individual packaging means each Tabli tab weighs less than its foil- or plastic-wrapped counterpart, reducing transport energy. Additionally, without the need to manufacture a package for each pod, the tabs are expected to be more energy-efficient to produce.
| Feature | Traditional Capsule (e.g., Nespresso) | Lavazza Tabli |
|---|---|---|
| Packaging | Individual foil/plastic wrapper | No individual packaging; sold in cardboard box with plastic film |
| Material | Plastic, aluminium, coffee grounds | 100% compressed ground coffee |
| Weight per serving | Higher (includes packaging) | Lower (coffee only) |
| Recyclability | Requires specialized facilities | Compostable? (not specified, but less waste) |
US Launch and Product Details
The Tabli bundle, which includes the coffee maker, a milk frother, a selection of 60 tabs, and tweezers for handling pods, will be available for pre-order at $99.99 directly from Lavazza, with shipping beginning in August 2026, according to TechRadar. Lavazza offers five blends at launch: Super Crema, Espresso, Double Espresso, Lungo, and Decaf. The Tabli format is protected by 15 patents, meaning coffee tabs are only available from Lavazza, similar to other proprietary pod systems.
Manufacturing Implications for the Food Processing Industry
From a production standpoint, the Tabli system eliminates the need for individual capsule manufacturing lines, which typically involve forming, filling, and sealing steps with plastic or aluminium. Instead, the process relies on compressing ground coffee into solid pucks, potentially reducing capital equipment costs and energy consumption per serving. The compressed pucks also lower shipping weight and volume, offering logistics savings. For industrial procurement directors evaluating new coffee systems for offices or canteens, Tabli could reduce waste management costs associated with used capsules.
Production Timeline
The Tabli coffee maker and tabs are now available for pre-order in the US, with shipping starting in August 2026, as reported by TechRadar.
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