London, October 5, 2023 – A Seattle-based startup, Atomo Coffee, with backing from investors behind Beyond Meat, is set to launch the world’s first beanless coffee, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of coffee production. With $51.6 million in investments, Atomo Coffee’s innovative brew uses superfoods and upcycled ingredients to mimic the molecular structure of coffee.
Traditional coffee production has been linked to deforestation at an alarming rate, equivalent to up to ten New York Central Parks a day, according to Atomo Coffee’s CEO and co-founder, Andy Kleitsch. The startup’s beanless coffee seeks to address this issue by offering an eco-friendly alternative.
Atomo’s initial “proof-of-concept” cold brew beanless coffee reportedly reduces carbon emissions by 93% and consumes 94% less water compared to regular coffee. Time Magazine recognized it as one of the 200 best inventions of 2022. The company expects similar environmentally friendly results for its new hot beanless coffee, made primarily from upcycled ingredients, including discarded date pips from commercial production.
Initially targeting coffee shops, Atomo Coffee’s roasted coffee will wholesale for $20.99 per pound, which is higher than the average U.S. coffee shop’s cost of $10-14 per pound. Despite potential pricing challenges, the startup is in discussions with major global coffee companies to explore possibilities for scaling up and supplying them. These coffee giants are already recognizing the need to address coffee availability in the next 20-30 years, anticipating a potential shortage.
Atomo Coffee’s innovative approach represents a significant step toward more sustainable coffee production and reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional coffee farming.