OxBarrier has launched its first technology licensing programme, making its patented compostable single-serve capsule technology available to partners in the global coffee industry.

The technology incorporates an integrated oxygen barrier designed to maintain freshness and flavour in coffee capsules, while offering a compostable alternative to conventional plastic and aluminium formats.

The company said the licensing programme will allow coffee brands and manufacturers to adopt compostable capsule technology without compromising performance, supporting efforts to reduce capsule waste.

OxBarrier’s capsule innovation is protected by a portfolio of intellectual property rights, with patents granted in more than 30 countries including major European markets, Canada and Australia. Multiple European patents were recently upheld by the European Patent Office following opposition proceedings.

According to Grand View Research, the coffee pods and capsules market was worth more than $38 billion in 2023 and is forecast to exceed $58 billion by 2030. Current growth is accompanied by an estimated 576,000 metric tonnes of annual capsule waste, much of which ends up in landfill.

Boele Oltmans, OxBarrier's managing director, said: "Single-serve capsules are a symbol of modern convenience, but they've also created a global waste challenge. OxBarrier's technology allows brands to offer compostable capsules without sacrificing quality or shelf life. Our goal is to help the industry transition to sustainable single-serve packaging at scale, hence our drive to 'Preserve with Purpose'."