Capsule coffee has gained popularity for its convenience and quick preparation, but specialists warn of some aspects that consumers should be aware of. One of the main points of attention is the presence of furan, a volatile compound that forms during the roasting process of coffee beans. According to Manuel Viso, a specialist in hematology and hemotherapy, this compound tends to dissipate naturally when coffee is prepared through methods such as filter or French press. However, in capsules, the closed system until the moment of extraction means that part of the furan remains trapped and ends up in the cup.
Furan is considered a potentially carcinogenic substance, but specialists make a point of contextualizing its impact. According to explanations cited by the publication Women's Health, more than 30 capsules per day would need to be consumed for there to be a truly relevant health risk. For this reason, specialists rule out alarmist scenarios related to habitual consumption and recommend caution in interpreting this data. Those who wish to reduce exposure to this compound can opt for filter coffee or espresso prepared from ground beans, methods that allow a significant part of the furan to be released during preparation.
Another topic often associated with capsule coffee relates to the aluminum used in some of these products. The capsules have an internal coating designed to prevent direct contact between the aluminum and the coffee, reducing the possibility of particle migration into the beverage. Assessments carried out by the European Food Safety Authority concluded that the system used in capsules avoids problems associated with the presence of aluminum. Still, specialists recommend that capsules should not be reused or subjected to temperatures higher than those specified by manufacturers.
The consensus among specialists seems to focus mainly on the quality of the raw material and the preparation method. Bean coffee, especially when subjected to a lighter roast, better preserves some of its natural properties. Filtered coffee and espresso prepared from ground beans continue to be among the most valued options from a quality perspective, although capsule coffee remains a practical alternative and is considered safe when consumed in moderation. Four cups of coffee per day are generally pointed to as sufficient to benefit from the properties associated with the drink without exceeding the levels considered moderate.
