Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


  • Questions about the beanarella coffee capsules

    • Do the beanarella coffee capsules work with other systems?

      No. The beanarella coffee capsules can only be used with beanarella coffee makers and don't work with other systems. The entire beanarella capsule system has been developed to work with the compostable material that we use for our capsules. Other systems work in a way that the capsules or pods are punctured by an injection needle. Our capsules would be jammed in those coffee makers. The beanarella system is different. We don't puncture or break the capsules, we just work with high pressure (20 bar) to push the water through the filter.

    • What to do with the used capsules?

      The beanarella capsules are the only ones worldwide which are 100% compostable. We recommend to dump the used capsules in the so called "Grüngutcontainer" (Switzerland) so the capsules can be processed in a composting plant and will be transformed to compost within 4-12 weeks. We documented the entire process in a video clip that can be seen here:

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3R7hod6haE

    • What are the capsules made of?

      The beanarella coffee capsules are made of bioplastic. The components are mostly renewable raw materials. The capsules consist of polylactic acid, cellulose and calcium carbonate. Polylactic acid is gained from renewable raw materials based on the sugar beet and corn.

    • How are the capsules transformed to compost?

      Check out our video on youtube:

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3R7hod6haE

    • How do we protect the quality of the coffee? How long will the coffee stay fresh once the package is open?

      The coffee capsules are kept sealed in our newly developed airtight package which is also 100% biodegradable and 100% compostable. After the package is open, we recommend to use the capsules within 2-3 weeks. Please seal the open packages.

      You can use the wooden pins that we offer in our shop.

      You can also store the open package in your fridge to keep it fresh.

    • Why are the packages so firm?

      Freshly roasted and ground coffee continues to produce its own gas. Therefore the package has to have enough room for that gas. Otherwise the package would burst.

    • Is the beanarella packaging also compostable?

      Yes, the beanarella packaging is also 100% compostable.

  • Questions about the beanarella coffee

    • How do we roast our coffee? How much acid does it contain?

      All coffee beans are roasted in the oldest roasting house in Switzerland and are roasted according to the traditional drum roasting methods. Due to the low roasting temperatures and the extended roasting time our coffee is free from unwanted acid and gentle to your stomach.

    • What types of coffee/flavors are organic and fair trade certified?

      beanarella uses fair-trade and organic coffee without exception.

    • What does fair trade mean?

      Due to the fair trading conditions, the farmers in the coffee producing countries can invest in a sustainable future.

      More info at:

      http://www.info.fairtrade.net

    • How much coffee is in one capsule? How much does it cost?

      We use 6,3 to 6,8 grams ground coffee per capsule. One package contains 10 capsules and one package costs 4.60 to 4.90 CHF.

    • Are there any critical substances in our coffee or in the capsules?

      No. The capsules don't contain any plasticizer, heavy metals or aluminum. We use organic coffee exclusively and don't work with preservatives or aromatic substances. The content of our capsules is 100% freshly roasted and ground coffee.

  • Questions about beanarella coffee makers

    • Which machine do I have to use to prepare coffee or espresso?

      All our models work with a 20 bar pump and can be used for preparing coffee or espresso.

    • I use a different sized cup. Can I change the amount of coffee?

      Yes. Just push the button and keep it pushed until the desired amount of coffee is prepared. The machine will memorize the new setting. For a Ristretto we recommend 25ml, for an Espresso 40ml and for a coffee 110ml.

    • How to decalcify my beanarella coffee maker?

      We recommend to use our water filter.

      The filtration technology reduces limescale and other taste and aroma impairing substances.

      Alternatively, we recommend liquid descaler based on lacticum acidum. Depending on your water hardness we recommend to decalcify your coffee maker every 2-3 months.

    • Is the milk frother easy to clean (Model Fay)?

      Yes. The milk frother can be cleaned in the dishwasher. The internal parts of the machine won't be in touch with the milk as the container works independently and the milk will be poured in the cup by hand. Here you can see how it works:

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAIbNgNKlzQ

    • My machine doesn't work properly. What do I have to do?

      You have a warranty of 5 years on all our coffee makers. Please contact our support with a description of your problem: support@beanarella.ch

  • Questions about the ordering process

    • I have a gift card or a discount code. How do I use it?

      If you have a gift card or a discount code you can enter it at the end of the ordering process and the amount will be deducted.

  • General questions about beanarella

    • Where are beanarella products available?

      In Switzerland, Germany and Austria, but we are expanding to other European countries and the United States soon.

    • Where do I get the latest news and info on beanarella products?

      On our beanarella facebook page we will post any news. We will keep you up to date about our sweepstakes and special offers.

    • Didn't find what you were looking for?

      No problem, just send us an email:

      info@beanarella.ch