Easy Serving Espresso Pods (ESE Pods) are small pre-compacted disks of roasted, ground coffee weighing 7 or 14 grams (single or double), and measuring 45 mm in diameter.
The pod is self-contained with perforated filter paper, pre-pressed into a puck shape that fits into a pod portafilter for brewing an espresso. Pods are individually packaged to help preserve each pod's freshness.
Espresso Pod Standards is An Open Design
The Easy Serving Espresso (E.S.E.) design and standards was developed by the Illy Company in 1998 as an open design to encourage adaptation and compatibility with the goal of making home espresso preparation more convenient.
Many espresso machines (espresso coffee makers) are now compatible for use with this Easy Serving Espresso (ESE) Standard pod size.
Pod Adapters and Pod Coffee Makers
An espresso machine pod adapter may be used to brew the pod, or it may also be brewed in the brewing chamber of a pod coffee maker.
Pros and Cons of the Pod System
The advantages of the pod system include faster and more convenient preparation of the espresso as well as less of a mess, less waste, and a more consistent espresso taste.
Disadvantages of the pod system include a higher cost per serving as well as questions about quality as compared to freshly ground and tamped coffee.
Another problem is the waste associated with the extensive packaging including the mylar film pouches that are used to individually wrap each pod.
Pod Standards
The pod market is still evolving. Today many espresso machines (espresso makers), including espresso machine brands other than Illy, accommodate the use of either a 45 mm, 7 gram pod or hand tamped coffee grounds.
Espresso and Coffee Brewing Tips
For more espresso tips see our detailed coffee flavor profiles of gourmet coffee and instructions on preparing Espresso Drink Recipes. For step-by-step instructions see Pulling A Perfect Espresso Shot as well as How to make Lattes and Cappuccinos.
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