Two years ago, Keurig previewed one of its most promising advances in years: a coffee pod made entirely from coffee byproducts, without any plastic at all. While anticipation built for its arrival, Italian coffee leader Lavazza developed its own sustainable pod and has now reached the market first.

Lavazza launched Tabli in the United States on Monday, a solid coffee tab that the 130-year-old company describes as its most ambitious product innovation to date. The US introduction follows a strong rollout in Italy and represents the first availability of this format beyond that country.

Unlike K-Cups and other standard single-serve options, Tabli pods contain no capsule, no separate wrapping and no coating. They consist only of compressed coffee that is measured, ground and packed into a ready-to-brew solid shape.

The tab technology stems from five years of research and development along with more than 15 patents. Its concave design lets the coffee expand while brewing, creating what Lavazza terms Crema Plus, the rich and lasting foam typical of well-prepared espresso. The companion machine, created in Italy, needs no preparation, grinding or portioning by the user.

The introduction serves as the focus of Lavazza's stepped-up growth efforts across North America.

The US ranks among the world's most vibrant markets, said Daniele Foti, Lavazza North America's VP of marketing, in a press statement. This marks the company's strongest commitment to the market so far, with plans to influence future developments.

Tabli removes any compromise between quality and ease, delivering a complete sensory experience through coffee that can be smelled, touched and viewed before brewing, Foti noted.

The Tablì machine features a refined shape and a simple slider for one-touch use. Add-ons include a milk frother and a holder for tab storage.

The Tablì machine will be offered for preorder soon at tablicoffee.us for $260. Tabs are priced from $0.70 to $1.15 each. A launch package includes the machine, a milk frother and a 60-count selection of tabs.