Is silicone grease ending up in every lever shot due to lubrication requirements compared to a e61 with no lube requirements?
Leaning towards getting a lever, but silicone could be a big turn off....

How much ends up in the coffee depends on how much you slather on. You still have to lube the seals before the lever gets stiff. You will know when you used way too much when the inside of the shower screen does not look real appetizing.