The Big Babybel Change You'll Start Seeing In The Cheese Aisle

In a push for sustainable packaging, Babybel cheese, the classic lunchbox staple you know and love, is launching a major update to its signature crinkly cellophane wrapping. In a press release, Bel Group, Babybel's parent company, stated that by 2027, all of its global markets will use recyclable, certified paper packaging instead of cellophane. This change is just one piece of Bel's goal of 100% recyclable or compostable packaging in its products by 2030.

Since 2020, the company has utilized bio-based and home-compostable cellophane for its iconic moon-shaped cheese snacks, but the transition to paper represents the brand's ultimate sustainability achievement. The development of Babybel's new packaging took years as developers were tasked with ensuring that the new product preserved product quality, microbiological safety, and temperature variations — and, of course, the new packaging couldn't affect Babybel's iconic flavor.

The new eco-friendly paper packaging has already begun rolling out in some countries, including the United Kingdom. The U.S., Canada, and Northern Europe are set to follow shortly, and in 2027, all 50 markets across the globe will adopt the product's new paper packaging, according to Bel Group.

Babybel's packaging advancement is no small feat. Delphine Chatelin, Director of RID at the Bel Group, called the transition from cellophane to paper a "true technical and industrial challenge," noting that the entire process — from production to consumption — had to be completely rethought. (But don't worry, Babybel's classic wax packaging is here to stay.)

Additionally, Linda Neu, Babybel's Global Director, noted that two billion Babybel portions are sold every year, highlighting the global impact of this change. "It reflects our commitment to innovate without compromising on quality or food safety, while accelerating the reduction of our environmental footprint," she stated.

Babybel isn't the first global food brand to push for sustainable packaging. Heinz Ketchup, Coca-Cola, and Bacardi are just some of the brands that have made significant strides in the world of sustainable packaging over the last few years. These changes might affect the look of some of your favorite products, but sustainable packaging is a crucial step that allows for less waste, a smaller carbon footprint, and an overall better planet.