The Truth About the Classic Red Wax
Many consumers question the composition of the iconic red coating on Mini Babybel cheese, often mistaking it for plastic due to its vibrant color and smooth texture. However, the protective shell is actually a blend of food-safe paraffin and microcrystalline waxes, along with coloring. This wax, which contains no Bisphenol A (BPA), helps to preserve the cheese's freshness and flavor. While not plastic, this petroleum-based wax is also not biodegradable and should not be placed in home compost. For responsible disposal, the company encourages participation in specialized programs.
The original Mini Babybel also comes with a plastic cellophane wrapper and is contained within a plastic net bag. Both the wrapper and the net are part of a recycling partnership with TerraCycle, though they cannot be recycled through standard curbside programs in most areas.
Beyond the Red Wax: The Plant-Based Innovation
In a significant move towards sustainability, Babybel introduced a plant-based version that offers a truly plastic-free alternative for much of its packaging. The dairy-free cheese wheels come in a different colored wax—a signature green—to distinguish them from the original. This new product showcases a major step in the brand's eco-conscious efforts, providing consumers with a choice that significantly reduces the use of single-use plastic.
Key features of the plant-based version's packaging include:
- Recyclable Paper Pouch: The outer packaging for the plant-based Babybel is made from 100% paper, which can be recycled easily through most kerbside recycling programs.
- Home-Compostable Wrapper: The inner cellophane wrapper is made from cellulose derived from certified forests and is certified home-compostable. This means it can break down naturally in a home composting environment, significantly reducing waste.
Babybel's Broader Sustainability Initiatives
Beyond the plant-based product, the Bel Group, Babybel's parent company, is rolling out extensive changes across its entire product line. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to minimizing environmental impact and shifting towards a circular economy.
Comparison of Original vs. Plant-Based Babybel Packaging
To better understand the differences, here is a comparison of the packaging materials for the original and plant-based versions of Babybel:
| Packaging Component | Original Babybel | Plant-Based Babybel |
|---|---|---|
| Wax Coating | Petroleum-based paraffin and microcrystalline waxes. Recyclable via TerraCycle. | Green wax (composition may vary). Recyclable via TerraCycle. |
| Individual Wrapper | Plastic cellophane. Recyclable via TerraCycle. | Home-compostable cellulose film. |
| Outer Bag/Pouch | Plastic mesh net bag. Recyclable via TerraCycle. | 100% recyclable paper bag. |
| Environmental Impact | More plastic and non-biodegradable waste; relies on specialized recycling. | Significant reduction in plastic; utilizes home-compostable and readily recyclable materials. |
Future Goals for All Babybel Products
The company has set ambitious goals to improve sustainability across its full range. They have announced plans to transition all Mini Babybel products globally to paper wrappers by the end of 2026, which will be kerbside recyclable. This change is expected to significantly reduce the company's carbon footprint. They are also actively exploring other innovations, including the potential for plant-based wax for all products and the possibility of no packaging at all in certain contexts, as seen in a 2020 pilot project in France.
Addressing the Wax and Other Waste
While the original wax is not plastic, it is made from petroleum products and is not compostable. However, it can be recycled through partnerships like the one with TerraCycle. For those who prefer a more DIY approach, melted-down wax can be repurposed for other uses, such as making candles. Natural alternatives like beeswax are also available for hobbyist cheesemakers, though these often require blending with vegetable shortening to prevent brittleness. For the most straightforward, plastic-free disposal, the plant-based Babybel is the clear winner with its home-compostable and easily recyclable components.
Conclusion: Making a More Sustainable Choice
So, is there a Babybel without plastic? Yes, and the answer is the plant-based version, which comes with a 100% paper bag and a home-compostable individual wrapper. While the classic version's iconic wax is not plastic, it requires a special recycling program like TerraCycle for proper disposal, unlike the new plant-based alternative. The Bel Group is also making significant strides to improve the sustainability of all its products, with plans to introduce kerbside-recyclable paper wrappers for all Mini Babybel cheeses globally by the end of 2026. By choosing the plant-based option or supporting the brand's wider initiatives, consumers can make a more eco-friendly choice when enjoying their favorite cheese snack. For more information on Babybel's responsibility commitments, you can visit their official website.
