Babybel Ditchs Iconic Wax Coating for Paper Packaging in Major Sustainability Push
PARIS – In a significant departure from its decades-long tradition, Babybel is transitioning away from its signature red wax coating to paper packaging, a move the company says will slash its carbon footprint by 62% – a reduction of 2,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. The change, impacting a daily production of 5 million units, represents a “decisive turning point” for the brand, owned by Bel Group, which also includes La Vache qui rit, Boursin, Pom’Potes, and Materne.
The shift required substantial industrial adjustments, including modifications and replacements of machinery to maintain the current packaging rate of 14 portions per minute. “There are strong and growing societal expectations about the appearance of packaging and, as the company that invented portioned cheese, we have a responsibility,” stated Béatrice de Noray, BelS deputy general director in charge of growth.
the move comes amidst increasing pressure on manufacturers, including potential government taxes on plastic packaging recently considered in France. However, Bel insists this isn’t a reactive measure. “this change is not a ‘response to injunctions, but a long-term response’,” de noray affirmed. “The objective: ‘offer consumers packaging that is more respectful of the planet,'” added Delphine Chatelin, vice-president of research, innovation and development.
While the paper transition marks a major step, Bel has set a broader goal: to offer 100% recyclable or home compostable packaging across its entire product line by 2030. The company is already exploring similar sustainable solutions for other flagship products, including the aluminum packaging of Kiri, partnering wiht start-ups to develop a “paper impermeable to water, air and grease” that meets stringent health standards.
