In a significant shift for one of the UK's most recognisable lunchbox staples, Babybel has announced it is phasing out the plastic wrapper from its cheeses for the first time in years. The move forms part of a 'milestone' sustainability drive by parent company Bel UK.
The End of an Era for Cellophane
For decades, the small, wax-covered cheeses have been individually sealed in a cellophane wrapper, made from wood-derived cellulose, before being sold in a net. From 2026, this plastic film is being replaced nationwide with a new paper wrapper. The new packaging is crafted from FSC-certified, biosourced, and renewable materials.
While the old cellulose wrappers were certified as home-compostable, the new paper alternative is fully recyclable, aligning with growing consumer demand for reduced plastic use. The transition has already begun, with Tesco launching the new-look packs in December 2025 following a partnership with Bel UK.
A Rollout Across the UK and Europe
Shoppers in other major supermarkets can expect to see the recyclable paper wrappers appearing on shelves by mid-2026. This change is not confined to Britain; a similar rollout is underway across European markets.
Justine de Monès, Marketing Manager at Bel UK, stated: "Launching paper wrappers with Tesco is an important milestone in our commitment to making all Babybel packaging recyclable." She described the shift as a "decisive milestone in Babybel’s sustainable transformation" that reflects broader efforts to improve packaging across the Bel brand portfolio.
More Than Just a Wrapper: The Red Wax is Next
The packaging update isn't stopping at the outer film. Babybel has also hinted that the iconic red wax coating is in line for an eco-friendly makeover. A statement on the Babybel UK website reads: "We’re looking beyond the net for fully-recyclable packaging solutions and reimagining our red wax by finding ways to use materials that are better for the environment, like plant-based wax. Stay tuned!"
The classic Babybel is an Edam-style cheese made from pasteurised milk, vegetarian rennet, lactic ferments, and salt. The brand now also offers several variations including a plant-based option, a protein version, and flavours like White Cheddar and Emmental.
This packaging overhaul places Babybel among a host of major brands, including Walkers and Tesco, making significant product and branding changes in early 2026, with sustainability increasingly at the forefront of these decisions.
