Babybel cheese is changing its iconic red packaging

A major change is coming to a lunch box treat that’s adored by children around the world.

Babybel, a French brand of small, round and individually wrapped snack cheeses such as edam, cheddar and gouda, has revealed it will be changing its iconic red packaging.

The Bel Group, which owns the brand, announced a transition to recyclable paper packaging from its traditional cellophane wrapping.

The rollout is already happening in the UK. The United States, Canada, and northern Europe will be seeing changes in the packaging at some point in 2026.

However, Australia won’t be seeing any changes for at least another year, a Bel Group spokesperson confirmed to news.com.au.

“By 2027, all Babybel products manufactured across our five manufacturing sites and distributed in 50 countries will feature responsibly sourced paper,” Bel Group said in a statement.

“This represents a decisive turning point toward our goal of delivering 100 per cent recycling-ready or home-compostable packaging by 2030.”

The change is coming as part of the brand’s ambition to ensure that all of its packaging can be recycled or placed in a home compost by 2030.

Babybel first introduced a bio-based, home-compostable cellophane in 2020, and this latest move follows years of research and development to make sure the food quality and preservation remained intact — all while reducing the environmental impact.

“The shift goes well beyond a material change — it is a structural transformation,” the spokesperson said.

“Packaging plays a critical role in protecting product quality over time, ensuring microbiological safety, and withstanding temperature variations. Babybel’s iconic red wax shell will remain unchanged, as it is essential to product protection, integrity, and taste.”

Social media users praised the move.

“One little move in the right direction! Well done,” one said.

Another added: “WAY TO GO BABYBEL.”