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Bel Group Transitions Babybel Packaging from Plastic to Paper
Bel Group, a snack producer, is making a significant sustainability move by replacing the biobased plastic film on its Babybel cheeses with paper overwraps. This transition, which has been in the works for five years, is part of Bel’s commitment to reducing plastic use and carbon dioxide emissions while creating a more recyclable packaging solution.
The shift to paper overwraps is expected to save 850 tons of plastic and 2,500 tons of CO2 annually. Delphine Chatelin, Bel’s Vice President of Research, Innovation, and Development, highlighted the company’s dedication to sustainability through this initiative.
The rollout of the paper packaging has already begun in the United Kingdom and will continue in the United States, Canada, and Northern Europe next year. Bel aims to have all 50 global markets where Babybel is sold transitioned to paper packaging by 2027.
Transitioning from plastic to paper overwraps required meticulous planning and adjustments at Bel’s five global production plants. The process involved selecting the right paper supplier, testing different papers for desired properties, and investing in equipment upgrades to accommodate the new substrate.
Consumer feedback has been positive, with users appreciating the sustainability aspect and the improved user experience of the paper packaging. The signature red wax surrounding the cheese will remain intact, as it plays a crucial role in the cheese’s ripening process.
Future Sustainability Initiatives
In addition to the Babybel packaging transition, Bel is exploring paper packaging for other products like Kiri spreadable cheese. The company is also testing bulk packaging options and reusable container systems to further reduce packaging waste.
Bel’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond packaging, with ongoing efforts to innovate and contribute to a more environmentally friendly future.