Bel Group Debuts Recyclable Paper Packaging for Babybel
The company is transitioning to fiber-based wrappers for its two-pack snacks to reduce environmental impact.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Consumer Goods
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The Bel Group has launched a new recyclable paper flowpack for its Babybel two-pack snack line to replace traditional plastic materials. This packaging, made from 100% virgin fibre pulp, is currently available across markets in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Why it matters
The company is adopting renewable materials to comply with tightening global recyclability regulations and decrease its environmental footprint. This shift is designed to reduce the reliance on fossil-fuel-based packaging for millions of snacks consumed annually.
The Bel Group aims to save 2,500 tons of CO2 emissions annually through this transition. Currently, over two billion portions of Babybel are consumed worldwide each year.
The players
The Bel Group
This multinational cheese company is headquartered in France and manages several globally recognized dairy brands.
Koehler Paper
This German-based manufacturer specializes in high-quality specialty paper production for global industrial applications.
The details
The new paper flowpack, utilizing Koehler Paper's NexPlus Seal Pure, is processed on existing lines using hot-sealing technology. The Bel Group factory in Évron, France, is already operating the functional packaging line required for this material change.
Timeline
2025: The Bel Group revealed its strategic plans for the upcoming packaging transition.
- 2026-10-21
The announcement regarding the new paper packaging was published.
2027: The Bel Group aims to wrap all Babybel cheese snacks in responsibly sourced paper.
2030: The company expects to complete its transition to fully recyclable packaging.
Market Landscape
This transition positions The Bel Group to align with the European Union Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation standards. By moving away from plastic, the company attempts to gain a competitive advantage among consumers prioritizing sustainable retail goods.
Shoppers in the United States, Canada, and Europe will see the new paper packaging on store shelves for Babybel two-pack snacks. Since 49% of U.S. adults consume multiple portions at once, this change will affect the disposal habits of a significant portion of the consumer base.
The takeaway
Consumers can expect more food brands to adopt fiber-based alternatives as companies strive to meet 2030 environmental targets. Choosing products with recyclable packaging helps reduce the overall volume of plastic waste sent to landfills.
What happens next
The Bel Group intends to implement its goal of using responsibly sourced paper across all Babybel snack products by 2027, followed by a total transition to fully recyclable packaging by 2030.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in the Consumer Goods market.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Packaging Europe.
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