The Secret Behind Babybel’s Wax

Behind the Wax: The Surprising Reasons Babybel Stands Out

Babybel cheese comes in wax to maintain freshness, protect against bacteria, and ensure a longer shelf life. The wax is recyclable and environmentally friendly, making Babybel a convenient and sustainable choice.

Why Do They Put Wax on Babybel Cheese?

It’s not only Babybel that has a wax coating; there are, indeed, many other kinds of cheese that have this.

In truth, a Babybel is nothing more than a miniature Edam, yet another cheese that has a red wax coating.

The reason for adding a wax coating to Babybel is purely for protection.

Firstly, the wax coating ensures that your cheese retains its moisture so that it won’t dry out.

It also protects against the formation of mold, which often happens when cheese of any type is exposed to air and the elements.

The actual wax that is used to protect Babybel happens to be extremely cheap to produce, and it’s also completely recyclable.

So, in effect, there is absolutely no waste factor from surrounding Babybel with wax.

This is even true of the red cellophane wrapper, which once more is completely biodegradable.

The wax coating on a Babybel also ensures that your cheese can typically last for up to 6 months in the refrigerator.

How is Wax Put on BabyBel Cheese?

Once the Babybel cheese has been produced, it is then double-dipped in wax.

Firstly, the cheese pieces are dipped in clear wax to seal the cheese in.

Then it is dipped in the famous and instantly recognizable Babybel red wax.

“Dipping” is simply one method of adding wax to cheese, although this is always how wax is added to Babybel in the factory environment.

However, there are other hard cheeses, which typically have a wax casing around the outside, that are waxed differently.

This usually involves using a natural bristled brush and applying wax to the surface of the cheese.

So, you literally “paint” wax onto the cheese surface and then allow it to harden.

Mini Babybel “Unwrapped”

Can You Eat the Wax off a Babybel?

I knew it, it was only a matter of time before you asked.

Plus, you just know that someone has tried this, so we do have a definitive answer can you eat the wax off a Babybel?

Just so you’re aware, you can eat the wax off a Babybel, although I wouldn’t recommend it (purely for taste reasons, you understand).

The wax coating around a Babybel is a mixture of paraffin and microcrystalline waxes.

And most importantly, it doesn’t contain any Bisphenol.

Bisphenol has been used for many years to make certain plastics and resins.

However, Bisphenol can have a toxic effect on humans and animals.

That being said, you can rest assured that there is no Bisphenol in Babybel’s wax coating.

The wax coating has passed many strict regulatory standards and has been marked as “food safe.”

So, if you or your pet accidentally (or even purposefully) ingest the red wax coating, there will be absolutely no harmful effects.

Discovering Babybel’s Red Secret

Diving deeper into the world of this iconic snack, many cheese enthusiasts often ponder, what type of cheese is Babybel red?

Originating from the lush dairy fields of France, Babybel’s red variety is essentially a miniature version of Edam cheese, known for its semi-hard texture and mildly sweet, nutty flavor.

This makes it a delightful choice for those who prefer a cheese that’s neither too strong nor too mild.

But what happens when heat is introduced to Babybel?

Do Babybels melt?

Indeed, they do!

While not traditionally used for cooking due to their size and the presence of wax, these little cheeses can indeed melt, making them a quirky yet tasty addition to a mini grilled cheese sandwich or a petite topping on a personal pizza.

However, remember to remove the wax coating before melting, as the wax is not designed to withstand high temperatures.

Lastly, addressing a common curiosity: can you eat the red part of Babybel cheese?

The red part is the wax coating, designed to preserve the cheese’s freshness and quality.

While the wax is non-toxic and safe to handle, it’s not intended for consumption.

Its primary role is to act as a protective barrier, keeping the cheese inside delicious and ready to be enjoyed.

So next time you unwrap a Babybel, remember that beneath the distinctive red wax lies a delightful morsel of Edam goodness waiting to be savored.

My Final Thoughts

• Babybel cheese, essentially a miniaturized Edam, is encased in wax to protect it, retaining moisture and preventing mold, much like how a raincoat shields us from getting wet.
• The wax used for Babybel is not only cheap to produce but also fully recyclable and biodegradable, emphasizing sustainability akin to using eco-friendly materials in everyday products.
• Babybel is double-dipped in wax, first in clear wax for sealing, then in its signature red wax, a process akin to applying a double coat of paint for extra durability.
• The wax coating is safe to ingest, being free of harmful chemicals like Bisphenol, similar to how food-grade materials are used for cooking utensils.
• The wax allows Babybel to last up to six months in the refrigerator, offering long-term preservation similar to vacuum-sealed packaging for other food items.

So, as you can see, the main reason that Babybel cheese comes in wax is for protection.

Firstly, this ensures that your cheese won’t dry out.

Furthermore, it also means that your cheese won’t be exposed to the elements, which is typically how mold forms.

And just for interest, the wax coating has been marked as “food safe,” which means you won’t suffer any harmful effects if you accidentally ingest it.

So, if the wax keeps the cheese safe, does that mean you can eat Babybel beyond its expiry date?

How might Babybel’s approach to packaging influence your perception of food quality and sustainability?

Let us know in the comments below!

FAQ: Babybel Cheese Wax

Q: Is the wax on Babybel cheese edible? A: While the wax coating on Babybel cheese is non-toxic and safe to ingest, it is not intended for consumption. The wax is designed to protect the cheese and should be removed before eating.

Q: Can I recycle the wax from Babybel cheese? A: Yes, the wax used for Babybel cheese is recyclable and biodegradable. You can also repurpose it for creative uses like candle making or as a sealant.

Q: How does the wax help preserve Babybel cheese? A: The wax coating on Babybel cheese acts as a barrier against air and bacteria, maintaining the cheese’s moisture and freshness, and extending its shelf life.

Q: Why is Babybel cheese wax red? A: The red wax coating is a trademark of Babybel cheese, making it easily recognizable. It’s purely for aesthetic and branding purposes and has no impact on the taste or quality of the cheese.

Q: What type of cheese is Babybel? A: Babybel is a type of semi-hard cheese, similar in texture and flavor to Edam cheese. It’s known for its mild, creamy taste and is popular as a convenient snack.

Q: How long can Babybel cheese last in the fridge? A: When stored properly in the refrigerator, Babybel cheese can last for up to six months, thanks to its protective wax coating.

Q: Is the wax coating on Babybel cheese environmentally friendly? A: Yes, the wax used for Babybel cheese is environmentally friendly, being both recyclable and biodegradable. This aligns with sustainable packaging practices.