Babybel cheese is a popular snack cheese wrapped in wax and marketed as a convenient on-the-go option. With its miniature size and handy packaging, Babybel has become a lunchbox and backpack staple for kids and adults alike. But an important question surrounds this little cheese: is Babybel hormone free?
The Short Answer
Yes, Babybel cheese is hormone free. Babybel cheeses are made from cow’s milk that has not been treated with any artificial growth hormones such as rBST. The milk used to create Babybel comes from cows that have not received hormone treatments.
About Babybel Cheese
Babybel is a brand of semi-soft cheese that originated in France in the 1950s. The individually wrapped and portioned cheeses are meant to be easily portable and convenient. The wax coating protects the cheese and allows it to be kept without refrigeration. Babybel is now marketed globally by the Bel Brands company, with over 1 million Babybel cheeses produced around the world every day. There are several varieties of Babybel cheese, including:
- Babybel Original – the classic semi-soft recipe
- Babybel Light – a lower fat version
- Babybel Blue – cheese made with Penicillium roqueforti cultures creating blue veining
- Babybel Gouda – made with Gouda cheese flavors and a creamier texture
- Babybel Cheddar – aged for a sharper cheddar flavor
The process for making Babybel cheese generally follows basic cheesemaking techniques. Milk is cultured, coagulated, drained, shaped, aged or ripened, and packaged. But an important question is whether artificial hormones have been given to the dairy cows who produce the milk used for Babybel.
Why Hormone-Free Matters
Milk that comes from cows treated with artificial growth hormones contains increased levels of IGF-1, or insulin-like growth factor 1. This is a natural hormone that is elevated when cows are given growth hormones. The concern is that increased IGF-1 in milk might affect human health and development when consumed. Though the research is still unclear, some studies have linked milk with excess IGF-1 to increased prostate and breast cancer risk.
In addition, ethics and animal welfare come into play. There are concerns around pushing cows to unnaturally higher milk production through artificial hormone use.
For these reasons, milk from cows that have not been given artificial hormones is considered the smarter choice by many consumers. Products made from hormone-free milk allow customers to avoid milk with elevated IGF-1 levels.
Babybel and Milk Hormones
The main artificial growth hormone used in the US dairy industry is rBST, also known as bovine somatotropin. This genetically engineered hormone is injected into cows to boost their milk production. However, rBST is not permitted for dairy cow use in Canada, Australia, Japan, Israel, or the European Union. The milk used for Babybel cheeses adheres to the standards of the EU, prohibiting artificial hormone use.
The majority of milk used by the Bel Brands company for Babybel production comes from France. French regulations do not allow the use of rBST in milk cows. Therefore, French dairy cows producing milk for Babybel do not receive artificial growth hormones.
For Babybel cheeses produced in other regions like the US, Bel Brands sources milk only from cows that are guaranteed rBST-free. The milk suppliers sign affidavits verifying that their cows are not given artificial hormones and are subject to audits. This ensures all milk used for Babybel meets the hormones standards, even outside France.
Verifying Hormone-Free Status
Babybel’s parent company, Bel Brands, clearly states its hormone-free position and principles. The ideals are publicized on the company website:
“We don’t accept milk from cows that have been treated with artificial growth hormones, like rBST. Our cheeses, like Babybel, are made with rBST-free milk.”
In addition, Babybel packages are marked with a “No rBST” label to alert consumers of its hormone-free status. The udders on Babybel’s iconic cow mascots are also noticeably small to signal that milk does not come from cows given artificial hormones.
Organizations that certify and audit food producers for practices like banning milk hormone use have also verified Babybel cheeses as rBST-free. These include Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO) and the Non-GMO Project.
Other Babybel Cheese Details
Along with being rBST-free, Babybel cheese has a few other notable qualities and certifications:
- Vegetarian – no animal-based rennet
- Kosher
- Halal
- Gluten-free
However, Babybel cheeses are not suitable for vegans as they contain milk and milk products. They are also not certified organic at this time.
Nutrition Info for Babybel Cheese
The table below shows key nutrition information for a standard 1.5 oz (42g) Babybel Original cheese:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Total Sugars | 1g |
| Added Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
Babybel cheese is high in calcium, providing 15% of the daily value per serving. It also contains 6 grams of filling protein. However, the saturated fat content is relatively high at 19% DV. Overall nutrition will depend on the specific type of Babybel cheese.
Cost of Babybel
Babybel is considered an affordable snack cheese. The price typically ranges from:
- $0.50 – $1 per piece when purchased individually
- $3.50 – $6 for a pack of 6
- $6 – $8 for a pack of 12
Weekly sales and promotions can reduce these prices slightly. Bulk packs with 40+ cheeses may average out to about $0.50 per piece. Refrigerated warehouse stores like Costco sometimes have large packs for around $10-12.
Where to Buy Babybel Cheese
The convenience and popularity of Babybel makes it a widely available product. It can be purchased from these retailers in the United States, Canada, and globally:
- Grocery stores like Safeway, Kroger, Whole Foods, etc.
- Mass merchandise shops such as Walmart, Target, Costco
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven
- Drugstores like CVS, Walgreens
- Online from Amazon, Boxed, Instacart
- Some wholesale club stores like Sam’s Club
Babybel can typically be found in the specialty cheese section, dairy aisle, deli case, or checkout coolers. The brand offers a store locator on its website to help find nearby selling locations.
Competing Brands
Other brands offer similar snack cheeses packaged for convenience and portability. Competitors to Babybel include:
- The Laughing Cow
- Mini Baby Bells
- Mini Bonbel
- Treasures
- String Cheese (many brands)
- Cheese Heads
However, Babybel maintains a commanding 45% market share in the US portioned cheese market. Its popularity arose in part from being the early innovator of spherical snack cheeses.
Pairing Suggestions
The satisfying yet mild flavor of Babybel cheese pairs well with many foods and beverages. Consider these tasty pairing ideas:
- Fruits – grapes, apples, pear slices
- Crackers – wheat crackers, rice cakes
- Dried fruit – raisins, cranberries, apricots
- Cured meats – salami, prosciutto
- Vegetables – fresh peas, baby carrots, celery sticks
- Bread – whole grain breadsticks, pita chips
- Beverages – wine, sparkling water, light beers
- Desserts – shortbread cookies, madeleines
Babybel’s mild profile makes it versatile for both savory and sweet combinations.
Babybel Cheese Recipes
In addition to enjoying it on its own, Babybel can be incorporated into recipes like:
- Cheese board – Part of a platter with meat, fruit, nuts, and crackers
- Salads – Crumble into leafy, grain, pasta, or fruit salads
- Tartines – Top toasted bread slices with Babybel and other ingredients
- Quesadillas – Sprinkle into a quesadilla with veggies
- Pizza – Use as a fresh topping on homemade or store-bought pizza
- Sandwiches – Add slices to sandwiches and paninis
- Pasta – Toss crumbled Babybel with hot pasta and vegetables
- Snack boxes – Include as part of a packed lunch or snack box
Search for more Babybel recipes online or get creative with your own ways to enjoy this snackable cheese.
Babybel Storage and Handling
Unopened Babybel cheeses have a shelf life of several months and do not require refrigeration. Once opened, it is best to store leftover portions in the refrigerator tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Consume refrigerated portions within 5-7 days.
Keep Babybel properly refrigerated at 40°F or below, both before and after opening. Letting the cheese sit out too long at room temperature can increase the risk of spoilage and foodborne illness.
Babybel can generally be kept up to 6 weeks past the “best by” date stamped on the wax if continuously refrigerated. But it is best consumed by this date for peak freshness and flavor.
Check Babybel for signs of spoilage like mold, sliminess, or off odors before eating. Discard any portions that seem compromised.
Is Babybel Safe During Pregnancy?
Pregnant women can safely eat pasteurized cheeses like Babybel that have been made from pasteurized milk. The pasteurization process eliminates harmful listeria bacteria that could pose a health risk.
In fact, the calcium content actually makes Babybel a good choice during pregnancy when women need extra calcium for their baby’s developing bones. Just be sure to consume it in moderation along with a balanced diet.
Nutritional Benefits of Babybel
Some of the key nutrients found in Babybel cheese include:
- Protein – 6g per serving supports energy, muscle health and satisfying fullness
- Calcium – 15% DV strengthens bones and aids nerve signaling
- Phosphorus – Builds bones and supports energy production
- Vitamin A – Immune and skin health
- Vitamin B12 – Needed for red blood cell formation
- Riboflavin – Helps convert food to energy
- Niacin – Supports nervous system health
However, moderation is still key. The saturated fat and sodium content should be taken into account for those needing to limit intake of these.
Common Babybel FAQs
Is Babybel cheese pasteurized?
Yes, all Babybel cheese varieties are made with pasteurized cow’s milk. Pasteurization uses heat to kill harmful pathogens.
Is Babybel gluten free?
Babybel cheeses are certified gluten-free to less than 10ppm.
Is Babybel vegetarian?
Yes, Babybel uses microbial rennet, not animal rennet, so it can be eaten by vegetarians.
Is Babybel dairy free or vegan?
No, Babybel cheeses contain milk, so they are not dairy-free or suitable for a vegan diet.
Is Babybel kosher?
Most Babybel flavors are OU Kosher certified.
Can dogs eat Babybel cheese?
In moderation, the small amount of cheese in a Babybel is generally safe for dogs to consume as an occasional treat.
Conclusion
Babybel is a convenient favorite thanks to its individually wrapped portions and portability. Fortunately, consumers can enjoy this snack cheese without worry about hormones. All Babybel products are produced using hormone-free milk from cows that have not received artificial growth hormones like rBST. Babybel cheese delivers snackable nutrition and kid-friendly appeal, hormones not included.