Andy Montoya
Babybel cheese is a popular snack, especially in lunch boxes, originating in France in 1952 and produced by the French company Bel Group. It is a small, round, individually portioned cheese with a unique wax coating. The original Babybel cheese has a classic, mild, nutty, and convenient Edam-style taste. However, some people have commented that the cheese has started to taste like chemicals, plastic, or diesel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Mild, nutty |
| Style | Edam-style |
| Texture | Dry |
| Smell | Like diesel |
| Wax Coating | Unique, colourful |
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What You'll Learn
Original Babybel cheese has a mild, nutty, and slightly chemical taste
The Original Babybel cheese is a convenient, mild, nutty, and slightly chemical-tasting cheese. It is an Edam-style cheese, originating in France in 1952 and produced by the French company Bel Group. The cheese is about the size of a golf ball and is encased in a colourful wax coating. The brand has expanded its flavour offerings over the years, but the original Babybel cheese has a classic, mild taste.
Some people have noticed that the Babybel cheese seems to be tasting more and more like chemicals. One person commented that they thought it tasted like diesel. Another person said that they noticed a difference in taste when the cheese is chilled, finding that it tasted more like plastic when cold. It has been suggested that this chemical taste could be due to the wax coating, or the use of artificial ingredients.
However, others disagree with this assessment, arguing that "chemicals" are not inherently bad and that the word carries negative connotations. They suggest that the term "artificial ingredients" or "processed" might be more accurate.
Despite this debate, Original Babybel cheese remains a popular and well-loved snack, known for its convenience and portability.
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The cheese is similar in taste to Edam cheese
Babybel cheese is a popular snack, but some people have noticed a change in its taste and texture over the years. Some have even compared the taste to chemicals or diesel fuel. However, Babybel cheese can be said to be similar in taste to Edam cheese, a semi-hard cheese that originated in the Netherlands.
Edam cheese is known for its mild, nutty flavour and creamy, smooth texture. It is made with simple, yet flavourful ingredients, such as pasteurized cow's milk and natural animal rennet, which create a soothing blend of flavours and textures. The cheese is then left to mature for up to a year, during which its flavour intensifies and becomes more robust, developing a sharper and more complex profile.
Babybel cheese, like Edam, also has a mild and creamy flavour with a smooth, supple texture. The original variety is known for its nutty undertones and salty finish, similar to Edam. The cheese is also versatile, suitable for both snacking and cooking, just like Edam. Babybel can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for salads or pizzas, mirroring the versatility of Edam.
Both cheeses are also similar in their lower fat content, with Edam containing around 28% milk fat, contributing to its mild flavour. Babybel cheese is also considered a lower-fat option, making it a healthier choice for consumers. This similarity in fat content may contribute to the similar taste and texture profiles of the two cheeses.
While Babybel cheese may have undergone some changes in taste and texture, it still shares some key characteristics with Edam cheese. The original variety of Babybel, with its mild, nutty flavour and smooth texture, can be a suitable alternative to Edam in many culinary applications.
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Some people believe the taste has changed over the years
Some people believe that the taste of Babybel cheese has changed over the years. On Reddit, several users have expressed their disappointment with the taste of Babybel cheese, claiming that it has started to taste like chemicals, plastic, or even diesel. One user described the taste as "devastating", as it used to be one of their favourite cheeses. Another user agreed, stating that they noticed a difference in taste after not having Babybel cheese for years. They described the cheese as drier and of lower quality.
However, not everyone agrees with this assessment. One user from France commented that they eat a lot of Babybel cheese and have not noticed a change in taste. They acknowledged that it is not the best quality cheese, but they appreciate its convenience and protein content.
It is worth noting that Babybel has introduced new varieties of cheese over the years, including mozzarella, gouda, white cheddar, and plant-based options. The company has also made changes to its original variety, offering a lighter version. In 2023, Babybel announced an updated mozzarella variety with a creamier, true mozzarella taste and slightly different nutritional content.
While some people may perceive a change in taste due to these variations or differences in production, it is challenging to determine the exact cause without official information from the company. It is possible that changes in ingredients, processes, or sources of milk could contribute to perceived differences in taste over time.
Additionally, individual factors such as taste preferences, sensitivity to certain flavours, and memory of taste can influence how people perceive the taste of Babybel cheese over the years.
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Babybel cheese is coated in wax, which may impact its flavour
Babybel cheese is a popular snack, known for its convenience and mild, nutty flavour. The cheese is coated in wax, which may impact its flavour.
The original Babybel cheese is an Edam-style cheese with a mild and nutty taste. It is small, round, and individually portioned, making it a convenient and portable snack. The cheese is coated in a colourful wax coating, which gives it a unique look and feel.
While the wax coating is intended to preserve the cheese and make it more convenient for consumers, some people have noted that it can affect the flavour of the cheese. In particular, some consumers have complained that the cheese has started to taste more and more like chemicals, with a fragrance that is reminiscent of diesel or petroleum.
One possible explanation for this is that the wax coating may be absorbing some of the flavours from the cheese, altering its taste over time. Additionally, the wax itself may be imparting a slight fragrance or taste to the cheese, especially if it is left on for an extended period.
To avoid the wax affecting the flavour of the cheese, some people suggest removing the wax coating before consuming the cheese. Additionally, it may be advisable to allow the cheese to come to room temperature before consuming, as some have found that the cold temperature can accentuate any off-flavours.
Overall, while the wax coating on Babybel cheese may impact its flavour, it is still a popular and well-loved snack for many consumers.
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The brand has expanded its flavour offerings over the years
Babybel cheese is known for its signature red wax coating, which has become synonymous with the brand. Over the years, Babybel has expanded its flavour offerings beyond the original variety, introducing new options to cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.
One notable expansion is the introduction of vegan and dairy-free alternatives. Babybel now offers plant-based cheese snacks, wrapped in green wax, that are perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle, dealing with lactose intolerance, or simply looking for a tasty plant-based option. This expansion shows the brand's commitment to inclusivity and innovation, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their iconic mini cheese wheels.
The brand has also ventured into different cheese varieties, such as sharp white cheddar, gouda, and even spicier options. The black-wrapped Babybel, for instance, offers a sharp white cheddar flavour, deviating from the usual orange cheddar variety. Additionally, Babybel has explored international flavours, as evidenced by the Gouda variety, which was spotted in Germany and described as "our spiciest" or "unsere würzige."
Some consumers have also reported finding Babybel cheese in other unique flavours, such as purple and green. The purple variety is said to be white in colour, while the green-wrapped Babybel is rumoured to be a goat cheese option. These limited-edition flavours or regional variations add an element of surprise and excitement to the brand's offerings.
While the original Babybel cheese remains a classic, the brand's flavour expansions have been well-received by consumers looking for variety in their snack cheese options. Babybel's commitment to innovation and inclusivity ensures that there is a flavour for every taste preference and dietary need, solidifying their position as a versatile and adaptable snack cheese brand.
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Frequently asked questions
Babybel cheese is described as mild and nutty-tasting, similar to Edam cheese.
Yes, the brand has expanded its flavour offerings over the years. They now offer zesty flavours such as Cheddar and Gouda, as well as slightly spicier varieties like Babybel Mini Rolls with Pepper Jack.
Some people find that Babybel cheese tastes like plastic when it's cold. It's recommended to let it come to room temperature before eating for the best flavour.
Some people have noticed an unusual taste in Babybel cheese, which they attribute to the wax coating or the use of artificial ingredients. However, others disagree, and it may be a matter of individual preference or batch variation.
Babybel cheese is considered more expensive compared to other cheeses on the market due to its individual wax coating and packaging, as well as high-quality ingredients.
