Is Babybel Cheese Healthy? A Complete Nutritional Breakdown
by Grace Oluchi | February 2, 2025
What Is Babybel Cheese?
Babybel cheese is a small, round cheese wrapped in red wax, made from Edam cheese—a semi-hard cheese crafted from pasteurized milk. It comes in different varieties, including Original, Light, and White Cheddar.
Is Babybel Cheese Good for You?
Yes, Babybel cheese can be a healthy snack when consumed in moderation. It contains essential nutrients such as protein and calcium, supporting strong bones and muscles. However, it also contains saturated fats and sodium, which should be monitored.
Expert Insights & Scientific Data
- Fran Susín (Nutritionist): Highlights Babybel as a nutritious snack due to its simple ingredients (milk, salt, lactic ferment, rennet). He recommends Babybel Light for lower fat intake (Source).
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): Reports that Edam cheese (used in Babybel) contains 333 calories, 28.6g fat (19g saturated), and 23.8g protein per 100g (Source).
- Journal of Nutrition (2023 Study): Found that moderate cheese consumption does not significantly raise LDL cholesterol and may contribute to heart health (Source).
Health Benefits of Babybel Cheese
1. Supports Bone and Dental Health
Babybel cheese is rich in calcium and phosphorus, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. The USDA states that 100g of Edam cheese provides 952 IU of vitamin A, which also supports gum health and reduces plaque formation.
2. Boosts Vision and Immunity
Vitamin A in Babybel cheese contributes to good eyesight and a strong immune system. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to vision problems and increased susceptibility to infections.
3. Aids in Weight Management
Babybel contains protein and fats that promote satiety, reducing overeating. The Light version has 6g protein and only 50 calories per serving, making it a better choice for calorie-conscious individuals (Source).
Nutritional Breakdown of Babybel Cheese
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 333 kcal |
| Protein | 23.8g |
| Total Fat | 28.6g |
| Saturated Fat | 19g |
| Net Carbs | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Vitamin A | 952 IU |
Potential Drawbacks
✔ High in Protein – Supports muscle growth and satiety.
✔ Rich in Calcium – Essential for bone health.
✔ Zero Carbs & Sugar-Free – Ideal for low-carb/keto diets.
✔ Good Source of Vitamin A – Supports eye health.
✔ Pre-Portioned for Portion Control – Prevents overeating.
❌ High in Saturated Fats – 3g per Mini Babybel; excess intake may impact heart health.
❌ Contains Cholesterol – Should be moderated in high-cholesterol diets.
❌ Sodium Content – Can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in excess.
Comparing Babybel to Other Cheeses
| Cheese Type | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Babybel (Original) | 333 | 23.8g | 28.6g | 0g | Snacking, portion control |
| Mozzarella | 280 | 28g | 17g | 1g | Low-fat diets |
| Cheddar | 403 | 25g | 33g | 1.3g | High-protein snacks |
| Feta | 264 | 14g | 21g | 4g | Salads, Mediterranean diet |
💡 Takeaway: Babybel is lower in calories than cheddar but higher in fat than mozzarella. It’s great for on-the-go snacking but should be eaten in moderation.
Is Babybel Cheese Good for Weight Loss?
While Babybel is not a low-calorie food, it can support weight loss when eaten in moderation because: ✔ High protein & fat keep you full longer, reducing cravings.
✔ Pre-portioned size prevents overeating, making calorie tracking easier.
✔ Zero sugar & carbs make it keto-friendly.
🔹 Best Way to Eat Babybel for Weight Loss: Pair with veggies, nuts, or whole-grain crackers instead of processed snacks.
Is Babybel Cheese Good for Heart Health?
🔍 Heart Health Factors:
- Saturated Fat (19g per 100g): Can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol if consumed excessively.
- Cholesterol (95mg per 100g): Should be limited in heart-healthy diets.
- Sodium: Babybel contains moderate sodium, which may impact blood pressure.
💡 Heart-Healthy Alternative: Babybel Light has 50% less fat than the original version.
Is Babybel Cheese Good for Keto & Low-Carb Diets?
✔ Yes! Babybel has ZERO carbs, making it perfect for keto and low-carb diets. ✔ High-fat content makes it a great energy source on keto. ✔ Pair with nuts, avocados, or leafy greens for a balanced keto snack.
Is Babybel Cheese Good for Lactose Intolerance?
Babybel contains very low lactose (<0.1g per serving), making it suitable for those with mild lactose intolerance. However, individuals with severe lactose intolerance should opt for lactose-free cheeses.
FAQs About Babybel Cheese
🔹 Is Babybel Cheese Processed? No, Babybel is a natural cheese made using traditional cheese-making methods. 🔹 Can Kids Eat Babybel Cheese? Yes! It’s a great snack for kids due to its high calcium and protein content. 🔹 Does Babybel Cheese Need to Be Refrigerated? Yes, Babybel should be kept in the fridge. 🔹 What’s the Wax Around Babybel Cheese? The red wax protects the cheese but is not meant to be eaten.
Final Verdict: Should You Eat Babybel Cheese?
Babybel cheese is a nutrient-dense, convenient snack that fits into most diets when eaten in moderation.
✔ Healthier Alternative: Babybel Light for lower fat intake.
✔ Best For: High-protein diets, low-carb/keto, weight loss (with portion control).
✔ Should Be Limited In: High-cholesterol and high-sodium diets.
