A small disc of soft cheese made with cow’s milk, similar to Edam. It has rubbery, even paste and a red wax rind. The original cheese, Babybel, created in 1931, is made with whole milk and contains 45% fat (dry). The curds are scalded and pressed. It may be found weighing 200 g (7 oz). Affinage is usually 2-3 months. It has a very mild flavour and keeps well because of the wax rind. An American version, marketed under the name of Albany, is manufactured under licence in Kentucky.
