DADADEL
Chewing gum has been a staple for fresh breath and a calorie-free snack. Yet, surprisingly few know what goes into it. Despite its seemingly harmless appearance, the ingredients in gum may shock even the most mindful consumers. Here’s a breakdown of some common components that have left people questioning what’s in that small, chewable treat.
Chewing gum was originally made from chicle, a natural sap from the Sapodilla tree, which provided a chewy texture. However, over the years, manufacturers shifted to synthetic ingredients to keep up with demand.
Today, most gum contains polyisobutylene, a key component in butyl rubber, also used to make inner tubes. This change aimed to enhance durability, but the idea of chewing rubber has surprised many consumers.
Polyisobutylene is combined with plasticizers to give gum its signature chewiness. “Polyisobutylene is mixed with plasticisers and materials—all food grade—to make the gum mixture chewable,” says BBC Science Focus. This engineered rubbery substance softens at body temperature, creating gum’s familiar texture without breaking down. While considered safe, the thought of chewing rubber can be off-putting for some.
One surprising ingredient in certain gum brands is lanolin, a wax derived from sheep’s skin glands. Often found in skincare products, lanolin gives gum a smooth, glossy texture. Many are unaware of its origin, and a viral tweet highlighted that lanolin may be part of your favorite gum. Since it’s part of the gum base, manufacturers aren’t required to disclose it on the ingredient list.
Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, are also common in modern gum. Aspartame is 200 times sweeter than sugar, making it a low-calorie alternative. However, it’s a subject of health debates, with concerns about long-term effects. According to the Mayo Clinic, artificial sweeteners are generally safe in moderation, though heavy use has been linked to potential health risks, including stroke and heart disease. Still, more research is needed.
To maintain freshness, some gum brands add butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a preservative known for its antioxidant properties. The FDA deems BHT safe in small amounts, but studies in animals have associated high doses with cancer. Although the levels in gum are low, BHT’s reputation still raises concerns for some consumers.
Chewing gum excessively can lead to other health issues, such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which affects the jaw joint connecting to the skull. TMJ can cause pain, migraines, and earaches, and over-chewing has been noted as a headache trigger, especially in children and teens. This highlights the importance of moderation for gum enthusiasts.
For those seeking more natural options, some brands use plant-based ingredients. Chicle, once the original gum base, is still used by a few natural brands. Another alternative under research is corn zein, a protein from corn that offers similar chewiness without synthetic materials. Though less common, these natural options appeal to consumers looking for plant-derived gum bases.
One popular myth claims that swallowed gum builds up in the stomach, but this has been debunked. Despite its resistance to digestion, gum passes through the digestive system like other indigestible items. As BBC Science Focus explains, swallowed gum “eventually continues its merry way along your digestive tract,” leaving the body naturally. So, while some ingredients may raise concerns, swallowing gum poses no real harm.
For many, learning about what’s in chewing gum has been eye-opening. From rubber-like components to sheep-derived wax, these ingredients underscore the surprising choices made by manufacturers. Although these ingredients are considered safe, many consumers now seek natural alternatives. Whether this knowledge makes you reconsider or inspires you to try plant-based gum, it serves as a reminder to look more closely at what’s inside our favorite products.
