The history of chewing gum shows that almost everywhere people have used similar substances simply to massage the gums and get rid of food bits in their mouths. And only a couple of centuries ago a new hero appeared in this story – chewing tobacco became popular, which, although it did not bring any benefit, gave certain taste sensations. Today, chewing gum manufacturers are trying to balance both taste and health. Do they succeed? Let’s see.
Chewing gum chemistry today
The history of the creation of chewing gum went through a new round when, almost a hundred years ago, an American accountant calculated the ratio of the components of the chewing gum composition, which would provide the best feeling for the chewer. Its formula has become a classic, and even the composition of modern chewing gums adheres to exactly this ratio:
- about 20% – the actual plastic base, insoluble and soft;
- more than half – sugar syrup or sugar substitutes;
- about 20% more – flavoring components (previously used corn syrup);
- and quite a bit – dyes, flavors and additives designed to provide a healing effect.
At the same time, some synthetic compounds and natural substances are most often used today as a soft, chewing base – the resin of tropical trees or conifers of the temperate zone.
It is clear that, first of all, chewing gum, which has such a long history, is designed to give pleasure. And only after receiving this pleasure, consumers begin to think about the benefits or dangers of chewing gum. Not everyone, of course, thinks, but many.
