Mumbai: Chewing gum is a confection designed to be chewed rather than swallowed, made by blending a gum base with sweeteners and flavourings. It is a soft, pliable substance crafted for chewing without the intent of swallowing.
Chewing gum is generally considered safe to consume. However, some varieties contain small amounts of ingredients that have sparked debate. Even so, the quantities used are typically much lower than levels known to cause harm.
Chewing gum ingredients
While the specific recipes vary among brands, all chewing gums share a common set of core ingredients:
Gum base: The indigestible, rubbery foundation that gives gum its chewy texture.
Resin: Added to strengthen and bind the gum together.
Fillers: Such as calcium carbonate or talc, these provide texture.
Preservatives: Used to prolong shelf life, with butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) being a popular choice.
Softeners: Including waxes like paraffin or vegetable oils, these maintain moisture and prevent hardening.
Sweeteners: Sugars like cane or beet sugar, corn syrup, or sugar alcohols like xylitol, as well as artificial sweeteners such as aspartame.
Flavourings: Both natural and synthetic, to achieve the desired taste.
The gum base forms the non-nutritive, insoluble foundation of chewing gum. Gum bases can be made from both natural and synthetic materials. Most countries have regulations specifying which substances are permissible for use in gum bases.
Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT): This antioxidant preservative, commonly added to processed foods, helps prevent fats from going rancid. Both the FDA and EFSA consider BHT safe in small doses.
Titanium Dioxide: A food additive used to whiten products and improve texture.
Aspartame: This artificial sweetener, often found in sugar-free gum, has been controversial, with claims linking it to conditions such as headaches, obesity, and cancer.
Chewing gum may also contain synthetic food colourings such as Red Dye 40 and Yellow 5, which have been associated with health concerns, but are approved by the FDA. In contrast, certain dyes and titanium dioxide are banned in the European Union.
Over-chewing gum, especially sugar-sweetened varieties, can lead to dental issues, digestive problems, and jaw pain.
Chewing gum calories
A piece of gum usually contains fewer than ten calories, making it a negligible addition to your daily calorie intake. Besides giving you minty-fresh breath, chewing gum can be an effective way to manage food cravings until you’re able to grab a healthy snack.
Chewing gum production process (Watch):
The process of making chewing gum begins with melting the gum base ingredients together, followed by the addition of other components. This mixture is then extruded, shaped, conditioned to achieve the desired texture, cooled, and finally wrapped.
For those who enjoy chewing gum, it’s best to opt for sugar-free varieties, especially those sweetened with xylitol. However, people with IBS should be cautious and may prefer gum sweetened with stevia. Always check ingredient labels to avoid any allergens or intolerances, and consult a dentist or dietitian if you have concerns.
Chewing gum ingredients are generally safe, and the act of chewing may offer surprising mental and physical health benefits. However, it’s important to chew in moderation to avoid potential side effects like jaw pain and headaches.
Chewing gum, a popular confection, is composed of a gum base, sweeteners, flavouring agents, and food-grade colours. The production process involves melting the gum base, mixing it with other ingredients, shaping, and conditioning it for the perfect texture. Typically, a piece of chewing gum contains fewer than ten calories, making it a low-calorie treat that can help curb cravings. Food & Drink Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
