The most important ingredient in chewing gum

At the turn of the 20th century, William Wrigley Jr. was bent on building an empire of gum, and as part of his extensive hustle, he managed to persuade the U.S. Department of War to include his products in soldiers’ rations. His argument—baseless at the time—was that chewing gum had miraculous abilities to quench thirst, stave off hunger, and dissipate nervous tension. But he was right: Scientists have since found that gum chewing can indeed increase concentration, reduce the impulse to snack, alleviate thirst, and improve oral health.

Perhaps that’s why people around the world have had the impulse to gnaw on tacky materials—roots, resins, twigs, blubber, tar made by burning birch bark—for at least 8,000 years. Today, gum is again being marketed as a panacea for wellness. You can buy gum designed to deliver energy, nutrition, stress relief, or joint health; scientists are even developing gums that can protect against influenza, herpes, and COVID. Ironically, this new era of chewing gum is manufactured with a distinctly modern ingredient, one not usually associated with wellness: plastic.

At first glance, the idea of chewing plastic might seem counterintuitive, especially when marketed as a health aid. However, modern chewing gum is a product of both innovation and necessity. The plastic used in gum today, often referred to as "gum base," is typically made from synthetic rubber, resins, and other compounds that give it its chewy texture and lasting elasticity. While the shift from natural ingredients to synthetic ones has raised concerns about the environmental impact, it’s also part of the reason why gum can be more reliable and long-lasting than its predecessors.

But it’s not just the physical properties of gum that are interesting; it’s also the psychological benefits. As research continues, scientists are uncovering a host of ways gum can enhance human well-being. For instance, studies have shown that chewing gum can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, particularly by reducing cortisol levels. It’s also been linked to improved memory and cognitive function, making it a popular choice for students and professionals alike. The act of chewing stimulates the production of saliva, which helps maintain oral hygiene by neutralizing acids and removing food particles. Some gums are even infused with xylitol, a sugar substitute that can help prevent cavities.

This growing understanding of gum’s benefits has led to the development of specialized gums. As mentioned, there are now varieties designed for energy, weight management, and stress reduction. There are even gums with probiotics or vitamins that claim to support immunity and digestive health. In a world that’s increasingly focused on health and wellness, it’s no surprise that people are looking for quick and convenient ways to boost their overall well-being, and gum has proven itself to be a surprisingly effective tool.

Yet, the irony remains that while gum may be marketed as a miracle product for health, its base ingredient—plastic—reflects the very challenges we face in today’s environmentally-conscious society. As consumers, we are constantly torn between the convenience and benefits of modern products and the need to protect our planet. The rise of eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable gums, suggests that there may be a way to reconcile these two conflicting realities.

Ultimately, the future of chewing gum lies in innovation. With growing awareness of both health and environmental issues, manufacturers are seeking more sustainable ways to produce gum without sacrificing its benefits. As the world continues to evolve, so too will the humble stick of gum. It may just take a little more time and creativity to make it truly a product that benefits both the individual and the planet.