1. What is Gum base made of?
Gum base is a non-nutritive masticatory substance. It is an inert and insoluble non-nutritive product used as a support for the edible and soluble portion of the chewing gum (sugar, glucose, flavours etc). The general description "gum base", used on chewing gum products throughout the world, is recognised by The Food Chemicals Codex and most national legislation.
Gum base is produced through a blend of raw materials which can be categorized in five classes:
Elastomers, act as the key ingredient and provide elasticy
Resins act as binders and softeners
Plasticizers render the elastomer soft to ensure thorough blending of the gum base
Fillers contribute to the overall texture
Antioxidants prevent oxidation of the gum base and flavors during shelf life