What Exactly is in Chewing Gum? The Truth About Gum Base
For decades, the composition of chewing gum has evolved dramatically. While the chewing gums of ancient civilizations were made from natural tree resins, today's commercial gum relies on a proprietary substance known as "gum base". This gum base is a blend of natural and synthetic polymers, waxes, and softeners that provide gum with its signature chewy texture. However, the "synthetic polymers" in this blend are essentially food-grade plastics.
Common plastics found in modern chewing gum include:
- Polyethylene: Also used in plastic bags and other everyday packaging.
- Polyvinyl acetate: A polymer found in some glues.
- Butyl rubber: Used in caulking and car tire linings.
- Styrene-butadiene rubber: Another synthetic rubber component.
Manufacturers do not have to disclose the exact formula for their gum base, and the term "gum base" is an FDA-approved catch-all. This means that for many brands, the average consumer remains unaware that they are chewing on a petroleum-derived substance.
The Unavoidable Ingestion of Microplastics
A recent study from UCLA highlighted a stark reality: chewing gum actively releases microplastics during mastication, and these tiny particles enter your body. The findings revealed that chewing a single gram of gum released an average of 100 microplastics, with some pieces shedding far more. The researchers also noted that surprisingly, both synthetic and natural gums released similar amounts of microplastics when chewed, suggesting the physical act of chewing is the primary driver of particle release.
Most of these microplastics are released within the first few minutes of chewing. Given that the average person chews a significant amount of gum annually, the cumulative ingestion of microplastics from this single source could be substantial.
The Fate of Swallowed Gum vs. Microplastics
There is a crucial distinction between swallowing a whole piece of gum and ingesting microplastics. The urban legend that swallowed gum stays in your stomach for seven years is false. The indigestible gum base, along with other roughage, typically passes through the digestive system and is excreted within a few days. The digestive tract simply moves it along.
However, microplastics are a different story. These particles are small enough to potentially be absorbed into the bloodstream and have been detected in human organs and fluids across the body, including the lungs, kidneys, liver, and even the brain. Scientists are still working to understand the long-term health implications of this widespread microplastic exposure.
The Health and Environmental Impact of Plastic in Gum
The presence and subsequent ingestion of microplastics from gum pose potential risks. The effects on human health are an area of ongoing investigation, with animal studies showing links to inflammation, gut microbiome disruption, and other issues. While a direct causal link to human disease has not been definitively established, the growing body of research warrants caution.
Comparison: Natural Gum vs. Synthetic Gum Microplastic Release
| Feature | Synthetic Gum (Traditional) | Natural Gum (e.g., Chicza, Simply Gum) |
|---|---|---|
| Gum Base | Uses petroleum-derived polymers (e.g., polyvinyl acetate, butyl rubber) | Uses natural tree resins (e.g., chicle) |
| Microplastic Shedding | Releases significant microplastics during chewing | Releases comparable amounts of microplastics due to mastication |
| Environmental Impact | Non-biodegradable and a major source of urban plastic litter | Biodegradable, reducing environmental persistence |
| Packaging | Often uses plastic packaging | Often uses plastic-free or biodegradable packaging |
| Health Concerns | Potential for long-term health effects from microplastic ingestion | Potential for microplastic ingestion from chewing, but biodegradable base |
Making Conscious Choices About Chewing Gum
Given the information, it is evident that ingesting plastic from gum, in the form of microplastics, is a reality of modern chewing. While the occasional piece of gum is unlikely to cause serious harm, the cumulative effect of regular consumption and chronic exposure to microplastics is still unknown. Making informed choices can help mitigate personal and environmental impact.
Here are some proactive steps you can take:
- Choose natural alternatives: Look for brands that explicitly state their gum base is natural and biodegradable, often made from chicle or other plant-based materials.
- Chew for a shorter time: A significant portion of microplastic shedding occurs in the first eight minutes of chewing. Limit your chewing time to reduce intake.
- Limit your intake: Reducing the amount of gum you chew can directly decrease your microplastic exposure.
- Dispose of gum properly: Never discard gum on the street. It is a persistent plastic pollutant that harms the environment and wildlife.
- Be aware of ingredients: The term "gum base" is vague. Research your preferred brand or opt for those with transparent ingredient lists.
Conclusion: A Sticky Situation with Plastic Implications
The question of whether you ingest plastic from gum is answered with a resounding yes, in the form of microplastics shed during chewing. While a single swallowed piece is harmlessly excreted, the health effects of accumulating these microparticles over time remain a subject of active research and concern. The issue extends beyond personal health to significant environmental pollution, as plastic-based gum is a non-biodegradable, persistent litter problem. By understanding the composition of modern gum and exploring natural, biodegradable alternatives, consumers can make more mindful choices that benefit both their health and the planet.
