Unpacking the Plastic in Chewing Gum
Most people are unaware that conventional chewing gum contains plastic. The 'gum base' listed in the ingredients is typically a blend of synthetic polymers, including polyethylene and polyvinyl acetate, the same materials used to make plastic bags and bottles. Manufacturers began using these synthetic alternatives decades ago to keep up with the rising demand for gum, abandoning the natural tree sap (chicle) once used.
The Environmental Impact of Chewing Gum’s Plastic Content
- Persistent Litter: Discarded chewing gum is one of the most common forms of litter worldwide. Because of its plastic content, it is not biodegradable and can persist in the environment for decades.
- Microplastic Pollution: When gum breaks down, it forms microplastics, which can contaminate soil and waterways. Studies have also revealed that chewing itself releases these tiny plastic particles.
- Widespread Contamination: These microplastics can enter the food chain, posing potential risks to wildlife and ultimately ending up in our own food supply.
The HUM Nutrition Approach to Plastic
Unlike chewing gum, HUM Nutrition is a supplement brand that actively addresses the issue of plastic. While their products are sold in plastic bottles, the company has implemented a comprehensive sustainability initiative focused on using 100% Prevented Ocean Plastic.
What is Prevented Ocean Plastic?
Prevented Ocean Plastic is recycled plastic waste collected from coastal areas at high risk of entering the ocean. By collecting and upcycling this material, HUM Nutrition ensures that existing plastic is reused, reducing the need for new virgin plastic. This traceable material is independently certified to ensure it meets strict environmental and labor standards.
HUM's Commitment to Sustainable Packaging
In addition to its recycled bottles, HUM Nutrition has re-engineered other aspects of its packaging to be more sustainable:
- Bottles and Labels: The bottles are 100% Prevented Ocean Plastic, and their labels and adhesives are designed to be fully compliant with recycling best practices.
- Shipping Boxes: Made from SFI-certified and FSC-certified materials, the subscription boxes are printed using 100 percent wind energy.
- Envelopes: Mailers are crafted from post-consumer recycled newspapers, replacing poly-plastic mailers.
- Protective Wrap: To protect shipments, they use a naturally biodegradable and compostable green wrap, an SFI-certified alternative to bubble wrap.
Product Purity and Testing
For the supplements themselves, HUM Nutrition prides itself on product purity. The company tests its entire product line through the Clean Label Project, which screens for hundreds of contaminants, including plasticizers (chemicals used to make plastics more flexible). This process ensures the product inside is as clean as possible, even as the packaging addresses environmental concerns.
Comparison: Plastic in Chewing Gum vs. HUM Nutrition
| Feature | Conventional Chewing Gum | HUM Nutrition |
|---|---|---|
| Product Itself | Contains plastic polymers in the 'gum base'. | Supplements do not contain plasticizers; rigorously tested for purity. |
| Packaging | Standard, often virgin plastic or non-recyclable foil wrapping. | Bottles are 100% Prevented Ocean Plastic; labels and bottles are fully recyclable. |
| Environmental Impact | Creates persistent litter, contributes to microplastic pollution. | Upcycles existing plastic, prevents ocean pollution, and uses sustainable shipping materials. |
| Biodegradability | Non-biodegradable due to plastic content. | Packaging is recyclable, and green wrap is biodegradable. |
Choosing Plastic-Conscious Products
Consumers can make informed choices by understanding what they are purchasing. For chewing gum, this means checking ingredients for "gum base," which almost certainly contains plastic, and seeking out brands that explicitly state they are plastic-free or use natural chicle. For supplements, while the packaging may be plastic, brands like HUM are demonstrating that plastic can be part of a circular economy rather than ending up as waste. The health of our bodies and the planet is deeply interconnected. By supporting companies that prioritize sustainability and by choosing truly plastic-free products, we can contribute to a healthier future for all.
HUM Nutrition's Sustainability Commitment
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to 'does hum have plastic in it' is nuanced and depends on the specific product. Conventional chewing gum, often referred to colloquially as 'hum,' does contain synthetic plastic polymers in its gum base, which contributes to environmental pollution and microplastics. In contrast, HUM Nutrition, the wellness brand, actively works to minimize its plastic footprint by using 100% Prevented Ocean Plastic for its bottles, sourcing other sustainable packaging materials, and rigorously testing its products for plasticizers. A conscious consumer can make sustainable choices by distinguishing between these two types of 'hum' and supporting environmentally responsible brands.
