The Core Concern: What's in Your Gum Base?
For decades, most commercial chewing gums have been made with a synthetic gum base, a proprietary blend that gives gum its chewy texture. These bases are often derived from petroleum-based plastics and polymers, including polyethylene and polyvinyl acetate. These are the very materials that can break down into microplastics when chewed.
PÜR Gum, however, has built its brand on offering a healthier, cleaner alternative. The company markets its products as aspartame-free, non-GMO, and vegan, which has led many to assume they are also plastic-free. PÜR's ingredient list often includes 'gum base' but does not specify its exact components, though the company claims it is natural and plant-based. This is where the confusion and recent concerns arise.
The UCLA Study and Its Surprising Findings
In 2025, researchers from UCLA conducted a pilot study on microplastic release from chewing gum, testing both synthetic and natural varieties. The results were eye-opening:
- Both synthetic and natural gums released microplastics during chewing.
- The most abundant microplastic polymers were polyolefins, which include polyethylene and polypropylene—common plastics used in packaging and other goods.
- The release of microplastics was caused by the abrasive action of chewing, not the digestive properties of saliva.
- Even the natural, plant-based gums released similar amounts of microplastics as their synthetic counterparts.
Potential Sources of Microplastics in “Natural” Gum
While PÜR Gum may use a plant-based gum base, the study's findings suggest other potential sources for microplastic contamination. These could include:
- Manufacturing and Processing: The machinery used to process and manufacture the gum could be a source of contamination.
- Packaging: PÜR gum uses plastic and foil blister packs, and particles could transfer to the gum during packaging or storage.
- Contamination in Raw Materials: It is possible that the raw materials themselves, even natural ones, could be contaminated with microplastics from the broader environment.
Comparison of Gum Types
To better understand the potential for microplastics, here is a comparison of different gum types.
| Feature | PÜR Gum (Claimed) | Conventional Gum | Other Plastic-Free Gums (e.g., Simply Gum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gum Base | Natural, plant-based, unspecified components | Synthetic polymers (petroleum-based plastics) | Natural tree sap (chicle) |
| Sweeteners | 100% xylitol | Sugar, corn syrup, and/or artificial sweeteners | Xylitol or other natural sweeteners |
| Microplastic Release | Observed in UCLA study (categorized as natural gum) | Observed in UCLA study (categorized as synthetic gum) | Observed in UCLA study (if plant-based) |
| Biodegradability | Marketed as biodegradable but questionable given study | Not biodegradable | Fully biodegradable |
The Bottom Line for Consumers
So, does PÜR Gum have microplastics? The recent UCLA study suggests that microplastics can be released from chewing gum regardless of whether the base is synthetic or natural, though the exact composition of PÜR's gum base remains proprietary. This means that while PÜR is likely a healthier choice than traditional gum due to its natural sweeteners and lack of aspartame, it may still be a source of microplastic ingestion, possibly from manufacturing or packaging contamination.
For consumers concerned about microplastics, reducing overall exposure is the most recommended approach. This might mean chewing gum for a shorter duration or less frequently, as 94% of plastic particles were released within the first eight minutes of chewing in the UCLA study. Choosing certified plastic-free gums that are transparent about their base ingredients is another option for those who want to avoid the issue completely. Ultimately, the potential health effects of ingesting these microparticles are still under investigation, emphasizing the need for a cautious approach.
To learn more about environmental health concerns, an excellent resource is the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website.
Conclusion
While PÜR Gum is advertised as a healthier and more natural alternative to conventional chewing gums, its proprietary 'gum base' and recent scientific studies cast doubt on its completely plastic-free status. The 2025 UCLA pilot study found that microplastics were released from both natural and synthetic gums, suggesting that the abrasive chewing action or contamination during manufacturing and packaging could be the source. Until manufacturers provide greater transparency, consumers must weigh the available evidence and decide whether the potential for microplastic ingestion is an acceptable risk. For those seeking to minimize their exposure, reducing chewing time or switching to certified plastic-free brands with transparent ingredient sourcing are the most effective strategies.
