The iconic crunch and juicy flavor of Extra Refreshers Tropical gum are created by a complex blend of sweeteners, flavoring agents, and other food additives. As a sugar-free product, its sweetness comes from a combination of polyols and high-intensity sweeteners, designed to deliver a long-lasting, tropical taste without the calories or dental risks associated with sugar. The full list of ingredients can be found on {Link: Tesco website https://www.tesco.ie/groceries/en-IE/products/308079602} and includes sweeteners, gum base, humectant, flavorings, thickener, acids, emulsifier, glazing agent, antioxidant, and color.
A Closer Look at Key Components
Sweeteners: The Sugar-Free Secret
The gum's sugar-free nature and flavor profile are shaped by a combination of sugar alcohols and high-intensity artificial sweeteners. Sugar alcohols like Xylitol, Sorbitol, and Mannitol add bulk and a cool sweetness, while high-intensity sweeteners such as Aspartame and Acesulfame K provide concentrated sweetness. This blend creates a balanced, lasting sweet flavor. Due to Aspartame, the gum carries a phenylketonuria warning. Excessive consumption of the sugar alcohols can also have a laxative effect.
The Gum Base and Texture Agents
The gum's chewiness comes from its non-digestible gum base. Other ingredients also contribute to the texture: Glycerol acts as a humectant to keep the gum soft, Gum Arabic is a thickener that helps contain flavors and sweeteners, and Soya Lecithin, an emulsifier, ensures smooth blending of ingredients, which is important for those with soy allergies.
Flavorings and Additives
The tropical fruit flavor is achieved with a mix of flavorings, potentially both natural and artificial. Malic and Citric acids provide a tartness that enhances this flavor. Carnauba Wax gives the gum pieces a shiny finish, while BHA acts as an antioxidant to maintain freshness. The blue color is provided by E133, or Brilliant Blue FCF.
Extra Refreshers Tropical vs. Other Extra Gums
| Feature | Extra Refreshers Tropical | Extra Refreshers Spearmint | Extra Refreshers Fruit Mix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Flavors | Sweet, juicy tropical fruit notes (e.g., mango, passionfruit) | Crisp, fresh spearmint flavor | Assorted fruit flavors (e.g., cherry, watermelon) |
| Sweeteners | Xylitol, Sorbitol, Mannitol, Aspartame, Acesulfame K | Sorbitol, Mannitol, Xylitol, Aspartame, Acesulfame K | Xylitol, Sorbitol, Aspartame, Acesulfame K, Sucralose |
| Acids | Malic Acid, Citric Acid | Primarily Citric Acid | Malic Acid, Citric Acid |
| Coloring | Blue (E133) | Blue and Yellow (Turmeric, Blue 1 Lake) | Varies (e.g., Yellow 5 Lake, Red 40) |
| Availability | Varies by region, available in different formats | Widely available, popular classic flavor | Available in bulk bottles and single packs |
Conclusion: Decoding Your Chew
Extra Refreshers Tropical is a carefully formulated sugar-free gum with sweetness from sugar alcohols and high-intensity sweeteners. Acids and flavorings contribute to the tropical taste, while additives ensure texture and freshness. Be aware of ingredients like soy lecithin and aspartame for allergies or dietary needs.
For more information on Extra gum products and ingredients, visit the official website: Extra Gum UK
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Extra Refreshers Tropical gum vegan? A: While it is a sugar-free product and doesn't contain dairy, the presence of undisclosed 'Flavourings' and the sourcing of ingredients like Carnauba wax can be uncertain. Some labels state it is suitable for vegetarians, but clarification would be needed for a strict vegan diet.
Q: What is E133, and is it safe? A: E133 is the food color Brilliant Blue FCF. It is an approved food additive in many countries, including the UK, EU, and the US, and is considered safe for consumption.
Q: Do Extra Refreshers Tropical contain any allergens? A: Yes, the gum contains SOYA Lecithin as an emulsifier. Individuals with soy allergies should avoid this product.
Q: Why does the product contain so many different sweeteners? A: Using a blend of sugar alcohols (like Xylitol, Sorbitol, Mannitol) and high-intensity sweeteners (like Aspartame, Acesulfame K) allows manufacturers to create a more balanced, sustained sweetness without an overpowering aftertaste. Sugar alcohols provide bulk and a cooling sensation, while high-intensity sweeteners provide the concentrated sweetness.
Q: Can Extra Refreshers Tropical cause a laxative effect? A: Yes, consuming an excessive amount of sugar alcohols like xylitol, sorbitol, and mannitol, which are present in the gum, can produce a laxative effect.
Q: What is the purpose of the gum base? A: The gum base is the non-nutritive, chewable core of the gum. It holds the flavorings, sweeteners, and softeners together, releasing the taste as you chew.
Q: What does BHA do in chewing gum? A: BHA, or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, is an antioxidant. Its purpose is to prevent the gum's fats and oils from becoming rancid, which helps maintain the product's freshness and shelf life.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple Sweeteners: Extra Refreshers Tropical uses a combination of sugar alcohols and high-intensity sweeteners for a balanced, sugar-free sweetness.
- Allergy Alert: The gum contains SOYA lecithin and includes a warning for individuals with phenylketonuria due to Aspartame.
- Flavor Profile: The tropical taste is a mix of flavorings, bolstered by Malic and Citric acids.
- Texture-Enhancing Additives: Glycerol, Gum Arabic, and Carnauba Wax control softness, consistency, and sheen.
- Laxative Effect: Over-consumption of sugar alcohols can lead to a laxative effect.
