What are the ingredients in Mentos gum?

November 12, 2025 •

2 min read

Mentos gum is almost universally sugar-free, relying instead on a blend of sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners for its sweet flavor. A full list of ingredients can vary slightly depending on the specific flavor and type, but the core formula always includes a synthetic gum base, polyols, and a variety of flavorings and coatings.

Quick Summary

Mentos gum contains a core blend of polyol sweeteners like xylitol and sorbitol, along with a proprietary chewing gum base made of polymers and resins, flavorings, and various additives for texture and freshness. The ingredient list details a combination of sugar alcohols, natural and artificial flavors, and other agents that contribute to its long-lasting flavor and iconic chew.

Key Points

Sugar-free composition: Most Mentos gum uses polyol sweeteners (xylitol, sorbitol) and high-intensity sweeteners (aspartame, acesulfame K, sucralose).
Synthetic gum base: The chewy core contains a non-digestible gum base with synthetic polymers.
Encapsulated flavorings: Flavorings are encapsulated for a long-lasting taste.
Additional additives: Ingredients like glycerin, soy lecithin, carnauba wax, and BHT are included for texture and preservation.
Potential laxative effect: Excessive polyol consumption can cause digestive discomfort.
Dental health benefits: Xylitol use helps reduce tooth decay risk.

Core components in Mentos gum

Mentos gum's signature taste and texture come from a combination of key ingredients: a chewing gum base, bulk sweeteners (polyols), high-intensity sweeteners, and encapsulated flavorings.

The chewing gum base

The non-soluble gum base provides the chewy, elastic texture of Mentos gum. While the exact formula is a trade secret, gum bases generally contain food-grade polymers (elastomers), resins, waxes, plasticizers, and fillers. Elastomers contribute to chewiness and can be synthetic, sometimes derived from petroleum.

Polyols and high-intensity sweeteners

Most Mentos gum is sugar-free, utilizing polyols such as xylitol and sorbitol, and high-intensity sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame K. Xylitol is recognized for its potential dental benefits.

Flavorings and additives

Mentos gum uses natural and artificial flavorings for taste. Additives like glycerin, soy lecithin, carnauba wax, and BHT are included for texture, consistency, and preservation.

Comparison of Mentos Pure Fresh and Mentos Vitamins Gum ingredients

Specific Mentos gum products vary in ingredients. A comparison of two types is below:


Ingredient Category	Mentos Pure Fresh Gum (Mint)	Mentos Vitamins Gum (Citrus)
Bulk Sweeteners	Xylitol, Sorbitol, Mannitol, Maltitol Syrup	Xylitol, Sorbitol, Maltitol Syrup, Mannitol
High-Intensity Sweeteners	Aspartame, Acesulfame K, Sucralose	Aspartame, Acesulfame K, Sucralose
Gum Base	Chewing Gum Base	Chewing Gum Base
Flavors	Artificial Flavors, Green Tea Extract	Natural and Artificial Flavors, Malic Acid, Citric Acid, Fruit Powder
Vitamins	None	Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbate), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride), Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
Additives	Glycerin, Maltodextrin, Rice Starch, Soy Lecithin, Carnauba Wax, Xanthan Gum, BHT, Blue 1 Lake	Glycerin, Maltodextrin, Rice Starch, Soy Lecithin, Carnauba Wax, Corn Starch, BHT, Coloring (Paprika Extract, Fruit/Vegetable Juice)

Potential effects of polyols

Polyols are not fully absorbed, contributing to their low-calorie nature and not causing tooth decay. However, excessive consumption may lead to digestive issues.

A note on the gum base

Some consumers are concerned about synthetic polymers in gum base, which may be petroleum-based and contribute to waste. Plant-based alternatives exist but are less common.

Conclusion

Mentos gum combines sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners, and a synthetic gum base for a sugar-free, lasting chew. Ingredient lists vary slightly by flavor, but core components are consistent. Understanding ingredients aids informed choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary sweetener is Xylitol, a sugar alcohol that contributes to sweetness and helps reduce tooth decay risk.

Yes, most Mentos gum is sugar-free, using polyols and other sweeteners.

The gum base is a proprietary blend of synthetic polymers, resins, waxes, and softeners for texture.

Excessive consumption may cause a laxative effect due to polyols.

The liquid center contains water-soluble sweeteners and flavors for a burst of freshness.

Yes, it includes artificial sweeteners like aspartame, acesulfame K, and sucralose.

Some varieties contain green tea extract for breath freshness.