PUR Gum has carved out a strong niche in the chewing gum market by focusing on transparency and clean ingredients. The company's promise is to avoid common artificial additives like aspartame, a synthetic sweetener often found in traditional sugar-free gums. By doing so, PUR offers a product line that is not only suitable for those with health concerns but also aligns with vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly lifestyles. The core of its composition is a small, but impactful, list of natural-source ingredients that provide flavor, sweetness, and chewability.
The Key Ingredients of PUR Gum
1. Sweetener: 100% Xylitol
The star ingredient in PUR Gum is its natural sweetener, 100% xylitol. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in the fibers of many fruits and vegetables, as well as in birch and maple trees. Unlike sugar, it is not fermentable by the bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities, which helps inhibit bacterial growth. The company sources its xylitol from European birch and maple trees, ensuring it is a sustainably produced, natural alternative to sugar.
Benefits of Xylitol:
- Reduces plaque-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize plaque acids.
- Does not cause a spike in blood sugar or insulin levels, making it suitable for people with diabetes.
- Has 40% fewer calories than sugar.
2. Gum Base
Chewing gum requires a non-digestible gum base to provide its signature chewiness. While many commercial brands use synthetic polymers, PUR utilizes a natural gum base. The exact formulation is proprietary, but it is free of animal-derived products, confirming the gum's vegan-friendly status. The quality of the gum base contributes to the gum's texture and ability to hold its flavor.
3. Gum Arabic
Gum arabic is a natural gum made from the hardened sap of acacia trees. It is used as a binder and emulsifier to hold the other ingredients together smoothly. This natural ingredient adds to the gum's overall composition, providing structure and contributing to a softer texture compared to some conventional gums.
4. Natural Flavors
PUR Gum gets its taste from natural flavorings, not artificial ones. The company uses a variety of essential oils and natural powders to create its popular flavor options, including Peppermint, Spearmint, and Bubblegum. This reliance on natural extracts means the flavor may not last as long as conventional gums that use artificial, long-lasting flavor compounds, but it appeals to consumers seeking a clean ingredient list.
5. Carnauba Wax and Tocopherols
Carnauba wax is a natural, plant-based wax used as a glazing agent to give the gum its smooth, shiny coating and to prevent the pieces from sticking together. Tocopherols are a form of Vitamin E and serve as a natural antioxidant to help maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
Flavor-Specific Variations
For certain flavors, PUR adds extra ingredients to achieve the desired taste. For example, the Bubblegum flavor includes malic and citric acid for a tart finish. The specific ingredient list can vary slightly depending on the flavor, but all versions adhere to the company's core philosophy of avoiding artificial additives.
Comparison: PUR Gum vs. Conventional Gum
| Feature | PUR Gum | Conventional Gum |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetener | 100% Xylitol (natural, sugar alcohol) | Sugar, Aspartame, Sucralose (artificial) |
| Gum Base | Natural, vegan gum base | Often synthetic polymers |
| Flavoring | Natural flavors from essential oils and powders | Artificial flavors and colors |
| Oral Health Benefits | Anti-cavity properties due to xylitol | None; some contribute to tooth decay if they contain sugar |
| Dietary Restrictions | Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Keto | Often contains soy, artificial sweeteners, and other non-vegan additives |
| Flavor Longevity | Generally shorter duration due to natural ingredients | Often longer duration due to artificial compounds |
| Calorie Content | Low-calorie due to xylitol | Can be higher if sugar is used; low if artificial sweeteners are used |
Conclusion: The Simple and Intentional Ingredients of PUR Gum
In conclusion, the answer to "what is PUR Gum made out of" is a concise and clear list of natural ingredients. By replacing artificial components like aspartame with 100% xylitol and using a natural gum base, PUR offers a conscious choice for consumers. While the shorter-lasting flavor is a common point of feedback, it is a direct result of avoiding synthetic, long-lasting compounds. This commitment to simple, clean ingredients is why it remains a top choice for individuals with dietary restrictions or those simply seeking a more wholesome alternative to conventional chewing gum.
Potential Considerations with Xylitol
It is important to acknowledge that despite the benefits, xylitol is toxic to dogs, and gum containing it should be kept away from pets. Additionally, for some individuals, excessive consumption of xylitol may lead to digestive discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea. However, these potential side effects are generally mild and are a trade-off for avoiding the potentially more concerning effects of artificial sweeteners. Overall, PUR Gum’s ingredient list is a testament to its mission to provide a truly better-for-you chewing gum option.
