What is 'Gum Base' and Why Does It Contain Plastic?
For decades, chewing gum has been produced using a blend of synthetic polymers, resins, and waxes that manufacturers refer to collectively as 'gum base'. While this opaque term allows companies to protect their proprietary formulas, it also hides the fact that this base is largely made of plastic. In contrast, traditional chewing gum was made from natural chicle, the sap of the sapodilla tree. The switch to synthetic polymers was driven by the growing demand for cheaper, longer-lasting, and more consistent gum.
Some common synthetic polymers, or plastics, found in conventional chewing gum include polyethylene, polyvinyl acetate (often used in white glue), and polyisobutylene (used in tire manufacturing). While these are considered food-grade, they are still plastic and do not degrade, contributing to persistent litter and potentially harming health.
The Problem with Microplastics in Chewing Gum
The 2025 UCLA pilot study found that a single gram of gum released an average of 100 microplastic fragments, with some shedding over 600. These tiny particles, smaller than 5 millimeters, can be unintentionally ingested during chewing. The study revealed that even 'natural' gums released microplastics, though the cause is still under investigation, potentially due to processing or packaging contamination. Ninety-four percent of the particles were released within the first eight minutes of chewing, suggesting that prolonged chewing doesn't necessarily increase exposure.
Potential Health and Environmental Impacts
While the long-term human health risks from microplastics are not fully understood, research in animals suggests potential links to inflammation, DNA damage, and metabolic disorders. For the environment, plastic-based gum poses a clear and costly problem. It is one of the most common forms of litter, taking years to break down and contributing to microplastic pollution in soil and waterways. The effort and expense of removing gum litter from city streets are significant, highlighting the hidden environmental costs of this product.
Comparison: Conventional vs. Plastic-Free Gum
To make an informed choice, consider the key differences between these two types of gum:
| Feature | Conventional (Plastic-Based) Gum | Plastic-Free Gum (e.g., Chicza, Simply Gum) |
|---|---|---|
| Gum Base | Synthetic polymers (e.g., polyethylene, polyvinyl acetate) | Natural chicle from tree sap or other plant-based materials |
| Microplastic Release | Confirmed to release hundreds of microplastics per gram during chewing | Designed to be plastic-free; should not release synthetic microplastics |
| Biodegradability | Non-biodegradable; persists as litter for years | Biodegradable; breaks down naturally into the environment |
| Ingredient Transparency | Often proprietary and vague; lists 'gum base' | Generally transparent, highlighting natural ingredients |
| Cost | Typically less expensive due to cheaper synthetic ingredients | May be slightly more expensive due to sustainable sourcing methods |
| Texture | Generally offers a long-lasting, consistent texture | May have a slightly different, softer texture and flavor that diminishes more naturally over time |
How to Find Plastic-Free Chewing Gum
Because manufacturers of conventional gum are not required to disclose the plastic content of their 'gum base,' finding plastic-free gum requires looking for brands that explicitly advertise their natural, plant-based formula. Many companies use chicle, a sustainably harvested tree sap, or other plant-derived ingredients as their base.
List of Plastic-Free Brands
For those seeking alternatives, several brands specialize in plastic-free chewing gum:
- Simply Gum: Offers minimal ingredient lists and natural sweeteners.
- Glee Gum: Features Fair Trade certified chicle and non-GMO ingredients.
- Chewsy: A plant-based, sugar-free, and aspartame-free option.
- Chicza: An organic chicle-based gum sourced from Mexico.
- True Gum: Uses chicle from the sapodilla tree and comes in plastic-free packaging.
- Gud Gum: India-based brand using chicle and natural fruit powders.
- Pür Gum: Uses xylitol for a sugar-free, plastic-free option.
- BenBits: Offers plant-based, plastic-free gum in recyclable packaging.
Before purchasing, it's wise to double-check the company's website or product labeling to ensure their gum base is indeed natural and not a mix of synthetic and natural components, which some companies have been found to do.
Conclusion: Making a Conscious Chew
The discovery that conventional chewing gum contains microplastics and releases them into our bodies is a surprising but important revelation for consumers. While regulatory agencies consider the ingredients safe, the health effects are still being researched. The environmental impact, however, is clear: plastic-based gum is a major source of persistent pollution. By choosing brands that are transparent about their natural, plastic-free ingredients, consumers can make a more informed and eco-friendly choice, avoiding unnecessary microplastic exposure and contributing to a healthier planet. This small change can make a big difference in reducing your environmental footprint.
For more information on the health implications of microplastics, see the Environmental Working Group's article: Is Chewing Gum Releasing Microplastics in Your Mouth?.
