Chewing Gum and Hidden Ingredients: Insights for Consumers
Chewing gum is a ubiquitous candy enjoyed by people worldwide, but it often holds hidden ingredients that may not align with certain dietary preferences or restrictions. In this article, we will explore whether some chewing gums contain traces of pork and dive into the various health benefits of chewing gum. We will also discuss key ingredients in gummy candies and their implications for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.
Pork in Chewing Gum
Yes, some chewing gums may contain traces of pork-derived ingredients. Specifically, certain types of glycerin—a common sweetener and humectant in chewing gum—can be sourced from animal fats, including pork. Additionally, some flavorings or emulsifiers might also be derived from animal sources. For those concerned about pork content due to dietary restrictions, it is best to check the ingredient list on the packaging or look for gums that are specifically labeled as vegetarian or halal.
For example, Wrigley's products sold in the U.S. are free from ingredients of animal origin. However, certain varieties like Extra Polar Ice Orbit Crystal Mint and Juicy Fruit pellet gums contain tiny flavor beads encased in a microscopic layer of gelatin, which is of animal origin. Similarly, some Altoids mints use gelatin from pork to achieve the right texture.
Ingredients in Gummy Candies
One of the main ingredients in making gummy candy is gelatin, which is often derived from parts of the pig. However, due to the sizeable Muslim population, halal gelatin is now available from other animals. For vegans, plant-based alternatives are also available.
Labels on gummy candies often don't clearly state the origin of gelatin, making it difficult to discern animal or plant-based sources. This can be a concern for those with specific dietary restrictions. Additionally, some gummy candies may also contain trace amounts of dairy or other animal byproducts, as mentioned in Wrigley's and Altoids products.
Health Benefits of Chewing Gum
Chewing gum has several health benefits, including cognitive and dental advantages. According to a review by Onyper et al. (2011), chewing gum can improve working memory, episodic memory, and perceptual speed of processing, but these benefits are only evident if chewing takes place prior to cognitive testing.
Chewing sugar-free gum sweetened with xylitol has been shown to reduce cavities and plaque formation. Xylitol specifically inhibits Streptococcus mutans, a significant contributor to tooth decay, without fermenting into acid like most sugars. This makes it an excellent choice for dental health and saliva production. Daily doses of xylitol below 3.44 grams are ineffective, while doses above 10.32 grams show no additional benefit.
Chewing gum can also help reduce halitosis (bad breath) by stimulating saliva production and removing food particles and bacteria from the mouth. According to the American Dental Association, chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after a meal helps prevent tooth decay by washing away bacteria. Chewing gum can also help maintain saliva production and alleviate xerostomia (dry mouth), which is essential for oral health.
Chewing gum can be particularly useful in surgical recovery and pain management. It can stimulate saliva flow, aid in the production of digestive juices, and help reduce the duration of post-operative ileus following abdominal and gastrointestinal surgery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while some chewing gums may contain pork-derived ingredients, there are now alternatives available, such as vegetarian and halal gum options. The health benefits of chewing gum are numerous, including cognitive improvement and dental benefits. However, it's important to read labels carefully and choose products that align with your dietary preferences and restrictions.