Extra gum is made by the Wrigley company, and its flavors are available in supermarkets and convenience stores across the country. According to the International Chewing Gum Association, most types of gum, the Extra brand included, are made using five ingredients. Gum is not recommended for small children because it poses a choking risk. People who are sensitive to artificial sweeteners may need to avoid Extra gum as well.
Gum Base
Gum base is what gives Extra gum the texture necessary to make it chewable. According to Wrigley, the gum base it uses in its products is a synthetic material that is safe and has a consistent feel that allows the gum to retain its flavor longer. Gum base is typically a combination of polymers, softeners and wax that meld to make gum easier to chew, reports ICGA. In addition, the materials used to create the Extra gum base have dental benefits because the saliva you produce as you chew neutralizes acid on your teeth, which aids in the prevention of cavities. However, chewing gum should not replace normal brushing and flossing.
Artificial Sweeteners
Extra gum is sugar free, and artificial sweeteners are used as an alternative. Among those used are aspartame, sucralose, maltitol and xylitol, reports Wrigley. These substances are sweeter than sugar and thus used in smaller quantities. However, some people feel that artificial sweeteners are not safe, so avoid Extra sugar-free gum if you feel this way. Most artificial sweeteners are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, including sucralose and aspartame.
Softeners
According to Wrigley, the oils used in Extra gum keep it soft and flexible while you chew. Glycerin and vegetable oils are commonly used because they keep the moisture level where it should be so that the gum you are chewing doesn't get hard. The ICGA reports that old gum may become brittle and harder to chew but that it is still safe.
Flavor and Color
Extra gum comes in a variety of flavors, including mint, strawberry shortcake, key lime pie, sweet watermelon and traditional bubble gum flavor. Gum is given its flavor through the use of spice and fruit essences, reports Wrigley. The most popular flavor Wrigley sells is mint, and this bubblegum gets its flavor from the mint plant. If you have food allergies, it is important to read the ingredients, as some ingredients that add flavor and color may contain the by-products of something you are allergic to. The ICGA reports that gum does not typically contain any of the top eight food allergens but that the label will state if it does. Otherwise, reading the ingredients will help you determine whether the gum contains an item you can't have.
Preservatives
Gum has a relatively long shelf life and isn't required to list an expiration date, according to the ICGA. The preservatives that are used in Extra gum help the product stay fresh until it is chewed. They are safe and are regulated by both domestic and international agencies to ensure Extra gum's safety.
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