Sofia Martinez
Mentos gum has recently been the subject of controversy, with some sources claiming that it contains plastic. While the company that markets Mentos gum, Perfetti Van Melle USA, has challenged these claims, filing a complaint against competitor Simply Gum, a pilot study by the American Chemical Society found that chewing gum in general can release microplastics into saliva, with an average of 100 microplastics released per gram of chewing gum. The study specifically identified gum base or chewing gum base, often listed as an ingredient in chewing gums, as a code for potentially many different chemicals, including synthetic plastics. Mentos gum has also been praised for its efforts to reduce plastic packaging, with the company adopting 90% paperboard bottles for its Pure Fresh Gum and using Velcro closures for its Wallet Packs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Paper |
| Plastic in packaging | Minimal or None |
| Plastic in gum | Yes, in the form of microplastics |
| Plastic in gum base | Yes, synthetic plastics |
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What You'll Learn
Mentos switches to paper packaging
Mentos has recently switched to paper packaging for its Pure Fresh Gum, with a 90% paperboard bottle. This is a step towards sustainability and reducing plastic waste. The company has committed to environmental responsibility and aims to reduce, recycle, and reuse plastics. Mentos' new packaging has received recognition from the industry, including the National Confectioners Association and the International Association of Packaging Professionals.
The switch to paper packaging is a response to consumer demand for more flexible and sustainable packaging options. Mentos has also introduced Velcro closures for its gum packaging, ensuring freshness and convenience.
While Mentos has taken steps to reduce plastic in its packaging, the gum itself has been a subject of debate. Some sources suggest that chewing gum can contain synthetic polymers, which are technically plastics. However, it is important to note that "plastic" is a broad term, and the presence of synthetic polymers in gum does not necessarily indicate the presence of harmful plastics.
Recent studies have found that chewing gum can release microplastics into saliva, with an average of 100 microplastics released per gram of gum. These microplastics are likely due to the synthetic rubber bases used in some chewing gums. The health impacts of ingesting these microplastics are still being researched, and it is unclear if they pose a significant risk to humans.
Mentos has challenged claims made by competitor Simply Gum regarding the presence of "hidden plastic" in its gum. Mentos markets its gum as sugar-free, with the third ingredient listed as "chewing gum base", which can include plasticizing materials according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, Mentos has not confirmed the presence or absence of plastics in its gum formula.
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Plastic in gum bases
While it is true that gum bases contain plastics, it is important to understand that not all plastics are the same. The term "plastic" refers to synthetic or semi-synthetic polymers, but this does not mean that the plastic in gum bases is identical to the plastic in a plastic bag or water bottle. The specific compound and its quantity are the only factors that matter when determining safety.
Natural gum bases uses a plant-based polymer, such as sustainably harvested tree sap called chicle, to achieve the desired chewiness. On the other hand, synthetic gum bases use rubber bases derived from petroleum-based polymers. Polyvinyl acetate is a common ingredient in the "gum base" of many popular brands.
There has been growing concern about the presence of plastic in gum bases, with calls for clearer labelling and the adoption of plant-based alternatives. The term 'gum base' has been criticized for lacking transparency, as it does not provide sufficient information about the specific ingredients used.
Recent studies have found that chewing gum can release microplastics into saliva, potentially leading to ingestion. However, it is important to note that the act of chewing causes the release of these microplastics rather than enzymes in saliva breaking them down. Additionally, the environmental impact of gum waste contributes to plastic pollution if not properly disposed of.
While the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) reviews the safety of food additives, including those in chewing gum bases, there is ongoing debate about the potential health implications of consuming plastic through gum bases. Some brands, like Nuud Gum, have emerged as plastic-free and plant-based alternatives, emphasizing the use of natural ingredients like chicle.
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Microplastics in saliva
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are widespread in the environment, and people are exposed to them through various everyday products. Scientists estimate that people ingest tens of thousands of microplastics annually.
A pilot study by the American Chemical Society investigated the presence of microplastics in chewing gum, specifically examining whether gum contributes to the ingestion of microplastics. The researchers tested five brands each of synthetic and natural gum, with seven pieces from each brand chewed by a single person to control for variations in chewing patterns and saliva. The participant chewed each piece for four minutes, providing saliva samples every 30 seconds, followed by a final mouth rinse with clean water.
The study found that chewing gum releases an average of 100 microplastics per gram, with some pieces yielding up to 600 microplastics per gram. Considering a typical piece of gum weighs between 2 and 6 grams, a large piece could release up to 3,000 plastic particles. Given that people may chew 160 to 180 small sticks of gum annually, this could result in the ingestion of approximately 30,000 microplastics from gum alone.
The researchers also found that most microplastics detached from the gum within the first two minutes of chewing, with 94% of the plastic particles released within the first eight minutes. The act of chewing was identified as the primary mechanism for microplastic release, rather than the breakdown by enzymes in saliva. Interestingly, both synthetic and natural gums were found to contain similar amounts of microplastics, which surprised the researchers.
While the long-term health effects of microplastic ingestion are not yet fully understood, the potential risks are a growing concern. The study's lead investigator, Sanjay Mohanty, emphasized that their goal was not to cause alarm but to raise awareness about the presence of microplastics in chewing gum.
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Plastic pollution
Mentos gum has recently switched from plastic packaging to paper packaging, with its Pure Fresh Gum now available in a 90% paperboard bottle. However, the gum itself contains plastic. While this plastic is not the same kind found in plastic bags or water bottles, it still contributes to plastic pollution if not properly disposed of.
Approximately one-quarter to one-fifth of plastic waste is mismanaged, meaning it is not recycled, incinerated, or stored in sealed landfills. This waste often ends up in the environment, with 1-2 million tonnes of plastic entering our oceans each year. Plastic pollution is most visible in developing Asian and African nations, where garbage collection systems may be inefficient or non-existent. However, even in developed countries with low recycling rates, properly collecting discarded plastics can be challenging.
To address plastic pollution, systemic transformation and improved waste management strategies are necessary. While reducing plastic production is important, it is not enough on its own. Domestic policies and foreign investments in waste management infrastructure, particularly in low-to-middle-income countries, will be crucial to tackling this global problem.
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Health impacts of microplastics
Mentos gum has recently switched to paper packaging, which is more environmentally friendly than plastic. However, the gum itself contains plastic. While the term "plastic" is broad and does not mean it is the same kind of material as a plastic bag, it still raises concerns about the health impact of microplastics.
Microplastics, tiny particles of plastic less than 5 millimeters in size, are pervasive in our environment, including oceans, soil, and air. Humans are constantly exposed to microplastics through various routes, such as contaminated seafood, tap and bottled water, beverages, and salt. A study by the American Chemical Society found that chewing gum can release microplastics into saliva, potentially leading to ingestion.
The health effects of microplastics are complex and not yet fully understood. The World Health Organization (WHO) analysis suggests limited evidence of significant adverse health impacts. However, there are knowledge gaps, and further research is needed to assess the impact of microplastics on human health accurately.
Some studies indicate potential links between microplastics and health issues. For example, research has found higher concentrations of microplastics in fecal samples of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients compared to healthy individuals, suggesting a correlation between microplastic exposure and the degree of IBD. Additionally, microplastics have been detected in cirrhotic liver tissues and human thrombus and arterial embolism samples, indicating a possible association with chronic diseases.
The omnipresence of microplastics and their potential health risks underscore the importance of managing plastic waste, reducing plastic usage, and transitioning to more sustainable practices to protect human health and the environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Mentos gum has been accused of containing plastic. However, Mentos has challenged these claims, stating that the term "gum base" on their packaging refers to a variety of substances that can be used in a chewing gum base. Mentos gum is now available in more sustainable paper packaging, containing only a 10% plastic component, which is far less than the previous packaging.
The plastic component in the new Mentos gum packaging is made from paperboard, which is 90% paper and 10% plastic.
Yes, chewing gum contains plastic. Both natural and synthetic chewing gums contain plastic, with the latter containing more plastic than the former.
Researchers have found that chewing gum can release hundreds to thousands of microplastics per piece into saliva, with an average of 100 microplastics released per gram of chewing gum.
The health effects of ingesting microplastics from chewing gum are still unknown and require further research. However, it is recommended that individuals reduce their exposure to microplastics, as they have been linked to certain types of health issues.
![Product of Mentos Pure Fresh Spearmint Gum 4 pk./50 ct. [Biz Discount]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71vrkcWj8-L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
