Chewing gums and microplastics- A groundbreaking research.
Have you ever tried chewing gum? Most of us would have tried at some point in time. During childhood, it was like a fashion trend. Even after the taste wore off, blowing out bubbles and popping was considered stylish and fun. Now it’s not fun anymore.
Research has shown that microplastics can leach out into the saliva. It was found that most plastic particles detach from the chewing gum within the first 2 minutes of chewing due to friction. The synthetic base in the chewing gum contains polyethene and polyvinyl acetate, which are plastic polymers. We are aware that microplastics leach out from our daily items, such as plastic bottles, shampoo bottles, and plastic cutting boards. Now, chewing gums also come under this list.
Interestingly, some places in India have started taking steps to ban chewing gum due to health concerns. Be aware of these health hazards and avoid using them, especially by children. Stay healthy and avoid following such fashion trends.
Have you ever wondered why chewing gum is so chewy and sticky?
The polymers are hydrophobic in nature and form bonds with polar lipophilic substances so it doesn’t dissolve in water(also in our mouth) and remains chewy.
Most of us never think about what gives gum its chewiness, but realizing it’s due to plastic polymers really changes perspective. It’s a great reminder that even small daily habits can expose us to hidden health risks — time to rethink that “harmless” chewing gum habit!
Chewing gum is chewy and sticky because its base contains synthetic polymers like polyisobutylene and polyvinyl acetate, which give it elastic, rubber-like properties. These materials don’t break down easily, allowing gum to stay flexible and chewy long after the flavor fades.
Yes, there should be strict regulations to address such issues. Most of the time, manufacturers find ways to bypass such rules and regulations for profit and continue producing harmful products.
Chewing gum is chewy and sticky because its gum base is made of polymers, resins, and waxes that provide elasticity and stickiness, allowing it to maintain its texture without dissolving in saliva.
