Chewing Gum

Chewing gum is a soft, cohesive substance designed to be chewed without being swallowed. Modern chewing gum is composed of gum base, sweeteners, softeners/plasticizers, flavors, colors, and, typically, a hard or powdered polyol coating. Its texture is reminiscent of rubber because of the physical-chemical properties of its polymer, plasticizer, and resin components, which contribute to its elastic-pliable nature.

The scent profile of chewing gum varies widely depending on its flavor. Traditional flavors include peppermint, spearmint, and cinnamon, each providing a distinct, refreshing aroma. Peppermint-flavored gum often smells sharply cool and somewhat sweet, deriving from menthol, which provides a cooling sensation. Spearmint-flavored gum delivers a slightly sweeter and softer minty aroma compared to peppermint. Cinnamon gum carries a warm, spicy scent that can be both sweet and hot.

Fruit-flavored gums, another popular category, can mimic the aromas of fruits like strawberry, apple, or tropical fruits, offering a sweet and often tangy olfactory experience. The scents are typically created using a mix of natural and synthetic flavor compounds that simulate the respective fruit’s distinctive smell.

The purpose of gum's scent is not only to provide a pleasant experience while chewing but also to freshen breath and stimulate the senses. Thus, its fragrance is designed to be potent and lingering, often masking other odors and leaving a refreshing aftertaste and smell.