IS PLASTIC-FREE CHEWING GUM NOW MAINSTREAM?

In April 2021, Plant-based, plastic-free and biodegradable gum brand Nuud has made its UK retail debut. the chewing gum is sweetened with xylitol and claims to be completely vegan and biodegradable. It uses a tree sap called chicle in the place of plastic in its gum base, which it claims helps the gum biodegrade naturally “like a banana skin”. Companies from different countries have also launched plant-based natural alternatives to traditional plastic-based gum. We’d gather major brands from the North America, Europe and Asia and talk to experts about how plastic-free gums are enhancing brands’ sustainability credentials, how they are making these products recyclable and/or biodegradable, thereby cutting out palm oil and using natural sweeteners.