What Are Microplastics in Gum?
Microplastics in gum are more common than you think — and most people have no idea they’re chewing on plastic every day.
A new UCLA-led study presented at the American Chemical Society (ACS) 2025 meeting found that chewing gum can release hundreds to thousands of microplastic particles per gram — within just minutes of chewing. Researchers were surprised by how quickly these particles are introduced into the body, raising new concerns about what’s really hiding in everyday gum.
And it’s not just one rogue brand — this includes most major gum on the market today.
Heads up: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly believe in — especially ones that help reduce microplastic exposure.
Wait, There’s Plastic in Gum?
Yep. The part of gum that makes it chewy — called gum base — often includes synthetic polymers like:
- Polyvinyl acetate
- Polyethylene
- Butyl rubber
These are all forms of plastic. In fact, the same materials found in glue, plastic bags, and even car tires can show up in your favorite gum. It’s all lumped under the mysterious ingredient label: “gum base.”
And since companies don’t legally have to disclose what’s in their gum base… most of us have been chewing on mystery plastics for years.
Is That Really a Big Deal?
Here’s the thing: we’re already exposed to microplastics in our food, water, air, and even dust. Adding a daily plastic habit like gum only adds fuel to the fire. The risk of microplastics in gum isn’t just theoretical — it’s now backed by emerging science and public health research.
Recent research shows:
- Other studies estimate the average person already consumes 39,000–52,000 plastic particles per year — and that could double when you factor in air
Chewing = Direct Exposure
Unlike plastic in packaging, chewing plastic directly introduces particles into your body — through oral absorption and swallowing.
Not something you want in your routine. Especially if you’re:
- Pregnant or nursing
- Feeding gum to kids
- Trying to reduce your plastic footprint
What to Chew Instead (Plastic-Free Gum Brands)
The good news? There are awesome gum brands out there made from natural chicle — a plant-based sap from the sapodilla tree — or other biodegradable bases. If you’re chewing conventional brands like Trident or Orbit, you’re likely ingesting microplastics in gum with every stick.
Want to avoid microplastics in gum? These are our favorite brands that offer clean, plastic-free alternatives.
1. Simply Gum
- Made with chicle (tree sap), natural flavors, and organic cane sugar
- Flavors: Mint, Cinnamon, Ginger, Coffee, and more
- Fully biodegradable and plastic-free
2. Glee Gum
- Chicle-based and non-GMO
- Offers both sugar-free and regular options
- Great for kids and comes in fun flavors
3. PUR Gum
- Plant-based, aspartame-free, and xylitol-sweetened
- Great minty options and long-lasting flavor
- Widely available and affordable
4. Stevita Hum
- Plastic-free gum with added natural caffeine
- Great for a clean energy boost
- Minimal ingredients and no weird chemicals
5. Tree Hugger Gum
- Fun bubblegum-style gum made with natural colors and flavors
- Sweetened with cane sugar
- Kid-friendly and plastic-free
Why This Matters
We’re all trying to make better choices — but it’s hard when products don’t label things clearly.
If something as everyday as gum can contain plastic, what else are we overlooking?
The best part is, this swap is easy:
- Costs about the same
- Tastes just as good (or better)
- Doesn’t come with a side of synthetic polymers
Ditch These, Try These
| Ditch | Try Instead |
|---|---|
| Trident, Extra, Orbit | Simply Gum, Glee Gum, PUR Gum, Chewpod, Tree Hugger |
Final Thoughts
Reducing your exposure to microplastics in gum is one of the easiest daily changes you can make — and the alternatives taste just as good. We’re not saying never chew gum again — but you deserve to know what’s in it.
And if you’re building a microplastic-free lifestyle for yourself or your family, this is a simple, high-impact swap you can make today.
Next time you’re at the store or scrolling Amazon, skip the mystery ingredients and chew on something
If you found this helpful and you’re trying to cut down on hidden plastics in your daily routine, don’t stop at gum. Your kitchen is one of the biggest sources of microplastic exposure — from cutting boards to storage containers.
👉 Check out my guide to Microplastics in the Kitchen: 12 Simple Swaps to Protect Your Family