Chewing gums are a mass-consumed product available worldwide. Despite their simple appearance, their production requires meticulous attention to various aspects, including maintaining quality during storage and distribution. One of the most common challenges for chewing gum manufacturers is the oxidation of their ingredients, which can negatively impact both flavor and texture, ultimately reducing shelf life and consumer appeal. That’s why we talk about the benefits of natural antioxidants in chewing gums.
In today’s evolving market, where consumers are increasingly mindful of ingredient safety and health impact, the use of natural antioxidants in the food industry is gaining significant attention. Innovative solutions, like Btsa’s Tocobiol®, have proven to be highly effective, offering a superior alternative to traditional synthetic options.
Why is protection with natural antioxidants in chewing gums needed?
Chewing gums are composed of various ingredients that contribute to their unique flavor and chewiness. Typically, they include a water-soluble bulk portion, a water-insoluble gum base, and flavoring agents. During chewing, the water-soluble portion dissolves along with some of the flavoring agents, while the gum base remains in the mouth, providing chewiness.
The gum base is prone to oxidative degradation, especially when exposed to oxygen, light, or heat. Flavoring agents, particularly essential oils from plants and fruits like citrus, peppermint, spearmint, clove, wintergreen, and anise, provide the distinct taste of chewing gums. Due to their lipid nature, also these components are susceptible to oxidation, a process that can lead to rancidity over time.
Therefore, effective protection with natural antioxidants in chewing gums is essential to safeguard lipid components both before and after their incorporation into the product.
Why use natural antioxidants in chewing gums over synthetic options?
The use of antioxidants in the food industry has significantly changed in the last decades. Synthetic antioxidants like butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) have long been used in the food industry as antioxidants for confectionery products such as chewing gum. However, concerns over the potential health risks of these additives have brought them under increased scrutiny. Studies suggest that prolonged exposure to BHT and BHA may be linked to health risks, including possible carcinogenic effects.
In response, health experts and regulatory agencies are advocating for reducing or eliminating these substances in food products. This has driven chewing gum manufacturers to explore safer, less controversial alternatives to prevent oxidation. Additionally, consumer demand for clean-label products, those made with simple, natural, and recognizable ingredients, has intensified interest in natural solutions.
Natural antioxidants, widely found in everyday foods, are considered safe from a regulatory perspective and are also perceived as healthier options by consumers. One notable example are Tocopherols, vitamin E’s compounds naturally derived from vegetable oils like soybean oil. They have proven effective as antioxidants for confectionery products, and incorporating natural antioxidants in chewing gums enables manufacturers to stabilize products effectively, meeting consumer expectations for high safety and quality standards. This approach enhances product appeal, builds brand trust, and positions products for success in today’s health-conscious, clean-label market.
Btsa supports these goals by providing high-quality natural solutions that align with the demand for safer, more natural ingredients.
Btsa’s Tocobiol® line for chewing gums preservation
Btsa’s Tocobiol® is a leading natural antioxidant line specifically designed for food preservation. Here are some of the key advantages of using Tocobiol® as an antioxidant in chewing gum formulations:
- Proven efficacy in free radical neutralization: rich in Tocopherols and other active ingredients like Squalene and Sterols, Tocobiol® effectively neutralizes free radicals, preventing the oxidation of essential oils and other lipid components in gums. Despite its natural origin, Tocobiol® effectiveness is comparable to traditional synthetic options, but with a safer profile.
- Enhanced safety and compliance: being composed of natural ingredients derived from plant sources, Tocobiol® is a safe option for consumers, complying with stringent food safety regulations. This is particularly relevant in today’s market, where consumers are increasingly seeking healthier, less processed products. Tocobiol® supports health requirements while also meeting the growing demand for cleaner, more natural solutions.
- Extended product shelf life: by preventing oxidation, Tocobiol® significantly extends chewing gum shelf life, reduces waste, and provides cost benefits for manufacturers, aligning with sustainability goals.
- Compatibility with various formulations: modern chewing gums are formulated with a diverse range of ingredients to meet the needs of various consumers. Some people seek intense flavors, while others prefer more subtle and natural tastes. Additionally, some gums contain functional additives that offer specific benefits. Tocobiol® line offers highly versatile antioxidant solutions, easily integrating into these different formulations without affecting their organoleptic properties, such as flavor, texture, or overall mouthfeel. This versatility ensures that regardless of the ingredients used, Tocobiol® helps maintain product integrity and guarantees a consistent and enjoyable experience for consumers.
- Commitment to sustainability: Btsa produces Tocobiol® and other tocopherol-based antioxidants using non-GMO vegetable oils, avoiding the petroleum-based ingredients common in synthetic antioxidants. By sourcing renewable plant materials and applying circular economy principles that repurpose by-products of vegetable oil distillation, Btsa minimizes environmental impact.
Btsa’s leadership in antioxidant innovation
With over 30 years in the natural ingredient sector, Btsa leads in innovative antioxidant solutions tailored to the food industry. Tocobiol® exemplifies Btsa’s dedication to natural, effective options that meet evolving consumer demands for ingredient transparency.
For manufacturers seeking a reliable, natural way to protect their products, choosing Tocobiol® means accessing a powerful antioxidant option that enhances product stability while supporting a sustainable, health-conscious market, an invaluable advantage for brands catering to today’s informed and conscious consumers.
