Approximately 9,500 to 9,900 years ago, three Scandinavian teenagers were found chewing gum made from birch tree bark. The gum revealed details about their diet and oral health, shedding light on ancient chewing practices. This discovery was documented in a 2024 publication in the journal Scientific Reports, marking one of the earliest instances of chewing gum in history.
Chewing gum has a long history across various cultures, with materials like chicle, bitumen, mastic, and spruce gum being used for chewing purposes. These substances served both practical and cultural functions, reflecting the ingenuity of ancient populations in addressing oral hygiene and other needs.
The act of chewing gum was not merely a pastime but a method of maintaining oral health and managing hunger. Chewing gum has been linked to appetite suppression, cognitive benefits, stress relief, and even historical wartime practices, highlighting its diverse roles in different contexts.
Why we chew
Chewing gum has historically been used as a means of cleaning teeth, freshening breath, and promoting oral hygiene. Its pleasant flavors and chewing action provided a practical solution for maintaining dental health in the absence of modern dental care practices.
Beyond oral hygiene, gum chewing has been associated with hunger suppression, cognitive enhancement, and stress management. Research has shown that chewing gum can have physiological and psychological benefits, making it a multi-functional practice with widespread appeal.
Gum goes global
The globalization of gum chewing can be traced back to historical events like World War I, where gum was distributed to soldiers for its dental and psychological benefits. This marked the beginning of gum’s commercialization and widespread adoption, leading to its status as a global commodity.
The evolution of gum manufacturing, from natural chicle to synthetic polymers, reflects the changing landscape of gum production. While natural gum sources faced limitations, the shift to synthetic materials like polyethylene and butyl rubber revolutionized the gum industry, albeit with potential health and environmental implications.
The unfortunate downside
Modern chewing gums are predominantly made from synthetic, petroleum-based polymers, raising concerns about microplastic ingestion and exposure to harmful chemicals. Studies have highlighted the presence of microplastics in gum products, underscoring the need for greater awareness and scrutiny of gum ingredients.
Despite the drawbacks, the enduring popularity of gum chewing persists, fueled by its historical significance, practical benefits, and cultural appeal. As we navigate the complexities of gum consumption in the modern age, it’s essential to consider the origins, impacts, and alternatives to conventional gum products.
