Gum is not entirely wax, but wax is a component of gum.
Gum Composition Explained
According to research, gum base typically contains three essential ingredients:
- A resin provides the chewiness.
- A wax adds softness.
- Elastomers maintain elasticity.
The Role of Wax in Gum
Wax in gum contributes to its texture and pliability. It helps prevent the gum from becoming too hard or brittle during chewing. In the past, gum manufacturers used natural waxes. However, nowadays, they often use synthetic waxes derived from petrochemicals for both gum base resin and the wax component.