No one really knows why chewing gum makes such an annoying noise, says
Wrigley of Chicago. “However, it is presumed to be due to vibration of the
chewing gum against the teeth,” it says (WO 00/78158). Its fix is gluten,
protein naturally found in grain which gives dough its elasticity. Around 1 per
cent by weight is added to conventional chewing gum during manufacture, along
with the usual sweeteners, softeners and flavours. The gum magically loses its
squeakiness. As a bonus, the wheat gluten is supposed to improve the gum’s
flavour and sweetness.
Technology
Whispering gum
By Barry Fox
7 April 2001
