Dive Summary:
- Leading gum maker Wrigley has filed a patent for a gum sweetened with dried fruit powders.
- The company says the powders could serve as a natural alternative to sucrose, which promotes tooth decay, and are cheaper than polyols, which possess the drawback of laxative properties.
- Fruits that may be dried and used as sweeteners include blackcurrants, grapes, plums, cherries, poms, apples and pears, and the powders may retain some vitamin and nutrient content, as well.
From the article:
... "Chewing gums formulated with dried fruit powder as the bulking agent provide not only a real fruit taste, but also offer healthier options for consumers," said Wrigley in its patent application.
"The bulking agent is natural since it is fruit, and it contains the natural flavor, vitamins and nutrients that is inherent to the fruit itself. ...
