Chewing gum has been enjoyed for thousands of years. From natural resins chewed by ancient cultures to today’s sugar-free gums recognised for their oral health benefits, the story of gum is one of continuity and innovation. A timeless product with a modern role Ancient traditions: archaeological findings show that prehistoric people chewed tree resins for enjoyment. The Ancient Greeks chewed mastic resin to clean teeth and freshen breath, while Native Americans chewed sap and passed the practice to early settlers, who softened it with beeswax. Origins John B. Curtis launches State of Maine Spruce Gum in the United States. 1848 - First commercial gum Dentist William F. Semple patents a chewing gum formula, marking the start of modern product development. 1869 - First patent Adams’ Tutti-Frutti becomes the first gum sold in vending machines in New York subway stations. 1888 - Gum in vending machines Frank Henry Fleer develops Blibber-Blubber, an early bubble gum. The recipe is perfected two decades later with the launch of Double Bubble. 1906 - Bubble gum experiments Industrialisation & Innovation After scientific review by EFSA, the European Union authorises official health claims for sugar-free gum, recognising its role in stimulating saliva, neutralising plaque acids, and protecting teeth. 2012 – EU approval of health claims William Wrigley Jr. pioneers large-scale advertising, turning gum brands like Spearmint and Juicy Fruit into household names. 1920s - Modern branding Bubble gum cards and blowing contests help cement gum in popular culture. 1930s - Collectibles & contests U.S. soldiers introduce gum across Europe, Africa, and Asia during WWII, boosting its global reach. 1940s–1950s - Worldwide spread A milestone that later allows gum to be positioned as part of oral health routines. Regulation & Public Health Recognition 1950s - Sugar-free gum introduced Culture & Global Expansion Today - Chewing gum continues to evolve with new flavours, formats, and functions - from oral care to focus aid, while being subject to strict global food safety standards. What began as a simple habit has become a product recognised for its role in wellbeing and everyday life. Today & Beyond arrow_back_ios arrow_forward_ios