My Honest Review of Big Red Cinnamon Gum Review (2024)

There’s something unmistakably nostalgic about Big Red gum—a classic flavor cherished across generations, continuing to captivate with its unique taste. As a piece of the retro gum culture, Big Red stands out with its fiery cinnamon flavor, a hallmark that has endured since its introduction by the William Wrigley Jr. Company in 1975. In this review, I’ll share my forthright experiences with Big Red, encompassing its packaging, size, ingredients, and much more, providing a comprehensive overview for fellow enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

Packaging

Opening a pack of Big Red gum feels like unwrapping a small treasure. The individual packs are neatly encased in a larger box, which in turn is sealed in cellophane to preserve that just-produced freshness. The scent that escapes upon peeling open a pack is wonderfully potent, instantly evoking memories of past indulgences. Each stick, encased in a paper wrapper, promises about a week of optimal freshness once the pack is opened. These packs are not just about keeping the gum fresh; they’re designed for convenience too. Easily slipping into a pocket or purse, they make sharing a breeze while ensuring your gum remains as fresh as possible.

Quantity and Size

When it comes to quantity, Big Red doesn’t hold back. Each stick weighs 2.5g, offering a full-sized chewing experience far removed from the miniaturized versions often found in other brands. Big Red’s vibrant red pieces are unmistakable, dyed with synthetic colors similar to other gums in Wrigley’s lineup. Available in bulk sizes of either 40 or 150 counts, with packs housing either 5 or 15 sticks respectively, there’s an option to suit both casual consumers and die-hard fans, ensuring you always have a stick at hand, be it in your purse, car, or desk drawer.

Ingredients

Delving into Big Red’s composition reveals a mix of delight and concern. At its core, this gum isn’t sugar-free, topped with a list of ingredients where sugar leads the charge. The amalgamation of sugar with artificial sweeteners raises eyebrows, despite the relief that comes from the absence of sorbitol—a common irritant for some. Since 2003, Wrigley’s decision to replace part of the sugar with Aspartame and Ace K, while maintaining the gum’s iconic taste, has been a point of contention for those mindful of synthetic additives. The ingredient list reflects a formula that might not align with everyone’s dietary preferences, especially with the inclusion of soy and changes in the gum’s recipe over recent years. This aspect could be a dealbreaker for consumers seeking a more natural chewing experience.

Caloric Content

Now, in terms of caloric content, Big Red sits at 10 calories per stick which, while not the leanest option available, isn’t particularly hefty either. It’s got 2g of total carbs per piece, which really isn’t much, and considering the energy we likely expend just by chewing, it’s almost a dietary neutral. That said, if you’re tracking your intake or looking for the lightest option on the market, this might not be your go-to.

Texture and Consistency

Lastly, before we dive deeper into the gum-chewing experience itself, let’s chew over the texture and consistency of Big Red. Right out of the wrapper, when its freshness is at its peak, the gum is soft without being too brittle. It offers a chewy texture that’s enjoyable and doesn’t immediately give out flavor-wise, which is more than I can say for some other gums. However, around the 30-minute mark, you might notice the gum hardening slightly, making the chewing experience a tad more laborious, though it remains chewable.

Chewing Experience

Diving straight into the heart of the matter – the chewing experience with Big Red is, in a word, vibrant. This gum truly dances on the line between sweet and spicy. For anyone with a penchant for that fiery kick, this gum is a delightful treat. It manages to freshen your breath while simultaneously igniting a spicy sensation that’s hard to miss. Interestingly, while mint flavors are usually the go-to for those of us managing GERD, Big Red offers a great alternative without the potential heartburn, making it a spicy yet safe choice. Moreover, the gum’s texture doesn’t break down easily nor does it stick to dental work, which is a definite plus. On top of this, it’s notable that chewing gum like Big Red can prompt saliva production, assisting in regulating stomach acid – a subtle, yet valuable health benefit. For bubble-blowers among us, expect to craft small to medium bubbles, adding a bit of playful charm to the experience.

Flavor Longevity

When it comes to longevity, Big Red strikes a balance that’s hard to beat. It delivers a blast of cinnamon flavor that, unlike some other gums, doesn’t bow out too quickly. Yes, the initial intensity of the flavor does fade after 10 minutes, but what’s remarkable is the enduring warmth and burning sensation that accompanies each chew, lasting the entire duration of the experience. That being said, while the bold and invigorating cinnamon taste is a crowd-pleaser, some may find the artificial flavor undertones a bit off-putting.

Environmental Impact

As an earth-conscious consumer, I must admit that the environmental aspect of Big Red is somewhat concerning. Given that the specifics of the gum base remain undisclosed, it’s safe to assume that it’s not biodegradable. Gum litter is not harmless; without proper disposal, it can contribute to pollution and harm wildlife. This is a downside that consumers like us might consider heavily when selecting our chewing gum.

Price and Value

Being a decently avid consumer of this product, I sometimes chew it, sometimes I don’t. But I heartily welcome the availability of this gum in bulk – a blessing indeed as finding a local store that sells the 15-stick boxes is proving to be elusive.

While Big Red was once found everywhere, it sadly isn’t as readily available in brick-and-mortar stores now. Unsurprisingly, with reduced sizes, the price has significantly escalated over time. Yet, from my experience, buying in bulk online—like the 15 Count (Pack of 10) offer on Amazon—is far more cost-effective than spending $1.50 per pack at a convenience store. Plus, the delivery is always in its optimal state.

Overall Rating

In conclusion, Wrigley’s Big Red gum stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic flavors, distinguished by its cinnamon zest, versatility in managing dental and digestive health, and unique sensory experiences. While the environmental implications and ingredient list may give pause to the environmentally and health-conscious consumer, its affordability, packaging convenience, and nostalgic allure make it a compelling choice for many. As always, preferences vary widely, and what works for one may not for another, but for those captivated by the blend of sweet and spicy, Wrigley’s Big Red is undeniably worth the chew.