My Honest Review of Eclipse Sugar-Free Chewing Gum (2024)

I’m the kind of person who constantly has a pack of gum on hand. Whether I’m looking to freshen my breath, curb a craving, or just need something to fidget with, my trusty gum is a daily staple. Today, I’m sharing my experience with Eclipse Sugar-Free chewing gum, a popular choice for many and a regular occupant of my bag’s side pocket. It’s the kind of review that’s personal yet strives for objectivity, exploring the nuances of this chewy companion.

Packaging

Packaging is where Eclipse really makes its first impression. The gum comes protected in what I find a quite nifty blister pack. This isn’t just for aesthetics; each piece remains cocooned in its little bubble, safe from the elements. As someone who has gone through the washer’s wrath more times than I care to admit, the sturdy nature of the blister pack keeps everything intact better than standard foil-and-paper packs. And in the practicality versus space debate, yes, it’s bulkier than traditional gum sticks, but in exchange for freshness, I find it’s a sacrifice worth making.

Venturing out for the day with a full pack, I appreciate the divided 18-piece pack, which can be neatly split for convenience. However, the mysterious empty slot sometimes has me scratching my head – an unsolvable puzzle presented by the manufacturer. But for at-home or stationary use, I find the larger 60-piece bottles or refill bags much more economical and environmentally friendly.

Quantity and Size

Speaking of quantity, Eclipse comes in a variety of pack sizes – 18, 60, 120, and 180. They’re all uniform in look, sporting a clean, white chiclet aesthetic. Each one a perfect cube of 1.5 grams. It’s that ideal mid-size piece—not too small, not too imposing—but to really get in the groove of chewing, I’d recommend popping two at a time.

The portability of the 18-pack is nothing to scoff at. It’s my go-to for travel and compatibility can’t be overstressed when you’re trying to pack light. But value-wise, the larger packs have my vote. With the smaller packs, you’re paying a bit more for the convenience factor, which can add up if you’re a frequent gum chewer like myself.

Ingredients

As a gum aficionado, ingredients are crucial, and on this note, Eclipse has both its highlights and drawbacks. It’s sugar-free, which is a huge plus. The gum uses a blend of sorbitol and maltitol, providing the sweetness without the sugar rush (or crash). However, sorbitol doubles as a laxative, and excessive chewing can lead to some… rather uncomfortable situations, if you catch my drift.

Aspartame makes an appearance as well, and while it’s FDA-approved, some people—including myself—experience headaches with aspartame. I secretly hope for a switch to a xylitol-based sweetener, not only for the headache alleviation but also because my dentist swears by its cavity-fighting properties.

Caloric Content

For the calorie-conscious, Eclipse is a clear winner. The packaging states 2 grams of carbohydrates and just 5 calories per serving, which consists of 2 pieces. That’s a negligible amount, especially when compared to sugary alternatives. It’s that minor detail that makes me feel a little less guilty when I reach for my second… okay, third serving post-lunch when those sneaky sweet cravings strike.

Flavor Choices

Now let’s get to the fun part – the flavors. Eclipse offers a decent variety; from ‘cool your breath on a hot day’ Spearmint to the ‘clear your sinuses’ Polar Ice. Then there’s Winter Frost, which to me is like brushing your teeth on-the-go—a mint overload if you will—and a strong Peppermint, which is strangely elusive in my local stores but does wonders for my occasional upset stomach.

Each flavor has its own personality. The Spearmint variety hits the sweet spot between freshness and intensity. It’s neither a punch in the palate nor a faint whisper of flavor—it’s just right. Polar Ice, on the other hand, is akin to stepping into a winter wonderland. It’s stronger, with a menthol kick that can clear your head in the best way possible. Winter Frost and Peppermint follow closely behind, each with a dedicated purpose beyond merely freshening your breath.

Texture and Consistency

One of Eclipse’s standout features undoubtedly lies in its texture and consistency. It strikes a pleasing balance with a slightly firm outer shell and a yielding, soft center once you get chewing. Unlike other gums that tend to harden into a chewable rock or dissolve into a mushy mess as time goes on, Eclipse holds its form admirably well. I’ve stumbled upon a pack under my car seat, likely forgotten for half a year, and to my surprise, it was still good as new after conquering the initial firmness.

Moreover, this gum does not turn into a sticky nightmare when it’s time to dispose of it. It maintains its integrity, remarkably resisting the urge to adhere to your dental work or become entangled with your teeth—a major plus for anyone who despises picking at their teeth post-chew.

Chewing Experience

The overall chewing experience with Eclipse is notably pleasant. It’s kind enough not to wage war on any dental work you might have, which is a godsend for my family members with dentures and my own porcelain crowns. A minor quibble, however, is in the bubble-blowing department; you’ll need a healthy mouthful—think 3 or 4 pieces—to craft a bubble of respectable size. But for my daily drives, walks, and general focus-aiding, a piece or two satisfies the chew without tethering my lips together or leaving a residue.

Flavor Longevity

When it comes to flavor, Eclipse doesn’t shy away from making a strong first impression. That initial burst of flavor is intensely refreshing, making your oral cavity feel cleansed and revitalized. Importantly, this isn’t a fleeting sensation. The flavor endures through the chew, tapering off at a pace that feels natural and satisfying. This is a stark contrast to some gums that seem to lose their zest the moment you start getting into the rhythm.

Environmental Impact

If there’s an area Eclipse could stand to review, it’s in its environmental considerations. The plastic blister packs, while handy, aren’t exactly kindle for Mother Earth. Their convenience comes at the cost of adding to the plastic predicament plaguing our planet. Additionally, the murky territory of the gum base composition, which remains a trade secret among most chewing gum brands, does cast a shadow on its biodegradability or lack thereof.

Price and Value

Economics always plays a part in purchasing decisions, and you’ll find that Eclipse is more reasonably priced than your average supermarket gum. However, Eclipse has experienced its own inflationary pressures. From a modest $8 to the current $11 in recent years, the upward shift in price is somewhat steep for an 8-pack of gum (144 pieces in total). Despite the hike, the bulk purchase options offer some solace, particularly the ability to stock up without frequent trips to the store. It’s a balancing act of convenience against cost, with bulk buying tipping the scales in favor of value, especially for a gum of this quality and reliability.

Overall Rating

After all is said and chewed, my verdict on Eclipse Sugar-free gum is largely positive, with a few caveats sprinkled in. Its thoughtful packaging, enduring flavor, and chew-friendly texture stand out as remarkable attributes. However, the environmental impact and the somewhat questionable ingredients it contains invite room for reflection and, hopefully, future adjustments by the manufacturer.

In the grand scheme of things, Eclipse emerges as a resilient companion for the everyday and the extraordinary moments that call for a fresh breath or a chewy distraction. Whether tucked into a car dashboard for those long drives, nestled on a kitchen counter for easy access, or stowed in a backpack for an impromptu adventure, it has secured its place as my go-to gum. With hopes of witnessing eco-friendlier packaging and broader flavor innovation in the future, I remain a committed fan of what I consider one of the more superior choices in the chewing gum realm.