My Honest Review of Epic Xylitol Chewing Gum (2024)

For years, I’ve been a loyal chewer of Epic Dental’s xylitol gum, drawn to its promises of sugar-free satisfaction and dental benefits. It’s one of those products that you stumble upon and then wonder how you ever managed without it. In this review, I aim to share my comprehensive and honest thoughts on Epic gum, touching on everything from its innovative packaging to the variety of flavors offered. I want to give you an unfiltered look at this gum to help you decide if it’s worth incorporating into your daily routine.

Packaging

One of the standout features of Epic gum is its packaging. The gum comes in a bottle container that is not only convenient but also reusable, something I find utterly practical. I always have a bottle in my car for easy access. The design of the bottle ensures the gum stays chewy-fresh, a stark contrast to the disappointment of stale gum we’ve all experienced. Each bottle snugly holds 50 square pieces, making it perfect for refilling from larger, bulk-purchased bags. The brand also offers the gum in flat blister packs for those who prefer a more compact option for their pockets or purses. However, in my experience, the bottles are superior in maintaining freshness and minimizing waste. Additionally, the gum is available in assorted, individually wrapped pieces.

Quantity and Size

Epic gum doesn’t skimp on quantity or size options. Whether you’re a casual chewer or someone who likes to stock up, there’s a package size for you – from the 12-count blister packs to the hefty 1000-count bags. Each piece, weighing 1.5 grams, is slightly heftier than those from competitors like Spry. The gum is designed in the style of Chiclets, featuring a crunchy shell. This variety in quantity and size, especially the bulk options, signifies not just value for money but also a nod towards reducing packaging waste.

Ingredients

The ingredient list is where Epic gum really shines. It’s sugar-free, a must in my books, and each piece packs 1.06 grams of xylitol sourced from non-GMO corn – a healthier alternative to other artificial sweeteners on the market. It’s comforting to know I’m chewing on something free from gluten, GMOs, and artificial flavorings or colors. Plus, it’s vegan. Being someone who’s mindful about artificial additives and their health implications, I appreciate Epic’s commitment to using high-quality, safe ingredients. This gum is a rare find for those with grain intolerances or anyone looking to avoid artificial sweeteners often found in other chewing gums.

Caloric Content

For those watching their calorie intake or sugar consumption, Epic gum offers a guilt-free option. Each piece contains a mere 2.4 calories, with total carbohydrates of 1.06 grams (thanks to the xylitol). This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to satisfy their gum-chewing habit without derailing their dietary goals.

Flavor Choices

Diversity in flavor is another highlight of Epic gum. It boasts an array of options, including Spearmint, Bubble Gum, Fresh Fruit, Cinnamon, Wintergreen, Peppermint, and Orange-Mango. The peppermint flavor, my personal calming go-to, offers a robust burst of freshness that lasts a good ten minutes – impressive for a sugar-free gum. Spearmint is another winner, delivering a true-to-name experience. Though the Bubble Gum flavor satisfies the classic taste without odd aftertastes, and Fresh Fruit brings back nostalgic juicy fruit vibes, I found the Wintergreen and Orange-Mango to be mild and short-lived.

The variety invites you to explore and find your favorite, though it does come with some hits and misses depending on personal taste preferences. Overall, the flavors are an adventurous mix that cater to a wide range of palates, with Peppermint and Spearmint standing out as clear frontrunners for their lasting appeal and soothing effects.

Texture and Consistency

When it comes to its texture and how it feels whilst enjoying it, Epic gum has its highs and lows. Initially, the gum offers a pleasant chew without being too sticky or hard, striking a nice balance that doesn’t tire out your jaw. It maintains a rubbery consistency that’s quite enjoyable up to about the half-hour mark. However, its durability under extended periods of chewing—or even brief pauses—leaves something to be desired. The gum begins to disintegrate if you stop chewing for a bit or dare to sip a hot beverage, breaking down into less coherent pieces in your mouth. Although it generally stays soft, it shifts towards a gummy texture, which can unexpectedly turn grainy, making the chewing experience a bit of a mixed bag.

Chewing Experience

Chewing Epic xylitol gum starts off on a strong note with a refreshing mouthfeel. As someone who usually opts for two pieces at a time, I appreciate the initial minty freshness that transforms my breath while simultaneously benefiting my dental health thanks to the xylitol. The gum doesn’t mirror the typical taste of sugar-free gums, which is a significant plus. It’s particularly beneficial for those dealing with dry mouth issues. However, a downside emerges for denture wearers, as it tends to adhere to dental work, which can be disappointing. While the gum is slightly tougher than some of its counterparts like PÜR gum, it has a tendency to stick between teeth, proving a bit of a challenge to remove.

Flavor Longevity

Epic Gum offers a burst of flavor that greets you enthusiastically at first chew. The intensity of the flavor isn’t overwhelming but is noticeably lighter compared to other brands. This initial rush does fade quickly, yet it leaves behind a subtle taste that lingers pleasantly. Each flavor provides about 30 minutes of noticeable taste before transitioning to a milder presence. Compared to other gums such as PUR, the flavor longevity doesn’t quite match up, but the experience remains enjoyable for those who favor a less intense flavor profile.

Environmental Impact

On the environmental front, Epic Gum has room for improvement. The use of plastic blister packs and individually wrapped pieces raises concerns about its eco-friendliness. Although the bottle container option offers a reusable alternative, the overall environmental footprint is marred by packaging choices that aren’t the most sustainable. The ambiguity surrounding the biodegradability of the gum base further complicates its green credentials, leaving a gap for the environmentally conscious consumer.

Price and Value

Speaking of value, Epic Gum tends to fall on the slightly pricier side, with a 50-piece bottle averaging around $6 online. The cost climbs a bit higher when opting for the 12-piece blister packs, though bulk purchasing can alleviate some of the financial sting. The company does offer a subscription service that slices 10% off the price, alongside free shipping for orders over $65, which is a neat saving grace for regular purchasers. However, for the quality and benefits provided, particularly in dental health, many may find the price justifiable.

Overall Rating

When all is said and done, Epic Gum offers a pleasant chewing experience with a gamut of intriguing flavors. It shines in its commitment to dental hygiene support through the use of high-quality xylitol, a feature that certainly sets it apart in the market. Notwithstanding, the gum leaves room for improvement, particularly when it comes to maintaining its texture over time, its frequent ‘sticking’ issue, and not being entirely environmentally friendly.

The pricing may lean towards the higher end, but various purchase options such as bulk packs and subscription services, along with free shipping offers, help offset the costs. This potentially offers good value for regular consumers. While I give due credit to its potential oral health benefits, diverse uses, and enjoyable flavors, my overall enthusiasm for the product is somewhat dampened by slight environmental concerns and somewhat unclear manufacturing standards (the product is made in China).

However, for the health-conscious, sugar-free seekers, and those looking for a breath-freshening chew, I reckon Epic Xylitol Gum is worth a try. Its primary caution should be noted by dog owners since xylitol is toxic to canines, requiring careful handling and disposal of the gum. With all things considered, it stands as a solid alternative to your dental health regimen.