My Honest Review of Extra Sugar-free Chewing Gum (2024)

In the vast world of chewing gums, Extra sugar-free gum holds its own as a popular choice among consumers seeking a mix of taste and convenience without the sugar spike. Having had my fair share of experiences with various gum brands, I recently took a closer look at Extra to offer you an honest, comprehensive review. My aim isn’t just to focus on what’s appealing but to also highlight some of the lesser-discussed aspects of this sugar-free option.

Packaging

When it comes to packaging, Extra has certainly put thought into convenience and freshness. You’ll find it encased in various options, including the paper pack case and a more durable plastic case with a flip-top. Personally, I have a soft spot for the tactile satisfaction of the paper packs – their slide-in-place closure is nifty, reassuring you that your gum will stay put.

These sleek designs are not just about looks; they’re practical for an on-the-go lifestyle, fitting effortlessly into a pocket or purse. Each pack is initially protected by cellophane, preserving that fresh-out-of-the-factory feel, while individual sticks are cocooned in a foil-like material.

As for the plastic containers—gems in their own right—they’re warriors guarding against the usual purse chaos. These semi-clear hard cases prevent gum from getting squished or dirty and include a flip-top for easy access. Each holds 35 pieces, and they can be repurposed in creative ways, such as organizing small items or holding credit cards—a feature my husband particularly loves. While the packaging scores high on functionality, what’s missing is the ADA seal, which could have been a trust booster for some consumers.

Quantity and Size

When it comes to quantity and size, Extra doesn’t disappoint. The gum is available in bulk options like 120-Stick packs down to smaller, more manageable sizes such as 5-Stick packs, catering to various needs and preferences. These aren’t your miniature chiclets or dainty candy nubs; the sticks are full-sized, generous portions that eclipse competitors like Orbit by about one and a half times, each weighing around 2.5g.

However, not all that glitters is gold. The gum derives its vibrant hues from synthetic colors, which might raise eyebrows for those who prefer natural alternatives. For anyone seeking a pristine white gum, you might have to look elsewhere as these sticks are not shy of a chemist’s touch.

Ingredients

Diving into the ingredients list reveals a mix of positives and negatives. On the bright side, Extra’s commitment to being sugar-free is commendable, employing artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols like sorbitol to achieve sweetness. This is beneficial for those looking to limit their sugar intake. However, sorbitol, listed as the first ingredient, is a laxative that might introduce uncomfortable side effects such as gas or diarrhea if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, aspartame, another key sweetener, is known to trigger headaches in some individuals. I find myself wishing for an alternative to aspartame to widen its appeal and reduce potential health concerns. Furthermore, the presence of soy in the ingredients list is something to watch out for, especially for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Caloric Content

When it comes to the caloric content of Extra Gum, there’s good news for the calorie counters. At just 5 calories per stick and an allocation of 2g of sugar alcohol per serving, it’s an insignificant figure in the grand scheme of dietary intakes. It’s become a sort of ritual for me to pop a stick post-meal; it’s like a full stop to any cravings and an ally against the allure of high-calorie sweets.

This gum serves as a guilt-free tool in my battle against the sweet tooth. The sweetness hits the spot, yet it’s moderate enough not to leave me wallowing in calorie-counting regret. It’s a balance that operates under the radar of my daily calorie budget, which certainly brings a sigh of relief.

Flavor Choices

Extra comes in a delightful variety of flavors, catering to a wide range of palates. My personal favorites — Peppermint, Sweet Watermelon, and Spearmint — stand out for their authentic tastes. The Peppermint variation is refreshingly mild yet long-lasting, perfect for a burst of freshness at any time of the day. Sweet Watermelon impresses with its genuine flavor, striking a nice balance between sweetness and intensity, minus an overpowering aftertaste. The Spearmint flavor revives memories of the classic Trident gum; although it doesn’t last as long, its taste is pleasantly reminiscent and vibrant. Other notable mentions include the unique Smooth Mint, which is incredibly soft and manageable for those with dry mouth, and the Classic Bubble, which brings back the fun of bubble-making without getting too hard or losing its flavor quickly. The Cinnamon and Polar Ice varieties offer their own distinct experiences, from a mild cinnamon kick mixed with a hint of mint to a cooling sensation that refreshes the breath instantly.

Texture and Consistency

Texture-wise, Extra is pretty forgiving on your jaw – it’s soft, easy to chew, and doesn’t stick to teeth or dental work. However, it’s not all roses – after an hour or so, the gum descends into a rubbery state, not exactly pleasant, but not shockingly surprising for a chewing gum.

What Extra does well, however, is its capacity to retain its juiciness a while longer than some other brands. It strikes a balance between not too hard and not too soft, ensuring it doesn’t compromise your dental peace.

Chewing Experience

Extra gum enhances the chewing experience by serving multiple purposes. It’s not just about freshening breath; it has become a go-to for me post-meals to assist in cleaning my teeth and managing cravings. While it’s no replacement for brushing, it does help make my mouth feel cleaner and fresher. Furthermore, the gum is an ally against nighttime cravings and assists in daily battles with dry mouth. Interestingly, it’s also been a helper in relieving trapped air post-meal, a nifty plus for those coping with conditions like acid reflux.

However, consider this as a forewarning: using it as a bad breath remedy in the morning might not be the wisest choice, due to the sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners.

Flavor Longevity

The flavor longevity of Extra gum is a mixed bag. While some flavors like Peppermint boast a few hours of lasting taste, others tend to fade more quickly, around the 30-45 minute mark. Over the years, there’s been a noticeable decrease in how long these flavors last, a point that might deter those looking for a more enduring taste experience. Despite this, the initial burst of flavor is enjoyable and fulfills the immediate need for freshness or a flavor kick.

Environmental Impact

An area of concern with Extra gum is its environmental footprint. The usage of plastic packs can contribute to environmental pollution, broadening the plastic waste problem. Also, it seems the exact components of the gum base are a mystery, thus raising doubts about its biodegradability.

Price and Value

Even pocket pinch is important! Pricing for Extra has seen a considerable rise recently, which might redefine its value proposition for some. A 35-count pack at a convenience store ranges from $2 to $4, and while buying in bulk might feel like a good deal, the rising prices can still be a downer.

Despite this, you can’t ignore the value it offers—a mega-pack of six 35-count packs lasts for months and aids in combating daily stress, making it worthwhile for some gum aficionados.

Overall Rating

All things considered, Extra Sugar-free gum shines in many aspects – from flavor variety to convenient packaging. Nevertheless, it has its share of drawbacks which include questionable ingredients, mixed longevity, and environmental concerns. It’s a good player in the chewing gum market, but it could take some steps towards refinement to become a champion. As is always recommended, give the product a try and see if it suits your particular needs and preferences!