My Honest Review of PUR Chewing Gum (2024 Edition)

In the vast world of chewing gum, one product that recently grabbed my attention was PÜR gum. A chewable delight that promises both health benefits and indulgence, PUR gum has some bold claims to live up to. A philosophy of guilt-free gum chewing and teeth-friendly ingredients might sound like the dream for an avid gum chewer like me, but does it really live up to the hype? I took it upon myself to go beyond the glossy exterior and explore every flavor, consistency, and claim to give you a comprehensive review. From packaging to taste, chewing experience, environmental friendly footprint, and bang for your buck – I’ve chewed on every detail, so you know exactly what you’re biting into. So, get your chewing gear ready, and let’s dive into the world of PUR Chewing Gum.

Packaging

The first thing that stood out to me about PUR was its packaging — a simple yet thoughtfully designed resealable pouch. Unlike the traditional blister packs or the ones that have each piece wrapped in paper or foil, this Ziploc-style bag was a game-changer. It was compact enough to slip into a pocket or purse without the bulge or the bother of wrappers. What’s more, on hot days where most gums morph into a gooey mess, PUR’s resistant packaging kept the pieces intact and mess-free. I also found it environmentally friendlier, eliminating the unnecessary waste that comes with individual wrapping. However, for those who still prefer the traditional packaging, PUR does offer blister packs, though they contain significantly fewer pieces.

Quantity and Size

Each bag generously contains between 55-58 small, chiclets-shaped gums, ensuring you won’t run out anytime soon. The consistency in quantity (never falling below 55 pieces) impressed me, though the size of each piece did raise an eyebrow. The gums are quite small, often leading me to grab two at a time for a satisfactory chew. While the larger bag size compensates well, I couldn’t help but notice the stark difference in convenience compared to the nine-piece blister pack.

Ingredients

PUR prides itself on using clean, natural, and non-GMO ingredients, sweetened exclusively with Xylitol derived from sustainably grown birch and beech trees in Europe. This was a huge plus for me, as it dodges sugar, sucralose, and aspartame, along with harsh laxatives found in other gums. Xylitol is known for its dental benefits, like neutralizing pH levels in the mouth, reducing cavity risks, and promoting saliva production. It’s a commendable choice for anyone looking to maintain oral hygiene without compromising on their diet or health.

Caloric Content

Each piece of PUR gum contains 1 gram of xylitol, translating to a measly 5 calories per serving size (which is two pieces). With only 2 grams of total carbs, it’s a guilt-free pleasure for anyone counting calories, including those with dietary restrictions. The gum is also vegan, gluten-free, peanut-free, soy-free, and diabetic-friendly, making it an inclusive option for nearly anyone looking to enjoy a chew.

Flavor Choices

PUR doesn’t shy away from variety, offering eight distinct flavors from classic Cinnamon and Peppermint to the more adventurous Chocolate Mint and Pomegranate Mint. The Bubblegum flavor was a hit, especially with kids, while Spearmint and Peppermint did wonders for freshening breath. However, not all flavors hit the mark; Wintergreen and Coolmint, for instance, were somewhat lacking in authenticity and longevity. Chocolate Mint provided a nice alternative for those with a sweet tooth, though Pomegranate Mint’s uniqueness felt somewhat muted. Despite these variances, the range of flavors means there’s likely something for everyone.

Texture and Consistency

When I first tried PÜR gum, its glossy, rectangular form and smaller size compared to other brands struck me. But it’s the chewiness that really caught my attention. This gum kept its pliable and soft nature over an extended period, especially the chocolate mint flavor, which I found quite pleasing. It starts off on the right foot, offering a comfortable chewing experience initially and maintaining its tender texture without morphing into a nuisance by sticking to the teeth as it softens. All in all, the texture is a high point for PUR.

Chewing Experience

Let’s talk about the actual chew. With PUR, you likely have to pop two pieces in your mouth to achieve that full, satisfying chew due to its compact size. This isn’t a deal-breaker for me since they don’t fuse with my dental work or natural teeth — a significant plus for anyone with fillings or crowns. Its chewiness is commendable, contributing positively to a non-sticky experience. As someone who occasionally suffers from dry mouth, the stimulating effect on saliva production that PUR provides is a relief. Although you won’t be blowing massive bubbles with it, a couple of pieces will give you the ability for small, playful pops.

Flavor Longevity

Now, the flavor experience is a bit of a roller coaster ride. For the first few minutes, PUR packs a punch of taste; however, it’s worth noting that this vigor is short-lived. If sustained flavor is what you’re after, you may be a tad disappointed. The cinnamon flavor is a fireworks show that fades too quickly, and while the peppermint starts strong and retains a lingering aftertaste beyond others, the bubblegum nostalgically tickles the senses then quietly bows out after a few minutes. The chocolate mint flavor goes through a pleasant transition, and the spearmint is impressive in its longevity, but wintergreen and coolmint flavors could use some tweaking to enhance their staying power. Pomegranate Mint, in particular, was rather fleeting, both in flavor and authenticity.

Environmental Impact

The brand’s commitment to using sustainably-grown birch and beech tree xylitol aligns with my penchant for environmentally conscious products. The emphasis on natural ingredients and non-GMO certifications points to PUR’s respect for both health and the environment. However, a note of caution: xylitol is toxic to pets, so keeping this gum away from your furry friends is a must.

The questionability of “gum base” in the ingredient list does hint at a mix of natural and synthetic substances, which would be an area for the brand to clarify. While PUR gum isn’t biodegradable, the sustainability angle of its xylitol sourcing is commendable. There’s a fine balance here, and for the environmentally-minded chewer, these factors might weigh heavily on the decision to purchase.

Price and Value

Diving into the economic aspect, you’ll find PUR is slightly higher priced than your average supermarket gum. Nevertheless, in consideration of quality, health benefits, and sustainability efforts, the $4.99 price tag per pack seems justified. The pack size and quantity ensure longevity, stretching the value for money over time. It can last a good month, offering value in each minty chew. Although it positions itself within the premium pricing spectrum, it entices health-conscious consumers with its unique selling proposition and free shipping on orders over $30 if you buy directly from their website.

Overall Rating

Wrapping it up, PUR chewing gum attempts to serve a broad palette with its diverse flavor offerings, trying to strike a balance between enjoyment and health benefits, an aspect I highly value. Wouldn’t you love a gum that freshens your breath and battles germs post-meal or coffee without causing a later cavity scare? That’s PUR for you, yet it does have room to grow—especially in activating taste buds for longer durations. The brand’s innovation with flavors like Chocolate Mint and Pomegranate Mint doesn’t go unnoticed, adding a sprinkle of diversity to the gum universe. But don’t expect an everlasting flavor parade or the ability to show off your bubble-blowing prowess. In essence, PUR is for those who prioritize oral health and ingredients over the long-lasting flavor or sizeable bubbles.