My Genuine Thoughts on Simply Gum (Sweetened with Cane Sugar)

In the vast world of chewing gums, where every brand strives to pop its flavor bubble louder than the other, I stumbled across Simply Gum. It promises a natural chewing experience, diverging from the artificial norm we’ve become accustomed to. As someone forever on the lookout for products with fewer chemicals and more transparency regarding their ingredients, Simply Gum caught my attention. My journey with Simply Gum has been a unique one, filled with its highs and lows, all of which I’m eager to share with you today.

Packaging

The first thing you’ll notice about Simply Gum is its packaging, which stands starkly against the typical shiny wrappers and plastic containers. The packaging is minimalist to its core—compact, sleek, and predominantly made from recyclable cardboard. Each of the six flavors comes in its own dainty cardboard box, featuring a tidy white flip-top, which, I must admit, works more efficiently than I initially thought. Instead of the usual individually wrapped pieces, the gum pieces are freely nestled inside, evoking a handcrafted feel. The company also mindfully includes a few wax papers in every box for easy disposal of the gum, reinforcing the eco-friendly vibe. The boxes are notably convenient for slipping into pockets or purses, an aspect of the design I greatly appreciate.

Quantity and Size

Diving into the contents, the first aspect that stands out is the inconsistency in the size and shape of the gum pieces. Each box purportedly contains 15 pieces, but this seems to be a conservative estimate—the actual count feels more generous. However, don’t expect uniformity; the pieces range from tiny pellets to chunks of varying sizes, all loose and unbound within the box. This randomness in size does add a certain charm, although it makes me wish for larger pieces for a more fulfilling chew. The gum itself has a natural brown hue, tying back to its organic roots, specifically its chicle base—a stark contrast to the artificially colored gums flooding the market.

Ingredients

The ingredients list of Simply Gum is where it genuinely stands out. Steering clear of the murky waters of the “gum base” found in conventional gums, which can contain myriad undisclosed synthetic chemicals, Simply Gum keeps it simple and natural. Their recipe hinges on a chicle base derived from the sap of the sapodilla tree, ensuring 100% biodegradability. Beyond the chicle, the gum contains only a handful of recognizable components: organic raw cane sugar, a natural oil for flavor, organic vegetable glycerin, and organic rice flour—no more than five ingredients in any flavor. This straightforward list is particularly appealing to me, echoing my preference for simplicity in my dietary choices. The sweetener of choice being real sugar is rare and welcome. This simplicity also extends to those with dietary restrictions or allergies, as everything is not only ethically sourced but also Kosher and vegan-friendly.

Caloric Content

Even with real sugar as a sweetener, Simply Gum manages to keep the caloric content impressively low—just 3 calories per piece. This makes the gum practically negligible as a calorie source, provided you aren’t chain-chewing through packs. However, it’s essential to note that, like any true sugar-sweetened gum, it does run the risk of contributing to bad breath and less-than-ideal oral health if consumed excessively. Each piece contains 2 grams of carbohydrates and sugars, a fact worth considering for those mindful of their sugar intake.

Flavor Choices

Flavor diversity is another area where Simply Gum doesn’t fall short. The brand offers an intriguing array of flavors, including classics like Peppermint, Cinnamon, and Spearmint, alongside more adventurous varieties such as Ginger, Coffee, Maple, and even blends like Boost (Lemongrass, Turmeric, Cayenne) and Cleanse (Grapefruit, Prickly Pear, Cayenne). These unique options are subtle yet satisfying on the palate. The mention of sugar-free versions hints at an inclusive approach to catering to various preferences (though those will be touched upon separately). This variety ensures that there’s likely a flavor to fit any mood or preference, opening the doors to a personalized gum-chewing experience.

Texture and Consistency

Embarking on the sensory journey that Simply Gum offers starts with recognizing its texture. In my experience, it took some time to adjust to the softer, silkier feel that emerges after several minutes of chewing. It’s distinct—somewhat stickier and certainly softer than the more widespread gum options. While it’s not unpleasant, it does diverge from the conventional gum texture I was accustomed to, and might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you’re particular about texture.

Chewing Experience

Now, as someone who likes to keep my jaw busy, especially during study sessions to maintain focus, Simply Gum has been a commendable companion. Its softer texture proves to be a relief to the jaw muscles, even after extended periods of use. However, it does have its quirks—don’t attempt to blow bubbles unless you’re ready for a sticky situation on your lips. On a positive note, unlike other gums that turn into jaw workout equipment as soon as the flavor fades, Simply Gum retains its chewable softness for hours. However, I advise those with dental appliances to approach with caution as it can leave a slight clingy feeling on the teeth.

Flavor Longevity

Speaking of flavors, they are admittedly short-lived. With a varied experience across the different choices: 15-20 minutes is a reasonable estimate before the flavor begins to wane. For instance, nuances of coffee and ginger merely flirt with the tastebuds before they drift away, while maple tantalizes with its sweetness. In contrast, mint brings a traditional burst of freshness, and cinnamon heats up the experience as you chew—best paired with a glass of water at hand. Fennel’s licorice-like flavor was the unexpected delight in the mix, adding a lingering, pleasant taste.

Environmental Impact

A significant aspect that won many points with me is the eco-friendly profile of this chewing gum. Every part, from the gum itself to its packaging, is made from biodegradable materials. This aligns perfectly with my intent to minimize my environmental footprint as much as possible. It’s refreshing to find a gum that doesn’t contribute to the plastic problem that plaques our beautiful planet.

Price and Value

I won’t sugarcoat it; Simply Gum comes with a steeper price tag than your average chewing gum. However, when you take into account the quality and purity of the product, the cost seems justifiable. I understand that shelling out $11.99 for a single pack of 15 pieces might seem excessive, but even so, there are more economical options available. Just recently, I noted that Amazon is selling six packs of the same gum for about $15, which brings the cost down to just $0.17 a piece. For bulk buyers, there’s also an option to purchase this gum in larger bags, which I hope to see more of in the future. Moreover, their website regularly runs discount promotions, offers free shipping on orders of $25+, and even provides a 10% saving for a subscription-based purchase.

Overall Rating

To wrap it up, Simply Gum is certainly an admirable player in the sustainable, chemical-free circle of chewing gums. While it may not be the first pick for those seeking a long-lasting minty breath, its environmental ethos and natural ingredients offer a guilt-free way to indulge a chewing habit. However, if you’re eyeing it solely as a breath freshener, you might want to look elsewhere. Would I recommend Simply Gum to friends? Absolutely, primarily to those seeking an eco-friendlier, more natural chewing experience. It’s not just a gum; it’s a choice that reflects mindfulness towards health and the planet.