This confection comprises a flavored, often sugar-based, product designed for extended mastication without ingestion. It incorporates synthetic or natural flavoring compounds to replicate the taste of a tart, verdant fruit. A common example is a rectangular slab of the product packaged in foil, intended to freshen breath or provide a distraction through oral activity.
Such flavored products offer a convenient method of stimulating saliva production, which can aid in digestion and contribute to oral hygiene by neutralizing acids. Its historical roots can be traced back to natural latex chicle, though modern formulations rely primarily on synthetic gum bases for increased durability and consistent texture. The appeal of the specific flavor profile likely stems from its association with freshness and a perceived healthfulness linked to the fruit it emulates.
