Can gum go bad? You may be asking this question if you ever chewed gum before in your life.
This is a somewhat important question to answer because some people may not want to eat expired gum (if it even expires in the first place!).
Gum is a popular and convenient snack that is enjoyed by people all over the world. It’s small, portable, and provides a quick burst of flavour whenever you need it.
But can gum go bad? And if so, how can you tell if your gum is still fresh and safe to chew?
The short answer is that gum can go bad, but the shelf life of gum is typically very long. It will remain fresh and safe to chew for a long time, as long as it is stored properly.
Read on to learn more about the research The Average Cook has done on this topic!
Can Gum Go Bad?
Most gum is made with ingredients that are designed to have a long shelf life, including sugar, corn syrup, and artificial sweeteners, which are all relatively stable and do not easily spoil.
However, gum can be affected by several factors that can cause it to go bad over time.
These factors include exposure to light, heat, and moisture, as well as the presence of bacteria and other microbes.
For example, gum that is exposed to high temperatures, such as that found in a hot car, can start to soften and lose its flavour.
Similarly, gum that is exposed to moisture, such as from a humid environment, can start to dissolve and become sticky and unappealing. If this starts happening, you might want to reconsider whether you should even eat the gum in the first place.
When in doubt, just throw it away and buy a new pack of gum from your local grocery store.
Read more: How Many Peanuts in a Jar of Peanut Butter and How To Clean Popcorn Machine?
Bacteria in Gum
Bacteria and other microbes can also contribute to the spoilage of gum.
These organisms can grow on the surface of the gum and produce compounds that change the flavour and texture of the gum, making it unappealing and potentially unsafe to chew.
So, how can you tell if your gum is still fresh and safe to chew?
One way is to look for physical signs of spoilage, such as changes in color, texture, and flavor. If your gum is discoloured, has a weird taste, or is becoming sticky, it is probably time to throw it away.
The last thing you want to do is eat bad gum and get sick from it.
Another way to determine the freshness of your gum is to check the expiration date. Most gum packages come with an expiration date or a “best by” date that provides an estimate of how long the gum will remain fresh and safe to chew.
If your gum has passed the expiration date, it is best to dispose of it and purchase a new package.
It’s also important to keep your gum clean and hygienic, to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microbes. This can be done by storing your gum in a clean, dry place, and avoiding exposing it to moisture and heat.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to wash your hands before handling your gum and to keep it away from pets and other animals, which can contaminate the gum with bacteria and other harmful organisms.
Final Thoughts on Can Gum Go Bad
Gum can indeed go bad over time, but with proper storage and care, it will remain fresh and safe to chew for a long time.
By keeping your gum clean and hygienic, checking the expiration date, and looking for physical signs of spoilage, you can ensure that your gum stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
