Environmental Science Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Environmental Science - Research Paper Example Middle Eastern cultures also used resin, combined with beeswax, specifically because it could be chewed with a softer texture. The first gum in America was noted in as early as the 800s when spruce tree resin was taken from the bark and chewed on. This chewing gum continued to be used until the 1800s when it became a commercial product (Ford Gum, 2011). When chewing gum was first processed, it began with taking gum from spruce trees. There were also options to have a silicone base with the gum. However, neither of these options allowed for continuous manufacturing of the gum. The process used today began by Thomas Adams. Adams was introduced to chicle, a rubbery textured tree sap that is found in both Mexico and in Central America. The chicle is scrapped from the trees and immediately consists of a rubbery substance that can be chewed. The gum is then processed to make a different consistency and size. The chicle is placed in hot water until it begins to reform into a putty type of c onsistency. After the putty is made, the gum is processed into different flavors. The ingredients include sassafras and licorice, which creates the main taste for general bubble gum. Other types of gum will also add in other flavors, such as mint, peppermint or fruit flavors.