Chewing gum base composition, method for making the chewing gum base composition and chewing gum

Abstract

The present invention relates to a chewing gum base composition, a method for preparing a chewing gum base composition and a chewing gum comprising said chewing gum base composition. In particular, the present invention relates to a chewing gum base composition comprising a rosin component, a fat component and at least one softener, wherein the rosin component is present in an amount of at least 50% by weight of the gum base composition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a chewing gum base composition, a method for preparing the chewing gum base composition, and a chewing gum comprising the chewing gum base composition. Specifically, this invention relates to a chewing gum base composition comprising a rosin component, a fatty acid component, and at least one softener, wherein the rosin component is present in an amount of at least 50% by weight of the base composition. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, commercial chewing gum is produced based on synthetic gum bases that are non-biodegradable and can persist in the environment for extended periods. Such synthetic gum bases include, for example, butadiene-styrene rubber, butyl rubber, paraffin wax, petroleum-based waxes, polyethylene, polyisobutylene, and polyvinyl acetate. Chewing gum base compositions containing petroleum-based ingredients are disclosed in, for example, patent publications US 2013 / 0052299 A1, EP 0494902 B1, and US 2007 / 042079 A1.

[0003] Several attempts have been made to prepare chewing gum base compositions containing natural gums. Typically, plant-based chewing gum bases contain, for example, guar gum (a gum made from the sap of the sapodilla tree, a species of tree in the genus *Manilkara*) or saqez gum (an oily resin obtained from wild pistachio trees). Recently, chewing gums containing other natural gums, such as resins obtained from coniferous trees, have also been developed.

[0004] For example, GB 2448158 A relates to a chewing gum base made of beeswax and rosin. The amount of beeswax is very high, the ratio of beeswax to rosin is 2:1, and this chewing gum base is not suitable for vegan users. DE 202021105327 U1 discloses a chewing gum containing silver in aggregate form and at least one natural gum base, such as tree resin, for example pine resin or spruce resin, or gum arabic and / or gutta-percha. WO 2017204755 A1 relates to a gum base composition comprising glycerides of natural tree resins, hydrogenated vegetable oil, natural wax, and Gundelia tournefortii gum. The glycerides of natural tree resins are present in the range of 2.5-40% by weight of the gum base composition. The chewing gum base disclosed in EP 3344058 A1 contains a natural elastomer with a low glass transition temperature (i.e., below 35°C), such as raw rubber, caspi, natural rubber, gutta-percha, gum arabic, or mastic.

[0005] However, there is still a need for biodegradable, plant-based, synthetic-free gum base compositions and gums suitable for vegan users. Gum should also provide a pleasant taste and texture. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention is defined by the features of the independent claims. Some specific embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0007] This invention provides a plant-based, biodegradable chewing gum and a plant-based, biodegradable chewing gum base composition. The invention is based on the concept of using a biodegradable rosin component, the amount of which is at least 50% by weight of the chewing gum base composition. The base composition also contains a fatty acid component and at least one softener, which are biodegradable and / or plant-based. More specifically, the fatty acid component contains at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil. A method for preparing the chewing gum base composition according to the invention includes the step of mixing the rosin component, the fatty acid component, and at least one softener while heating, thereby providing a soft and chewable structure. The chewing gum of the invention contains a chewing gum base composition and optional additional biodegradable ingredients, such as those accepted by the FDA and / or EFSA for use in chewing gum. However, the chewing gum base composition and chewing gum according to the invention do not contain petroleum-based ingredients.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a chewing gum base composition is thus provided, comprising:

[0009] - A rosin component, comprising at least 50% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, wherein the rosin component contains glycerides of rosin;

[0010] - A fat component comprising at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optionally at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax; and

[0011] - At least one plasticizer.

[0012] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for preparing a chewing gum base composition is provided, the chewing gum base composition comprising a glyceryl ester of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, the method comprising:

[0013] a) Heating the rosin component containing glycerol esters of rosin to at least the melting point of the rosin component, typically to 70-90°C; b) Adding a fatty component containing at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optionally at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax to the molten rosin component while mixing and heating.

[0014] c) Add at least one softener to the mixture obtained in step b) under mixing and heating;

[0015] d) Optionally add other ingredients acceptable as additives in the gum base composition, such as fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and antioxidants; and

[0016] e) Recycle the obtained chewing gum base composition or transfer it to chewing gum production.

[0017] The present invention also relates to a chewing gum comprising 20-45% by weight of the chewing gum gum base composition of the present invention.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for preparing chewing gum is provided, the chewing gum comprising a glyceryl ester of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, the method comprising:

[0019] a) Provide the chewing gum base composition disclosed above or prepare the chewing gum base composition according to the method disclosed above;

[0020] b) Optionally, after curing, the gum base composition is mixed with additional gum ingredients selected from xylitol and / or other polyols, emulsifiers, colorants, flavorings, plant extracts, vitamins and minerals to obtain gum clumps;

[0021] c) Forming the gum mass into a gum core; and

[0022] d) Coating / panning the gum core to obtain the gum.

[0023] In another aspect, the present invention relates to the use of glycerides of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil in the manufacture of a gum base composition and gum, wherein the gum base composition comprises glycerides of rosin in an amount of at least 50% by weight of the gum base composition.

[0024] The present invention offers considerable advantages. Firstly, it provides a chewing gum base composition that is biodegradable and therefore environmentally friendly. Due to the use of natural ingredients in its production, the chewing gum of the present invention is a good alternative to synthetic chewing gum. Specifically, the present invention provides a chewing gum base composition and a type of chewing gum in which petroleum-based chemicals are replaced by natural biomass-based chemicals. Furthermore, in addition to its good biodegradability, the chewing gum of the present invention also has a pleasant taste and overall acceptability.

[0025] Furthermore, since the chewing gum base composition and chewing gum of the present invention contain only renewable ingredients, namely organic compounds derived from renewable resources rather than any fossil or petroleum-based resources, they are environmentally sustainable and suitable for vegan users. Moreover, the present invention provides a structurally acceptable chewing gum base in which the fat component comprises liquid vegetable oil.

[0026] Further features and advantages of this technology will become apparent from the following description of some implementation schemes. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 The illustration shows a process for preparing chewing gum according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 1 In the process, the gum base is first prepared in a mixer, and the gum production continues in the same mixer. Then, it is rolled and scored, and then coated directly after rolling and scoring. Detailed Implementation

[0028] definition

[0029] In this context, the term "chewing gum composition" refers to a non-nutritive chewing substance containing the ingredients defined herein.

[0030] As used herein, the term "rosin component" includes glycerol esters of rosin, such as glycerol esters of resin / rosin acid from rosin resin, typically obtained by esterifying rosin with glycerol at high temperatures. "Grease rosin" can be produced, for example, by harvesting live pine trees. The exudate containing oleoresin is collected, filtered, and distilled to remove turpentine, leaving resin rosin as the product. Glycerol esters of rosin resin can be produced by reacting glycerol with rosin resin at high temperatures (typically 260-280°C). In some embodiments, glycerol esters of rosin can be obtained from wood waste.

[0031] Typically, the rosin glycerides used in this invention have an acid value of 2-12, preferably 6-8, a softening point (ring and ball) of 80-88°C, and a Gardner color of 6-8 or lighter. The esters are typically purified by steam stripping. The rosin component may comprise commercially available glycerides of pine resin / rosin acid, such as those identified by CAS numbers CAS 8050-31-5 and CAS 65997-13-9. Preferably, the rosin component consists of or is substantially composed of glycerides of rosin. As used herein, “glycerides of rosin” also includes glycerides of partially hydrogenated rosin.

[0032] According to the present invention, the gum base composition and the gum itself preferably contain no or substantially no petroleum-based ingredients or petroleum-based polymers. "Substantially no" means that trace amounts of petroleum-based ingredients may be present without affecting the properties of the gum or gum base composition, for example, based on a total weight of 0-2 wt.% of the gum base composition. In a preferred embodiment, the gum base composition and the gum are completely free of petroleum-based ingredients, i.e., the gum contains no (0 wt.%) petroleum-based ingredients or polymers. Specifically, the gum base composition and the gum are free of petroleum-based polymers such as butadiene-styrene, isobutylene-isoprene copolymer (butyl rubber), polyvinyl acetate, polyethylene, polyisobutylene, and petroleum waxes such as paraffin and microcrystalline wax.

[0033] As used herein and in the claims, "biodegradable" means that the mentioned substance or object can be broken down by bacteria, microorganisms, or other living organisms, thereby preventing contamination. Regarding the biodegradability of rosin, according to OECD 301B, a 28-day rapid biodegradation screening study showed that, in seven reliable studies, the maximum biodegradation rate after 28 days reached 50.7%. Therefore, rosin components are expected to also meet biodegradability standards, for example, according to ISO 17556 and / or ISO 14855. The gum base composition and / or other ingredients of the gum include common food ingredients and are readily biodegradable.

[0034] As described above, it has been found that when a chewing gum base composition containing rosin components in an amount of at least 50% by weight of the chewing gum base composition according to the invention contains at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, it is possible to prepare plant-based chewing gum with a pleasant taste and structure. Surprisingly, when the chewing gum base composition contains rosin components in an amount of at least 50% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, the chewing gum base composition can be obtained by using non-hydrogenated vegetable oil (i.e., liquid vegetable oil) to replace or supplement commonly used hydrogenated fats. Furthermore, a pleasant taste and structure can be achieved in the absence of petroleum-based polymers or other petroleum-based ingredients.

[0035] In some embodiments, the chewing gum base composition contains a rosin component in an amount of 50-80% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, for example 50-75%, typically 50-68%. Generally, the rosin component comprises or consists essentially of glycerides of rosin. A high amount of rosin component (at least 50% by weight of the chewing gum base composition), together with non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, provides an acceptable structure to the chewing gum base composition. If the amount of rosin component is less than 50% by weight of the chewing gum base, the texture is crunchy and difficult to chew.

[0036] Rosin derived from different pine species can vary in composition and physical properties (such as softening point). In some embodiments, the rosin and its glycerides are derived from pine species selected from *Pinus sylvestris*, *Pinus pinea*, *Pinus pinaster*, *Pinus banksiana*, *Pinus elliottii*, *Pinus palustris*, *Pinus taeda*, *Pinus strobus*, *Pinus virginiana*, *Pinus taeda*, *Pinus edulis*, and *Pinus ponderosa*. The rosin component may also comprise a mixture of glycerides from rosin derived from different pine species. In some embodiments, the rosin component is derived from *Pinus sylvestris*.

[0037] Rosin glycerides typically have a pale yellow color and a hard, brittle structure that softens upon heating. Generally, rosin glycerides have a melting point or softening point of approximately 80-88°C.

[0038] The fatty component typically constitutes 3-30% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, usually 5-25%, such as 5-20%. The fatty component contains at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil. Optionally, the fatty component also contains at least one hydrogenated fat or wax, particularly hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax.

[0039] The fat component softens the structure of the chewing gum base composition and reduces its potential adhesion or stickiness to teeth. However, excessive amounts of fat or oil can make the structure too soft and elastic to chew. Therefore, in some embodiments, the total amount of the fat component (including non-hydrogenated vegetable oils and optionally vegetable fats or waxes) does not exceed 20% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, and is typically 5-20% by weight.

[0040] In some embodiments, the amount of non-hydrogenated vegetable oil contained in the gum base composition is at least 1% by weight of the gum base composition, for example 1-15%, preferably at least 2%, such as 2-15%, typically 5-15%, such as about 10%.

[0041] The at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil may be selected from, for example, rapeseed oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seed oil, olive oil, safflower oil, peanut oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, soybean oil, grapeseed oil, rice bran oil, vegetable oil produced by precise fermentation, vegetable oil produced by cell culture technology, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil is selected from rapeseed oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seed oil, vegetable oil produced by precise fermentation, and combinations thereof.

[0042] In this context, vegetable oils produced through precision fermentation mean vegetable oils produced by microbial hosts that have been tailored to produce the desired vegetable oils or fats. Typically, precision fermentation uses genetically modified microorganisms to produce specific proteins, enzymes, fats, and other compounds.

[0043] Plant oils produced by plant cell culture technology can be produced through the following steps: isolating seed tissues, using them for callus induction to obtain fragile callus tissues, then establishing cell suspension cultures and selecting the most promising cell lines for producing plant oils under in vitro conditions.

[0044] The chewing gum base composition according to the present invention comprises at least one softener. In some embodiments, the amount of softener contained in the chewing gum base composition is 0.5-20% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, for example 5-20%, such as about 10%. Softeners used for chewing gum and chewing gum base compositions are known to those skilled in the art. Typical examples of suitable softeners include, but are not limited to, glycerin, sorbitol, lecithin, and combinations thereof.

[0045] Optionally, in addition to the at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, the fatty component of the chewing gum base composition may contain at least one hydrogenated or saturated fat or wax. If present, the amount of hydrogenated fat or wax is typically 2-15% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, such as 3-10%.

[0046] If present, the hydrogenated or saturated fats or waxes are selected from hydrogenated vegetable fats or waxes. In some embodiments, the hydrogenated vegetable fats or waxes are selected from hydrogenated vegetable oils, including hydrogenated vegetable oils produced by precision fermentation, cell culture technology and / or by electrophotosynthesis, such as hydrogenated rapeseed oil; natural plant waxes or fats, such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, and candelilla wax; plant waxes or fats produced by precision fermentation, cell culture technology and / or by electrophotosynthesis; berry waxes obtained as a byproduct of the berry industry; conifer waxes obtained as a byproduct of the timber industry; conifer needles obtained from forestry or as a byproduct of the timber industry; and combinations thereof.

[0047] In some implementations, the hydrogenated or saturated vegetable fats or waxes (if present) are selected from candelilla wax, hydrogenated rapeseed oil, shea butter, berry waxes, and combinations thereof.

[0048] Conifer wax typically comprises conifer wax extracted from the needles of coniferous trees (such as spruce or pine needles), which are obtained from either byproducts of the timber industry or from forestry. Coniferous needles are typically obtained from spruce (e.g., *Picea abies* subsp. *abies*, *Picea abies* Karst) or pine (e.g., *Pinus sylvestris*).

[0049] In one embodiment, the chewing gum base composition comprises:

[0050] a) Glyceryl esters of rosin, which are 50-80% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, for example 50-75%, typically 50-68%;

[0051] b) At least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, comprising 1-15% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, typically 2-15%, preferably about 10%; and

[0052] c) Optionally, at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax, which is 2-15% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, such as 3-10%, preferably about 10%;

[0053] d) A softener, which is 0.5-20% by weight of the gum base composition, such as 5-20%, preferably about 10%; and

[0054] e) Other ingredients optionally accepted as additives in the gum base composition to make up to 100% by weight.

[0055] The chewing gum base composition according to the invention may also contain additives acceptable for use in chewing gum base compositions. Typically, said additives comprise edible additives selected from fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and antioxidants, preferably biodegradable and / or plant-based fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and antioxidants.

[0056] In some embodiments, the chewing gum base composition comprises at least one filler, preferably in an amount of 1-30% by weight of the chewing gum base composition. In some embodiments, the at least one filler is selected from talc and calcium carbonate, preferably talc.

[0057] The chewing gum base composition may contain at least one stabilizer. When used, the stabilizer is preferably present in an amount of 0.1-20% by weight based on the chewing gum base composition. In some embodiments, the at least one stabilizer comprises gum arabic or hemicellulose from spruce, preferably gum arabic.

[0058] The chewing gum base composition may contain antioxidants. If present, the antioxidants are preferably selected from vitamin C, tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene, and combinations thereof.

[0059] In some embodiments, in addition to the rosin component, the fatty component, and the at least one softener, the gum base composition may contain 1-30% by weight of a filler, 0.1-1% by weight of an emulsifier, 0.1-20% by weight of a stabilizer, and 0.01-0.03% by weight of an antioxidant based on the gum base composition.

[0060] The chewing gum base composition contains as many natural or plant-based ingredients as possible, or is substantially composed of natural or plant-based ingredients. In embodiments, the chewing gum base composition is substantially plant-based and / or biodegradable, or both. The chewing gum base composition can be manufactured without synthetic and / or petroleum-based ingredients, and is therefore substantially free of synthetic and / or petroleum-based ingredients.

[0061] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a chewing gum base composition comprising a glyceryl ester of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil. The method includes the following steps:

[0062] a) Heat the rosin component containing rosin glycerides to at least the melting point of the rosin component, typically to 70-90°C;

[0063] b) A fat component comprising at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optionally at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax is added to a molten rosin component under mixing and heating.

[0064] c) Add at least one softener to the mixture obtained in step b) under mixing and heating;

[0065] d) Optionally add other ingredients acceptable as additives in the gum base composition, such as fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and antioxidants; and

[0066] e) Recycle the obtained chewing gum base composition or transfer it to chewing gum production.

[0067] In some embodiments, the fat component may comprise at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax. When present, the hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax may be added before, after, or after the non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, preferably before or simultaneously with the non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, more preferably before the non-hydrogenated vegetable oil.

[0068] All components of the chewing gum base composition can also be mixed while heating until the rosin component and optionally hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax component melt.

[0069] In some embodiments, the rosin component is first melted by heating, either alone or together with a softener such as glycerin. Then, optional hydrogenated vegetable fats or waxes may be added, followed by non-hydrogenated vegetable oils and other components of the optional chewing gum base composition.

[0070] Therefore, the present invention also relates to a method for preparing the chewing gum base composition of the present invention, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0071] a) Heat the rosin component containing rosin glycerides to at least the melting point of the rosin component, typically to 70-90°C;

[0072] b) Add at least one softener to the rosin component;

[0073] c) Optional addition of hydrogenated vegetable fats or waxes;

[0074] d) Add at least one of the aforementioned non-hydrogenated vegetable oils;

[0075] e) Optionally add other ingredients that are accepted as additives in chewing gum base compositions, such as fillers and emulsifiers.

[0076] Stabilizers and antioxidants;

[0077] f) Recycle the obtained chewing gum base composition or transfer it to chewing gum production.

[0078] In the method described in the preceding paragraph, steps a) and b) can also be performed simultaneously.

[0079] Preferably, in the above method, the mixture comprising rosin, softener, non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optionally vegetable fat or wax comprises 60-95% rosin component, 3-35% fat component and 1-25% softener by weight of the heated mixture.

[0080] The heating step also includes mixing, typically carried out in a mixer equipped with a heating device. The obtained gum base can be recycled, for example, by pouring the obtained gum base from the mixer onto a conveyor cloth, rolling the gum base, and cutting it into appropriately sized pieces or pellets. If necessary, the gum base can be cured for several days before being transferred to gum production.

[0081] Alternatively, the obtained gum base can be used directly in the manufacture of chewing gum. The gum base is cooled from a temperature of 70-90°C or allowed to cool to, for example, 40-60°C while being mixed to prevent freezing during cooling. After cooling, the other ingredients of the chewing gum are added while being mixed. This can be done in the same mixer used to prepare the gum base composition, or the gum base composition can be transferred to a separate mixer for chewing gum production.

[0082] One embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 1 In this process, a chewing gum base composition is first prepared in a mixer, followed by the production of chewing gum in the same mixer. Figure 1In one method, components of the chewing gum base, such as softeners, rosin components, and liquid vegetable oils, are added to a mixer and heated until the rosin components melt. The mixture is then cooled, and other optional components of the chewing gum base (e.g., fillers) are added. However, the final mixing and addition of other components of the chewing gum composition is typically done in a separate mixer.

[0083] Chewing gum and its manufacturing method

[0084] The present invention also relates to a chewing gum comprising a chewing gum base composition according to the present invention. Typically, the amount of the chewing gum base composition comprising the chewing gum is 20-45% based on the weight of the chewing gum.

[0085] Chewing gum may also contain other ingredients besides the gum base composition. These other ingredients are typically selected from xylitol and / or other polyols, rare sugars such as allulose and tagatose, emulsifiers, colorings, flavorings, plant extracts, plant powders, fruit extracts and powders, proteins, vitamins, minerals, caffeine, strong sweeteners, stevia, proteins that provide sweetness, and combinations thereof.

[0086] This invention also relates to a method for preparing chewing gum, the chewing gum comprising glycerides of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil. Optionally, after curing, the chewing gum base composition according to the invention is mixed with other chewing gum ingredients selected from xylitol and / or other polyols, emulsifiers, colorants, flavoring agents, plant extracts, vitamins, and minerals to obtain a chewing gum mass. The obtained chewing gum mass is shaped to obtain a chewing gum core, and then the chewing gum core is coated / coated to obtain chewing gum.

[0087] exist Figure 1 In one embodiment illustrated in the diagram, other ingredients of the chewing gum (such as polyols and lecithin) are added to the chewing gum base in a mixture, followed by rolling and scoring. Figure 1 In the illustrated method, coating (applying) is performed directly after the gum core is rolled, scored, and cut, although it is generally permissible to temper or cure the gum core at specific temperatures and humidity levels before coating. Therefore, Figure 1 The method illustrated presents an accelerated method for producing chewing gum.

[0088] Finally, the present invention also relates to the use of rosin or rosin glycerides together with at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil in the manufacture of a gum base composition and gum, wherein the gum base composition comprises rosin glycerides in an amount of at least 50% by weight of the gum base composition.

[0089] It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments of the invention are not limited to the specific structures, processes, or materials disclosed herein, but extend to their equivalents that will be recognized by those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0090] Reference to an embodiment throughout this specification means that at least one embodiment of the invention includes the specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment. Therefore, the phrase "in one embodiment" appearing throughout this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Where terms such as "about" or "substantially" are used when referring to numerical values, exact numerical values ​​are also disclosed.

[0091] As used herein, for convenience, multiple items, structural elements, constituent elements, and / or materials may be presented in a common list. However, these lists should be interpreted as if each member of the list were individually identified as an independent and unique member. Therefore, without indication to the contrary, any individual member of such a list should not be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presence in the common group. Furthermore, various embodiments and examples of the invention may be mentioned herein together with alternatives to their various components. It should be understood that such embodiments, examples, and alternatives should not be construed as de facto equivalents of each other, but should be regarded as separate and autonomous representations of the invention.

[0092] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or properties may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Numerous specific details, such as examples of length, width, shape, etc., are provided in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more specific details or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations have not been shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

[0093] experiment

[0094] The following examples illustrate a gum base composition and gum according to the present invention. Unless otherwise stated herein or clearly understood from the context, any percentages mentioned herein are expressed as weight percentages based on the total weight of the respective composition. Unless otherwise stated, properties measured or determined experimentally herein have been measured or determined at room temperature. Unless otherwise indicated, room temperature is 25°C.

[0095] In the following examples, "rosin" refers to glycerol esters of rosin having an acid value of 2-12, a softening point of 80-88°C (measured by Ring and Ball instruments and methods), and a Gardner color of 6-8 or less (Gardner color, 50 resin / 50 toluene).

[0096] Example 1. Gum base composition

[0097] Element wt % rosin 50 glycerin 15 Coconut oil 3 rapeseed oil 2 talc 30

[0098] A chewing gum base composition was prepared by heating a mixture comprising rosin, coconut oil, rapeseed oil, and glycerin to a temperature of 90°C under stirring. While the rosin and fatty components melted, the mixture was allowed to cool, and talc was added during mixing.

[0099] Example 2. Gum base composition

[0100] Element wt % rosin 65 glycerin 9 rapeseed oil 9 Hydrogenated rapeseed oil 3 talc 13

[0101] The chewing gum base composition was prepared as described in Example 1 by heating the rosin component, the fatty component and glycerin until the rosin and fatty components melted, and then adding the excipient (talc).

[0102] Example 3. Gum base composition

[0103] Element wt % rosin 51 hemicellulose from spruce 20 Sorbitol 10 rapeseed oil 2.5 Candelilla wax 3.5 talc 14

[0104] A chewing gum base composition was prepared by heating a mixture comprising rosin, hemicellulose from spruce, rapeseed oil, candelilla wax, and sorbitol to a temperature of 90°C under stirring. As the mixture melted, it was allowed to cool, and talc was added as an excipient.

[0105] Example 4. Gum base composition

[0106] Element wt % rosin 56 glycerin 10 rapeseed oil 8 Hydrogenated rapeseed oil 10 talc 13 gum arabic 6

[0107] A chewing gum base composition was prepared by heating a mixture comprising rosin, rapeseed oil, hydrogenated rapeseed oil, and glycerin to a temperature of 90°C under stirring. As the mixture melted, it was allowed to cool, and excipients (talc) and stabilizers (gum arabic) were added under stirring.

[0108] Example 5. Gum base composition

[0109] Element wt % rosin 75 glycerin 7 rapeseed oil 11.5 talc 6.5

[0110] The chewing gum base composition was prepared as described in Example 1 by heating the rosin component, the fatty component and glycerin until the rosin and fatty components melted, and then adding the excipient (talc).

[0111] Example 6. Gum base composition

[0112] Element wt % rosin 56 glycerin 10 rapeseed oil 8 Hydrogenated rapeseed oil 10 talc 13 gum arabic 6

[0113] The chewing gum base composition is prepared by first heating rosin to 85-90°C. Glycerin is added and thoroughly mixed with the melted rosin. Then, hydrogenated rapeseed oil is added. The fat melts while the mixture is cooled. Rapeseed oil and gum arabic are then added. The mixture is thoroughly mixed and cooled to 70°C. Talc is then added. In this way, the mixture is easy to handle in larger-scale production.

[0114] Example 7. Gum base composition

[0115] Element wt % rosin 69.2 glycerin 12.3 rapeseed oil 3.2 Fermented fats produced through precise fermentation 3.7 talc 3.8 gum arabic 7.8

[0116] First, heat the rosin and glycerin until all the rosin has melted. Then add the fat (made through a precise fermentation process). While the fat is melting, add the rapeseed oil. Finally, let the mixture cool slightly, then add the gum arabic, followed immediately by the talc.

[0117] Example 8. Chewing gum

[0118] Chewing gum containing 20-45% of the chewing gum base composition according to Example 5 was prepared.

[0119] Add lecithin and xylitol (24-54% of the final chewing gum) to the gum base and mix.

[0120] After molding, a coating layer is added to a coating pan by gradually adding small amounts of coating solution and then drying the surface. This process is continued until a beautiful and uniform surface is achieved. The coating solution contains polyols (approximately 70-75% of the solution), gum arabic (approximately 3-6% of the solution), flavoring agents, and optionally, coloring agents. The final amount of coating layer in the chewing gum can be approximately 15-30% of the chewing gum's weight. The amount of coating layer required to achieve an acceptable visual appearance depends on the size and shape of the chewing gum.

[0121] Surprisingly, it has been found that chewing gum containing a gum base composition comprising a rosin component, a liquid (non-hydrogenated) vegetable oil as a fat component, at least one softener, and optionally a filler, or substantially composed of the above components, can produce chewing gum with excellent structure, chewiness, and flavor. Prior to this invention, it was not possible to provide a structurally acceptable gum base in which the fat component comprises liquid vegetable oil. However, in this invention, the combination of liquid vegetable oil with a relatively high amount of the rosin component (particularly glycerides of rosin) (at least 50 wt% of the gum base), along with at least one softener, results in a favorable structure, which provides the final chewing gum with excellent chewiness and flavor.

[0122] As will be understood from the foregoing description and illustrative experimental examples, the invention can be described by referring to the following embodiments:

[0123] 1. A chewing gum base composition comprising:

[0124] - A rosin component, comprising at least 50% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, wherein the rosin component comprises rosin, glycerides of rosin, or combinations thereof;

[0125] - A fatty component comprising at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optionally at least one hydrogenated fat or wax; and

[0126] - At least one plasticizer.

[0127] 2. The chewing gum base composition according to embodiment 1, wherein the amount of rosin component contained is 50-80% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, such as 50-75%, typically 50-68%.

[0128] 3. The chewing gum base composition according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the amount of non-hydrogenated vegetable oil contained is at least 1% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, preferably at least 2%, typically 5-15%, such as about 10%.

[0129] 4. The chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the amount of the fatty component contained is 3-30% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, typically 5-25%, such as 5-20%.

[0130] 5. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil is selected from rapeseed oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seed oil, olive oil, safflower oil, peanut oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, soybean oil, grapeseed oil, rice bran oil, vegetable oil produced by precise fermentation, vegetable oil produced by cell culture technology, and combinations thereof, preferably selected from rapeseed oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seed oil, vegetable oil produced by precise fermentation, and combinations thereof.

[0131] 6. The chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the amount of softener contained is 0.5-20% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, for example 5-20%, typically about 10%.

[0132] 7. A chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the softener is selected from glycerin, sorbitol, lecithin, and combinations thereof.

[0133] 8. The chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, comprising hydrogenated fats or waxes, wherein the amount of hydrogenated fats or waxes is preferably 2-15%, for example 3-10%, of the weight of the chewing gum base composition.

[0134] 9. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the hydrogenated fat or wax is selected from hydrogenated vegetable oils, including hydrogenated vegetable oils produced by precision fermentation, cell culture and / or by electrophotosynthesis, such as hydrogenated rapeseed oil; natural plant waxes or fats, such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, candelilla wax; plant waxes or fats produced by precision fermentation, cell culture and / or by electrophotosynthesis; berry waxes obtained as a byproduct of the berry industry; conifer waxes obtained as a byproduct of the timber industry; conifer needles obtained from forestry or as a byproduct of the timber industry; and combinations thereof.

[0135] 10. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, comprising:

[0136] a) Based on the chewing gum base composition, 50-80% by weight, such as 50-75%, typically 50-68% rosin, rosin glycerides, or combinations thereof;

[0137] b) 1-15% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, typically 2-15%, preferably about 10% of at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil; and

[0138] c) Optionally, based on 2-15% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, such as 3-10% of at least one hydrogenated fat or wax;

[0139] d) A softener comprising 0.5-20% by weight of the gum base composition, such as 5-20%, preferably about 10%; and

[0140] e) Other ingredients optionally accepted as additives in the gum base composition to make up to 100% by weight.

[0141] 11. The chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, comprising an edible additive selected from fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers and antioxidants.

[0142] 12. A chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, comprising at least one filler, wherein the amount of the at least one filler is preferably 1-30% based on the weight of the chewing gum base composition, wherein the at least one filler is preferably selected from talc and calcium carbonate.

[0143] 13. The chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, comprising at least one stabilizer, wherein the amount of said at least one stabilizer is preferably 0.1-20% based on the weight of the chewing gum base composition.

[0144] 14. The chewing gum base composition according to embodiment 13, wherein the at least one stabilizer comprises gum arabic or hemicellulose from spruce, preferably gum arabic.

[0145] 15. A chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, comprising 1-30% by weight of a filler, 0.1-1% by weight of an emulsifier, 0.1-20% by weight of a stabilizer and 0.01-0.03% by weight of an antioxidant based on the chewing gum base composition.

[0146] 16. The chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, comprising an antioxidant, preferably selected from vitamin C, tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene, and combinations thereof.

[0147] 17. A chewing gum base composition according to any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the chewing gum base composition is substantially plant-based and biodegradable.

[0148] 18. A method for preparing a chewing gum base composition, the chewing gum base composition comprising rosin and / or glycerides of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, the method comprising:

[0149] a) Heating the rosin component, which contains rosin, rosin glycerides, or combinations thereof, to at least the melting point of the rosin component, typically to 70-90°C;

[0150] b) A fatty component comprising at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optionally at least one hydrogenated fat or wax is added to a molten rosin component under mixing and heating.

[0151] c) Add at least one softener to the mixture obtained in step b) under mixing and heating;

[0152] d) Optionally add other ingredients acceptable as additives in the gum base composition, such as fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and antioxidants; and

[0153] e) Recycle the obtained chewing gum base composition or transfer it to chewing gum production.

[0154] 19. The method according to embodiment 18, wherein the fatty component comprises at least one hydrogenated fat or wax.

[0155] 20. The method according to embodiment 18 or 19, wherein the mixture obtained in step c) comprises 60-95% rosin component, 3-35% fatty component and 1-25% softener based on the weight of the heated mixture.

[0156] 21. A chewing gum comprising a chewing gum base composition according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the amount of the chewing gum base composition is 20-45% based on the weight of the chewing gum.

[0157] 22. The chewing gum according to embodiment 21, comprising additional ingredients selected from xylitol and / or other polyols, rare sugars such as allulose and tagatose, emulsifiers, colorants, flavorings, plant extracts, plant powders, fruit extracts and powders, proteins, vitamins, minerals, caffeine, strong sweeteners, stevia, proteins that provide sweetness, and combinations thereof.

[0158] 23. A method for preparing chewing gum, the chewing gum comprising rosin and / or glycerides of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, the method comprising:

[0159] a) Provide a chewing gum base composition according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17 or prepare a chewing gum base composition according to any one of embodiments 18 to 20;

[0160] b) Optionally, after curing, the gum base composition is mixed with additional gum ingredients selected from xylitol and / or other polyols, emulsifiers, colorants, flavorings, plant extracts, vitamins and minerals to obtain gum clumps;

[0161] c) Forming a gum mass into a gum core; and

[0162] d) Coating / coating the gum core to obtain chewing gum.

[0163] 24. Use of rosin or rosin glycerides together with at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil in the manufacture of chewing gum.

[0164] While the foregoing embodiments illustrate the principles of the invention in one or more specific applications, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications in form, use, and implementation details can be made without inventive effort and without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited except by the claims set forth below.

[0165] The verbs “comprising” and “including” are used in this document as open-ended restrictions, neither excluding nor requiring the presence of any unlisted features. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the features listed in the dependent claims are freely combinable. Furthermore, it should be understood that the use of “a” (or “an”), i.e., the singular form, throughout this document does not exclude the plural form.

[0166] Industrial applicability

[0167] At least some embodiments of the present invention have been found to have industrial applications in the food industry, particularly in the confectionery and pastry industry.

[0168] Citation List

[0169] Patent documents

[0170] DE 202021105327 U1

[0171] EP 0494902 B1

[0172] EP 3344058 A1

[0173] GB 2448158 A

[0174] US 2007 / 042079 A1

[0175] US 2013 / 0052299 A1

[0176] WO 2017204755 A1

Claims

1. A chewing gum base composition comprising: - A rosin component, comprising at least 50% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, wherein the rosin component contains glycerides of rosin; - A fat component comprising at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optionally at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax; and - At least one plasticizer.

2. The chewing gum base composition according to claim 1, wherein the amount of rosin component contained therein is 50-80% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, such as 50-75%, typically 50-68%.

3. The chewing gum base composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the amount of non-hydrogenated vegetable oil contained is at least 1% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, preferably at least 2%, typically 5-15%, such as about 10%.

4. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the amount of the fatty component contained is 3-30% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, typically 5-25%, such as 5-20%.

5. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil is selected from rapeseed oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seed oil, olive oil, safflower oil, peanut oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, soybean oil, grapeseed oil, rice bran oil, vegetable oil produced by precise fermentation, vegetable oil produced by cell culture technology, and combinations thereof, preferably selected from rapeseed oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, sunflower seed oil, vegetable oil produced by precise fermentation, and combinations thereof.

6. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the amount of softener contained is 0.5-20% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, for example 5-20%, typically about 10%.

7. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the softener is selected from glycerin, sorbitol, lecithin, and combinations thereof.

8. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising hydrogenated vegetable fats or waxes, wherein the amount of hydrogenated vegetable fats or waxes is preferably 2-15%, for example 3-10%, of the weight of the chewing gum base composition.

9. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Hydrogenated vegetable fats or waxes are selected from hydrogenated vegetable oils, including hydrogenated vegetable oils produced through precise fermentation, cell culture and / or electrophotosynthesis, such as hydrogenated rapeseed oil; natural plant waxes or fats, such as coconut fat, cocoa butter, shea butter, and candelilla wax; plant waxes or fats produced through precise fermentation, cell culture and / or electrophotosynthesis; berry waxes obtained as a byproduct of the berry industry; conifer waxes obtained as a byproduct of the timber industry; conifer needles obtained from forestry or as a byproduct of the timber industry; and combinations thereof.

10. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: a) Based on the chewing gum base composition, 50-80% by weight, such as 50-75%, typically 50-68% rosin, rosin glycerides, or combinations thereof; b) 1-15% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, typically 2-15%, preferably about 10% of at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil; and c) Optionally, based on 2-15% by weight of the chewing gum base composition, such as 3-10% of at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax; d) A softener comprising 0.5-20% by weight of the gum base composition, such as 5-20%, preferably about 10%; and e) Other ingredients optionally accepted as additives in the gum base composition to make up to 100% by weight.

11. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an edible additive selected from fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers and antioxidants.

12. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one filler, wherein the amount of said at least one filler is preferably 1-30% based on the weight of the chewing gum base composition, wherein, The at least one filler is preferably selected from talc and calcium carbonate.

13. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one stabilizer, wherein the amount of said at least one stabilizer is preferably 0.1-20% based on the weight of the chewing gum base composition.

14. The chewing gum base composition according to claim 13, wherein, The at least one stabilizer comprises gum arabic or hemicellulose from spruce, preferably gum arabic.

15. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising 1-30% by weight of a filler, 0.1-1% by weight of an emulsifier, 0.1-20% by weight of a stabilizer, and 0.01-0.03% by weight of an antioxidant based on the chewing gum base composition.

16. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an antioxidant, preferably selected from vitamin C, tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene, and combinations thereof.

17. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The chewing gum base composition is primarily plant-based and biodegradable.

18. The chewing gum base composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The chewing gum base composition does not contain petroleum-based ingredients.

19. A method for preparing a chewing gum base composition, the chewing gum base composition comprising a glyceryl ester of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, the method comprising: a) Heat the rosin component containing rosin glycerides to at least the melting point of the rosin component, typically to 70-90°C; b) A fat component comprising at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optionally at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax is added to a molten rosin component under mixing and heating. c) Add at least one softener to the mixture obtained in step b) under mixing and heating; d) Optionally add other ingredients acceptable as additives in the gum base composition, such as fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and antioxidants; and e) Recycle the obtained chewing gum base composition or transfer it to chewing gum production.

20. A method for preparing a chewing gum base composition according to any one of claims 1 to 18, comprising the following steps: a) Heat the rosin component containing rosin glycerides to at least the melting point of the rosin component, typically to 70-90°C; b) Add at least one softener to the rosin component; c) Optional addition of hydrogenated vegetable fats or waxes; d) Add at least one of the aforementioned non-hydrogenated vegetable oils; e) Optionally add other ingredients that are accepted as additives in the gum base composition, such as fillers, emulsifiers, stabilizers and antioxidants; f) Recycle the obtained chewing gum base composition or transfer it to chewing gum production.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein, Steps a) and b) are performed simultaneously.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein, The chewing gum base composition contains at least one hydrogenated vegetable fat or wax.

23. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein, The mixture comprising rosin, softener, non-hydrogenated vegetable oil and optional vegetable fats or waxes contains 60-95% rosin component, 3-35% fat component and 1-25% softener by weight of the heated mixture.

24. A chewing gum comprising a chewing gum base composition according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the amount of the chewing gum base composition is 20-45% based on the weight of the chewing gum.

25. The chewing gum of claim 24, further comprising additional ingredients selected from xylitol and / or other polyols, rare sugars such as allulose and tagatose, emulsifiers, colorants, flavorings, plant extracts, plant powders, fruit extracts and powders, proteins, vitamins, minerals, caffeine, strong sweeteners, stevia, proteins that provide sweetness, and combinations thereof.

26. A method for preparing chewing gum, the chewing gum comprising a glyceryl ester of rosin and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil, the method comprising: a) Providing a chewing gum base composition according to any one of claims 1 to 18 or preparing a chewing gum base composition according to any one of claims 19 to 23; b) Optionally, after curing, the gum base composition is mixed with additional gum ingredients selected from xylitol and / or other polyols, emulsifiers, colorants, flavorings, plant extracts, vitamins and minerals to obtain gum clumps; c) Shape the chewing gum into a ball to obtain the chewing gum core; as well as d) Coating / coating the gum core to obtain chewing gum.

27. Use of rosin glycerides and at least one non-hydrogenated vegetable oil in the manufacture of chewing gum base compositions and chewing gum, wherein, The chewing gum base composition contains glycerides of rosin, wherein the amount of glycerides of rosin is at least 50% by weight of the chewing gum base composition.

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