Teeth-whitening chewing gum and method for making same

Abstract

A tooth whitening chewing gum composition is disclosed that includes a combination of polyphosphates that enhances tooth whitening benefits with a minimal salty taste profile. In one embodiment, the tooth whitening chewing gum composition includes a gum base, a bulk sweetener, and about 0.5% to about 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate has a particle size, as determined using sieve analysis, such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 micron) screen, and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate has a particle size, as determined using sieve analysis, such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 micron) screen.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Chewing gum prepared with stain-removing ingredients such as peroxides and abrasives is known to be used for tooth whitening purposes. The addition of stain-removing ingredients can result in chewing gum with an unacceptable salty or off-taste. Other stain-removing ingredients used in chewing gum can not provide sufficient stain-removing or scrubbing effect.

[0002] There remains a need in the art for new chewing gum and confectionery compositions that have improved tooth whitening efficacy and acceptable taste profiles. Additionally, there remains a need for new chewing gum and confectionery compositions that have enhanced properties for tooth stain removal and stain prevention. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] In one embodiment, a tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprises a gum base, a bulk sweetener, and from about 0.5% to about 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate has a particle size, as determined using sieve analysis, such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 micron) screen, and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate has a particle size, as determined using sieve analysis, such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 micron) screen.

[0004] In another embodiment, a method of making a tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprises incorporating into a chewing gum base or chewing gum composition, or a combination thereof, about 0.5% to about 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate has a particle size as determined using sieve analysis such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 micron) screen, and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate has a particle size as determined using sieve analysis such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 micron) screen.

[0005] In yet another embodiment, the use of the tooth whitening compositions described herein to whiten tooth surfaces, remove stains from tooth surfaces, prevent stains from adhering to tooth surfaces, or a combination thereof is described.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, a method for whitening a tooth surface, removing stains from a tooth surface, preventing stains from adhering to a tooth surface, or a combination thereof, comprises consuming a tooth whitening composition described herein.

[0007] The above-mentioned features and other features are exemplified by the following detailed description. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Disclosed herein are tooth-whitening confectionery and chewing gum compositions containing polyphosphate salts of specific particle sizes and combinations of polyphosphate salts. Larger particle sizes provide better stain removal, better cleaning, and enhanced tooth whitening effects than corresponding polyphosphate salts of smaller particle sizes, helping to prevent stain buildup. Furthermore, the particle size of the polyphosphate salts is controlled to minimize saltiness, and the larger particle size acts to delay salt release and reduce off-salty flavors. The weight ratio of the polyphosphate salts in the combination and the amount of each individual salt in the confectionery and chewing gum compositions are selected to improve tooth-whitening and sensory properties compared to the use of each individual polyphosphate salt alone. Without being bound by theory, the larger particle size and the use of the combination provide a protective coating on the teeth, which slows stain penetration, loosens existing stains for removal, and scrubs the tooth surface for further stain removal.

[0009] In a typical embodiment, a tooth-whitening chewing gum composition includes a gum base, a bulk sweetener, and a polyphosphate having a particle size effective to provide tooth whitening benefits while minimizing off-flavors. In another typical embodiment, a tooth-whitening chewing gum composition includes a gum base, a bulk sweetener, and a combination of polyphosphates, each having a particle size effective to provide tooth whitening benefits while minimizing off-flavors. Suitable polyphosphates include alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphates, alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphates, or combinations thereof. Exemplary polyphosphate combinations include alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphates and alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphates. In a specific embodiment, the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate is sodium acid pyrophosphate, and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is sodium hexametaphosphate.

[0010] In one embodiment, the use of hexametaphosphate in combination with pyrophosphate can reduce the amount of pyrophosphate that needs to be used, thereby reducing the likelihood that the chewing gum will have a salty taste. Without being bound by theory, pyrophosphate is used to loosen stains, while hexametaphosphate is used to prevent extrinsic stains on teeth by coating the teeth and inhibiting the adsorption of chromogens from color-forming bacteria, foods, beverages, tobacco, etc. The combination of pyrophosphate and hexametaphosphate provides an effective whitening effect because the combination loosens and prevents stains.

[0011] Alkali salts include salts prepared from potassium, sodium, etc. Alkaline earth metal salts include salts prepared from calcium, magnesium, etc.

[0012] Exemplary alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphates include sodium acid pyrophosphate, potassium acid pyrophosphate, calcium acid pyrophosphate, etc. Pyrophosphates are used to remove stains from teeth.

[0013] The particle size of the pyrophosphate salt is selected to minimize off / salty flavors. Larger particle sizes of sodium acid pyrophosphate slow release, resulting in less saltiness than smaller particle sizes. Larger sizes also provide better cleaning and stain removal. In one embodiment, the particle size of the pyrophosphate salt (e.g., sodium acid pyrophosphate) as determined by sieve measurement testing is such that less than 50%, specifically 0-45%, more specifically 15-40%, and more specifically 20-35% of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 micron) screen. In another embodiment, the particle size of the pyrophosphate salt (e.g., sodium acid pyrophosphate) as determined by sieve measurement testing is such that less than 70%, specifically 0-65%, more specifically 15-60%, and more specifically 30-55% of the particles pass through an 18 mesh (1000 micron) screen.

[0014] In one embodiment, the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, e.g., sodium acid pyrophosphate, is present in the chewing gum composition in an amount from about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, specifically from about 0.05% to about 8.0% by weight, more specifically from about 0.1% to about 6.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 0.5% to about 5.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 1.0% to about 4.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 1.5% to about 3.0% by weight, and more specifically from about 2.0% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0015] Exemplary alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphates include sodium hexametaphosphate, potassium hexametaphosphate, etc. Hexametaphosphates are used to prevent tooth staining.

[0016] Larger particle sizes of the hexametaphosphate salt provide better cleaning and stain removal. In one embodiment, the particle size of the hexametaphosphate salt (e.g., sodium hexametaphosphate) as determined by sieve measurement testing is such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 micron) screen, specifically 0-40%, more specifically 5-30%, and more specifically 10-20%.

[0017] As used herein, the particle size of the polyphosphate salt is measured prior to incorporation into a chewing gum composition, gum base, coating, and / or center-fill.

[0018] In one embodiment, the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, e.g., sodium hexametaphosphate, is present in the chewing gum composition in an amount from about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, specifically from about 0.05% to about 8.0% by weight, more specifically from about 0.1% to about 6.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 0.5% to about 5.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 1.0% to about 4.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 1.5% to about 3.0% by weight, and more specifically from about 2.0% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0019] The polyphosphate tooth whitening combination may be present in the chewing gum composition in an amount from about 0.5% to about 12% by weight, specifically from about 1.0% to about 8.0% by weight, more specifically from about 2.0% to about 6.0% by weight, and even more specifically from about 3.0% to about 5.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0020] An exemplary combination of polyphosphates includes an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, specifically sodium acid pyrophosphate, and an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, specifically sodium hexametaphosphate.

[0021] In one embodiment, the combination of polyphosphates present in the chewing gum composition may be in a weight ratio of alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate to alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate of 100:0 to 0:100, 10:1 to 1:10, 9:1 to 1:9, 8:1 to 1:8, 7:1 to 1:7, 6:1 to 1:6, 5:1 to 1:5, 4:1 to 1:4, 3:1 to 1:3, 2:1 to 1:2, 1:1, or 5:1 to 1:1. In further embodiments, the combination of polyphosphates present in the chewing gum composition may be in a weight ratio of alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate to alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate of 1:7 to 1:1, 1:6 to 1:2, or 1:5 to 1:4.

[0022] In one embodiment, the polyphosphate salt is "free," i.e., not encapsulated. In another embodiment, one or more of the polyphosphate salts are encapsulated. By encapsulating the polyphosphate salt, the salt is slowly released when the chewing gum composition is chewed, allowing more salt to come into contact with the teeth. Suitable encapsulating materials have high organic solubility, good film-forming properties, and low water solubility. Suitable encapsulating materials include, for example, acrylic polymers such as polymethyl methacrylate, acrylic copolymers such as methacrylic acid-co-methyl methacrylate, carboxyvinyl polymers, polyamides, polystyrene, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl acetate phthalate, polyvinyl acetate-vinyl alcohol copolymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone, cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, polyethylene glycol esters, waxes, shellac, zein, combinations thereof, and the like, selected from food-grade materials. Additional suitable encapsulating materials that are more water-soluble include, for example, agar, alginate, cellulose derivatives such as ethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, dextrin, gelatin, modified starch, acacia, maltodextrin, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the encapsulating material is polyvinyl acetate. Polyphosphates can be encapsulated using suitable processes, such as spray drying, spray chilling, fluidized bed coating, coacervation, and the like. Suitable processes and encapsulated materials can be found in U.S. Patent No. 8,591,973 (B2) to Boghani et al. and U.S. Patent Application No. 2020054040 (A1) to Boghani et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0023] Tooth whitening chewing gum compositions include a gum base, a bulk sweetener, a tooth whitening polyphosphate, and, optionally, one or more additional chewing gum ingredients, such as colorants, including speckle, flavors, flavor modifiers or enhancers, food acids or salts thereof, intense sweeteners, sensory enhancers (e.g., cooling agents, warming agents, tingling agents, etc.), breath fresheners, additional oral care agents, combinations thereof, etc. In one embodiment, some or all of the polyphosphate may be present in the gum base as a gum base component.

[0024] Chewing gum compositions generally include a gum base, which is a chewable ingredient with low water solubility or water insolubility. In one embodiment, some or all of the polyphosphate salt may be present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient. Any type of gum base may be used in the tooth whitening chewing gum compositions described herein.

[0025] The amount of gum base present in the chewing gum composition can be from about 5% to about 60% by weight, specifically from about 10% to about 50% by weight, more specifically from about 15% to about 40% by weight, and even more specifically from about 20% to about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0026] The gum base may include an elastomer and one or more additional chewing gum base ingredients, such as vinyl polymers or other gum base polymers, fats, emulsifiers, waxes, fillers, plasticizers or softeners, elastomer solvents, antioxidants, and combinations thereof.

[0027] Exemplary elastomers include both natural and synthetic elastomers and rubbers, including plant-derived materials such as chicle, crown gum, nispero, rosidingha, jelutong, perillo, niger gutta, chunyu, balata, gutta percha, reticapsi, sorva, gutta kei, etc. Synthetic elastomers such as butadiene-styrene copolymers, polyisobutylene, isobutylene-isoprene copolymers, polyethylene, combinations thereof, etc. are also useful.

[0028] Exemplary non-toxic vinyl polymers that may be used in the gum base include polyvinyl acetate and its partial hydrolyzates, polyvinyl alcohol, or combinations thereof. Additional useful polymers include cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone, polymethyl methacrylate, copolymers of lactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, plasticized ethyl cellulose, polyvinyl acetate phthalate, or combinations thereof.

[0029] Exemplary plasticizers and softeners that may be used in the gum base include, for example, lanolin, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, sodium stearate, potassium stearate, glyceryl triacetate, glyceryl lecithin, glyceryl monostearate, propylene glycol monostearate, acetylated monoglycerides, glycerin, or combinations thereof.

[0030] Exemplary waxes that can be used in the chewing gum base include, for example, natural and synthetic waxes, hydrogenated vegetable oils, petroleum waxes such as polyurethane waxes, polyethylene waxes, paraffin waxes, microcrystalline waxes, fatty waxes, sorbitan monostearate, tallow, propylene glycol, or combinations thereof. Specific waxes include beeswax, vegetable wax, candelilla wax, carnauba wax, petroleum wax, and the like, or combinations thereof.

[0031] Exemplary elastomer solvents include, for example, perforated resins, such as polymers of alpha-pinene or beta-pinene; methyl esters, glycerol esters, or pentaerythritol esters of rosin or modified rosins and gums, such as hydrogenated, dimerized, or polymerized rosin, or combinations thereof; pentaerythritol esters of partially hydrogenated wood or gum rosin; pentaerythritol esters of wood or gum rosin; glycerol esters of wood rosin; glycerol esters of partially dimerized wood or gum rosin; glycerol esters of polymerized wood or gum rosin; glycerol esters of tall oil rosin; glycerol esters of wood or gum rosin; partially hydrogenated wood or gum rosin; partially hydrogenated methyl esters of wood or rosin, etc.; or combinations thereof.

[0032] The gum base may contain a filler as a bulking agent, such as a mineral adjuvant, such as calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, alumina, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum silicate, talc, calcium phosphate, such as dicalcium phosphate, tricalcium phosphate, or a combination thereof.

[0033] Exemplary emulsifiers include distilled monoglycerides, acetate esters of mono- and diglycerides, citrate esters of mono- and diglycerides, lactate esters of mono- and diglycerides, mono- and diglycerides, polyglycerol esters of fatty acids, ceteareth-20, polyglycerol polyricinoleate, propylene glycol esters of fatty acids, polyglyceryl laurate, glyceryl cocoate, gum arabic, gum acacia, sorbitan monostearate, sorbitan tristearate, sorbitan monolaurate, sorbitan monooleate, sodium stearoyl lactylate, calcium stearoyl lactylate, diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides, glyceryl tricaprylate-caprate / medium chain triglycerides, glyceryl dioleate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl lactoesters of fatty acids, glyceryl lactopalmitate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl laurate Ingredients: Glyceryl Dilaurate, Glyceryl Monoricinoleate, Triglyceryl Monostearate, Hexaglyceryl Distearate, Decaglyceryl Monostearate, Decaglyceryl Dipalmitate, Decaglyceryl Monooleate, Polyglyceryl 10 Hexaoleate, Medium Chain Triglycerides, Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride, Propylene Glycol Monostearate, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 40, Polysorbate 60, Poly sorbate 80, polysorbate 65, hexylglyceryl distearate, triglyceryl monostearate, tween®, span®, stearoyl lactylate, calcium stearoyl-2-lactylate, sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate, lecithin, ammonium phosphatide, sucrose esters of fatty acids, sucroglycerides, propane-1,2-diol esters of fatty acids, or combinations thereof.

[0034] In embodiments in which some or all of the polyphosphate may be present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient, the polyphosphate may be an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, as discussed herein. If a portion of the polyphosphate is present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient, the remaining portion may be present in the chewing gum composition as a chewing gum ingredient. In coated or center-filled embodiments, the remaining portion may be present in the chewing gum composition as a chewing gum ingredient, in the coating, in the center-fill, or a combination thereof.

[0035] The tooth whitening chewing gum further contains a bulk sweetener. Sugars that can be used as bulk sweeteners include monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides, such as sucrose (table sugar), dextrose / glucose, maltose, dextrin, xylose, ribose, mannose, galactose, fructose (levulose), lactose, invert sugar, fructooligosaccharide syrup, partially hydrolyzed starch, corn syrup solids, such as high fructose corn syrup, glucose syrup, or combinations thereof.

[0036] The sugar-free bulk sweetener may include a sugar alcohol or sugar alcohol syrup, such as erythritol, galactitol, isomalt (hydrogenated isomaltulose), hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, lactitol, maltitol, maltitol syrup, mannitol, polyglycitol, sorbitol, sorbitol syrup, xylitol, or a combination thereof. As used herein, the term "sugar alcohol" is synonymous with "sugar polyol." The sugar-free bulk sweetener may be a single sugar-free bulk sweetener or a mixture of two or more sugar-free bulk sweeteners.

[0037] In one embodiment, the bulk sweetener is sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, or a combination thereof, especially sorbitol.

[0038] In one embodiment, the bulk sweetener is isomalt. Isomalt is a disaccharide alcohol. Isomalt can be prepared by hydrogenating isomaltulose. Hydrogenation products can include 6-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-D-sorbitol (1,6-GPS); 1-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-D-sorbitol (1,1-GPS); 1-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-D-mannitol (1,1-GPM); 6-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl-D-mannitol (1,6-GPM); and mixtures thereof. Some commercially available isomalt contains a nearly equimolar mixture of 1,6-GPS and 1,1-GPM. Other isomalt materials may contain pure 1,6-GPS, 1,1-GPS, 1,6-GP, and 1,1-GPM. Still other isomalt materials may include 1,6-GPS, 1,1-GPS, 1,6-GPM, and 1,1-GPM in any proportion. Exemplary commercially available isomalts include Isomalt ST, Isomalt GS, Isomalt M, Isomalt DC, and Isomalt LM available from BENEO-Palatinit, a Sudzucker Group company.

[0039] The amount of bulk sweetener in the chewing gum composition can be from about 30% to about 90% by weight, specifically from about 40% to about 80% by weight, more specifically from about 50% to about 70% by weight, and even more specifically from about 55% to about 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0040] In addition to the combination of gum base, bulk sweetener, and polyphosphate, the chewing gum composition may optionally further comprise one or more additional chewing gum ingredients, such as colorants, including speckle, flavors, flavor modifiers or enhancers, food acids or salts thereof, high-intensity sweeteners, sensory enhancers (e.g., cooling agents, warming agents, tingling agents, etc.), breath fresheners, additional oral care agents, combinations thereof, and the like.

[0041] Flavorants (also referred to herein as flavors or flavoring agents) present in the chewing gum compositions are not particularly limited and may include liquid flavors, solid flavors, natural, artificial, or combinations thereof. The overall flavor profile of the product can be sweet, fruity, salty, chocolate or cocoa, dairy (milk, butter, cheese, cream, yogurt), vanilla, black tea or coffee (green tea, oolong tea), mint (peppermint, spearmint), spice (anise, anguilla, vinel, allspice, cinnamon, chamomile, mustard, cardamom, caraway, cumin, cloves, pepper, coriander, sassafras, juniper berry, ginger, star anise, horseradish, capsicum, nutmeg, wasabi), herbal (chim, tarragon, dill, nutmeg, basil, marjoram, rosemary, bay leaf), floral or vegetable (onion, garlic, cabbage, carrot, celery, mushroom, tomato), or combinations thereof.

[0042] The chewing gum composition may further comprise a colorant, if desired. Colorants (pigments, colorants, dyes) may be used in an amount effective to impart the desired color to the product. Suitable colorants include pigments, natural food colors, and dyes suitable for food, drug, and cosmetic applications. In some embodiments, the official color may include FD&C colorants, FD&C aluminum lakes, or combinations thereof. The colorant may optionally be in the form of particulates, speckles, or flakes, such as edible glitter.

[0043] Food acids or their salts that can be used in chewing gum compositions include acetic acid, adipic acid, ascorbic acid, butyric acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, glyconic acid, lactic acid, phosphoric acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, succinic acid, tartaric acid, or combinations thereof, and alkali metal salts thereof (e.g., sodium citrate). Food acids or their salts can be encapsulated or unencapsulated (or "free"). When two or more food acids or their salts are used, any combination of encapsulated or non-encapsulated ingredients can be used.

[0044] The food acid or salt thereof may be present in the chewing gum composition in an amount of about 0.01 to about 2.0% by weight, specifically about 0.1 to about 1.5% by weight, and more specifically about 0.3 to about 1.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0045] The chewing gum composition may further contain a high-intensity sweetener, if desired. As used herein, "high-intensity sweetener" refers to an agent having a sweetness greater than that of sucrose. In some embodiments, the high-intensity sweetener is at least 100 times sweeter than sugar (sucrose) per weight, specifically at least 500 times sweeter than sugar per weight. In one embodiment, the high-intensity sweetener is at least 1,000 times sweeter than sugar per weight, more specifically at least 5,000 times sweeter than sugar per weight. The high-intensity sweetener may be selected from a wide range of substances, including water-soluble sweeteners, water-soluble artificial sweeteners, water-soluble sweeteners derived from naturally occurring water-soluble sweeteners, dipeptide-based sweeteners, protein-based sweeteners, or combinations thereof. Without being limited to specific sweeteners, representative categories and examples include: Water-soluble sweeteners, such as dihydrochalcones, monellin, stevioside, rebaudioside, glycyrrhizin, dihydroflavenols, monatin, and L-aminodicarboxylic acid aminoalkenoic acid ester amides, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,619,834, or combinations thereof; Water-soluble artificial sweeteners, for example, soluble saccharin salts, i.e., saccharin sodium or calcium salts, cyclamate salts, acesulfame salts, for example, the sodium, ammonium, or calcium salt of 3,4-dihydro-6-methyl-1,2,3-oxathiazin-4-one-2,2-dioxide, the potassium salt of 3,4-dihydro-6-methyl-1,2,3-oxathiazin-4-one-2,2-dioxide (Acesulfame-K), the free acid form of saccharin, or combinations thereof; dipeptide sweeteners, for example, L-aspartic acid-derived sweeteners, for example, L- Aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester (aspartame) and materials described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,492,131, L-alpha-aspartyl-N-(2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-3-thietanyl)-D-alaninamide hydrate (alitame), methyl esters of L-aspartyl-L-phenylglycerin and L-aspartyl-L-2,5-dihydrophenyl-glycine, L-aspartyl-2,5-dihydro-L-phenylalanine; L-aspartyl-L-(1-cyclohexene)-alanine, neotame, or combinations thereof; Water-soluble sweeteners derived from natural water-soluble sweeteners, such as stevioside and stevia-derived compounds, including, but not limited to, steviol glycosides, such as rebaudiosides including rebaudioside A, monk fruit and monk fruit-derived compounds, such as iso-mogroside V, chlorinated derivatives of common sugar (sucrose), such as chlorodeoxysugar derivatives, such as derivatives of chlorodeoxysucrose or chlorodeoxygalactosucrose, for example, those known by the trade name sucralose; Examples of sucrose and chlorodeoxygalactosucrose derivatives include 1-chloro-1'-deoxysucrose; 4-chloro-4-deoxy-α-D-galactopyranosyl-α-D-fructofuranoside or 4-chloro-4-deoxygalactosucrose; 4-chloro-4-deoxy-α-D-galactopyranosyl-1-chloro-1-deoxy-β-D-fructofuranoside or 4,1'-dichloro-4,1'-dideoxygalactosucrose; 1',6'-dichloro-1',6'-dideoxysucrose. 4-chloro-4-deoxy-α-D-galactopyranosyl-1,6-dichloro-1,6-dideoxy-β-D-fructofuranoside or 4,1',6'-trichloro-4,1',6'-trideoxygalactosucrose; 4,6-dichloro-4,6-dideoxy-α-D-galactopyranosyl-6-chloro-6-deoxy-β-D-fructofuranoside or 4,6,6'-trichloro-4,6,6'-trideoxygalactosucrose; 6,1',6'-trichloro-6,1',6 4,6-dichloro-4,6-dideoxy-α-D-galacto-pyranosyl-1,6-dichloro-1,6-dideox y-β-D-fructofuranoside or 4,6,1',6'-tetrachloro-4,6,1',6'-tetradeoxygalactosucrose; 4,6,1',6'-tetradeoxy-sucrose or a combination thereof; protein-based sweeteners such as thaumacos daniellii, talin, or a combination thereof; and amino acid-based sweeteners.

[0046] The intense sweeteners can be used in a variety of distinct physical forms, such as those known in the art to provide an initial burst of sweetness and / or a delayed sensation of sweetness, including, but not limited to, free forms (e.g., spray-dried or powdered), beaded forms, encapsulated forms, or combinations thereof.

[0047] Specific high intensity sweeteners for use in chewing gum compositions include aspartame, neotame, sucralose, monatin, acesulfame potassium, encapsulated forms of the foregoing high intensity sweeteners, or combinations thereof.

[0048] The amount of intense sweetener used can be from about 0.01 to about 6% by weight, specifically from about 1 to about 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0049] The chewing gum composition may further comprise a warming agent, which may include a cooling agent, a warming agent, a tingling agent, or a combination thereof.

[0050] Cooling agents are additives that provide a cooling or refreshing effect in the mouth, nose, or on the skin. For example, among useful cooling agents are menthane, menthone, ketals, menthone ketals, menthone glycerol ketals, substituted p-menthanes, acyclic carboxamides, monomenthyl glutarate, substituted cyclohexanamides, substituted cyclohexanecarboxamides, substituted ureas and sulfonamides, substituted menthanols, hydroxymethyl and hydroxymethyl derivatives of p-menthane, 2-mercapto-cyclo-decanone, hydroxycarboxylic acids having 2 to 6 carbon atoms, cyclohexanamide, menthyl acetate, menthyl salicylate, N,2,3-trimethyl-2-isopropylbutanamide (WS-23), N-ethyl-2,2-diisopropylbutanamide, N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide (WS-3), the ethyl ester of N-[[5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)cyclohexyl]carbonyl]glycine (WS-5), as well as the substantially pure ethyl ester of N-[[5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)cyclohexylcarbonyl]glycine, isopulegol, menthyloxypropanediol, 3-(1-menthoxy)propane-1,2-diol, 3-(1-menthoxy)-2-methylpropane-1,2-diol, p-menthane-2,3-diol, p-menthane-3,8-diol, 6-isopropyl-9-methyl-1,4-dioxaspiro[4,5]decane-2-menthane, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,189,760 to Erman et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. ethanol, menthyl succinate and its alkaline earth metal salts, trimethylcyclohexanol, N-ethyl-2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanecarboxamide, peppermint oil, peppermint oil, 3-(1-menthoxy)ethan-1-ol, 3-(1-menthoxy)propan-1-ol, 3-(1-menthoxy)butan-1-ol, 1-menthylacetic acid N-ethylamide, 1-menthyl-4-hydroxypentanoate, 1-menthyl-3-hydroxybutyrate, N,2,3-trimethyl-2-(1-methylethyl)butanamide, n-ethyl-t-2-c-6 nonadienamide, N,N-dimethylmenthyl succinamide, substituted p-menthanes, substituted p-menthane-carboxamides, 2-isopropanyl-5-methylcyclohexanol (Hisamitsu Pharmaceuticals, hereinafter referred to as "isopulegol"); menthone glycerol ketal (FEMA3807, trade name FRESCOLAT® type MGA); 3-1-menthoxypropane-1,2-diol (Takasago, FEMA3784); and menthyl lactate;(Haarman & Reimer, FEMA3748, Trademark Name FRESCOLAT® Type ML), WS-30, WS-14, Eucalyptus Extract (p-Mehtha-3,8-diol), Menthol (its natural or synthetic derivatives), Menthol PG Carbonate, Menthol EG Carbonate, Menthol Glyceryl Ether, N-tert-butyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide, p-menthane-3-carboxylic acid glycerol ester, Methyl-2-isothiazolinone Pril-bicyclo (2.2.1), heptane-2-carboxamide; menthol methyl ether, menthyl pyrrolidone carboxylate; 2,5-dimethyl-4-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-3(2H)-furanone; cyclotene derivatives such as cyclopentene, including cyclic a-ketoenamines, 3-methyl-2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-2-cyclopenten-1-one and 5-methyl-2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-2-cyclopenten-1-one, compounds of the formula: [ka] wherein B is selected from H, CH3, C2H5, OCH3, OC2H5 and OH, A is a moiety of formula -CO-D, and D is one of the following moieties: (i) -NR 1 R 2 (In the formula, R 1 and R 2 are independently selected from H and C1-C8 straight or branched chain aliphatic, alkoxyalkyl, hydroxyalkyl, araliphatic, and cycloalkyl groups, or R 1 and R 2 together with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached form an optionally substituted 5- or 6-membered heterocyclic ring; (ii) —NHCH2COOCH2CH3, —NHCH2CONH2, —NHCH2CH2OCH3, —NHCH2CH2OH, —NHCH2CH(OH)CH2OH, and (iii) [ka] In particular, the compounds are selected from moieties selected from the group consisting of those disclosed in PCT Patent Application No. WO 2006 / 125334 to Bell et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Other compounds include the α-ketoenamines disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,592,884 to Hofmann et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. These and other suitable cooling sensates are further described in the following U.S. patents, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties: U.S. Patent Nos. 4,230,688, 4,032,661, 4,459,425, 4,178,459, 4,296,255, 4,136,163, 5,009,893, 5,266,592, 5,698,181, 6,277,385, 6,627,233, and 7,030,273. Still other suitable cooling sensates are further described in the following U.S. patent application publications, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties: U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2005 / 0222256 and 2005 / 0265930.

[0051] Warming agents may be selected from a wide variety of compounds known to provide a warming sensory signal to the user. These compounds provide a perceived sensation of warmth, particularly in the oral cavity, and often enhance the perception of flavors, sweeteners, and other organoleptic components. Useful warming compounds include vanillyl alcohol n-butyl ether (TK-1000), vanillyl alcohol n-propyl ether, vanillyl alcohol isopropyl ether, vanillyl alcohol isobutyl ether, vanillyl alcohol n-amino ether, vanillyl alcohol isoamyl ether, vanillyl alcohol n-hexyl ether, vanillyl alcohol methyl ether, vanillyl alcohol ethyl ether, gingerol, shogaol, paradol, zingerone, capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, nordihydrocapsaicin, homocapsaicin, homodihydrocapsaicin, or combinations thereof, supplied by Takasago Perfumary Company Limited (Tokyo, Japan).

[0052] Tingling agents may be used to provide the user with a sensation of percussion pain, tingling, or numbness. Tingling agents include, but are not limited to, jambu oleoresin or paracles (Spilanthes spp.) (the active ingredient is spilanthol); Japanese pepper extract (Zanthoxylum peperitum) containing ingredients known as sanshool-I, sanshool-II, and sanshoamide; perillartine; 4-(1-menthoxymethyl)-2-phenyl-1,3-dioxolane; black pepper extract (Piper nigrum) containing the active ingredients chavicine and piperine; Echinacea extract; Zanthoxylum americana extract; trans-pellitrine and capsicum oleoresin. In some embodiments, alkylamides extracted from substances such as jambu or sansho may be included. Examples of "tingling" type warming agents include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,780,443, 6,159,509, 5,545,424, and 5,407,665, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0053] The amount of warming agent present in the chewing gum composition can be from 0.001 to about 5.0% by weight, specifically from about 0.01 to about 3.0% by weight, and more specifically from about 0.1 to about 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0054] The chewing gum composition may further include a flavor modifier or enhancer, if desired. Sweetness may be imparted by the flavor modifier or enhancer and / or from the flavor and sweetener. A flavor enhancer may consist of a substance that enhances, complements, modulates, or improves the taste or aroma perception of the original substance without introducing its own characteristic taste or aroma perception. A flavor modifier may impart its own characteristic to complement or counteract the characteristics of another ingredient, for example, masking a bitter taste. In some embodiments, a flavor modifier or enhancer may be designed and included to enhance, complement, modulate, or improve the perception of flavor, sweetness, sourness, umami, kokumi, saltiness, or a combination thereof. Thus, the addition of a flavor modifier or enhancer can affect the overall taste of the composition. For example, flavors can be combined to have an additional sweetness characteristic through the inclusion of a flavor modifier or enhancer, such as vanilla, vanillin, ethyl maltol, sulfur, ethyl propionate, lactone, or a combination thereof.

[0055] Exemplary flavor modifiers or enhancers include monoammonium glycyrrhizinate, licorice glycyrrhizinate, bitter orange, alapyridaine, alapyridaine (N-(1-carboxyethyl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)pyridinium-3-ol) inner salt, miraculin, curculin, strogin, mabinlin, gymnemic acid, cynarin, gulpyridine, pyridinium-betaine compounds, neotame, thaumatin, neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, tagatose, trehalose, maltol, ethyl maltol, vanilla extract, vanilla oleoresin, vanillin, sugar beet extract (alcoholic extract), sugarcane leaf extract (alcoholic extract), compounds that respond to G-protein-linked receptors (T2R and T1R), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, sugar acids, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium bisulfate, or combinations thereof are used. Other embodiments include glutamates such as monosodium glutamate, monopotassium glutamate, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, hydrolyzed animal protein, yeast extract, or combinations thereof. Further examples include adenosine monophosphate (AMP), glutathione, and nucleotides such as inosine monophosphate, disodium inosinate, xanthosine monophosphate, guanylate monophosphate, or combinations thereof. Further examples of flavor enhancer compositions that impart kokumi flavor are also listed in U.S. Patent No. 5,679,397 to Kuroda et al.

[0056] The amount of flavor modifier or flavor enhancer, if used, can be a matter of preference depending on factors such as the type of final product composition, the particular flavor, the intensity of flavor desired, and the location of the ingredients (core, coating, and center-fill, if used). Thus, the amount of flavor modifier or flavor enhancer can be varied to obtain the desired result in the final product, and such variations are within the ability of one skilled in the art to determine without undue experimentation.

[0057] In one embodiment, the chewing gum composition includes a flavor modifier that reduces the saltiness of polyphosphates, particularly sodium acid pyrophosphate, in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 3.0% by weight, specifically from about 0.15% to about 1.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0058] Exemplary breath fresheners that may be used in the chewing gum compositions include zinc citrate, zinc acetate, zinc fluoride, zinc ammonium sulfate, zinc bromide, zinc iodide, zinc chloride, zinc nitrate, zinc silicofluoride, zinc gluconate, zinc tartrate, zinc succinate, zinc formate, zinc chromate, zinc phenolsulfonate, zinc dithionate, zinc sulfate, silver nitrate, zinc salicylate, zinc glycerophosphate, copper nitrate, chlorophyll, copper chlorophyll, chlorophyllin, hydrogenated cottonseed oil, chlorine dioxide, beta cyclodextrin, zeolites, silica-based materials, carbon-based materials, enzymes such as laccase, or combinations thereof. Breath fresheners can include essential oils and various aldehydes and alcohols. Essential oils used as breath fresheners may include spearmint, peppermint, wintergreen oil, sassafras, chlorophyll, citral, geraniol, cardamom, clove, sage, carvacrol, eucalyptus, cardamom, magnolia bark extract, marjoram, cinnamon, lemon, lime, grapefruit, orange, or combinations thereof. Aldehydes such as cinnamic aldehyde and salicylic aldehyde may also be used. Additionally, menthol, carvone, iso-garrigol, and anethole may function as breath fresheners. The breath freshener may be present in an appropriate amount depending on the desired level of intensity. In some embodiments, the breath freshener is present in an amount of about 0.01% to about 2% by weight, specifically about 0.05% to about 1.25% by weight, and more specifically about 0.1% to 1% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

[0059] The chewing gum composition may further comprise additional oral care agents. Suitable oral care agents include tooth whitening agents, antibacterial agents, tooth mineralizing agents, caries inhibitors, topical anesthetics, mucosal protectants, stain removers, oral cleaning agents, bleaching agents, desensitizing agents, dental remineralizing agents, antibacterial agents, caries inhibitors, plaque acid buffers, surfactants, tartar inhibitors, and combinations thereof. Examples of such ingredients include hydrolyzing agents including proteolytic enzymes; abrasives such as silicic acid, calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and alumina; other active stain-removing ingredients including sodium stearate, sodium palmitate, sulfated butyl oleate, sodium oleate, salts of fumaric acid, glycerol, hydroxylated lecithin, and anionic surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulfate. The oral care agent may also include tetrasodium pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium tripolyphosphate, or combinations thereof.

[0060] Suitable oral care agents may include peroxides such as carbamide peroxide, calcium peroxide, magnesium peroxide, sodium peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and peroxydiphosphate. In some embodiments, potassium nitrate and potassium citrate are included. Other examples include casein glycomacropeptide, calcium casein peptone-calcium phosphate, casein phosphopeptide, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), and amorphous calcium phosphate. Still other examples include papain, crisylase, pepsin, trypsin, lysozyme, dextranase, mutanase, glycoamylase, amylase, glucose oxidase, and combinations thereof.

[0061] Suitable oral care agents include surfactants that provide increased preventative effects and make the oral care agent more cosmetically acceptable. Surfactants used as oral care agents include cleansing materials that impart cleaning and foaming properties to the composition. Suitable surfactants include water-soluble salts of higher fatty acid monosulfate monoglycerides, such as sodium stearate, sodium ricinoleate, sodium lauryl sulfate, and the sodium salt of monosulfated monoglycerides of hydrogenated coconut oil fatty acids; higher alkyl sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate; alkylaryl sulfonates, such as sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate; higher alkyl sulfoacetates; sodium lauryl sulfoacetate; higher fatty acid esters of 1,2-dihydroxypropanesulfonate; and substantially saturated higher aliphatic acyl amides of lower aliphatic aminocarboxylic acids, such as those having 12 to 16 carbon atoms in the fatty acid, alkyl, or acyl radical. Examples of the latter amides are N-lauroyl sarcosine and the sodium, potassium, and ethanolammonium salts of N-lauroyl sarcosine, N-myristoyl sarcosine, or N-palmitoyl sarcosine.

[0062] In addition to surfactants, oral care agents may include antimicrobial agents such as triclosan, chlorhexidine, zinc citrate, silver nitrate, copper, limonene, and cetylpyridinium chloride, or combinations thereof.

[0063] Anti-caries agents include fluoride ion sources such as sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride, sodium fluorosilicate, ammonium silicofluoride, potassium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, stannous fluoride, potassium stannous fluoride, sodium hexafluorostannate, stannous chlorofluoride, or combinations thereof.

[0064] Further examples of oral care agents are included in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,227,154 to Reynolds, 5,378,131 to Greenberg, and 6,685,916 to Holme et al. The additional oral care agents can be present in an appropriate amount depending on the level of care desired. In some embodiments, the additional oral care agents are present in an amount of about 0.01% to about 2%, specifically about 0.05% to about 1.25%, and more specifically about 0.1% to 1% by weight of the total weight of the chewing gum.

[0065] Chewing gum compositions containing combinations of polyphosphates can be prepared by batch or continuous processes using techniques available in the art.

[0066] The chewing gum composition may be prepared into chewing gum products having any shape or size, such as sticks, slabs, chunks, balls, pellets, etc. The general shape of the chewing gum product may be a geometric shape such as a circle, oval, square, rectangle, triangle, trapezoid, hexagon, octagon, star, crescent, etc., or it may be in the shape of a silhouette of a cartoon character, person, etc.

[0067] In one embodiment, the chewing gum product can be coated. Chewing gum coating materials known in the art can be used. Suitable coatings include hard panning coatings, soft panning coatings, polishing coatings, and the like, which are prepared from bulk sweeteners and additional coating ingredients.

[0068] In one embodiment, some or all of the polyphosphate may be present in the coating as a coating component. In embodiments in which some or all of the polyphosphate may be present in the coating as a coating component, the polyphosphate may be an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, as discussed herein.

[0069] In one embodiment, the chewing gum product can be a center-fill chewing product. The center-fill can be liquid, solid, semi-solid, or powder. Suitable center-fill ingredients include bulk sweeteners, polyphosphates, colorants, flavors, flavor modifiers or enhancers, food acids or salts thereof, intense sweeteners, sensory enhancers (e.g., cooling agents, warming agents, tingling agents, etc.), breath fresheners, additional oral care agents, water, glycerin, emulsifiers, thickeners, hydrocolloids, or combinations thereof.

[0070] In one embodiment, some or all of the polyphosphate may be present in the center-fill as a center-fill component. In one embodiment, the center-fill comprising the polyphosphate is a powder or solid center-fill. In embodiments in which some or all of the polyphosphate may be present in the center-fill as a center-fill component, the polyphosphate may be an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, as discussed herein.

[0071] Chewing gum compositions containing polyphosphates are described herein. Corresponding confectionery compositions that do not contain a gum base or elastomer are fully contemplated herein. The features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully demonstrated by the following examples, which are provided for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any manner. [Example]

[0072] Example 1: Particle size of polyphosphate

[0073] The particle size of commercially available "SHMP" = sodium hexametaphosphate and "SAPP" = sodium acid pyrophosphate was measured using sieve analysis and the results are reported in Table 1 in terms of the percentage of material passing through a sieve of the indicated mesh. Sieving Procedure: Step 1: Weigh out 100g of sample. Step 2: Place a receptacle below the sieve to collect the sample. Step 3: Weigh the sieve and pan separately. Step 4: Pour the sample from step 1 onto the top of the sieve and gently shake the sieve by hand for 2 minutes. Step 5: Stop shaking the sieve and measure the mass of material that has passed through the sieve. [Table 1] 18, 25, and 140 mesh - US standard sieves Example 2:

[0074] Chewing gum compositions were prepared containing a gum base, bulk sweetener, intense sweetener, flavor and sensory enhancers, fillers, and one or more polyphosphates selected from "SHMP" = sodium hexametaphosphate and "SAPP" = sodium acid pyrophosphate, as shown in Table 2. The amount of each salt, in weight percent based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, is shown in the table below, along with the particle size and supplier. US 18 mesh = 1000 microns and 140 mesh = 105 microns. The prepared chewing gum samples were chewed, and the sensory characteristics were reported. As shown by the results, SAPP imparted a saltier off-note than SHMP, and the off-taste could be reduced or minimized by i) using a larger particle size, ii) adjusting the amount of SHMP:SAPP, and / or iii) using a bitterness-masking agent. Larger particle sizes provided chewing gum with a more balanced flavor compared to smaller particle sizes. [Table 2] Example 3: Chewing gum teeth whitening by removing extrinsic stains

[0075] Chewing gum samples were assayed for their effectiveness in removing extrinsic food stains on tooth surfaces. Eight chewing gum compositions were studied, including six samples of tooth-whitening chewing gum containing polyphosphate, a control whitening chewing gum containing sodium stearate, and a commercial whitening chewing gum containing sodium bicarbonate (Table 3). Each chewing gum, including Samples A-F and the control, was based on a standard chewing gum composition with the addition of the specified ingredient, sodium stearate: "SHMP" = sodium hexametaphosphate, CAS 68915-31-1, (NaPO)n.NaO, either the larger particle size PRAYPHOS™ SHMP 460 FG or the smaller particle size SHMP Glass H (see Table 1); "SAPP" = sodium acid pyrophosphate, CAS 7758-16-9, NaHPO, either the larger particle size PRAYPHOS™ SAPP 108 FG GR or the smaller particle size SAPP PRAYPHOS NL180 (see Table 1). The standard chewing gum contained 36.2% by weight gum base, 53.8% by weight bulk sweetener, 0.82% by weight high-intensity sweetener, 4.0% by weight flavor and sensory enhancers, and 5.2% by weight filler. [Table 3] * The sensory attributes observed when the sample was chewed based on 1, 2, or 4 people.

[0076] Experiments were conducted using a modification of the experimental method described by Stookey et al., "In vitro removal of stain with dentifrices," J Dent Res 61(11):1236-1239, November 1982, which has been shown to correlate with the cleaning / whitening properties of dentifrices in clinical trials. The general experimental design consists of using a specially designed mechanical mastication device to treat teeth stained with test chewing gums (Kleber et al., "A mastication device designed for the evaluation of chewing gums," J Dent Res 60:109-114, 1981). The amount of stain on the teeth before and after treatment is quantitatively measured using a colorimeter. Specimen:

[0077] Enamel squares measuring 4 mm on a side were cut from bovine permanent incisors using a diamond cutting disc. Using a mold, four enamel squares were embedded in clear polyester casting resin, resulting in 1.5 centimeter (cm) square blocks with the labial surface exposed. The top surface of the polyester block was polished flush with the flattened labial surface of the enamel square using a dental trimmer. The surface was then smoothed by hand polishing with 400-grit emery paper using water as a lubricant until all grinding marks were removed. Finally, the top surface of the block was hand-polished to a mirror finish using a water slurry of GK1072 calcined kaolin (median particle size = 1.2 microns) on a cotton cloth. The finished specimens were examined under a dissecting microscope and discarded if any surface defects were observed.

[0078] To make the polished tooth surface more natural-looking and to promote stain formation on the enamel, the specimens were etched in 0.2 M HCl for 60 seconds, followed by a final etch in 1% phytic acid for 60 seconds. The specimens were then rinsed with deionized water and mounted in the staining apparatus. Tooth staining device:

[0079] The tooth staining apparatus was designed to alternate between immersion in staining broth and air-drying the specimens. The apparatus consisted of an aluminum platform base supporting a Teflon rod (3 / 4 inch diameter) connected to an electric motor, which rotated the rod at a constant speed of 1.5 rpm via a reduction box. Threaded screw holes were spaced at regular intervals along the length of the rod. Tooth specimens were attached to the rod by first gluing the head of a plastic screw to the back of the specimen and then threading the tooth onto the rod. Beneath the rod was a removable 300 milliliter (mL) trough that held the tooth staining broth. Tooth Staining Broth:

[0080] The staining broth was prepared by adding 1.02 grams (g) of instant coffee, 1.02 g of instant tea, and 0.75 g of gastric mucin to 250 mL of sterile trypticase soy broth. Approximately 50 mL of a 24-hour stain-promoting Micrococcus luteus culture was also added to the staining broth. The apparatus with the mounted enamel specimens and staining broth in the trough was then placed in a 37°C incubator, and the specimens were continuously rotated through the staining broth and air. The staining broth was changed once every 24 hours for 10 consecutive days. At each broth change, the trough and specimens were rinsed with water and brushed (with a soft-tip toothbrush) to remove loose deposits.

[0081] On day 11, the staining broth was modified by adding 0.03 g of FeCl3.6H2O, and this was continued until the stain on the specimen was sufficiently dark (L * <32), with the broth changed daily. The specimens were then removed from the staining broth, thoroughly brushed with deionized water, and refrigerated in a humidifier until use. Stain Measurement:

[0082] The intensity of the extrinsic stain pellicle on the teeth is measured by taking diffuse reflectance absorbance readings using a spectrophotometer: Minolta CM-2600D Spectrophotometer, Minolta Camera Co., 101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, NJ 07446, equipped with diffuse illumination, an 8° viewing angle, and a 3 mm aperture. Absorbance measurements across the visible color spectrum are measured in accordance with the tristimulus L (Luminance) scale established by the CIE (Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage. Recommendations for Uniform Color Spaces. Color Difference Equations. Psychological Color Terminology. Suppl 2 to CIE publication 15(E-13.1)1971 / (TC-1.3), 1978, Paris: Bureau Central de la CIE, 1978). * a * b * Measurements are taken using a color space. Measurements are taken by using a target mask to align the center of a 4 mm square segment of stained enamel directly over the 3 mm diameter target opening of the spectrophotometer. Tooth measurements are recorded in triplicate. Stained tooth enamel specimens are read immediately after being blotted dry with tissue. process:

[0083] In preparation for processing, baseline L of the tooth specimen * a * b * Stain scores were determined and used to stratify the teeth into balanced groups of eight specimens each. The tooth specimens were treated with the test chewing gum using a mechanical device developed by Kleber et al. to simulate human chewing gum.

[0084] For testing, two acrylic specimen blocks, each with two enamel squares, were placed in the upper and lower tooth holders of the instrument (one double upper and one double lower). 15 ml of artificial saliva (CaCl₂·H₂O -1.45, KH₂PO₄ -5.42, NaCl -6.52, KCl -14.94, Tris buffer 100.00, sufficient NaOH to pH 7.0) was placed in the reservoir. The thermostatically controlled heating element was turned on to maintain the saliva and gum at body temperature (36-37°C) for appropriate chewing consistency. Approximately 2.5 grams of test chewing gum (i.e., two tabs) was placed between the repositioning paddles directly on the lower tooth specimen. The chewing motor was started, and the two specimen blocks with enamel squares were treated with the chewing gum for 20 minutes. This treatment procedure was repeated every 20 minutes for a total of 280 minutes (equivalent to 14 days) of treatment. Fresh gum and saliva were used for each 20 minute treatment period. Stain Calculation:

[0085] The overall change in color of stained teeth was calculated using the CIELAB formula ΔE = [ΔL * ) 2 +Δa * ) 2 +Δb * )2] 1 / 2 Calculated using L * a * b * The individual components of the scale are whiteness (L * ), red-green (a * ), and yellow-blue (b * ) represents a specific change in

[0086] The ΔE value is calculated by the * , Δa * , and Δb * ) and represent the ability of the test chewing gums to remove stains and whiten teeth. The data were calculated and defined as follows: Stain removed = ΔE score after treatment. Statistical analysis:

[0087] Data were tabulated using a standard spreadsheet program and analyzed using conventional statistical software packages. Comparisons of staining scores between groups according to treatment time were performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA).

[0088] Mean L for extrinsic staining of teeth in each group at baseline * a * b * Color scores were obtained. Baseline data show that all groups were well balanced for each color factor before treatment. Baseline L, which indicates tooth whiteness * Scores are very low, with an average score of about 32. White, unstained teeth have an L of about 65-70. * It has a score.

[0089] Mean L for extrinsic staining of teeth in each group after 7 days of chewing gum treatment * a * b * A color score was obtained.

[0090] Table 4 shows the changes in tooth whiteness and staining after 140 minutes (7 days) of mechanical mastication for Samples A to C and the control. ΔL indicates an increase in tooth whiteness. * , Δb * and ΔE (combined color spectrum L * a * b * ) scores were significantly higher for chewing gum samples A to C compared to the control.

[0091] Table 5 shows the change in tooth whiteness and staining after 140 minutes (7 days) of mechanical chewing for Samples D-F, the control, and a commercial comparative example containing sodium bicarbonate. ΔL indicates an increase in tooth whiteness. * , Δb * and ΔE (combined color spectrum L * a * b * ) scores were significantly higher for chewing gum samples D-F compared to the control and bicarbonate comparison. [Table 4] †Mean score ± standard deviation; n = 8. Values ​​in the same column with the same superscript letter are not statistically different, values ​​with different superscript letters differ at p < 0.05 based on ANOVA and two-tailed SNK test. [Table 5] †Mean score ± standard deviation; n = 8. Values ​​in the same column with the same superscript letter are not statistically different, values ​​with different superscript letters differ at p < 0.05 based on ANOVA and two-tailed SNK test.

[0092] Mean L for extrinsic staining of teeth in each group after 14 days of chewing gum treatment * a * b * A color score was obtained.

[0093] Table 6 shows the change in tooth whiteness and stain after 280 minutes (14 days) of mechanical mastication. ΔL indicates an increase in tooth whiteness. * , Δb * and ΔE (combined color spectrum L * a * b * ) scores were significantly higher for chewing gum samples A to C compared to the control.

[0094] Table 7 shows the change in tooth whiteness and stain after 280 minutes (14 days) of mechanical mastication. ΔL indicates an increase in tooth whiteness. * , Δb * and ΔE (combined color spectrum L * a * b * ) scores were significantly higher for chewing gum samples D-F compared to the control and bicarbonate comparison. [Table 6] †Mean score ± standard deviation; n = 8. Values ​​in the same column with the same superscript letter are not statistically different, values ​​with different superscript letters differ at p < 0.05 based on ANOVA and two-tailed SNK test. [Table 7] †Mean score ± standard deviation; n = 8. Values ​​in the same column with the same superscript letter are not statistically different, values ​​with different superscript letters differ at p < 0.05 based on ANOVA and two-tailed SNK test.

[0095] The results show that Samples A-C and F chewing gums containing combinations of SHMP and SAPP tested better than the control (sodium stearate whitened gum) and better than commercially available whitened chewing gum. Sample B, containing a combination of 2.5% SHMP + 0.5% SAPP, whitened and cleaned better than Sample C's 1.5% SHMP + 1.5% SAPP and Sample A's 2% SHMP + 1% SAPP. All four chewing gum compositions (Samples A-C and F) containing polyphosphate combinations It performed better than the control (sodium stearate gum) chewing gum.

[0096] The results further show that polyphosphate with a larger particle size (Sample B, 2.5% SHMP and 0.5% SAPP, 7 day ΔE=14.4, 14 day ΔE=19.6) provides superior whitening and cleaning benefits compared to polyphosphate with a smaller particle size (Sample F, 2.5% SHMP and 0.5% SAPP, 7 day ΔE=9.0, 14 day ΔE=12.1).

[0097] The terms "comprising" (including "comprises," etc.), "having," and "including," as used herein, are inclusive (open-ended) and do not exclude additional, unlisted elements or method steps. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The endpoints of all ranges directed to the same component or property are inclusive and independently combinable, and all intermediate points and ranges (e.g., the range "up to 25% by weight, or more specifically, 5-20% by weight" includes the endpoints and all intermediate values ​​in the "5-25% by weight" range, e.g., "10-23% by weight," "20-24%, "1-5% by weight," etc.). The disclosure of narrower ranges or more specific groups in addition to broader ranges does not negate the broader ranges or larger groups. The term "combination" is intended to encompass homogeneous or heterogeneous blends or mixtures of the specified components into an integrated whole. The term "homogeneous" refers to a uniform blend of components. The word "or" means "and / or." The terms "front," "back," "bottom," and / or "top," unless otherwise noted, are used herein merely for descriptive convenience and are not limited to any one location or spatial orientation. "Optionally" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and the description is intended to include instances when the event occurs as well as instances when it does not. Throughout this specification, references to "one embodiment," "another embodiment," "an embodiment," etc., mean that a particular element (e.g., a feature, structure, and / or characteristic) described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment described herein and may or may not be present in other embodiments. Additionally, it is understood that the described elements may be combined in any suitable manner in various embodiments. In general, a composition or method may alternatively comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of any suitable components or steps disclosed herein.The present invention may additionally or alternatively be formulated to be devoid of or substantially free of any component, substance, ingredient, adjuvant, or species used in prior art compositions or that is otherwise unnecessary to achieve the function and / or purpose of the present claims.

[0098] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is not intended that the invention be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but rather, the invention is intended to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprising: Gum base and Bulk sweeteners; about 0.5 wt. % to about 12 wt. % of an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, based on the total weight of the composition; the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as measured using sieve analysis is such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 micron) screen; A tooth whitening chewing gum composition wherein the particle size of said alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate as measured using sieve analysis is such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 micron) screen.

2. 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate is sodium acid pyrophosphate.

3. 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is sodium hexametaphosphate.

4. 2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate is sodium acid pyrophosphate and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is sodium hexametaphosphate.

5. 5. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate are present in the chewing gum composition in a weight ratio of alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate:alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate of from 100:0 to 0:100, 10:1 to 1:10, 9:1 to 1:9, 8:1 to 1:8, 7:1 to 1:7, 6:1 to 1:6, 5:1 to 1:5, 4:1 to 1:4, 3:1 to 1:3, 2:1 to 1:2, 1:1, or 5:1 to 1:

1.

6. 5. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate are present in the chewing gum composition in a weight ratio of from 1:7 to 1:1, from 1:6 to 1:2, or from 1:5 to 1:

4.

7. 7. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the combination of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is present in an amount of from about 1.0% to about 8.0% by weight, more specifically from about 2.0% to about 6.0% by weight, and even more specifically from about 3.0% to about 5.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

8. 8. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate is present in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, specifically from about 0.05% to about 8.0% by weight, more specifically from about 0.1% to about 6.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 0.5% to about 5.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 1.0% to about 4.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 1.5% to about 3.0% by weight, and more specifically from about 2.0% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

9. 9. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is present in an amount of from about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, specifically from about 0.05% to about 8.0% by weight, more specifically from about 0.1% to about 6.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 0.5% to about 5.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 1.0% to about 4.0% by weight, even more specifically from about 1.5% to about 3.0% by weight, and more specifically from about 2.0% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition.

10. the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, as measured using sieve analysis, is such that 0 to 45%, specifically 15 to 40%, more specifically 20 to 35% of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 micron) screen; or 10. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 9, further wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as determined by a sieve measurement test is such that less than 70% of the particles, specifically 0 to 65%, more specifically 15 to 60%, and more specifically 30 to 55% pass through an 18 mesh (1000 micron) screen.

11. 11. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, as measured using sieve analysis, is such that 0 to 40%, specifically 5 to 30%, more specifically 10 to 20% of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 micron) screen.

12. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the pyrophosphate, the hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof is encapsulated.

13. 13. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a colorant, a flavoring agent, a flavor modifier, a food acid or its salt, a high-intensity sweetener, a sensory enhancer, a breath freshener, an additional oral care agent, or a combination thereof.

14. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the chewing gum composition further comprises a taste modifier for masking a bitter or salty taste.

15. 15. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein some or all of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or combinations thereof are present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient.

16. 16. The composition of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the composition is formed into a chewing gum product comprising a coating, a center-fill, or a combination thereof, the coating, center-fill, or a combination thereof optionally comprising, as a coating component, an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof.

17. 17. The composition of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the tooth whitening chewing gum composition provides a statistically significantly greater ΔE compared to a control chewing gum composition not containing a polyphosphate compound, ΔE being based on colorimeter measurements of stained teeth before and after 20 minutes of mechanical chewing of a 2.5 gram sample of the test chewing gum, repeated every 20 minutes with a fresh test sample for a total of 280 minutes.

18. 1. A tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprising: Gum base and Bulk sweeteners; an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, based on the total weight of the composition; the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as measured using sieve analysis is such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 micron) screen; the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate as measured using sieve analysis is such that less than 50% of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 micron) screen; The tooth whitening chewing gum composition provides a statistically significantly greater ΔE compared to a control chewing gum composition not containing a polyphosphate compound, where ΔE is based on colorimeter measurements of stained teeth before and after 20 minutes of mechanical chewing of a 2.5 gram sample of the test chewing gum, repeated every 20 minutes with a fresh test sample for a total of 280 minutes.

19. 19. Use of the composition of any one of claims 1 to 18 for whitening tooth surfaces, removing stains from tooth surfaces, preventing stains from adhering to tooth surfaces, or a combination thereof.

20. 19. A method of whitening tooth surfaces, removing stains from tooth surfaces, preventing stains from adhering to tooth surfaces, or a combination thereof, comprising consuming the composition of any one of claims 1 to 18.

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