Is Wrigley's Extra Safe? Ingredient Analysis
Wrigley
Wrigley's Wrigley's Extra is reviewed here as a snack. Zerotox gives it 60/100 based on the current ingredient profile, so it looks generally acceptable but still includes some ingredients worth reviewing.
The ingredient review below focuses especially on Aspartame, Acesulfame K, Flavourings.
60 / 100
Why score is 60
The composition includes several artificial sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame K, which raise concerns about synthetic additives. The presence of BHA as an antioxidant also indicates potential quality issues.
Main concern
Contains multiple artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and acesulfame K, raising concerns about synthetic additives.
Why it matters: This ingredient is flagged in our analysis based on regulatory and scientific sources. Check the Ingredients section for details and see Data sources for methodology.
Regulation status: Ingredient safety is assessed from EU/EPA/CIR and similar databases; formulations may vary. Always read the product label.
Pros
- Contains glycerol, a humectant that helps maintain moisture in the gum, contributing to texture.
- Includes soybean lecithin as an emulsifier, which aids in ingredient blending and stability.
Concerns
- Contains multiple artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and acesulfame K, raising concerns about synthetic additives.
- BHA is included as an antioxidant, which is a synthetic compound and may pose quality concerns.
Who should avoid this product?
This formula may not suit:
- people with sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivity
Ingredients breakdown
Below, each ingredient is described in the context of this snack, not just listed as a raw label.
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Is Sorbitol safe in this snack?
Medium
Sorbitol is used here as sweetener. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in this gum. It has a lower caloric value than sugar but can cause digestive issues in excessive amounts.
Role in formula: sweetener
Original: sorbitol
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Is Xylitol safe in this snack?
Good
Xylitol is used here as sweetener. Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol that provides sweetness and may help reduce dental decay, making it a beneficial ingredient in chewing gum.
Role in formula: sweetener
Original: xylitol
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Is Aspartame safe in this snack?
Bad
Aspartame is used here as sweetener. Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that provides sweetness without calories but has raised health concerns and is not suitable for individuals with phenylketonuria.
Role in formula: sweetener
Original: aspartame
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Is Mannitol safe in this snack?
Medium
Mannitol is used here as sweetener. Mannitol is another sugar alcohol used for sweetness. It can have a laxative effect in high doses, which is a consideration for consumers.
Role in formula: sweetener
Original: mannitol
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Is Acesulfame K safe in this snack?
Bad
Acesulfame K is used here as sweetener. Acesulfame K is an artificial sweetener that is often used in combination with other sweeteners. Its long-term safety is debated, raising concerns about synthetic additives.
Role in formula: sweetener
Original: acesulfame k
-
Is Gum Base safe in this snack?
Medium
Gum Base is used here as base. Gum base is a synthetic mixture that provides the chewiness of the gum. Its composition can vary, and it may contain various additives.
Role in formula: base
Original: gum base
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Is Glycerol safe in this snack?
Good
Glycerol is used here as humectant. Glycerol is a natural humectant that helps retain moisture in the gum, contributing to its texture and chewability.
Role in formula: humectant
Original: glycerol
-
Is Gum Arabic safe in this snack?
Medium
Gum Arabic is used here as thickener. Gum arabic is a natural thickener that helps stabilize the gum's texture. It is generally considered safe but can be processed.
Role in formula: thickener
Original: gum arabic
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Is Flavourings safe in this snack?
Bad
Flavourings is used here as flavor. Flavourings are often artificial and can vary widely in composition. Their presence raises concerns about the quality and safety of the product.
Role in formula: flavor
Original: flavourings
-
Is Soybean Lecithin safe in this snack?
Medium
Soybean Lecithin is used here as emulsifier. Soybean lecithin is used as an emulsifier to help blend ingredients. While generally safe, it is a processed ingredient.
Role in formula: emulsifier
Original: soybean lecithin
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Is Carnauba Wax safe in this snack?
Medium
Carnauba Wax is used here as glazing agent. Carnauba wax is a natural glazing agent that provides a shiny finish to the gum. It is generally considered safe but is processed.
Role in formula: glazing agent
Original: carnauba wax
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Is Bha safe in this snack?
Bad
Bha is used here as antioxidant. BHA is a synthetic antioxidant used to prevent spoilage. Its safety is debated, and it raises concerns about synthetic additives in food products.
Role in formula: antioxidant
Original: bha
How we score
Our safety scores and ingredient breakdowns are based on regulatory and scientific sources. See Data sources & methodology and How Zerotox works for full details.
Product info
Product ID: 3818831
More from this brand: Wrigley products in Zerotox
Similar products: snack in Zerotox database
Allergens detected: phenylalanine
Report / complain: You may report errors or complain about this product or its formulation to hello [at] zeroto.app . Published for transparency.