According to this article in the NY Times there is a growing trend of gum companies like Wrigleys and Cadbury claiming health benefits to chewing gum. Sugarless gum accounts for 80% of all gum sold worldwide today compared to only 40% in 1998. Oral care has become a big concern with companies promising that chewing their product can help whiten teeth and fight cavities. Trident White and Orbit White are among the 10 best selling sugarless gums sold worldwide, and now they are being pitched as diet aids as well, helping “snack avoidance.”

Dental benefits have clearly become a massive selling point. It will be interesting to see the continued growth it will carry on across the next couple of years.