| abstract |
A two-stage process for the preparation of a chewing gum base utilizing solid elastomer is described wherein the solid elastomer is initially subjected to high intensity mixing under high shear conditions to masticate the solid until a substantially uniform, lump-free mass is obtained; followed by the step-wise addition of an elastomer solvent and an oleaginous plasticizer with continuous high intensity mixing until a substantially molten, uniform mass is obtained. In the second stage of the process, the remaining chewing gum base ingredients are added, step-wise, with continuous high intensity mixing until a uniform blend of ingredients is obtained. The second stage ingredients, which may include a non-toxic vinyl polymer, a hydrophobic plasticizer, additional oleaginous plasticizer and an emulsifier, are added step-wise in a sequence determined by decreasing order of viscosity. In a modification of the process, the hydrophobic plasticizer or emulsifier may be added with the stage one ingredients. Optional ingredients such as antioxidants and fillers may be added during stage one or stage two; and pigments, which are also optional, may be added during the stage two processing. |