WO2025259826A1

WO2025259826A1 - Chewing gum rolling compounds

Info

Publication number: WO2025259826A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/033269
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Phillips; Gayle SHRAKE; Michael Saunders
Original assignee: WM Wrigley Jr Co
Current assignee: WM Wrigley Jr Co
Priority date: 2024-06-14
Filing date: 2025-06-12
Publication date: 2025-12-18
Anticipated expiration: 2026-12-14

Abstract

This disclosure describes a rolling compound that lacks talc but has desirable flow properties. This disclosure also describes methods of making chewing gum products in the presence of such a rolling compound, and the resulting gum products.

Description

CHEWING GUM ROLLING COMPOUNDS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Application No. 63/660,148 filed on June 14, 2024, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to rolling or dusting compounds that can be used in chewing gum and in methods of making chewing gum.

BACKGROUND

During the manufacturing and processing of chew ing gum, the chewing gum is removed from the mixing equipment and cooled, extruded, formed and wrapped. The extruded gum can be formed into sticks, pellets, or tabs. During manufacturing and processing, the gum tends to stick to the forming equipment. Chewing gum sticks ty pically are wrapped, often using high speed wrapping equipment. The gum has a tendency to stick to both the wrapping equipment and the wrappers, particularly when the gum is stored for any length of time. Finally, chewing gum can stick to a user’s fingers when unwrapped and handled.

For many years, dusting products such as chewing gum with materials such as sugars, sugar alcohols, starches and mineral fillers have been used to improve the appearance and initial taste. Dusting also is intended to prevent the chewing gum from sticking to a user’s fingers when handled, or to the wrapper when the product is unwrapped. The material used to dust chewing gum is referred to as a dusting compound or a rolling compound, since its primary⁷ function in gum is to make the gum more manageable during processing, which often includes rolling.

SUMMARY

This disclosure describes a rolling compound that lacks talc but has desirable flow properties, methods of making chew ing gum products in the presence of such a rolling compound, and the resulting products. i In one aspect, rolling compounds comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 50%-97% mannitol and about 3%-50% native com starch are provided. In some embodiments, the rolling compounds comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a blend of mannitol and native com starch at about 75% mannitol and 25% native com starch.

In another aspect, rolling compounds comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 95%-99.9% mannitol and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate are provided. In some embodiments, the rolling compounds comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a blend of about 97% mannitol and about 3% magnesium stearate.

In still another aspect, rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 20-50% mannitol and about 50-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm) are provided. In some embodiments, the rolling compounds comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a blend of about 20% mannitol and about 80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

In yet another aspect, rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of. or consisting of a blend of about 20%-50% native com starch and about 50%-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm) are provided. In some embodiments, the rolling compounds comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a blend of about 40% native com starch and about 60% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

In another aspect, rolling compounds comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 95%-99.9% native com starch and about 0.1%-5% magnesium stearate are provided. In some embodiments, the rolling compounds comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a blend of at least about 99% native com starch and less than about 1% magnesium stearate.

In some embodiments, the rolling compounds described herein further include about 0.1% tricalcium phosphate.

In some embodiments, the rolling compounds described herein further include a filler component selected from tricalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, talc, magnesium stearate, one or more cellulose powders, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of less than about 1000 mJ (e g., less than about 700 mJ). In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891-24. In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees. In some embodiments, the rolling compound is substantially free of talc.

In some embodiments, a rolling compound described herein is applied to a chewing gum composition. In some embodiments, a chewing gum includes a dusting with a rolling compound described herein. In some embodiments, a chewing gum composition is provided that has been dusted with a rolling compound described herein.

In some embodiments, a chewing gum product has a core portion comprising chewable gum base, sweetener and flavoring, wherein a surface of the core portion includes a rolling compound described herein. In some embodiments, such a chewing gum can include between about 1% and about 3% of the rolling compound.

In some embodiments, methods of producing a chewing gum product are provided that include the steps of a) providing a chewing gum composition; b) providing the rolling compound of claim 1 ; and c) shaping portions of the chewing gum composition into gum pieces while using the rolling compound to coat the surface of the gum pieces.

In some embodiments, the rolling compound is applied to the chewing gum composition at a level of about 1% to about 3% of the chewing gum product.

In some embodiments, the chewing gum is formed into sticks by rolling the gum composition into sheets and cutting the sheets into sticks.

In yet another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods generally include the steps of blending about 50%-97% mannitol and about 3%-50% native com starch.

In still another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods generally include the steps of blending about 95%-99.9% mannitol and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate.

In another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods generally include the steps of blending about 20-50% mannitol and about 50-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

In still another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods generally include the steps of blending about 20%-50% native com starch and about 50%-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm). In yet another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods generally include the steps of blending about 95%-99.9% native com starch and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate.

In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ. In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891-24. In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees.

In one aspect, rolling compounds are provided that include a blend of mannitol and native com starch at about 75% mannitol and 25% native com starch, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

In another aspect, rolling compounds are provided that include a blend of about 97% mannitol and about 3% magnesium stearate, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

In still another aspect, rolling compounds are provided that include a blend of about 20% mannitol and about 80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm), wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

In yet another aspect, rolling compounds are provided that include a blend of about 40% native com starch and about 60% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm), wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy⁷ (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

In another aspect, rolling compounds are provided that include a blend of about 98% native com starch and about 2% magnesium stearate, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy⁷ (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891-24. In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees.

In one aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 50%-80% mannitol and about 20%-50% native com starch. In one aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of mannitol and native com starch at about 75% mannitol and 25% native com starch.

In another aspect, rolling compound are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 95%-99.9% mannitol and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate. In one aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 97% mannitol and about 3% magnesium stearate.

In another aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 20-50% mannitol and about 50-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm). In one aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of. or consisting of a blend of about 20% mannitol and about 80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

In another aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 20%-50% native com starch and about 50%-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm). In one aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 40% native com starch and about 60% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

In some embodiments, the rolling compounds described herein further include about 0.1% tricalcium phosphate. In some embodiments, the rolling compounds described herein further include a filler component selected from tricalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, talc, magnesium stearate, one or more cellulose powders, or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability' energy' (BFE) of less than about 1000 mJ. In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of less than about 700 mJ.

In some embodiments, the rolling compound is substantially free of talc.

In one aspect, any of the rolling compounds described herein are applied to a chewing gum composition. In still another aspect, chewing gum comprising a dusting with any of the rolling compounds described herein is provided. In another aspect, chewing gum compositions that have been dusted with any of the rolling compounds described herein are provided.

In another aspect, chewing gum products having a core portion are provided that include chewable gum base, sweetener and flavoring, where a surface of the core portion includes any of the rolling compounds described herein. In some embodiments, the chewing gum or chewing gum products include between about 1% and about 3% of the rolling compound.

In another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods ty pically include the steps of blending about 50%-80% mannitol and about 20%-50% native com starch.

In another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods typically include the steps of blending about 50%-80% mannitol and about 20%-50% native com starch.

In another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods typically include the steps of blending about 95%-99.9% mannitol and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate.

In another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods ty pically include the steps of blending about 20- 50% mannitol and about 50-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

In yet another aspect, methods of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition are provided. Such methods typically include the steps of blending about 20%-50% native com starch and about 50%-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

In another aspect, methods of producing a chewing gum product are provided. Such methods typically the steps of a) providing a chewing gum composition; b) providing the rolling compound of any of one of claims 1 -13; and c) shaping portions of the chewing gum composition into gum pieces while using the rolling compound to coat the surface of the gum pieces.

In some embodiments, the rolling compound is applied to the chewing gum composition at a level of about 1% to about 3% of the chewing gum product. In some embodiments, the chewing gum is formed into sticks by rolling the gum composition into sheets and cutting the sheets into sticks.

In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy’ of about less than about 1000 mJ. In some embodiments, the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy of about less than about 700 mJ.

In another aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of mannitol and native com starch at about 75% mannitol and 25% native com starch, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

In another aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 97% mannitol and about 3% magnesium stearate, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy⁷ (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

In another aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 20% mannitol and about 80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm), wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy⁷ (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

In another aspect, rolling compounds are provided comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 40% native com starch and about 60% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm), wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary⁷ skill in the art to which the methods and compositions of matter belong. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the methods and compositions of matter, suitable methods and materials are described below. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Rolling compounds are described herein that improve manufacturing efficiency of chewing gum and other confections by reducing stickiness with the equipment and in the resulting product. It was surprisingly found that the rolling compounds provided herein are uniquely composed of mannitol, native com starch, or combinations thereof, and provide the desired function of preventing gum from sticking during a manufacturing process.

Conventional rolling compounds include sucrose, mannitol, sorbitol, starch, calcium carbonate and talc. Sucrose is a sugar, and by definition, cannot be used in a sugarless gum; currently, mannitol can be used as a sugarless rolling compound, but it does not enhance initial sweetness of the chewing gum. Sorbitol can cause a burning sensation in the throat, and starch can impart a dry- mouth feel and make the gum brittle by drawing water out. Calcium carbonate and talc also do nothing to enhance the taste.

Freshly ground powdered sugar is very free flowing and handles easily in the processing equipment. If the powdered sugar is not freshly ground, a flow agent such as starch can be added. Powdered mannitol, however, is not very free flowing. Therefore, other ingredients or components have been combined with powdered mannitol to improve its suitability for use in processing equipment. Simply by w ay of example, thaumatin or monellin have been used in combination with mannitol, sorbitol, sucrose, starch, calcium carbonate or talc as a rolling compound.

Among the most effective flow agents for improving the flow of mannitol is magnesium silicate, commonly known as talc. A rolling compound blend of 93% by weight mannitol pow der and 7% by w eight talc has flow properties suitable for use in production equipment, and such a blend has been used successfully on a production scale. Alternate rolling compounds are desired that can be used successfully on a production scale and as descnbed herein, vanous blends of mannitol, native com starch, magnesium stearate, and/or calcium carbonate having suitable flow properties are described.

Rolling compounds are normally in the form of a powder. In order for a powder to be considered as a rolling compound, the powder must be free flowing and conveyable, and easily applied to the confection product. Pow der flow, also known as flowability, is defined as the relative movement of a bulk of particles among neighboring particles or along the container wall surface. The flow ability' characteristic of a powder is directly related to both the physical properties of the material itself as well as the specific processing conditions in the handling system. Therefore, a single value used to describe the flow of a powder may not be realistic or may not provide sufficient information. In addition, physical properties such as particle size, particle size distribution, shape, surface area, and density play a role in how' powders flow.

Particle size distribution refers to the range and distribution of the particle sizes within a powder. DIO, D50 and D90, for example, refer to points along a particle size distribution curve where the indicated percentage of particles (i.e., 10%, 50%. 90%) are smaller than a specified particle size. Accordingly, D90 provides information about the larger end of the particle size distribution, relative to D50, w hich represents the median diameter. In some embodiments, about 90% of the particles within a flowable powder used in a rolling compound described herein can have a particle size of about 100 to about 120 micron (e.g.. about 1 10 microns) in diameter (i.e., d[90] = about 100 to about 120 microns; d[90] = about 1 10 microns). In some embodiments, about 90% of the particles within a flowable powder used in a rolling compound described herein can have a particle size of about 40 to about 60 micron (e.g., about 50 microns) in diameter (i.e., d[90] === about 40 to about 60 microns; d[90] = about 50 microns). Particle size can be measured using, e.g.. laser diffraction.

As used herein, the term "‘gum” or '‘chewing gum” includes bubble gum, sugarless or sugar free gum, and the like.

All percentages herein are weight percentages unless otherwise specified.

Rolling Compound Components

The rolling compounds described herein can include various blends of mannitol, native com starch, magnesium stearate, and/or calcium carbonate.

In some embodiments, the rolling compounds described herein can include mannitol. Mannitol can be present in a rolling compound in an amount from about 20% to about 99.9% (e.g., from about 20% to about 50%; from about 30% to about 40%; from about 50% to about 97%; from about 65% to about 85%; from about 70% to about 80%; from about 95% to about 99.9%; from about 96.5% to about 98%; about 96%, about 97%, about 98%. about 99%, or greater than about 99%).

In some embodiments, the rolling compounds described herein can include native com starch. Native com starch can be present in a rolling compound in an amount of from about 3% to about 50% (e.g., from about 5% to about 40%; from about 10% to about 30%; from about 20% to about 50%; from about 25% to about 45%; from about 30% to about 40%) or, in some embodiments, in an amount from about 95% to about 99.9% (e.g., from about 96.5% to about 98%; about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99%, or greater than about 99%).

In some embodiments, the rolling compounds described herein can include magnesium stearate. Magnesium stearate can be present in a rolling compound in an amount from about 0.1% to about 5% (e.g., from about 0.2% to about 5%; from about 0.3% to about 3%; from about 1% to about 3%; from about 0.5% to about 1%).

In some embodiments, the rolling compounds described herein can include calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate can be present in a rolling compound in an amount from about 50% to about 80% (e.g., from about 55% to about 75%; from about 60% to about 70%; from about 50% to about 60%; from about 70% to about 80%; from about 50% to about 70%).

In some embodiments, it is desirable that the rolling compounds described herein are substantially free of talc. With respect to talc, “substantially free” refers to less than 0.1% (e.g., less than 0.01%; less than 0.001%; less than 0.0001%) talc in the rolling compound.

Basic Flowability’ Energy) (BFE)

Basic Flowability Energy (BFE) describes the flowability of a powder under compression and refers to the energy required for downward movement of a blade. By the counter rotation movement of the blade, the sample is compressed and confined to a fixed volume.

An FT4 Powder Rheometer, for example, can be used to measure the resistance of a powder to flow while the powder is in motion. A precision "blade’, or impeller, is rotated and moves up and down through the powder to establish a precise flow pattern, and the resistance experienced by the blade represents the difficult}' of the relative particle movement, or the bulk flow⁷ properties. The more the particles resist motion, the harder it is to get the powder to flow, and the more difficult it is to move the blade.

As the blade moves through the sample, the FT4 measures both rotational and vertical resistances, in the form of torque and force, respectively, as it is the composite of these two values that quantifies the powder’s total resistance to flow . To determine the amount of work done, both the torque and force signals are represented as a Total Flow- Energy, which can be defined as the energy required to move the blade through the sample from the top to the bottom of the powder column. However, because the values of torque and force are constantly changing, it is necessary to calculate the energy for each small distance travelled. This is the calculation of Energy Gradient, the energy⁷ measured for each millimeter of blade travel, expressed in mJ/mm.

Work Done = Energy = (Resistance x Distance travelled) where "RESISTANCE’ is the combined Torque and Force Energy Gradient = Energy⁷ per mm of blade travel

Calculating the area under the Energy Gradient curve provides the Basic Flowability' Energy, representing the powder’s resistance to being made to flow in a dynamic state. Generally, a BFE value of about 100 mJ is considered to exhibit good flowability, while a BFE value of about 5500 mJ is considered to exhibit poor flowability. The rolling compounds described herein can have a BFE of about 1000 mJ or less (e.g., about 800 mJ or less; about 700 mJ or less; about 600 mJ or less; about 500 mJ or less) or between about 300 mJ and 1000 mJ (e.g., between about 350 mJ and about 800 mJ; between about 400 mJ and about 750 mJ; between about 500 mJ and about 800 mJ; between about 500 mJ and about 700 mJ; between about 400 mJ and about 650 mJ; between about 450 mJ and 700 mJ).

Flow function also can be used to describe the characteristics of a powder. For example, the flow function of a powder can be measured using ASTM D7891-24 (‘"Standard Test Method for Shear Testing of Powders Using the Freeman Technology FT4 Powder Rheometer Shear Cell”). Generally, a value below 4 indicates poor flow and a value above 10 indicates good flow. In some embodiments, a suitable flow' function for a powder used in a rolling compound as described herein can be betw een about 2 and 10.

Hausner Ratio

The Hausner ratio is a number that correlates the flowability of a powder or granular material and is calculated using formula (I): where pB is the freely settled bulk density of the powder, and pi is the tapped bulk density of the powder. The Hausner ratio can be measured using, for example, an FT4 Pow der Rheometer, and a reasonable classification of Hausner ratios can be defined as follows:

Table 1. Hausner Ratio For rolling compounds, a Hausner Ratio of about 1.25 or less (e.g., about 1.20 or less; about 1.15 or less; about 1.10 or less; about 1.05 or less) or between about 1.05 and 1.25 (e.g., between about 1.07 and about 1.23; between about 1.10 and about 1.20; between about 1.12 and about 1.18; between about 1.15 and about 1.24; between about 1.05 and about 1.14) generally is desired.

The Hausner ratio also or alternatively can be measured using, for example, a Hosokawa Micron Powder Characteristics Tester. The rolling compounds provided herein can include a Hausner Ratio of about 2.00 or less (e.g., about 1.90 or less; about 1.80 or less; about 1.70 or less; about 1.60 or less; about 1.50 or less; about 1.40 or less; about 1.30 or less) or between about 1.30 and 2.0 (e.g., between about 1.40 and about 1.90; between about 1.50 and about 1.80; between about 1.60 and about 1.70; between about 1.45 and about 1.75; between about 1.35 and about 1.55; between about 1.50 and 1.85).

Angle of Repose and Wall Friction Angle

The angle of repose test is a common technique for comparing the relative flowability (and hence, suitability) of different powders, including, without limitation, rolling compounds. Flowability improves as the angle of repose decreases. It is generally accepted that materials having an angle of repose less than 40° are free flow ing. The chewing gum rolling compound provided herein can have an angle of repose of about 41 degrees or lower (e.g., about 39 degrees or lower) to provide flow characteristics necessary to facilitate effective application and performance of the rolling compound. A reasonable classification of angles of repose can be described as follows:

Table 2. Angle of Repose

A rolling compound containing 93 weight percent mannitol powder and 7 weight percent talc typically has an angle of repose of about 39 degrees or less. A rolling compound containing 93 weight percent mannitol powder and 7 weight percent talc ty pically is considered to have a good to very good flow rate.

It is expected that the angle of repose will be impacted by the particle size, with larger particles contributing to a smaller angle of repose. In addition, uniformity in particle size contributes to flowability (see, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,206,042). Even with uniform particle sizes, however, as the particle size increases, the material becomes less suitable as a rolling compound because it produces a gritty mouth feel.

Wall friction angle refers to the angle of slide between a bulk material (e.g., a powder) and a wall surface, which impacts how⁷ the pow der will flow in a hopper. Wall friction angle is a measurement of the friction between the powder and the wall and is equal to two-thirds of the angle of internal friction. The wall friction angle typically is measured in degrees and can be a key factor in hopper design and material handling systems. As described herein, the wall friction angle for a power suitable for use in a rolling compound can be about 5 to about 20 degrees (e g., about 8 to about 18 degrees, about 10 to about 15 degrees; or about 12 to about 14 degrees). Rotational shearing can be used to measure the shear strength of the powder and the wall friction between the powder and a particular wall material (in accordance with ASTM D7891).

Additional Components in Gum

A chewing gum composition generally includes a water-soluble bulk portion, a water insoluble chewing gum base portion, and one or more flavoring agents. The water- soluble portion dissipates with the flavoring agents over a period of time during chewing, while the gum base portion is retained in the mouth throughout the chewing process. The insoluble gum base can constitute betw een about 5% to about 95% of the gum (e.g., between 10% and 50% of the gum; about 20% to about 30% of the gum). Any commercially acceptable gum base can be employed.

The insoluble gum base typically includes elastomers, resins, fats, oils, waxes, softeners, and inorganic fillers. The elastomers may include polyisobutylene, isobutyleneisoprene copolymer, sty rene butadiene rubber and natural latexes such as chicle. The resins may include polyvinyl acetate and terpene resins. Low molecular weight polyvinyl acetate is an exemplary⁷ resin. Fats and oils can include animal fats such as lard and tallow, vegetable oils such as soybean and cottonseed oils, hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, and cocoa butter. Commonly used waxes include petroleum waxes such as paraffin and microcrystalline wax, natural waxes such as beeswax, candelilla, carnauba and polyethylene wax. The present disclosure contemplates the use of any commercially acceptable chewing gum base.

The gum base typically includes a filler component such as calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, talc, dicalcium phosphate and the like; softeners, including glycerol monostearate and glycerol triacetate; and optional ingredients such as antioxidants, colors, and emulsifiers. The gum base constitutes between 5-95% by weight of the chewing gum composition (e.g.. 10-50% by weight of the chewing gum; 20-30% by weight of the chewing gum).

The water-soluble portion of the chewing gum can include softeners, bulk sweeteners, high intensity sweeteners, flavoring agents, and combinations thereof. Softeners can be added to the chewing gum in order to optimize the chewability and mouth feel of the gum. The softeners, which also are known as plasticizers or plasticizing agents, generally constitute between about 0.5-15% by weight of the chewing gum. The softeners can include glycerin, lecithin, and combinations thereof. Aqueous sweetener solutions such as those containing sorbitol, hydrogenated starch hydrolysates, com syrup and combinations thereof, also can be used as softeners and binding agents in chewing gum.

Bulk sweeteners can constitute between 5-95% by weight of the chewing gum (e.g., 20-80% by weight of the chewing gum; 30-60% by weight of the chewing gum). Bulk sweeteners can include both sugar and sugarless sweeteners and components. Sugar sweeteners can include saccharide containing components including but not limited to sucrose, dextrose, maltose, dextrin, dried invert sugar, fructose, levulose, galactose, com syrup solids, and the like, alone or in combination. Sugarless sweeteners include components with sweetening characteristics but are devoid of the commonly known sugars. Sugarless sweeteners include but are not limited to sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, hydrogenated starch hydrolysates, maltitol, and the like, alone or in combination.

High intensity’ sweeteners can also be present and are commonly used with sugarless sweeteners. When used, high intensity sweeteners typically constitute between 0.001-5% by weight of the chewing gum (e.g., between 0.01-1% by weight of the chewing gum). Typically, high intensity⁷ sweeteners are at least 20 times sweeter than sucrose. These may include but are not limited to sucralose, aspartame, salts of acesulfame, alitame, glycyrrhizin, saccharin and its salts, cyclamic acid and its salts, dihydrochalcones, thaumatin, monellin, and the like, alone or in combination.

Combinations of sugar and/or sugarless sweeteners can be used in chewing gum. The sw eetener can also function in the chewing gum in whole or in part as a water- soluble bulking agent. Additionally, the softener can also provide additional sweetness such as with aqueous sugar or alditol solutions.

Flavoring agents can be present in the chewing gum in an amount within the range of about 0.1-10% by w eight of the chewing gum (e.g., betw een about 0.2-5% by w eight of the chewing gum; between about 0.5-3% by weight of the chewing gum). Flavoring agents can include essential oils, synthetic flavors or mixtures thereof including but not limited to oils derived from plants and fruits such as citrus oils and fruit essences, or clove oil, oil of wintergreen, anise and the like. Artificial flavoring agents and components also can be used. Natural and artificial flavoring agents can be combined in any sensorially acceptable fashion.

Optional ingredients such as colors, emulsifiers, pharmaceutical agents, antioxidants, filler components, and additional flavoring agents also can be included in chew ing gum.

Methods of Making a Rolling Compound

The components of the rolling compounds described herein can be combined in the indicated amounts by dry blending, for example, in a twin shell blender or fluidized bed.

The particle size of one or more of the components used in the rolling compounds described herein may need to be reduced in size to eliminate, for example, a negative (e.g., gritty) mouthful. Grinding is the typical way to obtain a desired particle size or particle size distribution. Grinding can be performed using a wide variety of crushing and grinding methodologies including, without limitation, j et milling, turbo milling, hammer milling, ball milling, roller crushing, other suitable methods, and combinations thereof. Methods of determining particle size and/or particle size distribution are known in the art.

Methods of Making Chewing Gum

Chewing gum is generally manufactured by sequentially adding the various chewing gum ingredients to a commercially available mixer known in the art. After the ingredients have been thoroughly mixed, the gum mass is discharged from the mixer and shaped into the desired form by, for example, rolling into sheets and cutting into sticks, extruding into chunks, or casting into pellets. Generally, the ingredients are mixed by first melting the gum base and adding it to the running mixer. The gum base alternatively can be melted in the mixer. Color and emulsifiers can be added at this time.

A softener such as glycerin can be added next along with syrup and part of the bulk portion. Further parts of the bulk portion then can be added to the mixer. Flavoring agents are typically added in the final part of the bulk portion. The entire mixing process typically takes from five to fifteen minutes, although longer mixing times are sometimes required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that variations of this mixing procedure, or other mixing procedures, can be followed.

After the chewing gum mass has been thoroughly mixed, a rolling compound as described herein can be applied by sprinkling the rolling compound onto the chewing gum surface prior to rolling out the gum sample. A rolling or dusting compound is applied to the surface of chewing gum as it is formed. The rolling compound is generally used at a level of between 0.25% to about 10.0% (e.g., about 1% to about 3%) of the total chewing gum product. This rolling or dusting compound sen es to reduce sticking to machinery as it is formed, reduces sticking of the product to machinery as it is wrapped, and sticking to its wrapper after it is wrapped and being stored. During production, spreading equipment is used to apply and spread the rolling compound onto the gum surface as the gum is sheeted. It is important that the rolling compound have good flow characteristics in order to prevent plugging of the feed lines to the spreader and blocking of the feed holes. Good flow characteristics also allow the rolling compound to be more easily spread over the surface of the extruded gum sheets.

Embodiments

Embodiment 1 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of at least mannitol, native com starch, or both.

Embodiment 2 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of at least mannitol, magnesium stearate, or both.

Embodiment 3 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of at least mannitol, calcium carbonate, or both. Embodiment 4 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of at least native com starch, calcium carbonate, or both.

Embodiment 5 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 50%-80% mannitol and about 20%-50% native com starch.

Embodiment 6 a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of mannitol and native com starch at about 75% mannitol and 25% native com starch.

Embodiment 7 is a rolling compound, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 95%-99.9% mannitol and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate.

Embodiment 8 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 97% mannitol and about 3% magnesium stearate.

Embodiment 9 is a rolling compound, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 20-50% mannitol and about 50-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

Embodiment 10 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 20% mannitol and about 80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

Embodiment 11 is a rolling compound, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 20%-50% native com starch and about 50%-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

Embodiment 12 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 40% native com starch and about 60% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

Embodiment 13 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 95%-99.9% native com starch and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate.

Embodiment 14 is a rolling compound comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of at least about 99% native com starch and less than about 1% magnesium stearate.

Embodiment 15 is the rolling compound of any of Embodiments 1-14, further comprising about 0.1% tricalcium phosphate. Embodiment 16 is the rolling compound of any of Embodiments 1-15, further comprising a filler component selected from tricalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, talc, magnesium stearate, one or more cellulose powders, or combinations thereof.

Embodiment 17 is the rolling compound of any of Embodiments 1-16, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy⁷ (BFE) of less than about 1000 mJ.

Embodiment 18 is the rolling compound of any of Embodiments 1-17, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of less than about 700 mJ.

Embodiment 19 is the rolling compound of any of Embodiments 1-18, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891-24.

Embodiment 20 is the rolling compound of any of Embodiments 1-19, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees.

Embodiment 21 is the rolling compound of any of Embodiments 1-20, wherein the rolling compound is substantially free of talc.

Embodiment 22 is the rolling compound of any of Embodiments 1-21 applied to a chewing gum composition.

Embodiment 23 is a chewing gum composition comprising a dusting with the rolling compound of any one of Embodiments 1-21.

Embodiment 24 is a chewing gum composition that has been dusted with the rolling compound of any one of Embodiments 1-21 .

Embodiment 25 is a chewing gum product having a core portion comprising chewable gum base, sweetener and flavoring, wherein a surface of the core portion comprises the rolling compound of any one of Embodiments 1-21.

Embodiment 26 is the chewing gum composition of Embodiment 23 or 24 or the chewing gum product of Embodiment 25, comprising between about 1% and about 3% of the rolling compound.

Embodiment 27 is a method of producing a chewing gum product comprising the steps of a) providing a chewing gum composition; b) providing the rolling compound of any' of Embodiments 1-21; and c) shaping portions of the chewing gum composition into gum pieces while using the rolling compound to coat the surface of the gum pieces. Embodiment 28 is the method of Embodiment 27, wherein the rolling compound is applied to the chewing gum composition at a level of about 1% to about 3% of the chewing gum product.

Embodiment 29 is the method of Embodiment 27 or 28, wherein the chewing gum is formed into sticks by rolling the gum composition into sheets and cutting the sheets into sticks.

Embodiment 30 is a method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of blending about 50%-80% mannitol and about 20%- 50% native com starch.

Embodiment 31 is a method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of blending about 50%-80% mannitol and about 20%- 50% native com starch.

Embodiment 32 is a method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of blending about 95%-99.9% mannitol and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate.

Embodiment 33 is a method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of blending about 20-50% mannitol and about 50-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

Embodiment 34 is a method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of blending about 20%-50% native com starch and about 50%-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

Embodiment 35 is a method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of blending about 95%-99.9% native com starch and about 0.1%-5% magnesium stearate.

Embodiment 36 is a method of any of Embodiments 30-35, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

Embodiment 37 is a method of any of Embodiments 30-36, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891-24.

Embodiment 38 is a method of any of Embodiments 30-37, w herein the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees.

Embodiment 39 is a rolling compound, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of mannitol and native com starch at about 75% mannitol and 25% native com starch, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 500 mJ and about 800 mJ.

Embodiment 40 is a rolling compound, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 97% mannitol and about 3% magnesium stearate, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy⁷ (BFE) of between about 500 mJ and about 800 mJ.

Embodiment 41 is a rolling compound, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 20% mannitol and about 80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm), wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy⁷ (BFE) of between about 500 mJ and about 800 mJ.

Embodiment 42 is a rolling compound, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 40% native com starch and about 60% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm), wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability⁷ energy⁷ (BFE) of between about 500 mJ and about 800 mJ.

Embodiment 43 is a rolling compound, comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of a blend of about 95%-99.9% native com starch and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

Embodiment 44 is a rolling compound of any of Embodiments 39-43. wherein the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891 -24.

Embodiment 45 is a rolling compound of any of Embodiments 39-44, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees.

In accordance with the present invention, there may be techniques employed that are within the skill of one in the art. Such techniques are explained fully in the literature. The methods and compositions of matter will be further described in the following examples, which do not limit the scope of the methods and compositions of matter described in the claims. EXAMPLES

Example 1 — Determining Basic Flowability and Hausner Ratios

Basic Flowability Energy (BFE) using the FT4 Powder Rheometer and the Hausner Ratios using both the FT4 Powder Rheometer and the Hosokawa Micron Powder Characteristics Tester was determined for thirty different possible rolling compounds using standard protocols. The compositions of the proposed rolling compounds are listed in Table 3 below along with the BFE (±5 mJ), the Hausner Ratio (±0.04) and the Hosokawa Hausner Ratio (±0. 10) for each. Table 3

A number of the rolling compounds shown in Table 1 exhibit desirable properties, and the particular rolling compound that is suitable for use in a chewing gum likely will depend upon the production methods and the particular equipment used.

Example 2 — Exemplary⁷ Factory⁷ Formulation

The rolling compound formulation can differ between factories globally.

Exemplary recipes are shown below in Table 4.

Table 4. Exemplary Recipes

The rolling compound produced using the formulation shown in Table X exhibits the characteristics described in Table 5.

Table 5. Rolling Compound Characteristics

It is to be understood that, while the methods and compositions of matter have been described herein in conjunction with a number of different aspects, the foregoing description of the various aspects is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the methods and compositions of matter. Other aspects, advantages, and modifications are within the scope of the following claims. Disclosed are methods and compositions that can be used for, can be used in conjunction with, can be used in preparation for, or are products of the disclosed methods and compositions. These and other materials are disclosed herein, and it is understood that combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these methods and compositions are disclosed. That is, while specific reference to each various individual and collective combinations and permutations of these compositions and methods may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein. For example, if a particular composition of matter or a particular method is disclosed and discussed and a number of compositions or methods are discussed, each and every combination and permutation of the compositions and the methods are specifically contemplated unless specifically indicated to the contrary. Likewise, any subset or combination of these is also specifically contemplated and disclosed.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A rolling compound, comprising a blend of about 50%-97% mannitol and about 3%-50% native com starch.

2. The rolling compound of claim 1, comprising a blend of mannitol and native com starch at about 75% mannitol and 25% native com starch.

3. A rolling compound, comprising a blend of about 95%-99.9% mannitol and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate.

4. The rolling compound of claim 3, comprising a blend of about 97% mannitol and about 3% magnesium stearate.

5. A rolling compound, comprising a blend of about 20-50% mannitol and about 50-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

6. The rolling compound of claim 5, comprising a blend of about 20% mannitol and about 80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

7. A rolling compound, comprising a blend of about 20%-50% native com starch and about 50%-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

8. The rolling compound of claim 7, comprising a blend of about 40% native com starch and about 60% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

9. A rolling compound, comprising a blend of about 95%-99.9% native com starch and about 0.1%-5% magnesium stearate.

10. The rolling compound of claim 9, comprising a blend of at least about 99% native com starch and less than about 1 % magnesium stearate.

11. The rolling compound of claim 1 , further comprising about 0.1% tricalcium phosphate.

12. The rolling compound of claim 1, further comprising a filler component selected from tricalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, talc, magnesium stearate, one or more cellulose powders, or combinations thereof.

13. The rolling compound of claim 1, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of less than about 1000 mJ.

14. The rolling compound of claim 1, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of less than about 700 mJ.

15. The rolling compound of claim 1, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891-24.

16. The rolling compound of claim 1, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees.

17. The rolling compound of claim 1, wherein the rolling compound is substantially free of talc.

18. The rolling compound of claim 1 applied to a chewing gum composition.

19. A chewing gum comprising a dusting with the rolling compound of claim 1.

20. A chewing gum composition that has been dusted with the rolling compound of claim 1.

21. A chewing gum product having a core portion comprising chewable gum base, sweetener and flavoring, wherein a surface of the core portion comprises the rolling compound of claim 1.

22. The chewing gum of claim 19, comprising between about 1% and about 3% of the rolling compound.

23. A method of producing a chewing gum product comprising the steps of: a) providing a chewing gum composition; b) providing the rolling compound of claim 1; and c) shaping portions of the chewing gum composition into gum pieces while using the rolling compound to coat the surface of the gum pieces.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the rolling compound is applied to the chewing gum composition at a level of about 1% to about 3% of the chewing gum product.

25. The method of claim 23, wherein the chewing gum is formed into sticks by rolling the gum composition into sheets and cutting the sheets into sticks.

26. A method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of: blending about 50%-97% mannitol and about 3%-50% native com starch.

27. A method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of: blending about 95%-99.9% mannitol and about 0. l%-5% magnesium stearate.

28. A method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of: blending about 20-50% mannitol and about 50-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm).

29. A method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of: blending about 20%-50% native com starch and about 50%-80% calcium carbonate (3.5 gm).

30. A method of preparing a rolling compound for a chewing gum composition, comprising the steps of: blending about 95%-99.9% native com starch and about 0.1%-5% magnesium stearate.

31. The method of claim 26, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

32. The method of claim 26, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891-24.

33. The method of claim 26, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees.

34. A rolling compound comprising a blend of mannitol and native com starch at about 75% mannitol and 25% native com starch, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

35. A rolling compound comprising a blend of about 97% mannitol and about 3% magnesium stearate, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

36. A rolling compound comprising a blend of about 20% mannitol and about 80% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm), wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

37. A rolling compound comprising a blend of about 40% native com starch and about 60% calcium carbonate (3.5 pm), wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

38. A rolling compound, comprising a blend of about 98% native com starch and about 2% magnesium stearate, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a basic flowability energy (BFE) of between about 600 mJ and about 800 mJ.

39. The rolling compound of claim 34, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a flow function of about 2 to about 10 according to ASTM D7891-24.

40. The rolling compound of claim 34, wherein the rolling compound exhibits a wall friction angle of about 5 to about 20 degrees.