The global gum industry is projected to generate $48 billion in sales by 2025, with Europe leading the way as the most enthusiastic consumers, followed by Asia Pacific and North America, according to Statista. However, the industry has recently faced scrutiny for its reliance on plastic, prompting calls for more sustainable gum options. Additionally, consumers are increasingly seeking gum products made with better-for-you ingredients.
To address these challenges and meet evolving consumer demands, Canadian-based custom ingredient solutions provider Gum Products International Global (GPI) has opened a new innovation center in Ontario, Canada. The facility specializes in producing hydrocolloids, which are water-soluble naturally occurring polymers that play a crucial role in gum production. These hydrocolloids help control texture and sensory properties in gum, such as viscosity and gel-like features.
GPI is at the forefront of gum innovation, with a focus on developing cleaner label products to meet the growing demand for transparent and simple ingredient lists. The company is working on a new range of hydrocolloids derived from seaweed and plant fibers that deliver essential functionalities while meeting clean label goals. Additionally, GPI is addressing supply chain issues by developing egg alternatives for bakery applications, such as a gum blend that replicates the functionality of egg whites in meringues.
Traditionally viewed as functional additives, hydrocolloids are now seen as strategic tools that help brands meet consumer expectations around clean labels, quality, and performance. These ingredients not only solve functional problems but also help brands manage costs, supply chain risks, and differentiate their products. The innovation center at GPI is equipped for lab-scale and small-scale development and application testing, enabling gum manufacturers to bring new products to market with confidence.
As the gum industry continues to evolve, GPI believes that a partnership model between suppliers and manufacturers is essential for driving innovation and meeting consumer demands. The future of hydrocolloids lies in their strategic role in the development process, enabling companies to move faster and more confidently in bringing new products to market. Ultimately, the goal of GPI’s innovation center is to create cost-effective and clean label hydrocolloid alternatives for the confectionery industry.
In conclusion, the gum industry is undergoing a transformation driven by consumer demands for sustainable, clean label products. With the opening of its new innovation center, GPI is at the forefront of gum innovation, developing new hydrocolloid alternatives to meet the evolving needs of manufacturers and consumers. By focusing on cleaner label ingredients and strategic partnerships, GPI is poised to lead the way in shaping the future of the gum industry.
