How Is Bubblegum Made? Fun Facts for Kids

Bubblegum is one of the most fun (and stretchy) treats out there. But have you ever wondered how it’s made? From the chewy base to the bright colors, there’s a lot of cool science and candy magic that goes into every piece. Let’s unwrap the secrets of bubblegum and discover some fun candy facts along the way!

It All Starts With a Gum Base

Bubblegum begins with something called gum base, a chewy mixture that gives gum its stretchy texture. Originally, gum base came from chicle, a sap from the sapodilla tree. Today, most gum bases are made from food-safe synthetic rubbers.

Mixing in the Flavor

Once the gum base is melted down, candy makers mix in sugar, corn syrup, and other sweeteners. Then comes the fun part—flavoring! Classic bubblegum usually gets its unique taste from a blend of fruity and spicy flavors like strawberry, banana, cinnamon, and clove.

Add Color and Stretch

After the gum is sweetened and flavored, candy makers add food coloring (usually pink for bubblegum!). Then the mixture is stretched and kneaded, kind of like dough for bread, until it’s smooth and even.

Roll, Cut, and Wrap

Next, the gum is rolled out into long ropes, then cut into small pieces. Each piece is cooled, wrapped, and boxed up to ship to stores around the world. And just like that, it’s ready to chew and blow bubbles with!

More Fun Bubblegum Facts

• Bubblegum differs from regular chewing gum in that it's designed to stretch so you can blow bubbles with it. The world’s largest bubblegum bubble ever blown was 23 inches wide!

• Bubblegum was first invented in 1928 by a man named Walter Diemer, and it was pink because that was the only food coloring he had!

• Bubblegum Alley is a famous spot in California where people stick their chewed gum all over the wall. It's a messy (but colorful) sight to behold!

Want Bubblegum and Other Sweet Treats?

You can find bubblegum and all kinds of candy, fidgets, toys, and prizes at the Action City redemption store at Metropolis Resort! Earn tickets by playing games in the arcade, then trade them in for sweets and prizes, big or small.

It’s like your very own candy factory experience (lab coat optional)!