EP4673102A1 - Tooth whitening chewing gum; and methods of making the same - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed are tooth whitening chewing gum compositions comprising a combination of polyphosphate salts that provide enhanced tooth whitening benefit with a minimal salty taste profile.

Description

TOOTH WHITENING CHEWING GUM; AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME

BACKGROUND

[0001] Chewing gum prepared with stain removing ingredients such as peroxides and abrasives are known to be used for tooth whitening purposes. Addition of the stain removing ingredients can result in chewing gum having unacceptable salty or off-tastes. Other stain removing ingredients used in chewing gum may not provide adequate stain removing or scrubbing effect.

[0002] There remains a need in the art for new chewing gum and confectionery compositions that have improved tooth whitening effect and acceptable taste profile. There further remains a need for new chewing gum and confectionery compositions that have enhanced properties for tooth stain removal and stain prevention.

SUMMARY

[0003] In one embodiment, a tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprises a gum base; a bulk sweetener; and about 0.5 wt% to about 12 wt% of an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 microns) screen; and wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 microns) screen.

[0004] In another embodiment, a method of making a tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprises incorporating into a chewing gum base or a chewing gum composition, or a combination thereof, about 0.5 wt% to about 12 wt% of an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 microns) screen; and wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 microns) screen.

[0005] In yet another embodiment, use of a tooth whitening composition described herein to whiten a tooth surface, to remove a stain from a tooth surface, to prevent the deposition of a stain on a tooth surface, or a combination thereof is described.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, a method of whitening a tooth surface, removing a stain from a tooth surface, preventing the deposition of a stain on a tooth surface, or a combination thereof, comprises consuming a tooth whitening composition described herein.

[0007] The above described and other features are exemplified by the following detailed description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] Disclosed herein are tooth whitening confectionery and chewing gum compositions comprising a polyphosphate salt of a certain particle size and combinations of polyphosphate salts. The larger particle size provides for better stain removing action, better cleansing, and enhanced tooth whitening effect than the corresponding polyphosphate salt of a smaller particle size and aids in the prevention of stain deposition. Furthermore, the particle size of the polyphosphate salt is controlled to minimize a salty taste, where larger particle sizes act to slow the release of the salt and reduce off/salty flavors. The weight ratios of the polyphosphate salts in the combination and amount of each individual salt in the confectionery and chewing gum composition are selected to provide enhanced tooth whitening and organoleptic properties compared to the use of individual polyphosphate salts alone. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the larger particle size and use in combination provide a protective coating on the teeth which retards stain penetration, loosens existing stains for removal, and scrubs the tooth surface for further removal of stains.

[0011] In a general embodiment, a tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprises a gum base; a bulk sweetener; and a polyphosphate salt having a particle size effective for providing a tooth whitening effect while minimizing off flavors. In another general embodiment, a tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprises a gum base; a bulk sweetener; and a combination of polyphosphate salts each having a particle size effective for providing a tooth whitening effect while minimizing off flavors. Suitable polyphosphate salts include an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, a combination thereof, and the like. An exemplary combination of polyphosphate salts includes an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate and an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate. In certain embodiments the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate is sodium acid pyrophosphate and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is sodium hexametaphosphate.

[0012] In an embodiment, using a hexametaphosphate salt in combination with a pyrophosphate salt allows for the reduction in the amount of pyrophosphate salt that needs to be used, which reduces the potential for the chewing gum to have a salty taste. While not wishing to be bound by theory, the pyrophosphate salt is used to loosen stains while the hexametaphosphate salt is used to prevent extrinsic stains on teeth by coating the teeth and inhibiting chromogen adsorption from chromogenic bacteria, food, beverages, tobacco used, etc. The combination of the pyrophosphate and hexametaphosphate salts together give an effective whitening effect because the combination both loosens and prevents stains.

[0013] Alkali salts include salts prepared from potassium, sodium, and the like. Alkaline earth metal salts include salts prepared from calcium, magnesium, and the like.

[0014] Exemplary alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate includes sodium acid pyrophosphate, potassium acid pyrophosphate, calcium acid pyrophosphate, and the like. The pyrophosphate salts are used to loosen stains on teeth.

[0015] The particle size of the pyrophosphate is selected to minimize off/salty flavors. Larger particle size of sodium acid pyrophosphate provides a less salty taste than smaller particle sizes by slowing the release. The larger size also provides better cleansing and stain removing effect. In an embodiment, the particle size of the pyrophosphate (e.g., sodium acid pyrophosphate) as determined by a sieve measurement test is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 microns) screen, specifically 0 to 45 %, more specifically 15 to 40%, and more specifically 20 to 35%. In another embodiment, the particle size of the pyrophosphate (e.g., sodium acid pyrophosphate) as determined by a sieve measurement test is where less than 70 % of the particles pass through an 18 mesh (1000 microns) screen, specifically 0 to 65 %, more specifically 15 to 60%, and more specifically 30 to 55%.

[0016] In an embodiment, the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, e g. sodium acid pyrophosphate, is present in the chewing gum composition in an amount of about 0.01 weight percent (wt%) to about 10 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 0.05 wt% to about 8.0 wt%, more specifically about 0.1 wt% to about 6.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 0.5 wt% to about 5.0 wt%, still more specifically about 1.0 wt% to about 4.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 1.5 wt% to about 3.0 wt%, and more specifically about 2.0 wt% to about 2.5 wt%.

[0017] Exemplary alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate includes sodium hexametaphosphate, potassium hexametaphosphate, and the like. Hexametaphosphate salts are used to prevent stains on teeth.

[0018] Larger particle size of the hexametaphosphate salt provides better cleansing and stain removing action. In an embodiment, the particle size of the hexametaphosphate (e.g., sodium hexametaphosphate) as determined by a sieve measurement test is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 microns) screen, specifically 0 to 40 %, more specifically 5 to 30%, and more specifically 10 to 20%.

[0019] As used herein, the particle sizes of the polyphosphate salts are measured before they are incorporated into the chewing gum composition, gum base, coating, and/or center-fill.

[0020] In an embodiment, the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, e g. sodium hexametaphosphate, is present in the chewing gum composition in an amount of about 0.01 wt% to about 10 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 0.05 wt% to about 8.0 wt%, more specifically about 0.1 wt% to about 6.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 0.5 wt% to about 5.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 1.0 wt% to about 4.0 wt%, still more specifically about 1.5 wt% to about 3.0 wt%, and more specifically about 2.0 wt% to about 2.5 wt%.

[0021] The tooth whitening combination of polyphosphate salts can be present in the chewing gum composition in an amount of about 0.5 wt% to about 12 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 1.0 wt% to about 8.0 wt%, more specifically about 2.0 wt% to about 6.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 3.0 wt% to about 5.0 wt%.

[0022] An exemplary combination of polyphosphate salts includes an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, specifically sodium acid pyrophosphate, and an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, specifically sodium hexametaphosphate.

[0023] In an embodiment, the combination of polyphosphate salts present in the chewing gum composition can be in a weight ratio of 100 : 0 to 0 : 100; 10 : 1 to 1 : 10; 9 : 1 to 1 : 9; 8 : 1 to 1 : 8; 7 : 1 to 1 : 7; 6 : 1 to 1 : 6; 5 : 1 to 1 : 5; 4 : 1 to 1 : 4; 3 : 1 to 1 : 3; 2 : 1 to 1 : 2; 1 : 1; or 5 : 1 to 1 : 1 alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate : alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate. In a further embodiment, the combination of polyphosphate salts present in the chewing gum composition can be in a weight ratio of 1 : 7 to 1 : 1; 1 : 6 to 1 : 2; or 1 : 5 to 1 : 4 alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate : alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate.

[0024] In an embodiment, the polyphosphate salts are “free,” i.e., not encapsulated. In another embodiment, one or more of the polyphosphate salts is encapsulated. By encapsulating the polyphosphate salt, the salt will be released slowly allowing more of the salt to come in contact with teeth when the chewing gum composition is chewed. Suitable encapsulating materials having high organic solubility, good film forming properties, and low water solubility. Suitable encapsulating materials include, for example, acrylic polymers such as polymethylmethacrylate, acrylic copolymers such as methacrylic acid-co- methylmethacrylate, carboxyvinyl polymers, polyamides, polystyrene, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl acetate phthalate, polyvinyl acetate-vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, crosslinked polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoate, polyethylene glycol ester, waxes, shellac, zein, a combination thereof, and the like where the foregoing are selected from food grade materials. Additional suitable encapsulating materials that are more water soluble include, for example, agar, alginates, cellulose derivatives such as ethyl cellulose and hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, dextrin, gelatin, modified starches, acacia, maltodextrin, a combination thereof, and the like. In an embodiment, the encapsulating material is polyvinyl acetate. The polyphosphate salt can be encapsulated using suitable processes, for example, spray drying, spray chilling, fluid-bed coating, coacervation, and the like. Suitable processes and encapsulated materials can be found in U.S. Patent No. 8,591,973B2 to Boghani et al. and US2020054040A1 to Boghani et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0025] The tooth whitening chewing gum composition comprises a gum base, a bulk sweetener, tooth whitening polyphosphate salt, and optionally one or more additional chewing gum ingredients, for example, a colorant including speckles, a flavorant, a flavor modulator or potentiator, a food acid or a salt thereof, a high-intensity sweetener, a sensate (e.g., cooling agent, warming agent, tingling agent, and the like), a breath freshener, an additional oral care agent, a combination thereof, and the like. In an embodiment, a portion or all of the polyphosphate salts can be present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient.

[0026] The chewing gum composition comprises a gum base which is generally low water soluble or water insoluble, masticable ingredients. In an embodiment, a portion or all of the polyphosphate salts can be present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient. Any type of gum base can be used in the tooth whitening chewing gum compositions described herein.

[0027] The amount of gum base present in the chewing gum composition can be about 5 wt% to about 60 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 10 wt% to about 50 wt%, more specifically about 15 wt% to about 40 wt%, and yet more specifically about 20 wt% to about 30 wt%.

[0028] The gum base can comprise an elastomer and one or more additional chewing gum base ingredients, for example, a vinyl polymer or other gum base polymer, a fat, an emulsifier, a wax, a filler, a plasticizer or softener, elastomer solvent, an antioxidant, and a combination thereof.

[0029] Exemplary elastomers include both natural and synthetic elastomers and rubbers, for example, substances of vegetable origin such as chicle, crown gum, nispero, rosadinha, jelutong, perillo, ni er gutta, tunu, balata, gutta-percha, lechi-capsi, sorva, gutta kay, and the like. Synthetic elastomers such as butadiene-styrene copolymers, polyisobutylene, isobutyleneisoprene copolymers, polyethylene, a combination thereof, and the like are also useful.

[0030] Exemplary non-toxic vinyl polymers that can be used in the gum base include polyvinyl acetate and its partial hydrolysate, polyvinyl alcohol or a combination thereof. Additional useful polymers include: crosslinked polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polymethylmethacrylate; copolymers of lactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, plasticized ethylcellulose, polyvinyl acetatephthalate, or a combination thereof.

[0031] Exemplary plasticizers and softeners that can be used in the gum base include, for example, lanolin, palmitic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, sodium stearate, potassium stearate, glyceryl triacetate, glyceryl lecithin, glyceryl monostearate, propylene glycol monostearate, acetylated monoglyceride, glycerin, or a combination thereof.

[0032] Exemplary waxes that can be used in the chewing gum base include, for example, natural and synthetic waxes, hydrogenated vegetable oils, petroleum waxes such as polyurethane waxes, polyethylene waxes, paraffin waxes, microcrystalline waxes, fatty waxes, sorbitan monostearate, tallow, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof. Specific waxes include beeswax, vegetable wax, candelilla wax, carnauba wax, petroleum wax, and the like, or a combination thereof.

[0033] Exemplary elastomer solvents include, for example, trepanned resins such as polymers of alpha-pinene or beta-pinene, methyl, glycerol or pentaerythritol esters of rosins or modified rosins and gums, such as hydrogenated, dimerized or polymerized rosins, or a combination thereof, the pentaerythritol ester of partially hydrogenated wood or gum rosin, the pentaerythritol ester of wood or gum rosin, the glycerol ester of wood rosin, the glycerol ester of partially dimerized wood or gum rosin, the glycerol ester of polymerized wood or gum rosin, the glycerol ester of tall oil rosin, the glycerol ester of wood or gum rosin, the partially hydrogenated wood or gum rosin, the partially hydrogenated methyl ester of wood or rosin, and the like, or a combination thereof.

[0034] The gum base can include a filler as a bulking agent, such fillers include, for example, mineral adjuvants. Suitable mineral adjuvants include calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, alumina, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum silicate, talc, a calcium phosphate such as dicalcium phosphate, tricalcium phosphate, and the like, or a combination thereof.

[0035] Exemplary emulsifiers include distilled monoglycerides, acetic acid esters of mono and diglycerides, citric acid esters of mono and diglycerides, lactic acid esters of mono and diglycerides, mono and diglycerides, polyglycerol esters of fatty acids, ceteareth-20, polyglycerol polyricinoleate, propylene glycol esters of fatty acids, polyglyceryl laurate, glyceryl cocoate, gum arabic, acacia gum, sorbitan monostearates, sorbitan tristearates, sorbitan monolaurate, sorbitan monooleate, sodium stearoyl lactylates, calcium stearoyl lactylates, diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides, glyceryl tricaprylate-caprate / medium chain triglycerides, glyceryl dioleate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl lacto esters of fatty acids, glyceryl lacto palmitate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl laurate, glycerly dilaurate, glyceryl monoricinoleate, triglyceryl monostearate, hexaglyceryl distearate, decaglyceryl monostearate, decaglyceryl dipalmitate, decaglyceryl monooleate, polyglyceryl 10 hexaoleate, medium chain triglycerides, caprylic/capric triglyceride, propylene glycol monostearate, polysorbate 20, polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, polysorbate 65, hexylglyceryl distearate, triglyceryl monostearate, tweens, spans, stearoyl lactylates, calcium stearoyl-2- lactylate, sodium stearoyl-2-lactylate, lecithin, ammonium phosphatide, sucrose esters of fatty acids, sucroglycerides, propane-1, 2-diol esters of fatty acids, or a combination thereof

[0036] In the embodiments where a portion or all of the polyphosphate salts can be present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient, the polyphosphate salt can be an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof as discussed herein. When a portion of the polyphosphate salts is present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient, the remaining portion can be present in the chewing gum composition as a chewing gum ingredient. In a coated or center-filled embodiment, the remaining portion can be present in the chewing gum composition as a chewing gum ingredient, present in the coating, present in the center-fill, or a combination thereof.

[0037] The tooth whitening chewing gum further contains a bulk sweetener. Saccharides that can be used as the bulk sweetener include mono-saccharides, di-saccharides and polysaccharides, for example, sucrose (sugar), dextrose/glucose, maltose, dextrin, xylose, ribose, mannose, galactose, fructose (levulose), lactose, invert sugar, fructo oligo saccharide syrups, partially hydrolyzed starch, com syrup solids, such as high fructose corn syrup, glucose syrup, or a combination thereof.

[0038] Sugarless bulk sweetener can include a sugar alcohol or sugar alcohol syrups such as erythritol, galactitol, isomalt (hydrogenated isomaltulose), a hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, lactitol, maltitol, maltitol syrup, mannitol, polyglycitol, sorbitol, sorbitol syrups, xylitol, or a combination thereof. As used herein, the term “sugar alcohol” is interchangeable with “sugar polyol”. The sugarless bulk sweetener can be a single sugarless bulk sweetener or a mixture of two or more sugarless bulk sweeteners. [0039] In an embodiment, the bulk sweetener is sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, or a combination thereof, specifically sorbitol.

[0040] In an embodiment, the bulk sweetener is isomalt. Isomalt is disaccharide alcohol. Isomalt can be prepared by hydrogenating isomaltulose. Products of the hydrogenation can include 6-O-a-D-glucopyranosyl-D-sorbitol (1,6-GPS); 1-O-a-D-glucopyranosyl-D-sorbitol (1,1-GPS); 1-O-a-D-glucopyranosyl-D-mannitol (1,1-GPM); 6-O-a-D-glucopyranosyl-D- mannitol (1,6-GPM); and mixtures thereof. Some commercially available isomalt materials include an almost equimolar mixture of 1,6-GPS, and 1,1-GPM. Other isomalt materials can include pure 1,6-GPS; 1,1-GPS; 1,6-GP; and 1,1-GPM. Still other isomalt materials can include mixtures of 1,6-GPS; 1,1-GPS; 1,6-GPM; and 1,1-GPM at any ratio. Exemplary commercially available isomalt includes Isomalt ST, Isomalt GS, Isomalt M, Isomalt DC, and Isomalt LM available from BENEO-Palatinit, Stidzucker Group.

[0041] The amount of bulk sweetener present in the chewing gum composition can be about 30 wt% to about 90 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 40 wt% to about 80 wt%, yet more specifically about 50 wt% to about 70 wt%, and still more specifically about 55 wt% to about 60 wt%.

[0042] Besides the gum base, bulk sweetener, and combination of polyphosphates, the chewing gum composition can optionally further comprise one or more additional chewing gum ingredients, for example, a colorant including speckles, a flavorant, a flavor modulator or potentiator, a food acid or a salt thereof, a high-intensity sweetener, a sensate (e.g., cooling agent, warming agent, tingling agent, and the like), a breath freshener, an additional oral care agent, a combination thereof, and the like.

[0043] The flavorant (also referred to herein as flavor or flavoring agent) present in the chewing gum composition is not particularly limited and can include liquid flavors, solid flavors, natural, artificial, or a combination thereof. The overall flavor profile of the product may be a sweet flavor, a fruit flavor, a savory flavor, a chocolate or cocoa flavor, a dairy flavor (milk, butter, cheese, cream, yogurt), a vanilla flavor, a tea or coffee flavor (green tea, oolong tea), a mint flavor (peppermint, spearmint), a spice flavor (anise, angelica, fennel, allspice, cinnamon, chamomile, mustard, cardamom, caraway, cumin, clove, pepper, coriander, sassafras, juniper berry, ginger, star anise, horseradish, capsicum, nutmeg, wasabi), an herb flavor (thyme, tarragon, dill, nutmeg, basil, marjoram, rosemary, bay leaf), a floral or vegetable flavor (onion, garlic, cabbage, carrot, celery, mushroom, tomato), or a combination thereof.

[0044] The chewing gum composition can optionally further comprise a colorant. Coloring agents (colors, colorants, colorings) can be used in amounts effective to produce a desired color for the product. Suitable coloring agents include pigments, natural food colors, and dyes suitable for food, drug, and cosmetic applications. In some embodiments, certified colors can include FD&C colorants, FD&C aluminum lakes, or a combination thereof. The colorant may optionally be in the form of a particulate, speckles, or flake such as an edible glitter.

[0045] The food acid or salt thereof that can be used in the chewing gum composition includes acetic acid, adipic acid, ascorbic acid, butyric acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, glyconic acid, lactic acid, phosphoric acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, succinic acid, tartaric acid, or a combination thereof, and alkali metal salts thereof (e.g., sodium citrate). The food acid or salt thereof may be encapsulated or unencapsulated (or “free”). If more than one food acid or salt thereof is used, any combination of encapsulated or unencapsulated ingredients may be used.

[0046] The food acid or salt thereof can be present in the chewing gum composition in an amount of about 0.01 to about 2.0 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 0.1 to about 1.5 wt%, and more specifically about 0.3 to about 1.0 wt%.

[0047] The chewing gum composition can optionally further comprise a high intensity sweetener. A “high intensity sweetener” as used herein means agents having a sweetness greater than the sweetness of sucrose. In some embodiments, a high intensity sweetener has a sweetness that is at least 100 times that of sugar (sucrose) on a per weight basis, specifically at least 500 times that of sugar on a per weight basis. In one embodiment the high intensity sweetener is at least 1,000 times that of sugar on a per weight basis, more specifically at least 5,000 times that of sugar on a per weight basis. The high intensity sweetener can be selected from a wide range of materials, including water-soluble sweeteners, water-soluble artificial sweeteners, water-soluble sweeteners derived from naturally occurring water-soluble sweeteners, dipeptide based sweeteners, protein based sweeteners, or a combination thereof. Without being limited to particular sweeteners, representative categories and examples include: water-soluble sweetening agents such as dihydrochalcones, monellin, steviosides, rebaudiosides, glycyrrhizin, dihydroflavenol, monatin, and L-aminodicarboxylic acid aminoalkenoic acid ester amides, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,619,834, or a combination thereof; water-soluble artificial sweeteners such as soluble saccharin salts, i.e., sodium or calcium saccharin salts, cyclamate salts, acesulfame salts, such as the sodium, ammonium or calcium salt of 3,4-dihydro-6-methyl-l,2,3-oxathiazine-4-one-2,2-dioxide, the potassium salt of 3,4- dihydro-6-methyl-l,2,3-oxathiazine-4-one-2,2-dioxide (Acesulfame-K), the free acid form of saccharin, or a combination thereof; dipeptide based sweeteners, for example the L-aspartic acid derived sweeteners such as L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester (Aspartame) and materials described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,492,131, L-alpha-aspartyl-N-(2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-3- thietanyl)-D-alaninamide hydrate (Alitame), methyl esters of L-aspartyl-L-phenylglycerine and L-aspartyl-L-2,5-dihydrophenyl-glycine, L-aspartyl-2,5-dihydro-L-phenylalanine; L- aspartyl-L-(l-cyclohexen)-alanine, neotame, or a combination thereof; water-soluble sweeteners derived from naturally occurring water-soluble sweeteners, such as steviosides and stevia derived compounds such as but not limited to steviol glycosides such as rebaudiocides including rebaudiocide A, and the like, lo han quo and lo han quo derived compounds such as iso-mogroside V and the like, chlorinated derivatives of ordinary sugar (sucrose), e.g., chlorodeoxysugar derivatives such as derivatives of chlorodeoxysucrose or chlorodeoxygalactosucrose, known, for example, under the product designation of Sucralose; examples of chlorodeoxysucrose and chlorodeoxygalactosucrose derivatives include but are not limited to: 1 -chloro- l'-deoxy sucrose; 4-chloro-4-deoxy-alpha-D-galactopyranosyl-alpha- D-fructofuranoside, or 4-chloro-4-deoxygalactosucrose; 4-chloro-4-deoxy-alpha-D- galactopyranosyl-1 -chi oro-1 -deoxy -beta-D-fructo-furanoside, or 4,l'-dichloro-4,l'- di deoxygalactosucrose; r,6'-dichlorol',6'-dideoxysucrose; 4-chloro-4-deoxy-alpha-D- galactopyranosyl-l,6-dichloro-l,6-dideoxy-beta-D- fructofuranoside, or 4,l',6'-trichloro- 4, l',6'-tri deoxygalactosucrose; 4,6-dichloro-4,6-dideoxy-alpha-D-galactopyranosyl-6-chloro- 6-deoxy-beta-D- fructofuranoside, or 4,6,6'-trichloro-4,6,6'-trideoxygalactosucrose; 6, l',6'- trichloro-6,l',6'-trideoxysucrose; 4,6-dichloro-4,6-dideoxy-alpha-D-galacto-pyranosyl-l,6- dichloro-l,6-dideox y-beta-D-fructofuranoside, or 4,6,l',6'-tetrachloro4,6, l',6'- tetradeoxygalacto-sucrose; 4,6,l',6'-tetradeoxy-sucrose, or a combination thereof; protein based sweeteners such as thaumaoccous danielli, talin, or a combination thereof; and amino acid based sweeteners.

[0048] The high intensity sweetener can be used in a variety of distinct physical forms, for example those known in the art to provide an initial burst of sweetness and/or a prolonged sensation of sweetness. Without being limited thereto, such physical forms include free forms (e g., spray dried or powdered), beaded forms, encapsulated forms, or a combination thereof.

[0049] Specific high intensity sweeteners for use in the chewing gum composition include aspartame, neotame, sucralose, monatin, acesulfame potassium, an encapsulated form of the foregoing high intensity sweetener, or a combination thereof.

[0050] The amount of high intensity sweetener used can be about 0.01 to about 6 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 1 to about 3 wt%.

[0051] The chewing gum composition can optionally further comprise a sensate. Sensates can include cooling agents, warming agents, tingling agents, or a combination thereof.

[0052] Cooling agents are additives that provide a cooling or refreshing effect in the mouth, in the nasal cavity, or on skin. For example, among the useful cooling agents are included menthane, menthone, ketals, menthone ketals, menthone glycerol ketals, substituted p-menthanes, acyclic carboxamides, mono menthyl glutarate, substituted cyclohexanamides, substituted cyclohexane carboxamides, substituted ureas and sulfonamides, substituted menthanols, hydroxymethyl and hydroxymethyl derivatives of p-menthane, 2-mercapto-cyclo-decanone, hydroxycarboxylic acids with 2-6 carbon atoms, cyclohexanamides, menthyl acetate, menthyl salicylate, N,2,3-trimethyl-2-isopropyl butanamide (WS-23), N-ethyl-2,2-diisopropylbutanamide,

N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide (WS-3), ethyl ester of N-[[5-methyl-2-(l- methylethyl)cyclohexyl]carbonyl]glycine (WS-5), as well as the substantially pure ethyl ester of N-[[5-methyl-2-(l-methylethyl)cyclohexylcarbonyl]glycine as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,189760 to Erman, et al which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference, isopulegol, menthyloxy propane diol, 3-(l-menthoxy)propane-l,2-diol, 3-(l-menthoxy)-2-methylpropane- 1,2-diol, p-menthane-2,3-diol, p-menthane-3,8-diol, 6-isopropyl-9-m ethyl- 1,4- dioxaspiro[4,5]decane-2-methanol, menthyl succinate and its alkaline earth metal salts, trimethylcyclohexanol, N-ethyl-2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanecarboxamide, Japanese mint oil, peppermint oil, 3-(l-menthoxy)ethan-l-ol, 3-(l-menthoxy)propan-l-ol, 3-(l- menthoxy)butan-l-ol, 1-menthylacetic acid N-ethylamide, l-menthyl-4-hydroxypentanoate, 1- menthyl-3 -hydroxybutyrate, N,2,3-trimethyl-2-(l-methylethyl)-butanamide, n-ethyl-t-2-c-6 nonadi enami de, N,N-dimethyl menthyl succinamide, substituted p-menthanes, substituted p- menthane-carboxamides, 2-isopropanyl-5-methylcyclohexanol (from Hisamitsu Pharmaceuticals, hereinafter “isopregol”); menthone glycerol ketals (FEMA 3807, tradename FRESCOLAT® type MGA); 3-l-menthoxypropane-l,2-diol (from Takasago, FEMA 3784); and menthyl lactate; (from Haarman & Reimer, FEMA 3748, tradename FRESCOLAT® type ML), WS-30, WS-14, Eucalyptus extract (p-Mehtha-3,8-Diol), Menthol (its natural or synthetic derivatives), Menthol PG carbonate, Menthol EG carbonate, Menthol glyceryl ether, N-tertbutyl-p-menthane-3 -carboxamide, P-menthane-3 -carboxylic acid glycerol ester, Methyl- 2-isopryl-bicyclo (2.2.1), Heptane-2 -carboxamide; Menthol methyl ether, menthyl pyrrolidone carboxylate; 2,5-dimethyl-4-(l-pyrrolidinyl)-3(2H)-furanone; cyclic a-keto enamines, cyclotene derivatives such as cyclopentenes including 3-methyl-2-(l-pyrrolidinyl)- 2-cyclopenten-l-one and 5-methyl-2-(l-pyrrolidinyl)-2-cyclopenten-l-one, compounds of the formula: wherein B is selected from H, CH3, C2H5, OCH3, OC2H5; and OH; and wherein A is a moiety of the formula-CO-D, wherein D is selected from the following moieties: (i )-NR¹ R², wherein R¹ and R² are independently selected from H and Ci-Cs straight or branched-chain aliphatic, alkoxyalkyl, hydroxyalkyl, araliphatic and cycloalkyl groups, or R¹ and R² together with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached form part of an optionally-substituted, five-or sixmembered heterocyclic ring; (ii)-NHCH2COOCH2CH3,-NHCH2CONH2,-NHCH2CH₂OCH3,- NHCH2CH2OH,-NHCH2CH(OH)CH2OH and (iii) a moiety selected from the group consisting of: as disclosed in PCT Patent Application WO2006/125334 to Bell et al. which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference, among others. Other compounds include the alpha-keto enamines disclosed in U.S. Patent Number 6,592,884 to Hofmann et al. which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference. These and other suitable cooling agents are further described in the following U.S. patents, all of which are incorporated in their entirety by reference hereto: U.S. Patent Nos. 4,230,688; 4,032,661; 4,459,425; 4,178,459; 4,296,255; 4,136,163; 5,009,893; 5,266,592; 5,698,181; 6,277,385; 6,627,233; 7,030,273. Still other suitable cooling agents are further described in the following U.S. Published Patent Applications, all of which are incorporated in their entirety by reference hereto: U.S. 2005/0222256; 2005/0265930.

[0053] Warming agents can be selected from a wide variety of compounds known to provide the sensory signal of warming to the user. These compounds offer the perceived sensation of warmth, particularly in the oral cavity, and often enhance the perception of flavors, sweeteners and other organoleptic components. Among the useful warming compounds included are vanillyl alcohol n-butyl ether (TK-1000) supplied by Takasago Perfumary Company Limited, Tokyo, Japan, vanillyl alcohol n-propylether, vanillyl alcohol isopropyl ether, vanillyl alcohol isobutyl ether, vanillyl alcohol n-aminoether, vanillyl alcohol isoamylether, vanillyl alcohol n-hexylether, vanillyl alcohol methylether, vanillyl alcohol ethylether, gingerol, shogaol, paradol, zingerone, capsaicin, dihydrocapsaicin, nordihydrocapsaicin, homocapsaicin, homodihydrocapsaicin, or a combination thereof.

[0054] Tingling agents may be employed to provide a tingling, stinging or numbing sensation to the user. Tingling agents include, but are not limited to: Jambu Oleoresin or para cress (Spilanthes sp.), in which the active ingredient is Spilanthol; Japanese pepper extract (Zanthoxylum peperitum), including the ingredients known as Saanshool-I, Saanshool-II and Sanshoamide; perillartine; 4-(l-menthoxymethyl)-2-phenyl-l,3-dioxolane; black pepper extract (piper nigrum), including the active ingredients chavicine and piperine; Echinacea extract; Northern Prickly Ash extract; trans-pellitorin, and red pepper oleoresin. In some embodiments, alkylamides extracted from materials such as jambu or sanshool may be included. Examples of “tingling” type sensates include those disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,780,443, 6,159,509, 5,545,424, and 5,407,665, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0055] The amount of sensate present in the chewing gum composition can be 0.001 to about 5.0 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 0.01 to about 3.0 wt%, and more specifically about 0.1 to about 1 wt%.

[0056] The chewing gum composition can optionally further comprise a flavor modulator or potentiator. A sweet taste can be imparted by flavor modulators or potentiators and/or from flavorants as well as from sweeteners. Flavor potentiators can consist of materials that intensify, supplement, modify or enhance the taste or aroma perception of an original material without introducing a characteristic taste or aroma perception of their own. Flavor modulators can impart a characteristic of their own that complements or negates a characteristic of another component, for example bitter masking. In some embodiments, flavor modulators or potentiators are designed to intensify, supplement, modify, or enhance the perception of flavor, sweetness, tartness, umami, kokumi, saltiness or a combination thereof can be included. Thus, the addition of flavor modulators or potentiators can impact the overall taste of the composition. For example, flavors can be compounded to have additional sweet notes by the inclusion of flavor modulators or potentiators, such as vanilla, vanillin, ethyl maltol, furfual, ethyl propionate, lactones, or a combination thereof [0057] Exemplary flavor modulators or potentiators include monoammonium glycyrrhizinate, licorice glycyrrhizinates, citrus aurantium, alapyridaine, alapyridaine (N-(l -carboxy ethyl)-6- (hydroxymethyl)pyridinium-3-ol) inner salt, miraculin, curculin, strogin, mabinlin, gymnemic acid, cynarin, glupyridaine, pyridinium-betain compounds, neotame, thaumatin, neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, tagatose, trehalose, maltol, ethyl maltol, vanilla extract, vanilla oleoresin, vanillin, sugar beet extract (alcoholic extract), sugarcane leaf essence (alcoholic extract), compounds that respond to G-protein coupled receptors (T2Rs and TIRs), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, sugar acids, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium acid sulfate, or a combination thereof are used. In other embodiments, glutamates such as monosodium glutamate, monopotassium glutamate, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, hydrolyzed animal protein, yeast extract, or a combination thereof are included. Further examples include adenosine monophosphate (AMP), glutathione, and nucleotides such as inosine monophosphate, disodium inosinate, xanthosine monophosphate, guanylate monophosphate, or a combination thereof. Further examples of flavor potentiator compositions that impart kokumi are also included in U.S. Patent No. 5,679,397 to Kuroda et al.

[0058] When used, the amount of flavor modulators or flavor potentiators can be a matter of preference subject to such factors as the type of final product composition, the individual flavor, the strength of flavor desired, and the location of the ingredient (core; and if used, coating and center-fill). Thus, the amount of flavor modulators or flavor potentiators can be varied in order to obtain the result desired in the final product and such variations are within the capabilities of those skilled in the art without the need for undue experimentation.

[0059] In an embodiment, the chewing gum composition comprises a flavor modulator that reduces the salty taste of a polyphosphate salt, particularly the salty taste of sodium acid pyrophosphate. The amount of such a flavor modulator can be about 0.01 wt% to about 3.0 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 0.15 wt% to about 1.0 wt%.

[0060] Exemplary breath fresheners that can be used in the chewing gum composition include zinc citrate, zinc acetate, zinc fluoride, zinc ammonium sulfate, zinc bromide, zinc iodide, zinc chloride, zinc nitrate, zinc fluorosilicate, zinc gluconate, zinc tartrate, zinc succinate, zinc formate, zinc chromate, zinc phenol sulfonate, zinc dithionate, zinc sulfate, silver nitrate, zinc salicylate, zinc glycerophosphate, copper nitrate, chlorophyll, copper chlorophyll, chlorophyllin, hydrogenated cottonseed oil, chlorine dioxide, beta cyclodextrin, zeolite, silica-based material, carbon-based material, enzymes such as laccase, or a combination thereof. Breath fresheners can include essential oils as well as various aldehydes and alcohols. Essential oils used as breath fresheners can include oils of spearmint, peppermint, wintergreen, sassafras, chlorophyll, citral, geraniol, cardamom, clove, sage, carvacrol, eucalyptus, cardamom, magnolia bark extract, marjoram, cinnamon, lemon, lime, grapefruit, orange, or a combination thereof. Aldehydes such as cinnamic aldehyde and salicylaldehyde can be used. Additionally, menthol, carvone, iso-garrigol, and anethole can function as breath fresheners. The breath fresheners can be present in a suitable amount depending upon the desired level of intensity. In some embodiments, the breath freshener is present in an amount of about 0.01 wt% to about 2 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 0.05 wt% to about 1.25 wt%, more specifically about 0.1 wt% to 1 wt%.

[0061] The chewing gum composition can further comprise an additional oral care agent. Suitable oral care agents include tooth whiteners, antimicrobial agents, tooth mineralizers, tooth decay inhibitors, topical anesthetics, mucoprotectants, stain removers, oral cleaning agents, bleaching agents, desensitizing agents, dental remineralization agents, antibacterial agents, anticaries agents, plaque acid buffering agents, surfactants and anticalculus agents, and combinations thereof. Examples of such ingredients include hydrolytic agents including proteolytic enzymes, abrasives such as hydrated silica, calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate and alumina, other active stain-removing components such as surface-active agents, including anionic surfactants such as sodium stearate, sodium palminate, sulfated butyl oleate, sodium oleate, salts of fumaric acid, glycerol, hydroxylated lecithin, and sodium lauryl sulfate. Oral care agents can also include tetrasodium pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium tripolyphosphate, or a combination thereof.

[0062] Suitable oral care agents can include peroxides such as carbamide peroxide, calcium peroxide, magnesium peroxide, sodium peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and peroxydiphosphate. In some embodiments, potassium nitrate and potassium citrate are included. Other examples can include casein glycomacropeptide, calcium casein peptone-calcium phosphate, casein phosphopeptides, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), and amorphous calcium phosphate. Still other examples can include papaine, krillase, pepsin, trypsin, lysozyme, dextranase, mutanase, glycoamylase, amylase, glucose oxidase, and combinations thereof.

[0063] Suitable oral care agents include surfactants that achieve increased prophylactic action and render the oral care agents more cosmetically acceptable. Surfactants used as oral care agents include detersive materials that impart to the composition detersive and foaming properties. Suitable surfactants include sodium stearate, sodium ricinoleate, sodium lauryl sulfate, water-soluble salts of higher fatty acid monoglyceride monosulfates, such as the sodium salt of the monosulfated monoglyceride of hydrogenated coconut oil fatty acids, higher alkyl sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate, alkyl aryl sulfonates such as sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, higher alkyl sulfoacetates, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, higher fatty acid esters of 1,2-dihydroxy propane sulfonate, and the substantially saturated higher aliphatic acyl amides of lower aliphatic amino carboxylic acid compounds, such as those having 12 to 16 carbons in the fatty acid, alkyl or acyl radicals, and the like. Examples of the last mentioned amides are N-lauroyl sarcosine, and the sodium, potassium, and ethanolammonium salts of N-lauroyl sarcosine, N-myristoyl sarcosine, or N-palmitoyl sarcosine.

[0064] In addition to surfactants, oral care agents can include antibacterial agents such as triclosan, chlorhexidine, zinc citrate, silver nitrate, copper, limonene, cetyl pyridinium chloride, or a combination thereof.

[0065] Anticaries agents include fluoride ion sources, such as sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride, sodium fluorosilicate, ammonium fluorosilicate, potassium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, stannous fluoride, potassium stannous fluoride, sodium hexafluorostannate, stannous chlorofluoride, or a combination thereof.

[0066] Further examples of oral care agents are included in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,227,154 to Reynolds, 5,378,131 to Greenberg, and 6,685,916 to Holme et al. The additional oral care agent can be present in a suitable amount depending upon the desired level of care. In some embodiments, the additional oral care agent is present in an amount of about 0.01 wt% to about 2 wt% of the total weight of the chewing gum, specifically about 0.05 wt% to about 1.25 wt%, more specifically about 0.1 wt% to 1 wt%.

[0067] The chewing gum composition comprising the combination of polyphosphate salts can be prepared by a batch process or a continuous process using techniques available in the art.

[0068] The chewing gum composition can be prepared into a chewing gum product having any shape or dimension, e.g, in stick, slab, chunk, ball, pellet, etc. The general shape of the chewing gum product can be a geometric shape such as a circle, oval, square, rectangle, triangle, trapezoid, hexagon, octagon, star, crescent, and the like; alternatively it can be in the shape of a silhouette of a cartoon character, person, and the like.

[0069] In an embodiment, the chewing gum product may be a coated chewing product. Chewing gum coating materials known in the art may be used. Suitable coatings include a hard panned coating, a soft panned coating, a sanded coating, and the like prepared from bulk sweeteners and additional coating ingredients.

[0070] In an embodiment, a portion or all of the polyphosphate salts can be present in the coating as a coating ingredient. In the embodiments where a portion or all of the polyphosphate salts can be present in the coating as a coating ingredient, the polyphosphate salt can be an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof as discussed herein.

[0071] In an embodiment, the chewing gum product may be a center-filled chewing product. The center-fill may be liquid, solid, semi-solid, or powder. Suitable center-fill ingredients include a bulk sweetener, a polyphosphate, a colorant, a flavorant, a flavor modulator or potentiator, a food acid or a salt thereof, a high-intensity sweetener, a sensate (e.g., cooling agent, warming agent, tingling agent, and the like), a breath freshener, an additional oral care agent, water, glycerin, an emulsifier, a thickener, a hydrocolloid, or a combination thereof.

[0072] In an embodiment, a portion or all of the polyphosphate salts can be present in the center-fill as a center-fill ingredient. In an embodiment, the center-fill comprising a polyphosphate salt is a powder or solid center-fill. In the embodiments where a portion or all of the polyphosphate salts can be present in the center-fill as a center-fill ingredient, the polyphosphate salt can be an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof as discussed herein.

[0073] Chewing gum compositions comprising the polyphosphate salts are described herein. Corresponding confectionery compositions that do not contain gum base or elastomers are fully contemplated herein.

[0074] The features and advantages are more fully shown by the following examples which are provided for purposes of illustration, and are not to be construed as limiting the invention in any way.

EXAMPLES

Example 1 : Particle size of Polyphosphate Salts

[0075] The particle sizes of commercially available “SHMP” = sodium hexametaphosphate and “SAPP” = sodium acid pyrophosphate were measured using sieve analysis and the results are reported in Table 1 for percent of material that passes through the sieve for the indicated mesh.

Sieve Procedure:

Step 1 : Weigh a sample of 100g.

Step 2: Place a receiver under the sieve to collect samples.

Step 3: Weigh the sieves and the pan separately.

Step 4: Pour the samples from step 1 into top of the sieve and gently shake the sieve by hand for 2 minutes.

Step 5: Stop shaking the sieve and measure the mass of the material that passed through the sieve.

Table 1.

18, 25, and 140 mesh - US standard sieves

Example 2: [0076] Chewing gum compositions were prepared containing gum base, bulk sweetener, high intensity sweeteners, flavors and sensates, fdler, and one or more polyphosphate salts selected from “SHMP” = sodium hexametaphosphate and “SAPP” = sodium acid pyrophosphate as shown in Table 2. The amount of each salt in weight percent based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition is shown in the table below along with particle size and supplier. US 18 mesh = 1000 microns and 140 mesh = 105 microns. The prepared chewing gum samples were chewed and the organoleptic properties were reported. As shown by the results, SAPP gave more salty off notes than SHMP and the off taste can be reduced or minimized by i) using larger particle size, ii) adjusting the amount of SHMP : SAPP, and/or iii) use of a bitter masking agent. The larger particle size provided a chewing gum having a more balanced flavor compared to the smaller particle size.

Table 2.

Example 3: Chewing Gum Tooth Whitening by Removal of Extrinsic Stain

[0077] Chewing gum samples were assayed for the effect on the removal of extrinsic food stains on tooth surfaces. Eight chewing gum compositions were studied, including six samples of tooth whitening chewing gums containing polyphosphates, a control whitening chewing gum containing sodium stearate, and a commercially available whitening chewing gum containing sodium bicarbonate (Table 3). Each chewing gum of Samples A-F and Control was based on a standard chewing gum composition with the addition of specified ingredients, sodium stearate; “SHMP” = sodium hexametaphosphate, CAS 68915-31-1, (NaPOs)n.Na2O, either larger particle size PRAYPHOS™ SHMP 460 FG or small particle size SHMP Glass H (see Table 1); “SAPP” = sodium acid pyrophosphate, CAS 7758-16-9, Na2H2P2C>7, either larger particle size PRAYPHOS™ SAPP 108 FG GR or smaller particle size SAPP PRAYPHOS NL180 (see Table 1). The standard chewing gum contained 36.2 wt% gum base, 53.8 wt% bulk sweetener, 0.82 wt% high intensity sweeteners, 4.0 wt% flavors and sensates, and 5.2 wt% filler.

Table d.

*Organoleptic properties observed when the sample was chewed, based on 1, 2, or 4 people. [0078] The experiments were conducted using a modification of the laboratory method described by Stookey et al. “In vitro removal of stain with dentifrices,” J Dent Res 61(11): 1236-1239, Nov 1982, which has been shown to correlate with the cleaning/whitening properties of dentifrices in clinical trials. The general experimental design consists of the use of a specially designed mechanical mastication device to treat stained teeth with the test chewing gums (Kleber et al. “A mastication device designed for the evaluation of chewing gums,” J Dent Res 60: 109-114, 1981). The amount of stain on the teeth before and after treatment is measured quantitatively using a colorimeter.

Specimens:

[0079] Squares of dental enamel 4 millimeters (mm) on a side were cut, using a diamond cutting disk, from bovine permanent incisors. Using a mold, four of the enamel squares were embedded in clear polyester casting resin to provide 1.5 centimeter (cm) square blocks with the labial surfaces exposed. The top surface of the polyester blocks were ground flush with the leveled labial surfaces of the enamel squares by means of a dental model trimmer. The surface was then smoothed by hand-sanding on 400 grit emery paper using water as the lubricant until all grinding marks were removed. Finally, the top surface of the blocks was hand-polished to a mirror finish using a water slurry of GK1072 calcined kaolin (median particle size = 1.2 microns) on a cotton cloth. The finished specimens were examined under a dissecting microscope and discarded if surface imperfections were observed.

[0080] In order to render the polished tooth surfaces more like natural teeth and promote the formation of stain on the enamel, the specimens were etched for 60 seconds in 0.2M HC1 followed by a final etch with 1% phytic acid for 60 seconds. Then the specimens were rinsed with deionized water and attached to the staining apparatus.

Tooth Staining Apparatus:

[0081] The tooth staining apparatus was designed to provide alternate immersion into the staining broth and air-drying of the specimens. The apparatus consisted of an aluminum platform base which supported a Teflon rod (3/4-inch in diameter) connected to an electric motor, which by means of a speed reduction box, rotated the rod at a constant rate of 1.5 rpm. Threaded screw holes were spaced at regular intervals along the length of the rod. The tooth specimens were attached to the rod by first gluing the head of a plastic screw to the back of the specimen, then screwing the tooth onto the rod. Beneath the rod was a removable, 300 milliliters (ml) capacity trough which held the tooth staining broth.

Tooth Staining Broth:

[0082] The staining broth was prepared by adding 1.02 grams (g) of instant coffee, 1.02 g of instant tea, and 0.75 g of gastric mucin to 250 ml of sterilized trypticase soy broth. Approximately 50 ml of a 24-hour stain-promoting Micrococcus luteus culture was also added to the stain broth. The apparatus, with the enamel specimens attached and the staining broth in the trough, was then placed in an incubator at 37 °C with the specimens rotating continuously through the staining broth and air. The staining broth was replaced once every 24 hours for ten consecutive days. With each broth change, the trough and specimens were rinsed and brushed (soft reference toothbrush) with water to remove any loose deposits.

[0083] On the eleventh day the staining broth was modified by the addition of 0.03 g of FeCb.OFBO, and this was continued with daily broth changes until the stain on the specimens were sufficiently dark (L*<32). Then, the specimens were removed from the staining broth, brushed thoroughly with deionized water, and refrigerated in a humidor until used. Stain Measurement:

[0084] The intensity of the extrinsic stained pellicle on the teeth is measured by taking diffuse reflectance absorbance readings with a spectrophotometer equipped with diffuse illumination, an 8° viewing angle, and 3-mm aperture: Minolta CM-2600D Spectrophotometer, Minolta Camera Co., 101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, NJ 07446. Absorbance measurements over the entire visible color spectrum are obtained using the tristimulus L*a*b* color space established by the CIE (Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage. Recommendations on uniform color spaces. Color difference equations. Psychometric color terms. Suppl 2 to CIE publication 15 (E-13.1) 1971/(TC-1.3), 1978, Paris: Bureau Central de la CIE, 1978). Measurements are conducted by using a targeting mask to align the center of the 4-mm square segment of stained enamel directly over the 3-mm-diameter targeting aperture of the spectrophotometer. Measurements of teeth are recorded in triplicate. The stained tooth enamel specimens are read immediately after blotting them dry with a tissue.

Treatment:

[0085] In preparation for treatment, the baseline L*a*b* stain scores of the tooth specimens were determined and used to stratify the teeth into balanced groups of eight specimens each. A mechanical instrument, which was developed by Kleber et al. to simulate the human mastication of chewing gum, was used to treat the tooth specimens with the test chewing gum. [0086] For testing, 2 acrylic specimen blocks with 2 enamel squares in each, were placed in the upper and lower tooth holders of the instrument (One double in the top and one double in the bottom). 15 mis of artificial saliva (CaCh H2O - 1.45, KH2PO4 - 5.42, NaCl - 6.52, KC1 - 14.94, Tris Buffer 100.00, NaOH q.s to pH 7.0) was placed in the reservoir. The thermostatically controlled heating element was turned on to maintain the saliva and gum at body temperature (36-37 °C) for proper chewing consistency. Approximately 2.5 grams of the test chewing gum (i.e., 2 tabs) were placed between the repositioning paddles directly over the lower tooth specimen. The mastication motor was started and the two specimen blocks with the enamel squares were treated with the chewing gum for 20 minutes. This treatment procedure was repeated every 20 minutes for a total of 280 minutes (equivalent to 14 days) of treatment. Fresh gum and saliva were used for each 20-minute treatment period.

Stain Calculations:

[0087] The overall change in the color of the stained teeth was calculated using the CIELAB equation AE = [AL*)² + Aa*)² + Ab*)2]^1/2. The individual components of the L*a*b* scale represent the specific changes in the whiteness (L*), red-green color (a*), and yellow-blue color (b*) [0088] The AE value summarizes the overall change for each color factor AL*, Aa*, and Ab*) and represents the ability of the test chewing gum to remove stain and whiten teeth. The data were calculated and defined as follows:

Stain Removed = AE score after treatment.

Statistical Analysis:

[0089] Data were tabulated using a standard spreadsheet program and analyzed by means of a conventional statistical software package. Comparison of the stain scores for each group by treatment time was conducted using analysis of variance (ANOVA).

[0090] The average L*a*b* color scores for the extrinsic stain on the teeth in each group at baseline were obtained. The baseline data show that all groups were well balanced for each color factor before treatment. The baseline L* scores, which are indicative of the whiteness of the teeth, are very low with an average score of approximately 32. White, unstained teeth have a L* score of approximately 65 - 70.

[0091] The average L*a*b* color scores for the extrinsic stain on the teeth in each group after 7 days of chewing gum treatment were obtained.

[0092] Table 4 presents the change in the whiteness and stain on the teeth after 140 minutes (7 days) of mechanical chewing for Samples A-C and Control. The AL*, Ab* and AE (combined color spectrums L*a*b*) scores, indicative of the increase in tooth whiteness, were significantly higher for chewing gum Samples A-C compared to the Control.

[0093] Table 5 presents the change in the whiteness and stain on the teeth after 140 minutes (7 days) of mechanical chewing for Samples D-F, Control, and commercially available comparative containing sodium bicarbonate. The AL*, Ab* and AE (combined color spectrums L*a*b*) scores, indicative of the increase in tooth whiteness, were significantly higher for chewing gum Samples D-F compared to the Control and bicarbonate comparative.

Table 4. Change in Extrinsic Stain on Teeth After 7 Days of Chewing Gum Treatments

' Mean score ± standard deviation; n = 8. Values in the same column with the same superscript letter are not statistically different, while those with different superscript letters are different at p<0.05 based on ANOVA and 2-tail SNK Test.

Table 5. Change in Extrinsic Stain on Teeth After 7 Days of Chewing Gum Treatments

Mean score ± standard deviation; n = 8. Values in the same column with the same superscript letter are not statistically different, while those with different superscript letters are different at p<0.05 based on ANOVA and 2-tail SNK Test.

[0094] The average L*a*b* color scores for the extrinsic stain on the teeth in each group at after 14 days of chewing gum treatment were obtained.

[0095] Table 6 presents the change in the whiteness and stain on the teeth after 280 minutes (14 days) of mechanical chewing. The AL*, Ab* and AE (combined color spectrums L*a*b*) scores, indicative of the increase in tooth whiteness, were significantly higher for chewing gum Samples A-C compared to the Control. [0096] Table 7 presents the change in the whiteness and stain on the teeth after 280 minutes

(14 days) of mechanical chewing. The AL*, Ab* and AE (combined color spectrums L*a*b*) scores, indicative of the increase in tooth whiteness, were significantly higher for chewing gum Samples D-F compared to the Control and bicarbonate comparative.

Table 6. Change in Extrinsic Stain on Teeth After 14 Days of Chewing Gum Treatments t Mean score ± standard deviation; n = 8. Values in the same column with the same superscript letter are not statistically different, while those with different superscript letters are different at p<0.05 based on ANOVA and 2-tail SNK Test.

Table 7. Change in Extrinsic Stain on Teeth After 14 Days of Chewing Gum Treatments Mean score ± standard deviation; n = 8. Values in the same column with the same superscript letter are not statistically different, while those with different superscript letters are different at p<0.05 based on ANOVA and 2-tail SNK Test.

[0097] The results show Samples A-C and F chewing gum containing a combination of SHMP and SAPP tested better than the Control (sodium stearate whitening gum) and better than the commercially available whitening chewing gum. Sample B containing a combination of 2.5% SHMP + 0.5% SAPP performed better whitening and cleansing than Sample C 1.5% SHMP + 1.5% SAPP, and Sample A 2% SHMP + 1% SAPP. All four chewing gum compositions containing polyphosphate combinations (Samples A-C and F) performed better than the Control (sodium stearate gum) chewing gums.

[0098] The results further show that the polyphosphates having larger particle sizes (Sample B, 2.5% SHMP and 0.5% SAPP, 7 day AE = 14.4, 14 day AE = 19.6) provide superior whitening and cleansing effect compared to those polyphosphates having smaller particle size (Sample F, 2.5% SHMP and 0.5% SAPP, 7 day AE = 9.0, 14 day AE = 12.1).

[0099] As used herein the terms “comprising” (also “comprises,” etc.), “having,” and “including” is inclusive (open-ended) and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The endpoints of all ranges directed to the same component or property are inclusive of the endpoints, are independently combinable, and include all intermediate points and ranges (e.g., ranges of “up to 25 wt%, or more specifically 5 to 20 wt%” is inclusive of the endpoints and all intermediate values of the ranges of “5 to 25 wt%,” such as “10 to 23 wt%,” “20 to 24,” “1 to 5 wt%,” etc.). Disclosure of a narrower range or more specific group in addition to a broader range is not a disclaimer of the broader range or larger group. The term “combination” is inclusive of a homogenous or non- homogenous blend, or mixture of the named components into an integrated whole. The term “homogenous” refers to a uniform blend of the components. The word “or” means “and/or.” The terms “front”, “back”, “bottom”, and/or “top” are used herein, unless otherwise noted, merely for convenience of description, and are not limited to any one position or spatial orientation. “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event occurs and instances where it does not. Reference throughout the specification to “one embodiment”, “another embodiment”, “an embodiment”, and so forth, means that a particular element (e.g., feature, structure, and/or characteristic) described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment described herein, and may or may not be present in other embodiments. In addition, it is to be understood that the described elements may be combined in any suitable manner in the various embodiments. In general, the compositions or methods may alternatively comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, any appropriate components or steps herein disclosed. The invention may additionally, or alternatively, be formulated so as to be devoid, or substantially free, of any components, materials, ingredients, adjuvants, or species, or steps used in the prior art compositions or that are otherwise not necessary to the achievement of the function and/or objectives of the present claims.

[0100] While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tooth whitening chewing gum composition, comprising: a gum base; a bulk sweetener; and about 0.5 wt% to about 12 wt% of an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 microns) screen; and wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 microns) screen.

2. The composition of claim 1, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate is sodium acid pyrophosphate.

3. The composition of claim 1, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is sodium hexametaphosphate.

4. The composition of claim 1, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate is sodium acid pyrophosphate and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is sodium hexametaphosphate.

5. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate are present in the chewing gum composition in a weight ratio of 100 : 0 to 0 to 100; 10 : 1 to 1

: 10; 9 : 1 to 1 : 9; 8 : 1 to 1 : 8; 7 : 1 to 1 : 7; 6 : 1 to 1 : 6; 5 : 1 to 1 : 5; 4 : 1 to 1 : 4; 3 : 1 to 1 : 3; 2 : 1 to 1 : 2; 1 : 1; or 5 : 1 to 1 : 1 alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate : alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate.

6. The composition of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate and the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate are present in the chewing gum composition in a weight ratio of 1 : 7 to 1 : 1; 1 : 6 to 1 : 2; or 1 : 5 to 1 : 4.

7. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the combination of an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate and an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is present in an amount of about 1.0 wt% to about 8.0 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, more specifically about 2.0 wt% to about

6.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 3.0 wt% to about 5.0 wt%.

8. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate is present in an amount of about 0.01 wt% to about 10 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 0.05 wt% to about 8.0 wt%, more specifically about 0.1 wt% to about 6.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 0.5 wt% to about 5.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 1.0 wt% to about 4.0 wt%, still more specifically about 1.5 wt% to about 3.0 wt%, and more specifically about 2.0 wt% to about 2.5 wt%.

9. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate is present in an amount of about 0.01 wt% to about 10 wt% based on the total weight of the chewing gum composition, specifically about 0.05 wt% to about 8.0 wt%, more specifically about 0.1 wt% to about 6.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 0.5 wt% to about 5.0 wt%, yet more specifically about 1.0 wt% to about 4.0 wt%, still more specifically about 1.5 wt% to about 3.0 wt%, and more specifically about 2.0 wt% to about 2.5 wt%.

10. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where 0 to 45 % of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 microns) screen, specifically 15 to 40%, and more specifically 20 to 35%; or further wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as determined by a sieve measurement test is where less than 70 % of the particles pass through an 18 mesh (1000 microns) screen, specifically 0 to 65 %, more specifically 15 to 60%, and more specifically 30 to 55%.

11. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where 0 to 40 % of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 microns) screen, specifically 5 to 30%, and more specifically 10 to 20%.

12. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pyrophosphate, the hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, is encapsulated.

13. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a colorant a flavorant, a flavor modulator, a food acid or a salt thereof, a high-intensity sweetener, a sensate, a breath freshener, an additional oral care agent, or a combination thereof.

14. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chewing gum composition further comprises a flavor modulator to mask a bitter or salty taste.

15. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a portion or all of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof is present in the gum base as a gum base ingredient.

16. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is formed as a chewing gum product comprising a coating, a center-fill, or a combination thereof, wherein the coating, center-fill, or a combination thereof optionally comprises an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof as a coating ingredient.

17. The composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tooth whitening chewing gum composition provides a statistically significant greater AE compared to a control chewing gum composition free of a polyphosphate compound where AE is based on colorimeter measurement results of stained teeth before and after 20 minutes of mechanical mastication of a 2.5 gram of sample of test chewing gum repeated every 20 minutes with fresh test samples for a total of 280 minutes.

18. A tooth whitening chewing gum composition, comprising: a gum base; a bulk sweetener; and an alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate, an alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate, or a combination thereof, based on the total weight of the composition, wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal pyrophosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 25 mesh (707 microns) screen; and wherein the particle size of the alkali or alkaline earth metal hexametaphosphate as measured using sieve analysis is where less than 50 % of the particles pass through a 140 mesh (105 microns) screen; and wherein the tooth whitening chewing gum composition provides a statistically significant greater AE compared to a control chewing gum composition free of a polyphosphate compound where AE is based on colorimeter measurement results of stained teeth before and after 20 minutes of mechanical mastication of a 2.5 gram of sample of test chewing gum repeated every 20 minutes with fresh test samples for a total of 280 minutes.

19. Use of the composition of any one of the preceding claims to whiten a tooth surface, to remove a stain from a tooth surface, to prevent the deposition of a stain on a tooth surface, or a combination thereof.

20. A method of whitening a tooth surface, removing a stain from a tooth surface, preventing the deposition of a stain on a tooth surface, or a combination thereof, comprising consuming a composition of any one of claims 1-18.