Why is Mentos Pure Fresh classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The gum is labelled NOVA 4 because its formulation relies heavily on industrial sweeteners, flavorings and functional agents rather than whole foods. Its ingredient list includes several food‑grade additives such as the sweeteners sorbitol, mannitol, aspartame, acesulfame K and sucralose, colourant E133 (Brilliant Blue FCF), antioxidant E321 (tert‑butylhydroquinone), emulsifier E473, glazing agent E903 (carnauba wax) and various thickening agents like xanthan gum and gum arabic.

How does the high polyol (sugar‑alcohol) content in Mentos Pure Fresh affect people with diabetes or a sensitive digestive system?

Polyols such as sorbitol and mannitol provide sweetness with minimal impact on blood glucose, making the gum suitable for many diabetics; however, large amounts can be fermentable in the gut and may cause bloating, gas or laxative effects, especially in individuals who are sensitive to sugar‑alcohols.

Is the soy lecithin used in this gum a concern for people with soy allergies?

Yes, soy lecithin is derived from soybeans and is listed as an allergen in the product. Consumers with confirmed soy allergy should avoid this gum, as even trace amounts can trigger allergic reactions.

Mentos, Perfekt Van Melle Benelux B. V. • 70g

Mentos Pure Fresh

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Mentos Pure Fresh is a sugar‑free chewing gum classified under the Sugary snacks and Sweets groups. It receives a non‑applicable Nutri‑Score and falls into the NOVA 4 ultra‑processed tier; per 100 g it contains virtually no fat, sugar or salt, but 71 g of polyols and a range of sweeteners and additives. While the low‑fat, low‑salt profile may appeal to calorie‑conscious consumers, the high polyol content and the presence of multiple additives such as E133, E321 and several emulsifiers can cause digestive discomfort and raise concerns for allergen‑sensitive individuals.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal181 kcal

Fat0.2 g

Saturated Fat0.2 g

Carbohydrates73 g

Sugars0 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sugary snack, this gum contains virtually no sugar, far less fat and salt, but provides a similar carbohydrate load (73 g vs 70 g average) and roughly half the energy (181 kcal vs 373 kcal).

Ingredients

Süßungsmittel Diylit, Sorbit, Mannit, Malitsiup Mat Aspartam, Acesulfam K, Sucralose, Kaumasse, Stablisator (Gycen, Aromen, Stärke, Maltodextrin, Emulgatoren Zuckerester von Speisefettsäuren, Sojalecithin, Verdickungsmittel (Caluloegunn, Xanthan, Gummi arabicum), Grünteeextrakt (0,19), Kokosfet, Überzugsmittel (Carnaubawachs), Antioxidationsmiel (E321), Farbstoff (Brillantblau FCF)

84%

35%

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