Chewing gum is a soft, rubbery substance made for chewing but not swallowing. Unlike food, you chew gum for its flavor and the satisfying sensation of chewing, then dispose of it when the flavor fades.

Modern chewing gum is made from synthetic rubber combined with sweeteners and flavorings. When you chew it, the gum stays stretchy and pliable, releasing its flavor gradually. Some gums are designed to blow bubbles, while others freshen breath or simply give your jaw something to do.

Chewing gum should be disposed of properly. Gum stuck under desks, on sidewalks, or in hair creates nasty problems. When thrown in regular trash, gum doesn't biodegrade for years. Teachers often ban gum in classrooms because students stick it where it doesn't belong or chew it distractingly during lessons. The simple pleasure of chewing gum comes with the responsibility to be thoughtful about where you put it.