Is called “Oligum” and it is the innovative chewing gum incorporating microencapsulated extra virgin olive oil as the main active ingredient. A functional and anti-aging gum that won the international competition “Beyond Olive Oil” announced byOlive Oil World Congress to reward innovations that go beyond the strictly culinary sphere.
The idea is entirely Italian: it was born from Monica Di Maria, PhD researcher at theUniversity of Palermo that, with Oligum, has created a disruptive proposition in the field of functional products and edible cosmetics. With its catchy slogan, “Chew Your Beauty”, Oligum introduces a new category of chewable products focused on 360° well-being, combining food science, Mediterranean tradition and sustainability.
Natural, healthy and sustainable formula
The secret of Oligum resides in his advanced polyphenol microencapsulation system, the powerful antioxidants present in extra virgin olive oil. These compounds are released in a controlled manner during chewing, promoting a optimal absorption e enhancing the anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects. The gum is thus transformed into a functional and easy-to-consume format.
The extra virgin olive oil base is enriched with other natural ingredients with additional benefits:
- Sicilian lemon, mint and rosemary: for their digestive properties and refreshing effect:
- Honey and vegetable fibers: natural sweeteners that give consistency and functional value;
- Goma Chicza: a 100% biodegradable and plant-based component from the Mayan jungle, for a sustainable choice.
even the the packaging reflects the ecological approach of Oligum: It is made of reusable and lightweight aluminum, designed to preserve the freshness and stability of the active ingredients.
A new paradigm for extra virgin
Among the many international proposals, Oligum stood out for its commercial feasibility, technological innovation and potential impact on public health.
"Oligum embodies the spirit of this call for proposals”Said Ricardo Migueláñez, General Coordinator of the Olive Oil World Congress. “It is an example of how an ancient ingredient can take on new meanings and applications in everyday life, in a modern, healthy and ecological format.”
The jury particularly praised the ability to transform an everyday product like chewing gum into a tool to promote healthy habits, with a significantly lower environmental impact than traditional chewing gum, often made with non-biodegradable plastic bases.
