Chewing gum has long been a staple of modern life—a quick breath-freshener, a post-meal treat, or just a habit picked up in childhood that never really went away. It’s found at every checkout counter, tucked into purses and glove compartments, and offered as a polite after-dinner gesture. But behind the sweet flavors and minty freshness lurks an unsettling truth: most commercial chewing gum contains microplastics.

Each decade seems to introduce a new nutritional adversary. First, fat was cast as the villain, then sugar, and now, seed oils have taken center stage in the debate over diet and health. These oils are being blamed for contributing to obesity, chronic diseases, and overall declining health. Yet, avoiding them is nearly impossible. They are found in countless everyday products—from fast food and salad dressings to protein bars and even infant formula. While some argue that seed oils are harmful, others maintain they are a cost-effective, safe, and even beneficial component of modern diets.