WSI and Emerging Science

The Wrigley Science Institute (WSI) is the first organization of its kind committed to advancing and sharing scientific research that explores the benefits of chewing gum.

The WSI is headed by Executive Director John W. Erdman, Jr., Ph.D. [Full Bio - PDF], professor emeritus of nutrition and food science in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, and in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Dr. Erdman leads a global Advisory Panel (AP) [Download PDF] of highly respected experts from around the globe. This panel helps to guide the pursuit of fundamental science behind the benefits of chewing gum by serving as a principal external source of scientific advice for the WSI.

Browse the current WSI funding opportunities The WSI supports independent researchers at leading institutions with grants to conduct credible scientific testing that investigates the role of chewing gum in health and wellness.

Specifically, some of that preliminary research has shown emerging science around chewing gum for stress relief and to help with focus and concentration. While more research is needed, results of some of the studies indicate that chewing gum may be helpful in easing tension, and improving alertness. ^1, 2

¹ Scholey, A. An investigation into the effects of gum chewing on mood and cotrisol levels during psychological stress. Physiology & Behavior. 2009; 304-312.

² Smith, A. Effects of chewing gum on mood, learning, memory and performance of an intelligence test. Nutritional Neuroscience. 2009; 12: 82-88.