I have heard many times about the origins of chewing gum and the role of Chicozapote in its elaboration. However, I had never had the opportunity to focus on discovering what is its process. I invite you to embark with me in this adventure; let's discover a little more about this...
What is the organic chewing gum?
It is a natural and cultural wealth extracted from natural elements found in the jungle. Specifically, it is obtained from the sap of the chicozapote tree, which was used by Mayan civilizations to sustain their families.
Elaboration process
The gum is produced in August and September, mainly during the rainy months. This process begins with the selection of the oldest tree with the largest diameter for latex extraction. The producer climbs the Chicozapote tree and makes a zigzag pattern of 45 to 60 degrees, surrounding the trunk to drain the latex through connected channels. Subsequently, it is filtered and placed in a pot over low heat. Then it is stretched and kneaded with the chamól (wooden stick made by the producers), making circular movements to eliminate the accumulated steam and avoiding sticking. It is dehydrated until the chewing gum is obtained and is removed immediately with circular movements to form a ball and remove the residues from the pot.
Major producers
There is an abundant presence in the Yucatan Peninsula, although the largest producers of chicle are located in the states of Campeche and Quintana Roo. We invite you to visit one of them, the Chicza Cooperative, located in Chetumal, Quintana Roo. It is formed by the guardians of the jungle, members of the community.
Come and discover the elaboration process together with MX3 Travel and enjoy this magnificent opportunity!
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Credits to the author od the images at Chicza https://chicza.com/
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References
Llanes, S. L., & Iglesias, P. D. (24 de Febrero de 2021). El estudio de la sustentabilidad desde la perspectiva sistémica. El caso de la producción de chicle en el sureste mexicano. Recuperado el 21 de Junio de 2021, de http://ojs.sociologia-alas.org/index.php/CyC/article/view/262/267