STRIDE

Introduction

Stride is a brand that emerged in 2006, founded by a team looking to revolutionize the chewing gum experience. With an emphasis on innovation, Stride Gum has gained recognition for its unique flavors and extended longevity, setting it apart from traditional gum. Over the years, it has developed a strong following, especially among younger consumers who appreciate its fun and vibrant branding.

The philosophy behind Stride revolves around the idea of creating a "ridiculously long lasting" gum that not only tastes great but also keeps its flavor longer than many competitors. The branding emphasizes fun and individuality, attracting those who seek an enjoyable and refreshing gum experience. The founders likely envisioned a product that would resonate deeply with a lively audience, fostering a sense of community among gum chewers.

What makes Stride special is its commitment to consistently delivering unique flavors and innovative products that challenge the norms of the gum industry. It has quickly become a household name, particularly in the U.S. and China, where it has developed a reputation for quality and excitement. The brand's playful approach and emphasis on a long-lasting experience enhance its appeal among consumers, ensuring that it remains a preferred choice in the ever-evolving market of chewing gum.

Signature Products

Stride's products are a cornerstone of its identity, embodying the brand's dedication to long-lasting flavor and fun. Each offering reflects a careful balance of taste and endurance, appealing to a broad audience.

• Stride Sweet Peppermint : A refreshing mint flavor designed to keep your breath fresh for hours.
• Stride Spearmint : A classic spearmint experience that delivers a cool sensation with every chew.
• Stride Tropical Punch : A burst of fruity goodness that brings the essence of a tropical paradise to your mouth.
• Stride Bubblemint : A unique blend of bubblegum and mint, perfect for those who love a sweet yet refreshing chew.
• Stride Wild Berry : A medley of berry flavors that offers a delightful and juicy experience with every bite.

Materials and Ingredients Used by STRIDE

• Glycerin : Glycerin is a humectant that helps retain moisture, providing a pleasant texture and chewability in gum. Stride uses glycerin to ensure that their gum remains soft and chewy for an extended period, enhancing the overall chewing experience for consumers.
• Sorbitol : Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and humectant. In Stride Gum, it serves two purposes: it adds a sweet taste without the added calories of sugar and helps maintain moisture in the gum, contributing to its long-lasting quality.
• Soybean : Soybean-derived ingredients are often used for their emulsifying properties, which help blend other ingredients effectively. In Stride Gum, soybean components can enhance texture and stability, ensuring that the gum maintains its intended form and flavor over time.
• Titanium : Titanium dioxide is commonly used as a whitening agent or colorant in various products. In Stride Gum, it may be included to achieve a specific appearance or brightness, enhancing the visual appeal of the gum to attract consumers.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From STRIDE

There are numerous issues related to the supply chain of the brand that need to be taken into consideration.

Deforestation:

Glycerin and soybean production are closely linked to deforestation. Glycerin, often derived from palm oil, involves the clearing of vast tracts of tropical rainforest to establish plantations, most notably in Indonesia and Malaysia. This deforestation contributes to habitat loss for endangered species like orangutans and increases carbon emissions. Similarly, soy production in countries like Brazil has led to significant deforestation in the Amazon rainforest. The conversion of forests into agricultural land for soy cultivation results in biodiversity loss and contributes to the release of stored carbon, exacerbating climate change.

Water Usage:

The production of glycerin and soybeans requires substantial water resources. Glycerin production utilizes water in both the growing phase (when derived from palm or other oils) and the processing phase. Excessive water usage in agriculture of soybeans, particularly in water-scarce regions, can lead to depletion of local water resources, challenging the availability of water for local communities and ecosystems. For instance, in parts of Argentina, the surge in soybean cultivation has strained water supplies, impacting both agriculture and residential needs.

Chemical Processing:

The production of glycerin often involves chemical processing, which can have environmental impacts. When derived from biodiesel production, glycerin may carry contaminants that require chemical treatment before refinement. This process can lead to chemical waste and potential pollution if not managed properly, impacting local ecosystems. Safe management and disposal of these chemicals are crucial to prevent soil and water contamination, particularly in developing countries without stringent regulations.

Water Pollution:

Sorbitol production can lead to water pollution through the discharge of effluents containing chemical by-products. These pollutants can have harmful effects on aquatic life and water quality if released untreated into rivers and lakes. For example, in some manufacturing locations, inadequate treatment of waste has led to elevated chemical levels in water bodies, threatening local biodiversity and human health.

Genetic Modification:

Sorbitol is sometimes derived from genetically modified (GM) crops such as maize. The use of GM organisms in agriculture can lead to debates on biodiversity and long-term ecological impacts. For example, the widespread adoption of GM corn has raised concerns about potential crossbreeding with non-GM plants, leading to a loss of genetic diversity and associated ecological risks.

Energy-intensive Mining:

The production of titanium involves mining, which is highly energy-intensive. Extracting titanium from its primary ore, ilmenite, requires significant energy to reduce the material to its metallic form. This process contributes to carbon emissions and climate change. For instance, in places like Australia and South Africa, large-scale mining operations for titanium consume vast amounts of fossil fuels, adding to the carbon footprint of titanium products.

Habitat Destruction:

Mining for titanium also leads to habitat destruction. As mining activities clear and excavate large areas, they disrupt local ecosystems, displacing plants and wildlife. This destruction is evident in regions like Madagascar, where mining impacts some of the world’s most unique and biodiverse habitats, leading to the loss of endemic species.

Air and Water Pollution:

The titanium mining and production process can also result in significant air and water pollution. Dust and particulate matter released during mining can affect air quality and respiratory health in nearby communities. Furthermore, mining processes often result in the contamination of local waterways with metals and minerals, which can harm aquatic life and make water unsafe for human consumption. Instances of such pollution have been documented in parts of India, where local waterways have suffered from mining runoff.

This analysis highlights key sustainability and environmental issues associated with the materials used by the brand STRIDE. These concerns emphasize the importance of responsible sourcing, processing, and sustainability initiatives within the supply chain to mitigate adverse effects on the environment and communities.