<AREA SHAPE=RECT COORDS="17,330,30,347" HREF="!Gum base, the chief ingredient of chewing gum, is made by melting a gummy substance called chicle, waxes, and various other substances in kettles. The soft, warm base is strained for purification.">
<AREA SHAPE=RECT COORDS="208,330,222,345" HREF="!The gum base is blended with flavorings and sweeteners in mixing machines. Softeners are added to help the gum retain moisture. The gum is then rolled into thin, flat sheets and allowed to cool and harden.">
<AREA SHAPE=RECT COORDS="425,332,441,345" HREF="!Machines cut the sheets and break them into individual sticks, which may then be sprinkled with powdered sugar. Other machines wrap each stick and package the gum, which is now ready for stores.">