Trident Layers Cool Mint + Melon Fresco

Flavor: Based on our previous assessments of Trident Layers Wild Strawberry + Tangy Citrus and Trident Layers Green Apple + Golden Pineapple, I had some pre-conceived notions of this gum before I took the first bite, so in the beginning I was on the fence. I had expected a burst of flavor, a candy-like explosion of sweetness that faded rather quickly into a bland, but enjoyable, flavor. I was surprised to find that there was no initial burst, despite the layer of goo in the middle that seems to suggest candy-like properties. The preliminary chew was therefore judged unjustly, as I decided too quickly that the flavor was boring and dull and didn't give it a fair chance before spitting it out. Upon a second piece, however, I quickly changed my mind. Layer gimmick aside, this gum exhibits a really enjoyable balance of melon and mint, a subtle marriage of two clashing flavors that, for the first time I can recall, actually does them both justice. The flavor is a harmonious bond between fruity and mint, a cooling sensation and a slight sweetness that is reminiscent of Trident Minty Sweet Twist (my personal favorite, ehem). It lasts a really long time, too, and I never got sick of it the longer I chew.

Texture: The layers confuse me a little, because there's isn't really a detectable purpose for the gelly inner layer. But who cares? It packs a really thick bite that maintains its elasticity and size for as long as I've chewed so far. It doesn't get mushy or make bubbles in your mouth. It's a great chew.

Presentation: This package portrays this gum quite well-- an watery slice of melon splashing down into an imaginary electric blue mint leaf. It looks cool, refreshing, like drinking a mint mojito on the beach. It touts "with REAL mint flavor," which is questionable, but it's delicious, real mint or no. The packaging is suspect, however, as it does not list any ingredients expressly on the package. This is rather deceptive to the consumer, as we've heard these layer gums contain a form of pork, which is definitely a no-no for many folks out there. I know that I have a bad reaction to a particular artificial sweetener, as well, and would like to know what I'm chewing. A contact phone number is not sufficient in this case-- this here is the only draw back, but I fear a big one, that might keep quite a many chewers from buying. And who could blame them.

Overall: It's perfect. If only we knew who died (Porky, Babe?) so it could live. Sigh. Maybe I'm wrong, but it's worth wondering about.

Rating: oooo four gumballs