Abstract: The invention provides, in one aspect, compositions for delivering a bioactive metal ion to a mammal, the compositions comprising (a) an effective amount of a source of the bioactive metal ion, (b) a phosphoprotein preparation obtained by partially cross linking a partial hydrolysate of casein or a caseinate, and (c) one or more physiologically acceptable diluents or carriers. Also provided are compositions for remineralising tooth enamel and/or for treating or preventing dental caries, tooth erosion, dentinal hypersensitivity or gingivitis in a mammal, wherein the compositions comprise an effective amount of such a phosphoprotein preparation, in combination with one or more carriers or diluents. In related aspects, the invention provides methods of using such compositions. Also provided are novel phosphoprotein preparations suitable for use in such compositions and methods.

Abstract: The invention relates to chewable gum base compositions, to chewing gums containing them, and to processes for preparing them. The gum base compositions comprise (a) a polyvinyl acetate matrix, in which the polyvinyl acetate is in the form of a continuous phase, and (b) casein, a modified casein, or both casein and a modified casein, wherein particles of casein and/or modified casein are dispersed throughout the polyvinyl acetate matrix. In preferred embodiments the gum base composition also contain polyglycerol polyricinoleate, mono- and di-gylcerides esterified with mono-acetyl and di-acetyl tartaric acid, acetylated monoglycerieds, lecithin and sodium or calcium stearoyl-2-lactylate. Chewing gums of the present invention contain a chewable gum base as described above, in combination with one or more sweeteners and/or flavouring agents, and preferably also glycerol triacetate and stearic acid.