Offbeat Enough

A 5,000-year-old piece of chewing gum has been discovered by an archeology student.

Sarah Pickin, 23, from Derby University, found the lump of birch bark tar on a dig in western Finland, reports the BBC.

Neolithic people used the material as an antiseptic to treat gum infections, as well as a glue for repairing pots.

Ms Pickin’s tutor, Professor Trevor Brown, said: “It’s particularly significant because well defined tooth imprints were found on the gum.

“Birch bark tar contains phenols, which are antiseptic compounds.”

Ms Pickin, one of five UK students on a volunteer programme at the Kierikki Centre on the west coast of Finland, said: “I was delighted to find the gum and was very excited to learn more about the history.

“I am keen to work in this area in the future so the experience has stood me in good stead.”

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