FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is First Energy Gum?
Need a boost to get through your day? FIRST helps you stay focused and gives you the extra energy you need to persevere. It's like a personal trainer for your brain, helping you get everything out of your day. So forget those sleepy moments and put yourself in high gear with FIRST!
How does it work?
As you chew the gum, your body absorbs the caffeine through your cheek mucosa - meaning you'll get an energy boost in no time.
Did you know that chewing is also good for your brain? In fact, while chewing, your cognitive functions get a big boost, which is good fot concentration ability.
With FIRST you'll feel like you're galloping through the day on a unicorn. So say goodbye to sleepiness and hello to the power of FIRST!
When do I use FIRST?
Easy! When you need extra energy and focus.
Whether you want to set PRs in the gym, work or study with focus, stay alert during long car rides or give it your all during a competition... FIRST is your weapon of choice 💪
How long do I have to chew FIRST?
99% of the caffeine in FIRST is absorbed into the bloodstream through the cheek mucosa within 10 minutes. Therefore, you don't need to keep chewing the gum for longer to feel the effect.
How many gums should I take per day?
The impact of caffeine varies among individuals and is contingent on both caffeine sensitivity and body weight. Research conducted by EFSA indicates that caffeine's effects become noticeable with an intake of 75 mg of caffeine, which equates to at least two pieces of gum at a time!
Where is First Energy Gum available?
First Energy Gum is available for online orders. If you can't wait for your order, you can also drop by various branches of Albert Heijn, Albert Heijn To Go, Jumbo and Spar. Click here for the specific outlets.
Safety
I am sensitive to caffeine, is it wise to use FIRST?
We don't want you to go through life like a bouncy ball, so check with yourself if you are sensitive to coffee or energy drinks before taking FIRST.
If drinking just one cup of coffee makes you start hallucinating or an energy drink makes you feel like you're floating on a cloud to the moon, then it might be better to leave FIRST alone. But if your brain could use some extra turbo, we say chew it!
Is FIRST safe?
Yes, First Energy Gum is safe.
FIRST is manufactured in Europe and is approved by the "European Food Safety Authority" (EFSA).
The EFSA concluded in scientific research on the safety of caffeine (2015) that an intake of up to 400 mg per day poses no health risk.
This is consistent with the findings of the FDA, Health Canada and the Dutch Nutrition Center.
However, breastfeeding women, pregnant women and children up to 13 years of age are not advised to take caffeine products such as FIRST.
Is FIRST doping-free?
FIRST is doping-free.
In January 2004, WADA (World Anti Doping Agency) removed caffeine from the doping list. The IOC (International Olympics Committee) agreed to this.
NZVT Certificate
We have batches of our product tested and are in possession of the official NZVT (Nederlands Zekerheidssysteem Voedingssupplementen Topsport) stamp, which means that the tested batches of FIRST are guaranteed to be doping-free.
You can order the NZVT tested Red Mint Box here and the Blue Mint Box here. If you have any questions, please reach out to info@firstenergygum.com
At what age can I use FIRST?
According to the Dutch Nutrition Center, anyone aged 13 and up may consume caffeine.
They recommend that, until you reach 18, you should not take more than one caffeine-rich product per day.
Is FIRST suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes! FIRST is not tested on animals and contains no animal substances, making it the perfect energizer for anyone who eats vegetarian or vegan.
Is FIRST free of gluten, wheat, lactose and dairy?
Yes! FIRST is free of gluten, wheat, lactose and dairy.
Can I use FIRST even if I'm pregnant?
FIRST is not recommended by the Dutch Nutrition Center for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Sustainability
What are you doing for sustainability?
We're on a mission to not only boost your day but also make the world a little better. Curious how we're fulfilling our green dreams? Click here to read more about our sustainability strategy. Together, step by step, we're making the world greener.
Is your gum plastic-free?
Chewing gum has a rich history, with the earliest versions made from natural gum. Nowadays, synthetic gum is the norm. Some brands claim to be plastic-free and are made from natural ingredients. However, chemically speaking, we're still in the same boat. The polymers used are very similar regardless of the label. So, what does this mean for you and me? Whether you chew on a so-called plastic-free variant or traditional factory gum, when it comes to nature, there's little difference. A stray piece of gum on the pavement will last just as long in both cases. Chewing gum and nature don't go hand in hand. Chew in moderation and always dispose of your gum in the trash, plastic-free or not.
How sustainable is your packaging?
Food safety and shelf life are the primary considerations when choosing our packaging, currently made from various materials. However, at First Energy Gum, we're always on the move, seeking innovations to reduce our impact on the planet. We're transitioning to packaging made from a single material, also known as mono-material. This is easier to recycle, resulting in less demand for new raw materials. A high-five for the environment!
Where is First Energy Gum made?
Our gums are made in Europe, with a focus on sourcing ingredients as locally as possible. This isn't always feasible, and we sometimes need to look further afield, such as to countries like China. Our goal is to source as many ingredients locally as we can, and we're constantly working towards that. Through conducting a Life Cycle Assessment, we also gain insight into which steps in our production process have the most impact and how we can seek more sustainable alternatives. In short, together on the path to a more sustainable future, one gum at a time.
How should I dispose of your packaging & gum?
Chewing gum in nature is a major problem, so when you're done with your energetic chewing session, dispose of it properly in the trash. The packaging can be placed in the plastic waste. In most municipalities in the Netherlands, you can drop it off separately.
Shipping and returns
Is it possible to return my order?
You can return your order up to 14 days after receipt without reason if the seal of the pack is not broken. When the seal of the pack is broken, your order is final and cannot be returned.
More info on returning can be found in the terms and conditions.
How long will it take for my order to ship?
If you ordered on weekdays before 3:00 p.m., we will ship your FIRST the same day.
If you ordered on weekdays after 3:00 p.m., we will process your order the next business day*
PostNL will make sure you receive your order in 1 to 2 days.
Does it take very long for your order to arrive? Please contact us.
* Orders placed after Friday 15:00 will be shipped on Monday.
Which payment methods do I have?
In our express checkout you can order in a few seconds with Apple pay or Google pay.
After entering your contact and address information, you can also select the options iDeal, PayPal or credit card (American Express, Mastercard and Visa).
When paying for a subscription, you can unfortunately not use iDeal. Unfortunately we cannot change this
Which countries does FIRST deliver to?
We deliver anywhere in the world, from Amsterdam to Timbuktu. So wherever you are, we'll make sure you get the energy you need!
Subscription
Can I modify or pause my subscription?
Sure, no problem!
Whether you're going on vacation or just don't need an energy boost because you've been sleeping for a week, we understand. Just log in through the account page and change your subscription to your liking there.
How to cancel my subscription?
What a shame you want to cancel your subscription! But hey, we don't judge - at least not too harshly.
Log in to the account page and stop your subscription there. If you ever need a quick pick-me-up again, remember us - we're always here for you, with open arms and a with lots of gum!
Products
Can I still order the old product?
Unfortunately, it is no longer available.
What is the difference between Red and Blue Mint?
The only distinction between Red and Blue Mint is the taste. Red Mint has a filling with a hint of pomegranate, while Blue Mint immediately triggers a mint explosion. Now you may be wondering what a pomegranate tastes like!? We describe it as an energizing sensation that turns into a refreshing mint experience after a few minutes. So, if you like a colorful adventure in your mouth, choose Red Mint, but if you want to taste mint immediately, go for the cool Blue Mint with its blue filling.
Retailers
Can I sell First Energy Gum in my store?
Please fill out the form on this page and we reach out to you.