An effervescent composition having an effervescent agent, comprising an acid and a base, and a sensory modifier, such that when the effervescent composition is added to an aqueous solution, saltiness of the aqueous solution is reduced relative to saltiness of the aqueous solution when an equivalent effervescent composition lacking the sensory modifier is added.

Long-lasting sweetener formulations which comprise at least one encapsulated sweetener compound and are suitable for use in confectionery products are disclosed. In certain, non-limiting embodiments of the disclosed formulations, the sweetener compound is stevioside, rebaudioside A, rebaudioside B, rebaudioside C, rebaudioside D, rebaudioside E, rebaudioside F, rebaudioside M, steviobioside, rubusoside and dulcoside A. In certain embodiments, the disclosed formulations provide enhanced sweetness duration for chewing gum.