The present invention is a method for producing a chewing gum with a zein coated delayed release high-potency sweetener. In accordance with the invention, the zein coating is modified so as to be softer so that the sweetener particles are less crunchy and perceptible in the chewing gum. The process begins by mixing a quantity of zein, a solvent for the zein, and a water soluble modified cellulose compound, such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, together to form a modified zein solution. The amount of the inclusion material is preferably about 5 to about 40 percent by weight of the zein. This modified zein solution is applied to a high-potency sweetener and then dried to produce the delayed release sweetener particles. These particles are then added to a chewing gum formulation.