I can be white,
blue, red or striped,
spattered and splattered
smeared, poked or wiped.
In the beginning I’m near
but squashed at the end,
folks grab me with fists
they twist and they bend.
Sometimes I’m hated
ignored or abused.
It doesn’t matter to me
as long as I’m used.
I’m good for your health,
without me there’s trouble.
My workmate’s all bristles
and he calls me bubbles
Spearmint or peppermint
are my favourite tastes.
Can you guess what I am?