Vytex Natural Rubber Latex

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Vytex Natural Rubber Latex (NRL) is a brand of natural latex made by Vystar Corporation. It’s an alternative to petroleum-based synthetics and ordinary (Hevea) latex. Vytex NRL typically has about 90% fewer antigenic proteins than standard Hevea latex, which can lower the risk of latex allergies. It offers barrier protection, elasticity, a good feel, strength, comfort and a better fit. There are two grades: Vytex high ammonia (HA) for surgical and medical items like gloves, catheters and balloons, and Vytex low ammonia (LA) for adhesives and foam products.

In May 2009, the U.S. FDA cleared a condom made with Vytex that contains less than 2 micrograms per square decimeter of antigenic proteins.

Vytex was created in 2005 by a team of scientists, including Travis Honeycutt, who holds more than 100 patents. Vystar owns U.S. patents and others around the world. Vytex NRL is produced by Revertex Malaysia and distributed by Centrotrade Minerals and Metals. In May 2018, Vystar acquired the assets of UV Flu Technologies.

Allergies to latex come from the proteins in natural rubber latex, which are common in healthcare settings due to frequent exposure. Vytex NRL is produced from Hevea brasiliensis trees in Southeast Asia. Latex is collected, treated with ammonia to prevent coagulation, then processed. Aluminium hydroxide is added to bind and remove antigenic proteins, helping keep them in suspension so they can be removed. Vytex samples are tested with standard methods to measure protein levels, and products made from Vytex generally show very low levels of antigenic protein. Overall, Vytex NRL typically has about 90% fewer antigenic proteins than ordinary Hevea latex.