For most parents, pacifiers, bottles, and baby products are simply everyday essentials — but for a small number of people, the natural material behind some of them can cause concern. Natural rubber latex, loved by many for its softness and elasticity, may trigger allergic reactions in rare cases. In fact, studies show that latex allergy affects only 0.8–4.3% of the general population worldwide [1,2,4], making it an uncommon but important allergy to understand
What is latex allergy?
Natural rubber latex is a natural material made from the sap of the rubber tree. Some people’s immune systems react to the proteins in this sap, which causes a latex allergy
Which products can cause latex allergy?
Any product containing latex can cause a reaction. Common examples include rubber gloves, elastic bands, pacifiers, condoms and balloons.
What are the symptoms of latex allergy?
If latex comes into contact with the skin of someone who’s allergic to latex, symptoms may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Hives
- Eczema
Some people may also experience reactions after eating certain fruits and vegetables, because
the proteins in these foods resemble those in latex [1].
How is latex allergy treated?
The most effective way to manage a latex allergy is to avoid latex altogether. Choosing products made from alternative materials, such as silicone, can help reduce the risk of reactions.
Is latex allergy hereditary?
Latex allergy itself is not hereditary [1]. However, the tendency to develop allergies in general can run in families. If a parent has a latex allergy, it is recommended that their child avoids frequent contact with latex as a precaution [3].
How common is latex allergy?
Generally, latex allergy is rare. Data analysis suggests that the average latex allergy prevalence among the general population worldwide is 0,8 - 4.3%. [1,2,4].
How BIBS communicates about latex
As part of BIBS product compliance, we provide information on all relevant products stating, "Produced from Natural Rubber Latex". This ensures that parents are informed about the latex composition of products, allowing them to take necessary precautions in case they or their child have a latex allergy.
References:
[1] https://www.sundhed.dk/borger/patienthaandbogen/allergi/sygdomme/oevrige-sygdomme/latexallergi/ Accessed 02-24
[2] https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/indoors/food_safety/latex/ Accessed 02-24
[3] https://babyinstituttet.dk/latexallergi Accessed 02-24
[4] Wu M, McIntosh J, Liu J. Current prevalence rate of latex allergy: why it remains a problem? J Occup Health. 2016;58:138–144. doi: 10.1539/joh.15-0275-RA https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5356959/ Accessed 02-24
