Some aspects of biochemical changes due to maturation of acid and papain treated Hevea latex

Abstract

Biochemical changes that occur due to maturation of acid and papain treated Hevea latex were investigated. An increase in bacterial population in latex of both acid and papain treated, was significantly higher than that in acid treated latex. Higher microbial activity correlated with decreases in carbohydrate and amino acid levels in serum. Maturation of papain treated latex, enhances protein digestion and reduction in ash content without any adverse effect on major raw rubber properties.