A non-stick chewing gum that can be easily removed from pavements, shoes and clothes has been cleared for sale in the United States, its British maker said on Friday.

Start-up company Revolymer expects the gum, which was pioneered by polymer researchers at the University of Bristol, to be on shop shelves on both sides of the Atlantic in 2011.

Traditional chewing gums are made from synthetic latex, which degrades very slowly and is strongly adhesive. The new gum adds a special polymer to modify its properties, making it far less sticky and removable from many surfaces with water.

Revolymer Chief Executive Roger Pettman said European food approval was expected shortly.

The company’s backers include IP Group Plc, which holds 24.5 percent directly and through venture capital funds that it manages.