Is Melamine Tableware Harmful? All Info

Melamine – a substance with pitfalls

Melamine tableware is made from melamine resin, which is obtained by adding formaldehyde to melamine.

• Melamine tableware is often marketed as being microwave safe or advertised as being heat resistant. The material itself meets these requirements in that it does not melt. However, it then becomes a health risk.
• From a temperature of 70 degrees, melamine and formaldehyde are released from the dishes and get into the food. Since formaldehyde evaporates, it can be absorbed through the nasal mucous membranes.
• In order to reach this critical temperature, it is enough to pour hot tea into a melamine cup. Contrary to the manufacturer’s instructions, melamine tableware is also not suitable for the microwave.
• The combination of melamine crockery and acidic foods, such as salads dressed with vinegar or tomato soup, is also of concern. This also applies to high-fat or salty foods. With prolonged contact, melamine and formaldehyde are released into the food.

Melamine crockery: Light, colorful – and harmful to health

When heated, the harmful substances melamine and formaldehyde are released from the melamine resin.

• Formaldehyde passes directly into the food and also irritates the nasal mucosa as a released gas. According to current knowledge, the substance can probably trigger cancer in the nasopharynx in humans. In any case, it irritates the airways and can therefore cause breathing difficulties.
• In the case of melamine, there are some indications that this substance is also carcinogenic. Animal experiments showed that melamine attacks and damages the bladder and kidneys.
• Melamine and formaldehyde aren’t the only questionable substances in melamine tableware. The substance nonylphenol is added to ensure that it does not deform even under strong sunlight. This industrial toxin can not only affect the endocrine system but also cause allergies.
• Putting the health risks aside, melamine tableware is definitely bad for the environment. It doesn’t break – good for the consumer, bad for nature. So far, no effective method has been found to recycle melamine.