How far is it safe to eat food served on melamine dinnerware?

With the China melamine scare, people are now concerned about using melamine dinnerware. For a long time people have been using the melamine plates, cups, utensils, and trays, which are convenient. But people are now reconsidering if they should continue using the melamine dinnerware. Those families that have kids are especially over concerned about this mater. But do you know that melamine in plates and bowls differs from mixing melamine into the food itself? However, melamine dinnerware is safe to use as long as it isn’t overheated in a microwave or on a stove.

As it is stable and inert, people like to eat food served on melamine dinnerware. Still you can rely on it because it is safe. For your baby or your family members, it will not cause any harm. While making baby some companies use melamine powder as a protein source in food additives. This causes digest problem among children. On the other hand, melamine dinnerware combines with formaldehyde to form a fire resistant and heat tolerant thermoset plastic. Hence melamine becomes an important ingredient in production of kitchen utensils and dishware but this basic ingredient won’t pose a health risk till it is not high heated in oven and microwave.

So knowing some basic things you can ensure safety in your family.

Do not place melamine dinnerware in ovens and microwaves. For this you can look out for safety labels on the dinnerware.

The acidity of acidic foods may corrode the surface, which may cause chemical residue to leach into the food.

Buy quality, well-known brand melamine dishware even if they cost you more because cheap melamine wares available in the market which may be fake melamine or do not comply with the safety standards.

To sum up, if melamine is not “baked”, it will not pose any problem to your health. So, use good quality melamine dinnerware and ensure safety to your family.