Melamine is a chemical used in the manufacturing of plastic dishes, cups, and other tableware. It gives the dishes a harder, more durable feel than standard plastic. Melamine dishes were popular when introduced during the 1950s and 60s, but when Corelle arrived on the scene in the early 1970s, Melamine faded into the background.

While Corelle is still highly desired today because of its thin design and delicate porcelain look and feel, Melamine has once again regained its earlier popularity and has taken the general mercantile by storm. It's the abundance and variety of colors and patterns, durability, and affordability of these plastic dishes that make them an appealing option.

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Melamine Health Concerns

Melamine manufactured-dishes have been deemed safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within certain guidelines. According to the FDA, safety tests were conducted by The Taiwan Consumers' Foundation of tableware made in China. The results showed that during the manufacturing process, a small residue of the Melamine compound could remain in the dish and, under certain conditions, could migrate slowly to foods that come into contact with it.

Under most conditions, the amount of Melamine that migrates from the dish into the food is so low that it poses no health risks. The exception is when serving highly acidic foods, especially when heated, or when serving food or drink to infants. Infants are more susceptible to Melamine poisoning, and using melamine cups to serve formula and milk should be avoided.

While Melamine poisoning is extremely rare, it can lead to kidney stones and kidney failure.

How to Properly Use Melamine

The FDA has conducted its own safety and risk assessment and concluded that Melamine tableware does not pose a health risk, but they do recommend care when using it. Adhere to the following tips to ensure you are using Melamine dishware in the safest way possible.