About Melamine Dinnerware Safety

Melamine dinnerware has been around for ages. It was a big hit in the 1950s and recently regained popularity in the last 10 years. After the discovery of melamine in dog food and baby formula in 2007, many people have questioned the safety of melamine dinnerware.

Avoid High Temperatures

If exposed to high temperatures, melamine can possibly release toxins into your food. Melamine is not recommended for use in the microwave or dishwasher. When extremely acidic food is heated to a temperature greater than 160 degrees it increases the amount of melamine that is released. You should never boil anything in a melamine dish or heat it in the oven. 

Not Recommended for Infants or Toddlers

Since most melamine dinnerware contains some amount of formaldehyde, it is prudent to err on the side of caution and avoid serving food to infants or toddlers on these surfaces. Since young children aren't quite adept at handling their dinnerware with care, it is more likely to become scratched or broken.

Discard if cracked or damaged

Melamine dinnerware should always be thoroughly inspected for hairline cracks and fractures. If you notice even the smallest imperfection, you should promptly discard that piece of dinnerware. Melamine that has been dropped or heated can crack and may release small amounts of the toxic chemical melamine.

Hand Wash

To err on the side of caution, all melamine dinnerware should be carefully hand washed. Use warm water and dish soap to clean any dinnerware that has been used. Never use a dishwasher to clean melamine dinnerware because of the high temperature wash.