CAS 108-78-1 Melamine is a chemical that has been licensed for a number of industrial purposes in the United States, though it is most commonly associated with melamine dinnerware. Melamine chemical is produced accidentally when processing coal. Plastics, industrial coatings, and paper goods are just some of the many products that benefit from their incorporation into their production processes. It is utilized as a fertilizer in various nations but not in the United States.
Is melamine chemical harmful to humans?
Melamine is low in acute toxicity to humans, but risks depend on exposure:
- Short-term: Inhaling dust may irritate the respiratory tract; skin/eye contact can cause mild irritation.
- Long-term high-dose ingestion: May form kidney crystals/stones (mainly from illegal addition to food/feed, which is banned globally).
- Food contact: Compliant melamine tableware is safe for cold/warm food (avoid microwaving, boiling or long contact with acidic food).
Precautions: Industrial use needs ventilation and PPE; household use avoids high temp/acidic food.