Melamine has been used safely for over four decades in dinnerware and other household products and has been approved by the FDA for use in dinnerware. According to the DSM Co., which manufactures Melamine, it has the same toxicity levels as table salt and beer.

On the Other: Melamine Powder is Dangerous

Melamine is a formed by mixing urea and formaldehyde under heat and pressure. While Melamine itself is not toxic, when it is introduced inside the body it can form kidney stones and cause renal failure. When Melmac, a powdered form of melamine, was added to baby formula powder and other food products it caused death and sickness of over 1,000 babies and the death of several pets. Overheating of Melamine products, such as by microwaving at high temperatures, can cause leaching and release toxins into the food.

Bottom Line

Avoid heating Melamine products in the microwave to avoid leaching and always hands wash these types of dishes. If you can't avoid microwaving foods on dinnerware, choose safer alternatives such as glass or phthalate-free products. For safety, discard Melamine products with scratches or damage.

Source:

SafeMomma.com: What is Melamine?

Soft Landing: Melamine in China's Milk vs Melamine Dinnerware

Time Magazine: Brief History of Melamine

Resource:

Melamine DSM: Health & Safety Aspects

National Toxology Program: Melamine/Cyanuric Acid