1 October 2007

PENANG: They may look good on the dining table, but the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has warned the public against using melamine tableware. 

CAP president S. M. Mohamed Idris said studies conducted abroad revealed that melamine tableware contained substances that were hazardous to health.

“Many are not aware that melamine melts when exposed to high temperatures, causing parts of the substance to enter our body along with the food. 

“Regular ingestion of melamine can lead to cancer, skin allergies and blindness,” he said at a press conference here. 

Melamine, also known as thermo set plastic, is made of urea, an organic compound, and formaldehyde, a chemical widely used to manufacture household products. 

Mohamed Idris said melamine tableware was popular and commonly used to serve hot food in households, restaurants and food stalls. 

“We are calling on consumers to refrain from using melamine tableware and use safer tableware made from glass or ceramic,” he said. 

He added that CAP was also urging the government to consider banning the use of melamine in tableware production.