Melamine

Melamine is a hard, durable, and BPA-free plastic resin used to create tableware that mimics the look of ceramic or porcelain while being virtually unbreakable. It is the gold standard for high-volume environments, outdoor dining, and children's dinnerware.

Unlike traditional plastics, melamine is a thermosetting compound, meaning it is highly resistant to heat (up to a certain point) and chemical degradation.

• Durability: Shatterproof and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for high-traffic environments and household use with children.
• Aesthetic Versatility: Can be manufactured in any color or pattern, often mimicking the texture of Stoneware or marble.
• Heat Retention: It is an excellent insulator, staying cool to the touch even when serving hot foods.
• BPA-Free: Most modern high-quality melamine is certified BPA-free and food-safe.

• Temperature Limits: While heat-resistant, melamine should typically not be exposed to temperatures exceeding 70°C (158°F) to 100°C (212°F) depending on the quality.
• No Microwave or Oven: Never use melamine in a microwave or oven. High heat can cause the material to degrade and potentially migrate chemicals into food.
• Avoid Scouring Pads: Use soft sponges to clean; abrasive pads can strip the protective glaze and lead to staining.

• Dishwasher Safe: Most melamine is dishwasher safe (top and bottom racks).
• Stain Removal: For stubborn coffee or tea stains, use a specialized oxygen-based soaking solution rather than bleach.
• Phasing Out: If a melamine plate becomes heavily scratched or charred, it should be replaced to ensure food safety.

• Zak Designs (USA) - A leader in colorful, fun, and functional melamine dinnerware for all ages.
• Le Creuset (France) - While famous for cast iron, they offer premium melamine collections for outdoor use.
• Cambro (USA) - The industry standard for durable melamine products in professional food service.
• RICE (Denmark) - Known for vibrant, high-quality melamine with a focus on ethical production.