How much do you know about melamine?
Melamine has long been a topic of concern, especially after the 2008 scandal that shocked the world. Originally published by Science and Technology Daily on October 8, 2008, this technical article highlights the dangers of melamine and its deceptive use in food products. Written by Tang Ting Yuan and Zhiyong, it provides an in-depth look at the chemical properties, toxicity, and detection methods of melamine.
Melamine is a white, crystalline substance with no odor. It dissolves in hot water but only slightly in cold water. While it's considered low in toxicity, it's highly alkaline (pH=8). Its primary use is as a raw material for producing melamine-formaldehyde resin, which is used in various industries such as plastics, coatings, and textiles due to its durability and heat resistance.
However, when ingested in large quantities, melamine can be harmful. Long-term exposure may lead to kidney and bladder damage, including the formation of stones, which can even increase the risk of cancer. Studies from the 1990s warned about these risks, and more recently, pet food contamination cases in the U.S. confirmed the dangers of melamine in animal feed.
When melamine is added to milk, it reacts with cyanuric acid during processing, forming insoluble crystals that can accumulate in the kidneys. These crystals can cause blockages, especially in infants, whose renal tubules are narrower and more vulnerable. This is why many children who consumed contaminated milk powder suffered from kidney stones.
Melamine is often called "pseudo-protein" because it contains a high amount of nitrogen—66% compared to protein’s maximum of 30%. Since many dairy companies use the Kjeldahl method to measure protein content based on nitrogen levels, adding melamine can artificially inflate the results. This makes it an attractive but dangerous additive for unscrupulous producers.
Detecting melamine requires specialized equipment like liquid chromatography. The FDA and Chinese authorities use hydrophilic columns for accurate testing. However, not all dairy plants have access to this technology, and some facilities rely on outdated or insufficient methods. In response, cities like Chongqing have invested in advanced testing equipment to ensure food safety.
If a child has consumed melamine-contaminated milk, parents should stop the product immediately and consult a doctor. Urinalysis and ultrasound scans can help detect kidney stones. Early treatment is crucial to prevent long-term damage. Encouraging fluid intake can also help flush out toxins and reduce stone formation.
In addition to milk products, melamine can be found in certain powdered foods like instant coffee, tea mixes, and desserts. Some kitchenware made from melamine may release harmful substances when heated, so caution is advised.
To address the limitations of the Kjeldahl method, scientists recommend using trichloroacetic acid to precipitate proteins before measuring nitrogen content. This method, widely accepted internationally, helps distinguish between real protein and melamine.
The 2008 melamine scandal was a wake-up call for food safety regulations worldwide. It highlighted the need for better testing, transparency, and consumer awareness. Today, stricter measures and advanced detection techniques help prevent such incidents, but vigilance remains essential.
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