What Is Melamine Made Of?
Melamine is made of a chemical compound that is organic-based and nitrogen-rich. Its durable and heat-resistant qualities make it perfect for producing strong plastic dinnerware, laminates, and glues. Manufacturers create melamine`s signature durability by blending melamine resin with strengthening materials. You can purchase melamine tableware in virtually every color, design, and shape.
Melamine Safety
The affordability and durability of melamine dishes are undeniably attractive, but safety concerns make some question whether a different type of dinnerware is a better investment. From plating to microwave use, we answer the most frequently asked questions about melamine safety in the sections below.
Melamine FAQs
Trying to decide if melamine dinnerware is right for your business? We answer common questions about melamine dishes to help you determine whether you should invest in melamine plastic products.
How Does Melamine Affect Presentation?
Bright, chip-free melamine tableware can improve your customers` perception of your business. According to a third-party survey, plateware that is clean, bright, and chip-free improves diners` overall perception of eateries. Participants did not state a preference for China, but agreed that paper plates are undesirable. Since China chips easily and consumers dislike paper products, durable melamine tableware is a practical solution. If you select a color or pattern that fades over time, melamine dinnerware is inexpensive to replace.
There are dozens of designer melamine lines created to mimic the look of fine China and other ceramic dinnerware. Available in both solid color and patterned designs, you will find the perfect high-end melamine dinnerware to match your restaurant theme. Because melamine is so versatile, you can get the same visually appealing presentation from melamine that you can from other materials like porcelain, China, or even slate.
Is
Melamine Tolerant to Hot and Cold Uses?
Melamine plastic is tolerant to both hot
and cold use. It holds temperatures longer than other types of plastic,
but it also takes a long time for its temperature to change. This is because
melamine is an insulator, not a conductor. Melamine will stay cool to the touch
when serving hot foods because the food does not produce enough heat for a long
enough period to change the temperature of the material itself. This protects
restaurant servers and diners from burn hazards associated with hot plates and
other serving ware. Thanks to its heat-resistant properties, melamine is also
great for kitchen tools used for handling hot soups and boiling water.
Because melamine is such a great
insulator, it`s also ideal for cold food and buffet displays. Melamine food
pans are perfect for deli displays, butcher shop cases, and salad bars. Place
melamine in ice-filled containers to keep plated items cool at catered events.
Is
Melamine Breakable?
Melamine dinnerware is extremely difficult
to break, but there have been instances of chipping around the edges when it`s
subjected to harsh use. Unlike typical China or porcelain, melamine will not
shatter if dropped and is less likely to chip than other traditional dinnerware
materials. Look for melamine dinnerware models with reinforced rims and feet
for additional durability.
Where
Is Melamine Used?
Thanks to its durable, lightweight
construction, melamine is a popular choice for a variety of commercial
settings, like dining halls, daycare facilities, and assisted living
communities. However, you can find designer melamine dinnerware that looks just
like handcrafted ceramic for sophisticated restaurants. The low risk of
breakage makes melamine plates an ideal choice for restaurants that serve
appetizers poolside, on a rooftop, or at the beach. Wood-finished melamine
serving trays are perfect for serving charcuterie because they have the
same rustic appeal as a true wood board but are dishwasher safe.
There`s
melamine tableware designed for just about every application, from contemporary
catered events to Mexican restaurants. Melamine molcajete bowls have the same
mortar and pestle look as traditional salsa and guacamole bowls, without the
weight and expense. For your Chinese restaurant or hibachi grill, check out the
traditional decorations that adorn our Asian-inspired dinnerware collection.
From bistros to barbecue shacks, you can find melamine dishes that suits the
decor of nearly any food service establishment.
Is
Melamine Expensive?
When you compare melamine to traditional
tableware, it is typically the most affordable option. The exact cost of
melamine tableware varies by brand, design, and pattern. Because melamine
dinnerware has a much lower replacement rate than China, investing in melamine
dinnerware saves you money both up-front and long term. Melamine has an annual
replacement rate of around 10 to 20%, whereas China has a replacement rate
between 50 and 150%. While China and ceramic dinnerware shatter when dropped,
melamine`s durable construction stands up to use and abuse. No more replacing
plates, cups, bowls, and other serving ware after every accident.
Melamine is an attractive option for any
setting, and a wise choice for dining halls and high-volume operations. Using
melamine in your business reduces the frequency of dishware breakage, and its
heat resistance prevents customers and staff from having to handle hot serving
ware. For a versatile dinnerware material, use melamine in your foodservice
establishment.