 | About melamine |
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Melamine is a nitrogen-rich organic compound, with the chemical formula C3
H6N6, which is normally used as an industrial chemical
in plastics and glues. It is sometimes fraudulently added to food and feed
products to increase the apparent protein content, as protein concentrations
are typically measured by analysis of nitrogen. Intake of melamine has been
linked to kidney stones and other health problems.
The recent health scare in China over powdered milk has raised concerns about
possible melamine contamination in products on the European market. Although
the EU does not import milk or other dairy produce from China, processed foods
such as biscuits and chocolates might have traces of milk powder. The European
Commission consequently decided that composite products, including feed, that
contain milk products originating in or consigned from China shall be checked,
including laboratory analysis (Commission Decision
2008/798/EC). Products containing more than 2.5 mg / kg are to be
immediately destroyed.
In response to this issue, the JRC-IRMM has reviewed existing analytical
methods for the detection of melamine in food and feed, and is now organising
a proficiency test to benchmark laboratories ability to detect melamine in
food and feed. This website will continuously evolve in response to the
melamine situation, and relevant stakeholders are invited to contribute to
this website via .
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Last Update 09/12/2008
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