Melamine dishes have been a good pick in homes and restaurants because they are durable, the dishes are light, and they are attractive. This special material has changed the way people are serving foods especially in restaurants, hotels and catering services. But what is melamine and why have melamine dinnerware become so popular? So, let us examine it in more detail.
What Makes Melamine Tableware Unique?
Melamine is a sort of organic compound which, once mixed with formaldehyde and other substances, develops a strong resin. This resin is shaped into different forms to produce exclusive kitchenware which includes plates, bowls, trays and cups among others. The end product is melamine tableware durable, chip proof and comes in a variety of colors, pattern and finish.
As opposed to the usual ceramic or glassware dishware, melamine provides a glossy finishing, and it is not prone to breakage. It also has this sleek look that could not be easily differentiated with porcelain, particularly in the up-scale designs. This would make melamine dinner sets perfect as serviceware at tented functions, buffet arrangement, and the demanding food serving areas where handling is likely to be many times.
Features and Benefits of Melamine Tableware
The ability of melamine tableware to be impervious to cracks and scratches is one of the outstanding characteristics. It is durable to rough use and has less chances of breaking due to falls. This is especially useful in the homes where children are living or in other outdoor activities such as picnic and barbecues. Melamine is less expensive in replacing crockery and dining ware frequently in a restaurant and cafe which saves cost in the long run.
Melamine is also fire resistant implying that it is capable of withstanding hot food without warping. It is, however, important to point out that melamine dishes are dishwasher-safe, but these dishes are not microwave safe. Direct heat of microwaves may damage the physical structure of the resin and that is why it is recommended to avoid direct heating of food inside melamine bowls or plates.
The other advantage is that it is light and therefore can be carried and used with ease, particularly in a great event or restaurant area. Melamine dishes are also stackable, which is useful where kitchen space is an issue.
Common Uses of Melamine Dinnerware
Make up a set of dinnerware Melamine dinnerware is ideal due to its granular surface which holds the color and texture very well Be used to make place markers It could be used to make place markers as it is convenient and easy to use the best dinnerware according to the front of the plate
The tableware that is melamine is frequently used in kitchens especially in residential and commercial. It is popular in homes in serving casual meals, children meals and outdoor dinings. The elegant appearance and practical functionality of melamine has been utilized in the restaurants, catering services and at hotels in the use of melamine plats, platters, melamine trays and servings buffet and event serving dishes.
Melamine serving trays and compartment plates are appreciated by the food industry in particular due to their effectiveness and presentation. Use of melamine in school cafeterias and hospitals is also attributed to the hygienic surface and cleaning purpose. As melamine is non-porous, it does not carry odors or flavors as this is a necessity in the food service.
Is Melamine Tableware Safe?
When addressing melamine kitchenware, safety is one of the issues. Based on the reports of FDA and other international food safety organisations, melamine tableware is supposed to be safe under normal operating conditions, to serve food in them. The most important safety principle is that melamine should not be used in microwave or should never be subjected to direct intense heat over a long period of time.
Melamine products are totally safe in everyday use; they can be used to serve hot or cold meals, to be washed in the dishwasher and to be kept in cupboards. Respectable manufacturers should also be able to conform to the food-grade standards, as well as make their products BPA-free, which would enhance their safety once again.
Melamine Tableware vs. Other Materials
Comparing melamine to any other material used in preparing tableware (ceramic, porcelain, or stainless steel), each product has its advantage. Ceramic and porcelain material is frail and easily breaks whereas stainless steel cannot provide the same visual appeal of colorful designs. Melamine has a compromise- it has looks of porcelain but having the hardness of plastic.
The melamine material is also cheaper compared to fine china or glass therefore it is affordable tableware when purchasing it in large quantities. Most hospitality entities choose to use melamine dishes and cups due to both types of advantages of practical use as well as to the aesthetic advantage of enhancing a clean and stylish display.
How to Maintain Melamine Dinnerware
When taken good care of, melamine dishes may survive years. To keep the smooth look on the melamine products, they should be cleaned using a soft sponge or cloth. Though they are easily cleanable in a dishwasher, do not use coarse scrubbing tools and detergents. Keep them in a dry place so as to avoid moisture accumulation in them and maintain quality with time.
Foods with a lot of acid should not be served long to avoid discoloration. Melamine is also stain resistant; some strong pigments can however produce some light marks when left on the surface too long. Removal of food residue can be done very quickly after meals so that your melamine tablewares still remain new.
Why Melamine Tableware is a Smart Choice
Its style, strength and versatility melamine tableware still enjoys immensely a prominent choice in the world kitchens. It is a combination of beauty and practicality, so it can be applied to recognition dinners, casual wear and high-volume hospitality.
Whether you are a house owner in need of reasonably priced easy-to-use, stylish dishware, or a restaurant owner interested in presenting serviceware that is durable and will last long, it is always recommended to use melamine dishes. As well as adhering to the principles of basic usage, melamine kitchenware represents a safe, smart and sustainable material.
