Despite being marketed as natural and a safer alternative to plastic, bamboo and other bio-based dishes could be releasing potentially harmful chemicals into food according to a new study conducted at the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague (UCT Prague).
Described in an article published in the journal Food Control, researchers discovered that a 32% of the 33 tested bio-based dishes contained melamine which was released into food simulants at levels exceeding the legal limit. UHPLC-HRMS/MS analysis further lead confirmed the melamine was present almost exclusively in those containing bamboo.
To simulate real-world use the team conducted migration tests which revealed concerning results. Six of the bamboo products tested were found to be non-compliant with EU regulations due to releasing more than 2.5mg/kg melamine. Further testing revealed melamine leaching into common beverages including tea and orange juice, demonstrating a potential direct exposure route.
"Our findings are a critical warning for consumers who choose bio-based tableware believing it is a safer, more sustainable option," said Professor Jana Hajslova, a leading researcher at UCT Prague's Department of Food Analysis and Nutrition.
"The 'natural' label can be dangerously misleading. Many of these products are essentially plastic dishes made from melamine-formaldehyde resin containing bamboo filler. Our research shows this combination can accelerate the polymer's degradation and increase the migration of harmful substances like melamine, especially into hot or acidic foods and drinks."
The study calls for increased vigilance and market surveillance to protect consumers from persistent safety concerns in bio-based tableware.