Bamboo plastic in cups and plates is illegal

Melamine plastic has been popular for several years, but if bamboo is added to the melamine plastic, it is not legal, the EU Commission ruled in the autumn of 2020. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration subsequently found examples of bamboo melamine on the Danish market. Sales of bamboo melamine have also been seen in other EU countries, which is why the EU has launched coordinated controls in the area.

The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration encourages anyone who comes across bamboo-melamine tableware in Danish stores to contact the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration and to inform the retailer that this type of product is not permitted.

The reason why it is not legal to add bamboo to cups and plates is that bamboo is not approved as a filler in the products. Furthermore, a number of German studies have shown that there may be a risk that bamboo melamine releases the harmful substances melamine and formaldehyde into, for example, coffee and soup. Formaldehyde can be carcinogenic. Melamine can damage the bladder and kidneys.

If you want to know more about product safety, you can read more here.