Melamine, a toxic chemical used in making plastics and fertilizers, was recently identified in Chinese infant formula. The substance has been used by Chinese businesses to artificially boost protein readings in ingredients for animal feeds. In 2007, pet foods containing melamine-laced ingredients that sickened and killed cats and dogs were traced to China. Now, tainted infant formula has sickened thousands of babies in China and caused at least three infant deaths, according to reports.
Despite the recall of 700 tons of tainted product by the Chinese government, concerns linger that the formula may surface in Asian and ethnic markets around the globe. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration stated no infant formula from China has been approved for import. The agency, however, has advised consumers to be cautious as limited quantities might have illegally found their way to ethnic grocery stores.
Employing the FDA-approved “GC-MS Method for Screening and Confirmation of Melamine and Related Analogs,” Silliker chemists can provide you with accurate and reliable results for melamine in various matrices. Results, at an established minimum reporting level (MRL) of 10 µg/g, are available from our ISO 17025 accredited laboratories in ten days.
With locations worldwide, Silliker is a trusted and professional resource for your melamine testing needs. Contact your local country representative for more information