Why in heaven's name would I find melamine (illegal, correct me if I'm wrong) in two restaurants in Salt Lake

Question

Why in heaven's name would I find melamine (illegal, correct me if I'm wrong) in two restaurants in Salt Lake City?

I think I spelled it correctly.

It's a derivitive of plastic that was found in dog and cat food and caused kidney problems in animals and has been found to be fatal as well.

It's ridiculous that a Thai restaurant (off 5000S and Bangerter) and an otherwise great restaurant (off 13400South and Bangerter) should be serving garnishings with this non-edible item.

2nd Question: How do you blog this or get it noticed? I couldn't find an editorial section online at KSL.com (major network) or the Salt Lake Tribune.

Help! Need FDA officials.......

Gee!

Grossed out in Salt Lake City, picking through my meal,

~nikkieastcoastgirl

Answer 1

Don't depend on the FDA for ANYTHING anymore! The Supreme Court recently gave a ruling that says, if you are hurt by anything that's been approved by the FDA, you cannot sue the manufacturer.

Answer 2

You're wrong.

Melamine is an extremely common compound.  When combined with formaldehyde, melamine forms melamine resin, a very hard thermoplastic commonly used in dishes and cups.  Melamine resin is harmless, and products made from it are commonly labeled simply "melamine."  It's not the same thing as what ended up in the pet food.  That was the feeder chemical 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine.  It's confusing, but I don't think the FDA will be interested...