melamine

/ˈmɛləmiːn/
noun
  1. A hard, durable plastic material used to make dishes, countertops, and other household items.
    • The kitchen counter was covered with a melamine laminate that resisted stains.
    • The picnic set was made of melamine, so it was lightweight and unbreakable.
    • Melamine plates are popular for camping because they don't shatter.
  2. A chemical compound (C3H6N6) used in making plastics, adhesives, and fertilizers, sometimes illegally added to food to increase protein readings.
    • Regulators test dairy products for melamine contamination.
    • The scandal involved melamine being added to baby formula to fake higher protein levels.
    • Melamine is a key ingredient in some industrial glues and laminates.
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