Melamine, organic compound, is an industrial chemical in the manufacture of plastics. It hardens with heat when combined with formaldehyde. Melamine contains 66% nitrogen.It was first synthesized by the German chemist Justus von Liebig in 1834. It was used as a non-protein nitrogen source in cattle in 1958; it was decided to be banned in 1978 when its use in baby foods, plastic toys and animal feeds became widespread.
Melamine is non-toxic with little variation. However, it can cause kidney problems and kidney failure in more advanced stages in people with low immune systems, such as young children. It is dangerous for adults only when taken at high concentrations.
Some dairy manufacturers mix melamine with milk because it costs less. However, such a method has serious health hazards.