So-called eco-friendly tableware made from bamboo and other biomaterials — often advertised as a safe alternative to plastic — may actually release potentially harmful chemicals into food. This conclusion was reached by researchers from the Prague University of Chemistry and Technology, whose study was published in the journal Food Control.

The scientists tested 33 samples of biodegradable tableware — cups, bowls, and children’s sets — purchased in the Czech Republic, the UK, and China. Nearly one-third of them contained melamine, an industrial compound that can migrate into food when exposed to heat or acid.

“The label ‘natural product’ can be extremely misleading. Most of these items are actually plastic made from melamine-formaldehyde resin mixed with bamboo powder. This combination accelerates polymer degradation and increases melamine release, especially in hot or acidic drinks,” explained Professor Jana Gajslová, head of the study.

In six of the tested products, the melamine concentration exceeded permissible limits. The researchers detected its migration even into common beverages such as hot tea with lemon and orange juice.

Although the use of bamboo in plastic tableware has been banned in the EU since 2021, the researchers note that such products are still freely sold and often labeled as “100% bamboo” or “biodegradable.”

In addition to melamine, the analysis revealed other contaminants: pesticide residues in grain-based tableware and traces of disinfectants in bamboo products.

The authors emphasized that the findings are a serious warning for consumers. They called for stronger regulation and testing of biodegradable tableware to ensure compliance with hygiene standards and to prevent health risks and misleading advertising.