Ammelide

Ammelide is a chemical compound with the formula C3H5N3O2. It is a member of the melamine family of compounds, which are derivatives of melamine. Ammelide is structurally related to ammeline and melamine, differing in the number of hydroxyl groups attached to the triazine ring. Specifically, ammelide has one hydroxyl group, while ammeline has two, and melamine has none.

Ammelide is an organic compound that can be found as a white crystalline solid. It is sparingly soluble in water. Its synthesis can be achieved through the hydrolysis of melamine or ammeline. It can also be produced by the heating of urea.

In terms of its chemical properties, ammelide exhibits amphoteric behavior, meaning it can act as both an acid and a base. It is relatively stable under normal conditions.

Historically, ammelide and other melamine derivatives gained notoriety due to their adulteration in food products, particularly infant formula and pet food, in the late 2000s. This adulteration was done to artificially increase the apparent protein content, as both melamine and its derivatives contain a high proportion of nitrogen. Consumption of ammelide, especially in conjunction with cyanuric acid, can lead to the formation of kidney stones and kidney failure in both humans and animals. Consequently, regulations have been put in place to monitor and limit the presence of melamine and related compounds in food.