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Four children have died in China after consuming milk that contained the chemical melamine. Thousands of children have been hospitalised with kidney problems and more than 100 are in a serious condition.

Chiang Mai Public Health officer Manorom Sinthoparchakul said so far Thailand had not detected smuggled milk from China, but the Food and Drug Administration had not extended inspections to confectionery.

He said Chinesemade assorted crackers, cereals and candies were popular among consumers in the North.

"Health officials in Chiang Mai are gathering information and will encourage the Public Health Ministry to warn people," he said.

Border officials are on the lookout for contaminated products.

Volunteers are making sure people know about the risky products.

The milk scare has boosted sales of Thailandmade products along the Burmese border in Ranong.

Trader Damrong Kamornmapbut told The Nation Burmese consumers had lost confidence in products from China. Sales of products from this country have benefited from the destruction of factories in Burma after recent natural disasters, too.

Goods from China are cheaper but their poor quality - especially appliances - see people buying Thai.

Chiang Rai customs officer said milk for animals only was imported from China and inspections showed it to be clean.