health
February 14, 2026
‘Nothing says love like chemicals’: Valentine’s roses often covered in pesticides, testing finds
Bouquets imported to Europe found to be heavily contaminated, often with chemicals banned in EU and UK
TL;DR
- Roses tested in the Netherlands were found to be heavily contaminated with pesticides.
- Red roses showed the highest residues, with one bunch containing 26 different pesticides, half of which are banned in the EU.
- Chemicals found include neurotoxins, reproductive toxins, carcinogens, and endocrine disruptors.
- Many of these chemicals are banned for use in the UK and EU, but are used in producer countries due to laxer regulations.
- Valentine's Day is the busiest period for the flower industry, with around 200 million roses produced for Europe alone.
- More than half of roses sold in the UK are sourced from the Netherlands, with many originating from countries like Colombia, Kenya, and Ethiopia.
- Pesticide Action Network Netherlands (Pan-NL) tested 17 bouquets, finding no pesticide-free options.
- Recommendations include choosing organically grown seasonal flowers or ornamental plants.
- Disposal advice for contaminated bouquets is to use residual waste, not compost or organic bins.
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