‘Nothing says love like chemicals’: Valentine’s roses often covered in pesticides, testing finds

The Guardian World

by Damien Gayle

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Environmental campaigners are urging consumers to avoid purchasing roses this Valentine’s Day due to alarming levels of pesticide contamination found in imported bouquets. Testing conducted on flowers arriving in the Netherlands, a major European flower import hub, revealed that roses frequently contain high residues of neurotoxic and reproductive toxins. These findings come despite strict EU and UK regulations banning many of these chemicals. The investigation focused on laboratory testing of various floral imports, with roses showing particularly concerning results. Researchers discovered that roses often had significantly higher concentrations of harmful pesticides compared to other types of flowers. Many of the chemicals detected are classified as hazardous due to their potential impact on human health and ecosystems. This issue is not limited to Europe but has global implications for agriculture and trade practices. The widespread use of banned pesticides in regions where flowers are cultivated highlights gaps in international regulatory frameworks and raises questions about the safety of imported produce. Consumers worldwide should be aware of the risks associated with certain flower imports, particularly during peak seasons like Valentine’s Day when demand for roses is highest. The findings underscore broader concerns about pesticide use in global agriculture and its impact on both human health and the environment. As awareness grows, consumers are encouraged to seek alternatives, such as locally grown or sustainably sourced flowers, to reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals while supporting more responsible farming practices.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/14/2026