No, the safety of dried flowers is not universal; it depends entirely on the specific type of flower and its intended use.
Understanding Dried Flower Safety
Not all dried flowers are created equal regarding safety. As highlighted by sources, the safety level of dried flowers can range significantly.
Here's a breakdown based on how dried flowers are typically categorized for use:
- Edible Dried Flowers: Some varieties are perfectly safe to consume and can be added directly to food or drinks.
- Dried Flowers for Decoration Only: Certain dried flowers are safe to use for decorative purposes, such as adding a visual flair to a cake design. However, these are safe to put on your cake but not to eat. They should be removed before consumption.
- Highly Toxic Dried Flowers: Many flowers, when dried, retain their toxicity. These types are highly toxic and should not be used in ways that could lead to ingestion or prolonged skin contact.
Dried flowers are indeed a fun and creative way to add a boho or elegant touch to designs, such as cake decorations. Depending on how you want your design to look, dried flowers can be positioned and picked to fit the aesthetic, but always with careful consideration of their safety profile.
Therefore, it is crucial to identify the specific type of dried flower before using it, particularly if it will come into contact with food or skin, or if there is any risk of ingestion.
