Safe Use of Non-Edible Dried Flowers on Cakes
1. Purpose
This document provides guidance on the safe application of non-edible dried flowers for decorative use on food. Our aim is to ensure customers feel confident using our high-quality dried flowers for cake decoration.
2. Scope
This guide is intended for:
Professional bakers
Home bakers
Wholesalers/Retailers (for advising their customers)
3. Definitions
Non-Edible Dried Flowers: Flowers not intended for consumption but considered safe for use as external cake decorations when used with proper protective barriers.
4. Our Process
Here is how our non-edible dried flowers are prepared:
Fresh flowers are carefully inspected and selected before being cleaned. The cleaning agents used are non-toxic, non-corrosive, non-carcinogenic, non-flammable, and chemically inert. They pose no risk to human health or the environment. This process ensures the removal of insects, eggs, larvae, soil, and other contaminants.
After cleaning, flowers may be dyed and then subjected to a heat treatment. They are dried over several days in a controlled drying room. Following this, another inspection is carried out, and only flowers that have dried properly are selected. Some flowers are then painted with non-toxic paint, and all products are packed into new, clean packaging. They are shipped to our UK warehouse for a final inspection before being delivered to customers.
5. Application to Cakes
Although our dried flowers are thoroughly cleaned and inspected, protective barriers are advised — we do not recommend placing non-edible dried flowers in direct contact with cake. Creating a barrier is easy, and we’ve outlined some safe methods below:
Wrap stems in food-safe floral tape (avoid latex-based tape due to potential allergies). Insert wrapped stems into the cake.
Insert stems into sealed straws or plastic posy picks before placing them into the cake.
Dip stems in a food-safe sealant (e.g., Stem Seal by Stem & Reed). Once dry, insert into the cake.
Use an acrylic cake pin (e.g., Burnt Island Cake Pin Sets).
For smaller items, use edible glue to attach flowers to fondant discs, wafer paper, parchment paper, or acetate sheets, then place on the cake.
Alternatively, coat the backs of small flowers with a food-safe sealant, allow to dry, and then apply to the cake.
Note: Do not use chocolate as a barrier, as children may attempt to eat it.
⚠️ Please note: Certain fresh flowers—such as hydrangea, baby's breath, and eucalyptus—could cause sickness to humans if they were to be consumed. When using dried versions, extra care must be taken to ensure these specific flowers never come into direct contact with cakes and are removed before consumption.
6. Labelling and Communication
Clearly label the cake box or packaging to indicate that the cake includes non-edible decorations.
Inform customers that the flowers must be removed before consumption.
For events, ensure caterers or servers are aware of this information.
7. Storage of Dried Flowers
With proper care, dried flowers can last up to three years:
Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Avoid humidity and direct sunlight.
Keep out of reach of children and animals.
8. Troubleshooting
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Cause: Exposure to sunlight or moisture
Solution: Store in a dry, dark area
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Cause: Brittleness
Solution: Handle gently; optionally spray with floral sealant or edible glaze
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Cause: High humidity
Solution: Apply flowers just before serving
9. Disclaimer
Currently, there is no official UK legislation or guidance regarding the use of dried flowers as cake decorations. As a result, we have conducted our own research using a range of sources and developed our own guidance. The purpose of this document is to promote good food safety and hygiene practices. While not legally binding, we believe the information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Should relevant UK agencies release official guidance, this document will be superseded by those legislative and regulatory materials.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us for further clarification.