Why Do Carrots Turn Poisonous? Predecessors You Didn't Know Are to Blame

09.02.2025 17:40

Carrots are a symbol of health, but if crop rotation is incorrect, they can become dangerous!

The journal Food Chemistry published sensational data: if dill, parsley or celery grew in the garden before carrots, the root vegetables accumulate furanocoumarins - toxins that cause skin burns when exposed to the sun.

Swedish gardener Erik Larsson described the tragedy in his blog Organic Life :

"After picking carrots, I developed a rash on my hands. Doctors said it was a phototoxic reaction due to furanocoumarins."

How to avoid disaster

  • Never plant carrots after umbelliferous crops. Their roots secrete growth inhibitors.
  • Avoid proximity to cumin and fennel - they increase the production of toxins.

Scientists from the University of Copenhagen recommend "predecessor-cleaners":

carrot
Photo: © Belnovosti

1. Onion - its phytoncides suppress fungi.
2. Tomatoes - reduce soil acidity.

Chef Jamie Oliver 's tip:

"Always check the history of the garden bed. Carrots with toxins will add a bitter taste to even the most exquisite dish!"

Valeria Kisternaya Author: Valeria Kisternaya Internet resource editor