Why Can't Babies Have Honey? Understanding the Risks and Safety Guidelines

Why Can't Babies Have Honey?

Babies under 12 months should never have honey, not even a taste and not even when it is cooked or baked into food. Honey can contain Clostridium botulinum spores that produce toxins in an infant's immature gut, causing infant botulism, a rare but serious illness. The risk goes away after the first birthday, once the digestive system matures.

Dr. Monica Davern of Blueberry Pediatrics explains the facts about honey and its potential dangers to infants.

Can babies have honey?

No child should consume honey before their first birthday.

What Happens If a Baby Eats Honey?

If a baby consumes honey, they risk developing infant botulism.

What is infant botulism?

Infant botulism is a rare but serious form of food poisoning that can affect babies up to a year old. It occurs when a baby ingests Clostridium botulinum spores, a bacteria that produces toxins in the infant's intestines that can lead to paralysis. In the USA, about 100 cases of infant botulism are reported each year, with 20% linked to honey consumption.

Infant botulism symptoms

Symptoms can appear between 10 and 30 days after a baby ingests honey.

Symptoms of infant botulism may include:

• Muscle weakness and floppiness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Weak cry
• Drooping eyelids
• Trouble breathing
• Lack of bowel movements
• Excessive drooling
• Shallow breathing

Why are babies at risk for botulism?

Babies under 12 months have immature gut and immune systems, making them more susceptible to infant botulism. Their digestive systems are not developed enough to defend against the bacterial spores in honey. The risk of infant botulism is higher in babies younger than six months old.

How common is the bacteria causing botulism in honey?

The presence of Clostridium botulinum spores in honey varies. Studies have found these spores in anywhere from 2% to 25% of honey samples. Even though the risk may seem low, the consequences can be severe, so it's best to avoid giving honey to infants altogether.

Is cooked honey safe for babies?

No, neither raw honey nor cooked honey is safe for babies. Clostridium botulinum spores are heat-resistant and can survive in cooked honey.

When can I feed honey to my baby?

After their first birthday. Honey has several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. It can be used as a natural sweetener in place of sugar. After age 1, a baby's digestive system is better developed and can handle Clostridium botulinum spores without causing illness. Here are some tips for safely introducing honey:

• Introduce honey in small amounts, added to foods they already enjoy.
• We encourage feeding honey sparingly and in moderation, as it is still an added sugar.

Have more questions about honey safety or infant botulism?

Understanding the risks associated with honey and infant botulism is crucial for parents. Following these guidelines can help keep your baby safe and healthy - but if questions arise, you can chat with a board-certified pediatrician anytime through Blueberry Pediatrics.

Blueberry Pediatrics offers 24/7 access to board-certified pediatricians who are ready to help with all your parenting questions and concerns, as well as symptoms and illnesses your family may experience.