Is Honey Safe for the Infant?

Honey is a natural and healthy food that is enjoyed by people of all ages, but it is important to note that it is not safe for infants under the age of one. This is due to the risk of infant botulism, a rare but serious illness caused by the spores of the bacteria Clostridium botulinum that can be found in honey.

Infant botulism occurs when the spores of the bacteria germinate in the intestines of infants, producing the toxin that can cause muscle weakness and difficulty breathing. The signs and symptoms of infant botulism can take days or even weeks to appear, and can include constipation, poor feeding, weakness, and a weak cry.

It is important to note that the risk of infant botulism is not limited to honey. The bacteria can also be found in soil, dust, and other foods, which is why it is important to follow safe feeding practices for infants.

When it comes to infant feeding, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, with the introduction of solid foods beginning around six months of age. Honey should not be given to infants under one year of age, and should be avoided in any form, including baked goods, cereals, and syrups.

When Can Babies Have Honey?

Honey is a natural sweetener made by bees from the nectar of flowers. While honey is considered safe for most adults, it is not recommended for infants under the age of one year. This is because honey can contain spores of a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, which can cause a serious illness called infant botulism in young babies.

Infant botulism is a rare but serious disease that can affect babies under one year of age, particularly those who are less than six months old. The disease is caused by the ingestion of spores of Clostridium botulinum, which can grow and produce toxins in the intestines of young babies. These toxins can cause muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and even paralysis.

The spores of Clostridium botulinum are commonly found in soil and dust, and they can also be present in honey. Honey is not harmful to older children and adults because their digestive systems are more developed, and they can destroy the spores before they can cause harm.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents should not give honey to infants under the age of one year. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also advise against giving honey to infants under one year of age.

Can toddlers eat honeycomb?

Yes, but in moderation and with some caution. Honeycomb contains honey, beeswax, bee pollen, and other components (such as propolis and royal jelly). Those who have pollen allergies may have allergic reactions to honeycomb. Additionally, in some cases, beeswax, propolis, and/or royal jelly, which are present in varying amounts in honeycomb, can also cause allergic reactions that have ranged from mild to severe.

The waxy component of honeycomb that is mainly made of beeswax may have beneficial health properties such as supporting liver and heart health, but consistently eating large amounts of honeycomb can be associated with stomach blockages, so avoid offering in large amounts. Because of this waxy consistency, honeycomb can take on a gum-like consistency in the mouth and can be a choking hazard. Cutting the honey into smaller pieces and making sure the toddler fully chews and swallows the honeycomb before moving onto the next bite can help reduce this risk. Lastly, honey is rich in sugars and although they are natural, it is best to limit sugar intake for toddlers, children, and adults alike. Bottom line: If you are positive there is no allergy and your child is 12 months or older, a little honeycomb for fun is okay.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, while honey is a healthy and delicious food for people of all ages, it is not safe for infants under the age of one. Parents and caregivers should follow safe feeding practices for infants, including exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and the avoidance of honey until the child is at least one year old.

Order your jar of pure and delicious honey today and taste the sweetness of nature with HoneyTales.