A parent asks
A little honey is safe for a baby before their first birthday.
Food or traditional-practice advice
What the evidence says
Honey should not be given to a baby under 12 months. Public-health guidance warns that honey can cause infant botulism.
Where it gets nuanced
The concern is the baby's age, not whether the honey is described as natural, raw, organic, medicinal, or given only in a small amount.
The Harmony Bridge
Wait until after the first birthday before giving honey, including honey mixed into food, water or a feed.
Talking about it at home
If you need to explain this to family
You could say: “I know honey is often suggested in small amounts. The guidance is to avoid honey before 12 months because of the infant botulism risk, so we’re going to wait until after the first birthday.”
Sources
- Foods and Drinks to Avoid or LimitCenters for Disease Control and Prevention
Reviewed by Saha editorial on 2026-10-04. Editorial review does not mean clinician review or medical validation.