Never give honey to a baby under 12 months. This applies to raw, pasteurised and cooked honey, and to honey added to food, drinks or a dummy. The concern is infant botulism; choosing a premium or organic jar does not remove it.
Why the first birthday matters
Honey can contain bacterial spores that are a risk to an infant’s developing digestive system. Normal kitchen heating does not make honey an appropriate infant food. The CDC’s infant-feeding guidance explains the age restriction.
For children aged one and over
Honey can be used in small amounts as a sweetener within a varied diet. It is mainly sugar, rather than a meaningful source of the vitamins, protein or fibre a child needs. There is no need to give it as a daily supplement or to promise an immunity or learning benefit.
Try a small drizzle on plain yoghurt, porridge or toast if it suits the child’s diet. Serve foods in age-appropriate textures and keep drinks at a comfortable temperature. Honey fusions are different from plain honey: check every added ingredient and the product’s age guidance.
Allergies and coughs
Eating local honey is not the same as medically supervised allergy immunotherapy. Do not use it to desensitise a child to pollen. Bee pollen, royal jelly and added nuts or sesame need particular attention when checking allergies.
Honey may soothe some cough symptoms in children old enough to have it, but it does not treat the underlying infection. Seek medical advice for concerning symptoms or a persistent cough rather than relying on a food remedy. For children with diabetes or specific dietary restrictions, discuss sweeteners with their care team.
