What is the minimum age to take Manuka Honey?

The minimum age for taking manuka honey or all types of honey is at least 1 year old. Since each infant is unique and develops at a different pace, we recommend not to give infant below 18 month old.

The reason for is to prevent infant botulism. Honey is known to source of bacterial spores that geminate into Clostridium botulinum when ingested. These bacteria then produce a toxin that cause infant botulism – a very serious type of food poisoning. Adults however are not affected as our digestive system are more develop to handle the bacteria.

Please note that botulism spores are not only found in honey but in other food type such as low-acid canned products and corn syrup.

Symptoms of Infant Botulism

Botulism attacks the infant’s nervous system and can result in death. In most cases, infant are able to recover. In all cases, never give honey to infants below 12 months old.