The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that raw honey not be given to infants under one year of age because of the rare possibility of being infected with the bacteria that causes botulism (Clostridium botulinum). Once a toddler reaches one year old, their digestive system is mature enough to kill any botulism germs.

Signs and Symptoms:
Symptoms of botulism typically appear between 18 and 36 hours after the infant consumes the bacteria. Constipation is often the first symptom of botulism that parents notice. Other symptoms, which tend to occur in the following order, include:

constipation
flat facial expression
poor feeding (weak sucking)
weak cry
decreased movement
trouble swallowing with excessive drooling
muscle weakness
breathing problems

Infant botulism is a rare illness, affecting only about 100 infants per year in the United States. Most babies will recover fully with proper medical care.