What is the main concern about introducing honey to infants before 12 months?

The primary concern with introducing honey to infants before their first birthday is the risk of botulism. Honey can contain spores of Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that produces toxic substances in a baby's immature digestive system. Infants under 12 months lack the necessary gut flora to effectively combat these spores, making them particularly vulnerable to botulism. This condition can lead to severe illness and potentially life-threatening symptoms.

Although there are concerns regarding allergic reactions, respiratory infections, and diarrhea in infants, these are not as specific or critical as the risk of botulism associated with honey consumption. The potential for botulism highlights the importance of delaying honey introduction until after the age of one, when the infant's digestive system has developed sufficiently to handle such risks.