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Is Honey safe in pregnancy?
Generally safe
Yes — honey is safe for pregnant women (but not for babies under 1).
What the evidence says
Honey is safe to eat during pregnancy. The common warning about honey applies only to babies under one year old, not to pregnant women — the adult digestive system handles any Clostridium botulinum spores safely.
Why this matters
Adult gut bacteria and stomach acid prevent botulinum spores from causing harm. Infant guts cannot, which is why the warning exists for under-ones.
Source:NHS guidance on honey
Last reviewed:April 2026
Please note — This is general guidance based on NHS advice as of April 2026. It is not medical advice. For advice on your specific pregnancy, please speak to your midwife or GP.
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