There are often general health concerns for the safety of honey in infants under 12 months. These normally relate to the rare condition, infant botulism.
Botulism is caused by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which releases spores that can produce harmful toxins when ingested. The condition is more likely to affect babies under the age of 6 months. This is due to concerns that their microbiome is not sufficiently developed and may not control the replication of the bacteria.
Worldwide, and particularly within New Zealand, the presence of Clostridium botulinum spores in honey is generally low, but not without risk.
At Kiwiherb, we take safety seriously. All honey included in Kiwiherb products is sourced from New Zealand producers. As an extra precaution, it then undergoes rigorous testing for the presence of Clostridium botulinum spores.
While this is not the industry norm, it reflects our GMP (good manufacturing practice) culture and provides additional assurance for the safety of honey included in our products.
History of Honey
The original nutritional ‘superfood’, honey is more than a sweet addition to herbal formulas.
Honey has been consumed for centuries as a food and to boost and support overall wellbeing. Its use dates back at least 8,000 years.
One of the earliest records of bee keeping was found in hieroglyphics at the Sun Temple near Cairo, circa 2400BC. Ancient Egyptians used honey as a surgical dressing for burns and ulcers, and buried pots of honey with pharaohs. On discovery by archaeologists, buried honey was found to be preserved and still edible when resumed in 1922.
Ancient Romans used honey on wounds after battle, and African cultures had honey as a food and medicine, further using beeswax in clay vessels as a waterproofing agent. Writings of Hippocrates show honey and vinegar was combined as a pain remedy.
Recent research has shown honey can support tight chests and bronchial stress in children and encourages a healthy immune response.
Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) honey, native to New Zealand, has also been widely researched, and is thought to be one of the most potent varieties available.
If you would like any further information on any of our quality procedures or have any queries on any of our products, please contact our Technical Support Team at info@kiwiherb.co.nz or 0508 749 866.
