Can I eat honey while pregnant?

Safe

Honey is completely safe for pregnant adults. The infant-botulism warning applies only to babies under 12 months — not to pregnant women.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Example, OB-GYN, MD Last reviewed: January 15, 2025Editorial process

What's safe

Regular, raw, local, or Manuka honey as a spread or sweetener
Honey in hot drinks, baked goods, marinades, and sauces
Honey-based throat soothers (in reasonable amounts)

What to avoid

Giving honey to infants under 12 months — the real botulism warning (relevant after delivery)
High-dose honey-herb supplements with unlisted botanical ingredients

Sources & citations

Every verdict on this page is grounded in an authoritative source. If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy (FAQ)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Pregnancy nutrition: Foods to avoid during pregnancy
Mayo Clinic

Frequently asked questions

I heard honey is dangerous during pregnancy — is that true?

This is a common misconception. The warning is specifically for infants under 12 months whose developing digestive systems cannot neutralize Clostridium botulinum spores. Adult digestive systems — including during pregnancy — can. Honey is safe for pregnant women to eat.

Is raw or Manuka honey safer than regular honey while pregnant?

All honey types are equally safe for pregnant adults. There is no pregnancy-specific reason to favour one variety over another; the infant-botulism concern does not apply to adults regardless of honey type.

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This page is informational only and is not medical advice. Always consult your OB-GYN, midwife, or registered dietitian about your specific pregnancy nutrition questions — particularly if you have gestational diabetes, food allergies, or other complications.