Question

javiers mother in law wants to give her 8-month-old grandson some fruit that is sweetened with honey for dessert. javier points out that he cannot have honey. why should children under one year of age avoid honey?

multiple choice

honey can contain botulism spores that can cause botulism in young children with immature immune systems.

honey can contain listeria monocytogenes that can cause listeriosis in young children with immature immune systems.

honey can contain prions that can cause foot and mouth disease in young children with immature immune systems.

honey can contain salmonella bacteria that can cause salmonella infection in young children with immature immune systems.

Explanation:

To determine why children under one year should avoid honey, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Honey may have botulinum spores. Infants' immature immune systems can't handle them, leading to botulism. This is correct.
• Option 2: Listeria in honey is not the main concern for infant honey avoidance; listeria is more associated with other foods like deli meats.
• Option 3: Foot - and - mouth disease is caused by a virus and not related to honey consumption in infants.
• Option 4: Salmonella in honey is not the primary reason infants avoid honey; botulinum spores are the key factor.

Answer:

A. Honey can contain botulinum spores that can cause botulism in young children with immature immune systems.