Honey poses a risk of botulism in infants, which is why medical professionals strongly advise against feeding honey to children under one year old. However, it’s important to note that botulinum spores can also be found in other sources, such as recalled baby formula and small quantities of dirt that infants may inadvertently consume.
For adults and older children, encountering botulinum spores is typically not a cause for concern. According to Don Schaffner, a food microbiology professor at Rutgers University, the presence of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system neutralizes the spores, preventing them from producing harmful toxins. In older demographics, botulism more frequently results from consuming foods that already contain toxins, and symptoms can manifest swiftly after exposure.
This toxin production takes place in anaerobic environments, which are found in improperly canned foods. Dr. Schaffner has pointed to historical outbreaks linked to various settings that create low oxygen levels, such as baked potatoes wrapped in aluminum foil, garlic-infused olive oil, and even sautéed onions left unattended on a stove.
In addition to food sources, botulism can occur through infected wounds or improperly administered Botox treatments, which introduce botulinum toxin. Notably, the illness does not spread from person to person.
Timely medical intervention is crucial for treating botulism, usually necessitating hospitalization. Dr. Ahmann emphasizes the importance of immediate contact with a healthcare provider, stating, “We would rather get 100 phone calls than have one not come in.” This approach underscores the critical nature of addressing potential cases quickly to ensure the best possible health outcomes.