Dear LC,
You shld read the label of the cereal pack carefully to see if the cereal has undergone pasturisation. As a precaution, perhaps refrain from that type of flavour for now until your little one is well beyond 1 yr old. Singapore has yet seen any serious case of poisoning from botulism in infants as yet, but i am sure there are cases.
In the USA, some types of Honey is deemed to be potentially poisonous to infants under one year of age because of the risk of infant botulism. Many food labels fail to document it, so its up to the parent's own discretion to notice it. Many types of processed food actually contain honey- pandan cake, bread rolls, chocolates, maple syrup, even floral dust in the air we breathe.
Infant botulism is a type of food poisoning that can result in death.
Botulinum spores are widely found throughout nature, although honey tends to harbor them more than other foods. In fact, botulinum can appear in other sweeteners, such as maple syrup, as well as corn syrup. Botulinum can even be found in dust, indicating that it is an extremely widespread toxin. As a result, most humans adapt to it and are able to fend off small amounts of the toxin, such as those present in honey.
Infants, however, do not have a completely matured digestive system and are susceptible to botulism food poisoning. While honey does not always contain the spores, it is more likely to contain botulinum than some other food products, and therefore parents are recommended to avoid it unless it is pasteurized.
The signs of botulism begins with constipation. Babies suffering from botulism will also exhibit nervous system damage, which manifests as muscle weakness. As a result of the muscle weakness, infants with botulism will cry more weakly, have difficulty feeding, and have a limp and floppy appearance. Infant botulism also results in lethargy.
The 1st six mths are more susceptible, but in recent times due to our increased vigilance, awareness as well as cleanliness and cleaner food processing and handling techniques, infection is very rare in Singapore.
