5 Foods Not Recommended for Children [Slideshow]

Honey and Molasses

Honey and molasses are not recommended for children under the age of two years old. Consuming these two sticky sweeteners can lead to a condition known as infant botulism. While rare, the illness occurs when babies and small children ingest toxin-causing bacteria that are found in these foods. Botulism causes muscle weakness and difficulty breathing. 

The condition is treatable, and most babies make a full recovery. However it's best to stay away from these foods and seek medical attention immediately if your child exhibits symptoms. 

Hard Candy

Small hard candy, including cough drops, poses a tremendous choking hazard for small children. Additionally, the small balls of candy on the end of lollipops can come dislodged from the stick and get stuck in a child's throat. While all candy should be given to children in moderation, if you're looking for a sweet treat, try an ice pop instead. 

Albacore Tuna or Raw Fish

Many women avoid eating fish throughout pregnancy due to the levels of mercury in the food. It's recommended that children under the age of five stay away from the protein as well. Albacore tuna contains more mercury than other varieties, which can be harmful to neurodevelopment. 

If your child's diet contains a large amount of any fish, consult with your pediatrician to determine a safe balance. The FDA also warns that children do not consume any raw fish.

Whole Grapes

Grapes are an excellent source of nutritional value. While they don't need to be eliminated from your child's diet entirely. It's recommended that young children only be given grapes that have been cut into small pieces. The reason for this is similar to hard candy, the size and the slippery consistency pose a choking hazard.

When feeding your child grapes, be sure to monitor them, never leaving them unsupervised with foods that pose a choking hazard.

Unpasteurized Milk and Dairy Products

The CDC advises parents to avoid feeding their children unpasteurized milk and dairy products. The process of pasteurization kills off bacteria that are present in raw dairy. Without it, children are susceptible to severe illness. The organization deems unpasteurized dairy products among "the riskiest of all" foods to feed young children.

These products include milk, butter, cheese, and more. The packaging is clearly marked whether or not a dairy product is pasteurized. If you're at a restaurant or are unsure of the food's status, it's best to keep it away from the little ones.