Agave Syrup

It is safe to add agave syrup to food as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. That said, it can be beneficial to wait until the child is older to regularly offer foods that are high in sugar, like agave syrup, to help support baby’s oral health and ensure that baby has space in the belly to explore a variety of nourishing foods.^{[1] [2] [3]}

Agave syrup (often called agave nectar) is a sweetener made from the sap of the agave plant, which has been cultivated in Mexico and parts of Central America for thousands of years. Indigenous communities have long used agave for food, fiber, and fermented beverages. Today, agave syrup is popular worldwide as a liquid sweetener in baking, beverages, and sauces because of its neutral flavor and the way it easily absorbs into batters and other dishes.

• Store agave syrup tightly sealed in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.

No. Agave presents a low risk when safely prepared for a child’s age and developmental ability, though, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve agave in an age-appropriate way as described in How to Serve. As always, make sure to create a safe eating environment and stay within reach of baby during meals. 

Learn the signs of choking and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No. Agave is not a common allergen. Allergic contact reactions (dermatitis) to the agave plant have been reported, but allergic reactions to ingestion of agave syrup are less likely, due to the processing that removes many of the plant proteins from the final product.^{[4] [5]}

Yes. Agave syrup is safe for babies as soon as they are developmentally ready for solids. That said, it can be beneficial to wait until the child is older to regularly offer foods that are high in sugar, like agave syrup, to help support baby’s oral health and ensure that baby has space in the belly to explore a variety of nourishing foods.^{[1] [2] [3]} While honey is well-known for its association with a risk of infant botulism, a neurological condition caused by toxins made by Clostridia botulinum spores, this is not a known common risk in agave syrup.^{[6] [7]}

For babies, yes. Unlike honey, agave syrup does not pose a known risk of infant botulism, which makes it a safer option for sharing with babies under 12 months of age. For toddlers 12 months and up, both agave syrup and honey are forms of added sugar and should be used sparingly in the diet, but also contain their own unique nutritional benefits.

Yes, agave syrup is considered a safe ingredient in age-appropriate and prescription medications for babies. Unlike honey, agave syrup does not carry a known risk of infant botulism. As with any medication, only offer on the recommendation from baby's pediatric healthcare provider and follow dosing instructions carefully.