If your premature baby was fed Similac or Enfamil and developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), you may be entitled to compensation. Lawsuits against Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson allege these cow’s milk-based formulas increase NEC risk in preemies, causing severe harm or death. Learn about the products, the health risks, the latest news, and how direct2attorney can help you seek justice.
What Are Similac and Enfamil?
Similac (Abbott Laboratories) and Enfamil (Mead Johnson) are leading brands of infant formula, widely used in hospitals and homes. These cow’s milk-based formulas, including specialized versions like Similac Special Care and Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare, are often fed to premature infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Marketed as safe and nutritious, they provide essential nutrients for growth. However, studies dating back to the 1990s have raised concerns about their safety for preterm babies, particularly due to the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis, a devastating intestinal disease. Despite this, manufacturers continued promoting these products without adequate warnings.
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Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a life-threatening condition primarily affecting premature infants, causing inflammation and tissue death in the intestines. A 2012 Pediatric Research study found that preterm babies fed cow’s milk-based formulas like Similac or Enfamil are significantly more likely to develop NEC than those breastfed or given donor milk. NEC can lead to severe complications, including intestinal perforation, sepsis, and death, with survivors often facing long-term issues like short bowel syndrome or developmental delays. Lawsuits claim Abbott and Mead Johnson knew of these risks but failed to warn parents and medical professionals, prioritizing profits over safety. While NEC itself is not cancer, the allegations focus on the preventable harm caused by these formulas.
If you’ve faced challenges due to Necrotizing Enterocolitis, we are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact Us
NEC Lawsuit Developments
As of April 2025, the NEC baby formula multidistrict litigation (MDL 3026) in the Northern District of Illinois includes 683 pending cases, with 20 new filings in March. The first federal bellwether trial is imminent, following significant state court victories, including a $60 million verdict in Illinois and a $495 million award in Missouri. Settlement talks are ongoing, with potential payouts ranging from $50,000 to over $1 million for severe cases. A recent motion by defendants to exclude plaintiffs’ expert testimony was challenged, citing prior trial successes. Direct2attorney is actively accepting cases as the litigation gains momentum, urging parents to act before state statutes of limitations expire.
Lawsuits allege that Similac and Enfamil manufacturers failed to warn about the increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants fed their cow’s milk-based formulas.
Parents of premature babies who developed NEC after being fed Similac or Enfamil in a hospital or NICU may qualify, especially with proof of diagnosis and formula use.
Cow’s milk-based formulas increase the risk of NEC in preemies, leading to intestinal damage, sepsis, or death, with survivors facing long-term health issues.
Compensation may cover medical costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, and future care needs, with severe cases potentially yielding $50,000–$1 million or more.
Statutes of limitations vary by state, typically one to several years from diagnosis or death. Consult an attorney to confirm your deadline.
The Illinois MDL has 683 cases, with trials approaching and settlements discussed. State court verdicts have awarded millions, and new cases are being filed.
Contact direct2attorney’s experienced mass tort attorneys for a free consultation to evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
