Development of NEC due to Baby Formulas
Development of NEC due to Baby Formulas
Research has shown a link between certain baby formulas and the onset of NEC. Formula producers such as Mead Johnson, Abbott Laboratories, and others continued to market their products as safe despite this research.


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What Is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious gastrointestinal condition that primarily affects premature babies and young infants. It involves inflammation and damage to the tissues of the baby’s intestines. In severe cases, NEC can cause a perforation in the intestinal wall, leading to the leakage of bacteria into surrounding organs or the bloodstream, which can result in life-threatening infections.
How are baby formulas linked to NEC?
Studies suggest that the use of cow’s milk-based baby formulas, especially in premature infants or those with low birth weight, increases the risk of developing NEC. These formulas may not provide the necessary nutrients or may cause digestive distress, contributing to this condition.

WHY WE’RE FIGHTING
What is the Purpose of this Lawsuit?
Research has shown a link between certain baby formulas and the onset of NEC. Formula producers such as Mead Johnson, Abbott Laboratories, and others continued to market their products as safe despite this research. The companies claimed that these baby formulas are beneficial for the health of the babies.
There were no warnings put on the label informing them of the potential risks of feeding their babies baby formulas that contain cow’s milk, and some companies are now involved in lawsuits.
If your baby is suffering from NEC due to consumption of baby formula, you might be eligible for compensation. Contact us for a free case evaluation in regard to NEC lawsuits.
Cases You Should Know About
In Missouri, plaintiffs were seeking a settlement of up to $6 billion, but the defendants unexpectedly won the case, which was a surprising outcome.
Elizabeth Whitfield
Elizabeth’s son, Kaine Whitfield, was born prematurely at just 2.2 pounds, and developed Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) after being fed baby formula. Whitfield claims that the formula caused her son to undergo surgery and led to several health issues, including malnutrition and developmental delays. She argues that baby formula companies failed to warn consumers about the risks of NEC in babies weighing less than 3.3 pounds. The verdict in this case is still pending.
Payments in 2 Cases
In 2024, Formula manufacturer Enfamil was ordered to pay $60 million to the family of an infant who passed away due to NEC.
Margo Hill filed a lawsuit after her three-year-old was hospitalized for NEC after consuming Enfamil. The jury found that NEC was caused by the formula and the plaintiff was awarded $495 million in compensatory and punitive damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parents of infants diagnosed with NEC after using baby formulas, particularly cow’s milk-based formulas, may be eligible to file a lawsuit. This includes cases where the infant suffered long-term health issues or died due to NEC.
Major baby formula manufacturers, such as Mead Johnson (Enfamil) and Abbott Laboratories (Similac), are currently involved in lawsuits related to the development of NEC in infants.
Symptoms of NEC include:
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Blood in stools
- Feeding intolerance or vomiting
- Lethargy or difficulty staying awake
- Decreased heart rate or breathing problems
Filing an NEC lawsuit may result in compensation for medical expenses, long-term care costs, pain and suffering, and, in cases of wrongful death, damages for loss of life. Legal action seeks to hold the manufacturers accountable for failing to warn about the risks of their products.
The timeframe for filing a lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, varies depending on the jurisdiction. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the legal time limits.
If your lawsuit is successful, compensation may include:
- Medical costs for treatment of NEC
- Lost wages or other financial damages
- Pain and suffering caused by the condition
- Wrongful death damages if the infant passed away due to NEC
- Punitive damages to hold the manufacturers accountable
To begin, contact us and we will be helping you with an experienced attorney who specializes in product liability and personal injury. Have a Lawyer will evaluate your case with the NEC Lawsuit Attorney who will be gathering your evidence, and guide you through the legal process to seek justice and compensation for the harm caused by the baby formula.
If you believe your child has been affected by NEC due to the use of baby formula, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice and pursue justice for your family.

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