Abbott & Mead Johnson Preterm Infant Formula (NEC) Products Liability Litigation
Case Overview
Thousands of families have filed lawsuits against Abbott Laboratories (maker of Similac) and Mead Johnson (maker of Enfamil), alleging that their cow's milk-based preterm infant formulas significantly increase the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. NEC is a life-threatening gastrointestinal disease that causes intestinal tissue to die and can lead to sepsis, long-term disability, and death. Plaintiffs allege that scientific literature dating back decades has established this link, yet both companies failed to warn neonatal healthcare providers and parents of the elevated NEC risk, prioritizing profits over infant safety.
The litigation is consolidated as MDL No. 3026 in the Northern District of Illinois. In 2024 and 2025, several bellwether trials have produced mixed results—some resulting in multi-million-dollar plaintiff verdicts and others in defense verdicts—making this one of the most closely watched product liability MDLs in the country. Abbott and Mead Johnson continue to deny liability, arguing that their products comply with FDA regulations and that NEC causation is disputed. With hundreds of cases still in the pipeline and global scientific scrutiny intensifying, the litigation is expected to continue well into 2026 and beyond.
Who May Qualify
Parents or legal guardians of premature infants (typically born before 37 weeks gestation) who were fed Similac or Enfamil cow's milk-based formula in a NICU or hospital setting and subsequently developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), resulting in injury, surgery, or death.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue if my premature baby developed NEC after being fed Similac or Enfamil?
You may be eligible to file a lawsuit if your premature infant was fed Similac (Abbott) or Enfamil (Mead Johnson) cow's milk-based formula in a hospital or NICU and subsequently developed NEC. You should contact a mass tort attorney promptly, as statutes of limitations vary by state.
What have the trial results been so far in the NEC infant formula lawsuits?
Results have been mixed. Some bellwether trials in Illinois have resulted in large plaintiff verdicts—including a $495 million verdict against Mead Johnson in 2024—while others have resulted in defense verdicts. The outcomes of future trials will heavily influence any potential global settlement.
Is there a settlement in the NEC infant formula MDL?
As of mid-2025, there is no global settlement in the NEC litigation. Both Abbott and Mead Johnson are actively contesting the cases. Individual cases continue to proceed to trial, and settlement negotiations are ongoing in parallel with litigation.