Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit

Premature infants often require specialized nutrition for proper growth and development. Unfortunately, cow’s milk-based formulas, commonly recommended for these babies, have been linked to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)—a severe gastrointestinal condition. Research shows that these formulas can significantly increase the risk of NEC, leaving infants and their families facing devastating medical and emotional challenges.

At Access Justice Group, we are committed to helping families impacted by NEC seek justice. If your child developed NEC after being fed cow’s milk-based formula, our experienced attorneys are here to hold negligent manufacturers accountable and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

$150M+

Recovered

5,000+

Cases Settled

Understanding the NEC Baby Formula Lawsuits

What is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?

NEC is a severe and often fatal condition that inflames and destroys the lining of the intestines. This damage can cause the intestinal wall to rupture, allowing harmful bacteria to leak into the bloodstream and abdomen. NEC primarily affects premature infants with underdeveloped digestive systems. Symptoms may include:

Abdominal swelling and pain
Bloody stool
Vomiting bile (green or yellow substance)
Feeding intolerance
Lethargy or lack of energy

In severe cases, NEC can lead to systemic infections, multiple organ failure, and death.

How Cow’s Milk-Based Formula Increases NEC Risk

Decades of research reveal that cow’s milk-based infant formulas significantly raise the risk of NEC compared to human breast milk. Some key findings include:

1990 Study: Babies fed formula were 6–10 times more likely to develop NEC than those exclusively breastfed.
2011 Study: Premature infants given human donor milk had lower NEC rates compared to those fed formula.
2019 Cochrane Review: Formula-fed premature infants faced a higher risk of NEC and slower recovery rates.

Despite this overwhelming evidence, manufacturers like Abbott Laboratories (Similac) and Mead Johnson (Enfamil) continue to market their products without providing adequate warnings about NEC risks.

Impact on Families

Families dealing with NEC often face heartbreaking challenges, including emergency surgeries, extended hospital stays, and ongoing medical care for long-term complications like intestinal failure and developmental delays. Tragically, some families also experience the loss of their child. These manufacturers’ negligence not only jeopardizes infants’ lives but places an immense financial and emotional burden on their families.

Products Implicated in NEC Lawsuits

Several cow’s milk-based formulas have been linked to NEC, including:

Similac Products:
- Similac Special Care
- Similac NeoSure
- Similac Human Milk Fortifier
Enfamil Products:
- Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare
- Enfamil Premature Infant Formula
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier

These products are often used in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and marketed as essential for preterm infants, despite the known risks.

Your Legal Rights in an NEC Lawsuit

If your child was fed cow’s milk-based formula and developed NEC, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses, including surgeries and ongoing treatments
Pain and suffering endured by both you and your child
Lost wages or reduced earning capacity due to caregiving responsibilities
Emotional distress
Funeral expenses in tragic cases

At Access Justice Group, we will guide you through every step of the legal process, from gathering evidence to presenting your case. Our goal is to hold negligent manufacturers accountable and secure the compensation your family deserves.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mass Torts?

The statute of limitations for mass torts is a critical aspect that varies depending on several factors:

Type of Claim: Different types of claims — such as personal injury, product liability, or environmental claims — may have different limitation periods.

Jurisdiction: The statute of limitations can vary by state and federal law.

Discovery Rule: In some cases, the statute of limitations begins when the plaintiff discovers or should have discovered the harm caused by the defendant’s actions.

Tolling: In certain circumstances, the statute of limitations may be paused or extended, such as for minors or in the case of ongoing litigation.

Since the statute of limitations can be so varied, it’s wise to consult with a tort attorney regarding your specific case.

How Can a Mass Tort Attorney Help Me?

Below, we address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding this case. Rest assured, once you complete our free consultation form, our dedicated legal team will be there to guide you through every step of the process. From evaluating your eligibility to gathering the required documentation, we are committed to ensuring the process is as seamless and efficient as possible while you focus on what matters most—your recovery.

Can NEC be prevented?

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, feeding premature infants human breast milk instead of cow’s milk-based formula can significantly reduce the likelihood of NEC. Donor milk or human milk fortifiers are safer alternatives that many hospitals now offer.

Who is liable in NEC lawsuits?

Manufacturers of cow’s milk-based formulas like Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson may be held responsible for failing to warn about NEC risks. In some cases, healthcare providers who did not inform parents of these risks may also share liability.

What evidence is needed for a lawsuit?

Key evidence includes medical records, feeding logs, hospital protocols, and product labels. Our attorneys will help you gather and present the necessary documentation to build a strong case.

If your family has been affected by NEC, contact Access Justice Group today for a free consultation. We are here to fight for justice and ensure that negligent corporations are held accountable for their actions.

Take the First Step Toward Financial Compensation with Access Justice Group

No one should have to face the consequences of harm caused by others alone. Access Justice Group is here to provide trusted legal support and help you navigate the path toward financial recovery.

Ready to Fight for Your Rights? Contact Access Justice Group Today

Access Justice Group is committed to providing top-tier legal representation in mass tort cases. Contact us for a free case evaluation and take the first step toward justice.

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