NEC (Necrotizing Enterocolitis) is a devastating gastrointestinal disease primarily affecting premature infants. Studies show cow’s-milk-based preterm formula significantly increases NEC risk compared to human donor milk. Abbott (Similac) and Mead Johnson (Enfamil) are alleged to have marketed their cow’s-milk formulas for premature infants despite knowing the NEC risk, while suppressing research supporting donor human milk.
Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses show cow’s-milk-based formula increases NEC risk in premature infants vs. human donor milk. The mechanism involves disruption of the premature intestinal microbiome. AAP guidelines recommend donor human milk for preterm infants. Defendants are alleged to have been aware of these studies and failed to warn NICUs.
Bellwether trials are underway in both federal MDL and Illinois state court. Abbott and Mead Johnson are contesting causation aggressively. Illinois state court has produced the largest early verdict. No global settlement negotiations have been reported.