Home / Business and Economy / Jury Sides With Formula Maker in NEC Lawsuit
Jury Sides With Formula Maker in NEC Lawsuit
1 Sep
Summary
- Jury found Enfamil formula did not cause NEC in a preterm infant.
- Mead Johnson stated science does not support NEC claims.
- Nearly 1,700 lawsuits are filed against formula makers.
A U.S. federal jury determined on September 1, 2026, that Mead Johnson's Enfamil infant formula for preterm babies did not cause necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The case involved allegations that the company failed to warn about the potential risks of NEC associated with its premature formula.
The jury found no causal link between the Enfamil formula and NEC in a preterm infant who was born at 29 weeks and subsequently died. This verdict comes amidst nearly 1,700 similar lawsuits filed against Mead Johnson and Abbott Laboratories concerning NEC claims.
Mead Johnson has consistently maintained that scientific evidence does not support the allegations. The company stated it will continue to defend itself vigorously against such claims to protect the health of premature infants.
The litigation has seen mixed results in trials so far. While one woman was awarded $495 million in 2024 against Abbott, that case was later settled. Mead Johnson reported winning two previous trials and an appeal on a third case.
