- Abbott Laboratories was fined $500 million by a jury over claims that its Similac Special Care 24 formula caused necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in a premature infant.
- The jury awarded $95 million in compensatory damages and $400 million in punitive damages.
- Abbott disputes the verdict, claiming there is no evidence linking its formula to NEC and plans to appeal.
Abbott Laboratories faces a substantial $500 million fine following a jury’s decision in St. Louis, where the company was held responsible for causing severe brain damage in a premature baby allegedly due to its Similac Special Care 24 formula.
The jury awarded nearly $500 million to the plaintiff, including both compensatory and punitive damages, highlighting concerns over the safety of the formula for premature infants.
Abbott Ordered to Pay $500 Million Over Alleged Risks of Infant Formula
Abbott Laboratories has firmly disputed the claims, arguing that there is no scientific evidence linking their formula to NEC. The company contends that the verdict is based on erroneous conclusions and plans to pursue an appeal to overturn the decision. Abbott’s defense highlighted that its products are considered standard care for premature infants, alongside mother’s milk and donor human milk.
The case is part of a broader wave of lawsuits against formula manufacturers, with similar claims targeting other companies like Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc. In a related case earlier this year, Reckitt was ordered to pay $60 million after a jury found its formula contributed to a premature baby’s death, leading to a significant drop in its shares.
The Abbott case underscores ongoing concerns about the safety of cow’s milk-based formulas for premature infants and could have widespread implications for the industry. As the legal battles continue, the outcome of Abbott’s appeal will be closely watched.
The $500 million verdict against Abbott highlights serious concerns about the safety of infant formulas for premature babies. With Abbott planning to appeal, this case could influence future regulations and litigation in the formula industry.
“Justice was served for Margo Gill and her daughter Robynn, who suffered severe, irreversible brain damage due to Abbott’s misconduct.”
