Enfamil Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) or other serious complications following the use of Enfamil infant formula, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to unsafe baby formula products. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Enfamil Lawsuit Overview

Enfamil infant formula lawsuits have been filed against Mead Johnson for failing to warn parents and medical professionals about the increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. These lawsuits allege that the manufacturer knew about the dangers of cow’s milk-based formula for premature babies but continued to market their products as safe.

Numerous studies have linked cow’s milk-based formulas to a significantly higher risk of NEC, a potentially fatal intestinal disease affecting premature infants.

Latest Enfamil Lawsuit Updates

March 2025 – An Illinois jury awarded $60 million to the mother of a premature infant who died from necrotizing enterocolitis after being fed Enfamil formula. This verdict, which came after only two hours of deliberation, marks the first Enfamil NEC lawsuit to reach trial in the U.S. and is expected to set a significant precedent for future cases [1].

February 2025 – A recent analysis conducted by Consumer Reports (CR) revealed that several leading baby formulas, including Enfamil products, contain alarming levels of arsenic and lead. The study found that approximately 50% of tested formulas contained at least one hazardous metal at levels of concern [2].

January 2025 – The FDA launched a new initiative aimed at strengthening safety regulations within the formula sector following the Consumer Reports findings of toxic metals in baby formula products.

FDA Reports and Statistics

The FDA does not approve infant formula products before they can be marketed. However, all formulas sold in the United States must meet federal nutrient requirements, and manufacturers must notify the FDA before marketing a new formula [3].

Recent findings have raised serious concerns about baby formula safety:

• Consumer Reports found that approximately 50% of tested formulas contained at least one hazardous metal at concerning levels.
• The FDA has previously warned about Cronobacter contamination in powdered infant formulas.
• National statistics estimate that one in five newborns are exclusively formula-fed.
• Studies have found that the risk of sepsis increased in premature infants by nearly 18% for every 10% increase in formula consumption.

Enfamil Injuries & Side Effects

Enfamil infant formula has been associated with several serious side effects, particularly in premature infants.

• Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC): A severe gastrointestinal disease that primarily affects premature infants, causing intestinal tissue inflammation and death.
• Heavy Metal Exposure: Recent tests have found concerning levels of toxic metals including arsenic and lead in some formula products.
• Cronobacter Contamination: Bacterial infections that can cause severe, life-threatening illnesses.
• Digestive Issues: Including constipation, diarrhea, and upset stomach.

Do You Qualify for an Enfamil Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an Enfamil lawsuit if:

• Your premature infant was fed Enfamil formula in a hospital or NICU
• Your child developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) after being fed Enfamil
• The NEC diagnosis required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking the injuries to Enfamil formula use

Evidence Required for an Enfamil Lawsuit

To pursue a successful claim, you will need:

• Medical records showing your child was fed Enfamil formula
• Documentation of NEC diagnosis and treatment
• Hospital records from NICU stays
• Evidence of the connection between formula use and the development of NEC

Damages You Can Recover

Compensation in Enfamil lawsuits may include:

• Medical expenses for past and future treatment
• Pain and suffering experienced by your child
• Emotional distress for parents and family
• Lost wages due to caring for your injured child
• In cases of wrongful death, funeral expenses and loss of companionship

The bag was in it like this, this particular sticker was not fully attached and when I opened it up this seal that wraps around was opened, said one mother who purchased Enfamil from CVS. This smells like typical baking flour, she said pointing to the container she said was tampered with.

Enfamil Recall Information

While Enfamil specifically has not been subject to a nationwide recall for NEC risks, the FDA has previously warned consumers to avoid certain powdered infant formulas that may be tied to bacterial infections in babies.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned against using Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas with specific code information after reports of Cronobacter infections that may have led to infant deaths.

Parents and caregivers of premature infants who have used these products, and are concerned about the health of their child, should contact their child’s health care provider, the FDA said in the news release.

Statute of Limitations for Enfamil Lawsuits

The time limit to file an Enfamil lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-3 years from the date of injury or from when you discovered the connection between Enfamil and your child’s condition. Some states provide extensions when the victim is a minor.

Because of these varying deadlines, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

FAQs

What is necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)?

NEC is a serious gastrointestinal disease that primarily affects premature infants. The condition inflames intestinal tissue, causing it to die if not treated promptly. About 1 in 1,000 premature babies develop NEC, with the risk greatest for infants weighing less than 2 pounds.

How does Enfamil formula increase the risk of NEC?

Enfamil and other cow’s milk-based formulas are difficult for premature infants to digest properly. Studies have found that human milk fortifier-based infant formula products can increase the risk of preemies developing NEC, with the risk of sepsis increasing by nearly 18% for every 10% increase in formula consumption.

What is the current status of Enfamil lawsuits?

Enfamil lawsuits have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL). Recently, a significant $60 million verdict was awarded in the first case to go to trial, which may influence future settlements.

How much compensation could I receive from an Enfamil lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on the severity of injuries, medical expenses, and other factors. The recent $60 million jury verdict demonstrates the potential for substantial compensation in cases with fatal outcomes.

Who manufactures Enfamil?

Enfamil is manufactured by Mead Johnson Nutrition, which was acquired by Reckitt Benckiser in 2017.

What ingredients in Enfamil are potentially harmful?

The primary concern is that Enfamil is a cow’s milk-based formula, which studies have linked to increased NEC risk in premature infants. Additionally, recent testing has found concerning levels of heavy metals including arsenic and lead in some formula products.

Can I still file a lawsuit if my child’s NEC diagnosis was years ago?

Possibly. While statutes of limitations vary by state, many states have special provisions for injuries to minors or allow the clock to start when you discovered the connection between the product and the injury. Consult with an attorney to evaluate your specific situation.

Get a Free Enfamil Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

If your premature infant developed necrotizing enterocolitis after being fed Enfamil formula, time is limited to pursue legal action. Many states restrict the time you have to file a claim to just 1-3 years from the date of injury.

Our experienced attorneys at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offer:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we win your case

References

1. https://www.aboutlawsuits.com/60m-jury-award-nec-lawsuit/
2. https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/baby-formula/baby-formula-contaminants-test-results-a7140095293/
3. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/reckittmead-johnson-nutrition-voluntarily-recalls-select-batches-nutramigen-hypoallergenic-infant
4. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/nec
5. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/breastfeeding-your-baby/breast-milk-is-the-best-milk