Across the country, there are many legal cases involving baby formula and infants who have been seriously affected by NEC after being given cow’s milk-based baby formula. The manufacturers of Enfamil and Similac formulas are targeted because of their failure to warn parents of the risks associated with NEC.
Furthermore, NEC or necrotizing enterocolitis is the most common intestinal emergency in premature babies. Preemies have a much thinner intestinal wall that is extremely sensitive. So, the ingestion of baby formula that is based on cow’s milk can possibly cause inflammation of the intestinal wall and cause a leak of bacteria or toxins into the baby’s bloodstream.
In certain, more serious cases, the wall can rupture, and the waste material can flow from the intestine into the abdomen. As a result of this, babies can develop gangrene or severe infections that are life-threatening. At the minimum, surgery is required.
Cause of NEC in Preemies
The exact cause of NEC in preemies is not entirely clear, however, we do know that feeding infants with artificial formula is linked to faster rates of growth but nearly doubles the risk of developing NEC.
Through science and research, it is evident that the use of a baby formula based on cow’s milk in preemies increases the risk of NEC in any baby weighing less than 2 pounds.
There are even some baby formulas specifically manufactured for preemies that are bovine-based, despite scientific evidence of the more significant NEC risks. Every one of these manufacturers has failed to warn parents of these risks and is being held accountable.
Prebiotics Needed for Development
As humans, we need the prebiotic Oligosaccharides, which are essential for stomach health. This prebiotic is, however, absent from baby formula that is based on cow’s milk. Due to this, preemies don’t receive the necessary prebiotics to safely digest bovine-based formula.
Additional research has demonstrated that when Oligosaccharides have been supplemented to preemies, NEC risks have been reduced. It is also worth mentioning that bovine-based baby formula does not contain milk fat globule membrane because the process would be costly. MFGM is responsible for the maturation and development of a baby’s stomach which allows for strong digestion and better immunity during the first few months of life. The absence of MFGM has been linked to a greater chance of developing NEC.
When studied, it was discovered that NEC caused by the baby formula is six to 10 times more likely to occur as opposed to feeding babies with breast milk.
These manufacturing corporations are liable because they bear an obligation to carefully research all their products and disclose any risks associated with customers. Any failure to do that will result in damage claims for risks.
What is even more upsetting is that manufacturers have known for years that many studies link NEC to bovine-based baby formula. Every one of these studies indicates that the risks are more significant than if babies are fed breast milk, donor milk, or formula made from breast milk.
Let Kwartler Manus Fight for Your Baby
Our team of attorneys at Kwartler Manus are well aware of the challenges associated with NEC and baby formula. Nonetheless, though, we are here to fight for justice if you have experienced any of the aforementioned. Our team supports and adequately represents your case to ensure you are compensated for your damages.
Although NEC is not solely caused by the ingestion of bovine baby formula there is still an increased chance of developing NEC after ingestion. Our attorneys are well informed and knowledgeable about this occurrence. We highly encourage you to contact us for a free consultation if you believe your baby has been exposed to NEC through baby formula without the proper warnings. Call us today at 267-457-5570 and we will guide you through the legal process.