Abbott, Reckitt trial over infant formula safety starts in Missouri: report

Jury selection is reportedly underway for a case filed in Missouri against Abbott (NYSE:ABT) and Reckitt (OTCPK:RBGPF) related to the safety of their baby formulas for premature infants.

According to Reuters, Abbott (ABT), Reckitt (OTCPK:RBGPF) and St. Louis Children’s Hospital will be defendants in a suit brought by the mother of a premature infant who developed an intestinal disorder called necrotizing enterocolitis, or NEC, after being fed the formulas. The case is one of 1,000 filed nationally over the infant formulas, according to Reuters.

So far, the cases have brought verdicts amounting to around $495M against Abbott and $60M against Reckitt.

Plaintiffs have argued that the formulas, which are based on cow’s milk, can cause NEC in premature babies and that the companies failed to provide adequate warning about the risks. The companies have asserted that the products are safe, according to Reuters.

Reuters said the cases have alarmed doctors, who are concerned about losing access to the formulas, which are needed when breast milk is unavailable.

Abbott (ABT) had indicated its formulas may no longer be made available because of the litigation, while Reckitt (OTCPK:RBGPF) has said it was mulling strategic options for the products, Reuters added.