Similac Lawsuits Filed

Seattle, WAParents who were stunned by the recent Similac recall have now filed lawsuits against the maker of Similac baby formula, alleging tainted Similac formula is responsible for infant health problems. Abbott Laboratories Inc, maker of Similac, now faces a potential class-action lawsuit alleging that thousands of children were sickened by Similac infant formula.

Certain lots of Similac infant formula were recalled on September 22, 2010, following reports that beetles or larvae were found in infant formula. An inspection revealed beetles and larvae were also at the manufacturing plant. According to a lawsuit filed by an Illinois mother, Abbott knew that insects had been found on September 16th, but waited a week before announcing a recall.

"Abbott failed to properly exert quality control measures to ensure that the infant formulas were safe for consumption, did not cause adverse health effects, and did not contain beetle parts and beetle larvae," the lawsuit states.

Earlier this year, an inspection of the plant found no significant problems. A Food and Drug Administration inspection report of the plant notes a few minor concerns, including the location and/or verification of hand sanitization. At the time, Abbott said the problem would be corrected.

Abbott has responded by saying the company acted in the best interest of the children and that the lawsuit is without merit.

According to the US Food and Drug Administration, ingestion of the beetles could cause irritation to the intestinal tract, resulting in an upset stomach and difficulty eating, but would not result in any long-term health problems.

The lawsuit seeks class-action status.

The recall involved only powdered infant formulas, not liquid or specialty formulas.