Abbott Faces Lawsuit Over Marketing of Potentially Harmful Toddler Milk

Abbott Laboratories is facing legal action over allegations of deceptive marketing practices for its toddler milk products, including Similac Go & Grow and PediaSure Grow & Gain. Multiple lawsuits have been filed, accusing the company of misleading parents into believing that these products are essential for child development despite concerns about their nutritional value.

The lawsuits claim that Abbott’s toddler milk contains high levels of added sugar and processed ingredients that contradict the health claims promoted in its marketing. Plaintiffs argue that the company exploited parental concerns to sell products that are not only unnecessary but potentially harmful when consumed excessively.

“These products are marketed as beneficial for toddlers, but they are nutritionally closer to sugary drinks than to milk,” said a representative from the Public Health Advocacy Institute, which filed one of the lawsuits in Illinois. The group contends that Abbott’s marketing practices violate consumer protection laws and misrepresent the products’ actual benefits.

The controversy highlights the lack of regulatory oversight for toddler milk products, which are not held to the same standards as infant formula. Health experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, have consistently recommended whole foods and limited sugar intake for toddlers, calling products like toddler milk unnecessary in most cases.

Abbott has denied the allegations, stating in a response that its products meet all safety and nutritional standards. “We stand by the quality of our toddler nutrition products and are committed to providing transparent information to parents,” the company said in a statement.

Consumer advocates have called for stricter regulations and clearer labeling to ensure parents are not misled by marketing claims. The lawsuits seek monetary damages and changes to Abbott’s advertising practices.

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