Meng announces legislation to stop stores from selling expired baby formula

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced legislation today that would require stores to stop selling expired baby formula, a shockingly legal and widespread practice that puts infants at risk.

Although regulations require expiration dates on baby formula, there is no federal law that prohibits the sale of the product after it has expired. As a result, many stores – as uncovered by numerous investigations – continue to keep the expired items on their shelves despite the fact that they’re outdated.

“This legislation is a no-brainer, and it’s unbelievable that it’s even necessary,” said Meng. “It is unconscionable that many stores have such a reckless disregard for our babies, and it’s another example of putting profits ahead of safety. Parents expect that the products they purchase for their infants to consume are safe and healthy, and that expectation is not one bit unreasonable. As the mother of two young boys, I can attest to the need for doing all we can to protect our children, and my bill would finally end the disgraceful practice of stores selling expired baby formula. It’s long overdue and I urge my colleagues in Congress, most of whom are parents, to pass it.”

Meng’s measure, entitled the Infant Formula Protection Act, would make it illegal for stores to sell baby formula after the product’s "use by" date has passed. Stores that fail to comply could be fined up to $200,000.

Expired baby formula puts infants at risk because the product loses its nutrient quality over time. So formula consumed after the expiration date may not provide babies with adequate nutrition for health and proper development.

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