AG James Hands Over $100K Baby Formula to CNY Families

New York – In a move to ease the plight of families affected by the 2022 baby formula crisis, Attorney General Letitia James delivered over $100,000 worth of formula to the Food Bank of Central New York. The donation, consisting of more than 7,000 bottles and cans, is part of a larger $675,000 settlement with Marine Park Distribution, Inc. (Marine Park) and its affiliate, Formula Depot, Inc. (Formula Depot), for their illegal price gouging during the formula shortage.

“No parent should have to struggle to buy formula for their baby because corporations are attempting to profit from a crisis,” said Attorney General James. “Price gouging during an emergency is illegal, and my office will continue to go after any company that tries to take advantage of hardworking New Yorkers.”

The investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) revealed that Marine Park and Formula Depot doubled prices on formula, charging up to $36 for a can that had previously cost $18. The donation marks the final delivery under the settlement agreement.

In 2022, a nationwide shortage was caused by a manufacturing plant closure and recall, leading to significant hardship for parents reliant on baby formula. The OAG found Marine Park raised prices over 60 percent higher than permitted, generating excessive revenue during the crisis. This settlement is part of Attorney General James’ efforts to secure over $800,000 in formula donations.

Attorney General James has previously issued warnings and secured penalties against numerous retailers for overcharging for baby formula. The donation to the Food Bank of Central New York serves families across Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, and St. Lawrence counties.

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