New York Attorney General Letitia James has delivered 3,300 cans of baby formula valued at $140,000 to families in Rochester. This initiative is part of a settlement with Marine Park Distribution Inc. and its affiliate Formula Depot Inc., following an investigation into illegal price gouging during the 2022 nationwide shortage. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that these companies had raised prices significantly during the shortage, violating New York's price gouging laws.
"During a nationwide shortage of baby formula, families in Rochester, like so many across the state, scrambled to find enough formula for their babies," said Attorney General James. "Taking advantage of an emergency to squeeze profit from desperate families is shameful and illegal."
The distributed baby formula will be managed by Foodlink, a nonprofit based in Rochester, along with its partner organizations such as Healthy Baby Network and Mothers In Need of Others. By November 2025, $675,000 worth of baby formula will have been delivered to New Yorkers as part of this settlement.
The shortage in 2022 was due to a manufacturing plant closure and recall that caused significant challenges for families in New York as supplies dwindled and prices increased. During this time, OAG issued warnings to over 30 retailers about overcharging consumers for baby formula.
Congressman Joe Morelle commented on the situation: "One of our fundamental responsibilities as adults is to protect the health and safety of our children... I'm grateful to Attorney General James for taking this action."
Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans also expressed gratitude: "We already know of mothers and fathers living on a tight budget who... would go hungry to ensure there's enough for their child."
Senator Samra G. Brouk highlighted the importance of access: "Baby formula is a critical resource that should be readily available to all community members."
Attorney General James has been active in combating price gouging beyond this case. She led efforts against Walgreens for similar issues during the shortage and secured settlements related to other essential goods during crises like COVID-19.
Residents can report potential price gouging concerns online or by calling 800-771-7755.