Reckitt’s ownership of Mead Johnson has been marked by disappointing growth and mounting legal challenges in the United States. The infant formula division has struggled to deliver the diversification benefits Reckitt originally expected, while ongoing litigation and weak performance have increased pressure on the company to streamline its portfolio and focus on higher-margin core operations.

For Danone, the deal could offer a strategic opportunity to deepen its presence in early-life nutrition, one of the company’s most important business segments. Danone already reported organic sales growth of 7.4% in 2025 in its nutrition activities, and acquiring Mead Johnson would significantly expand its footprint in the United States while complementing its existing positions in Latin America and Asia-Pacific.

Industry analysts say the acquisition would make strategic sense despite concerns over Mead Johnson’s uneven growth record. Barclays analyst Warren Ackerman described the discussions as more exploratory than imminent, but noted that the transaction could materially strengthen Danone’s global infant formula business. Mead Johnson currently represents around 15% of Reckitt’s revenue, generating roughly £2.1 billion annually.