AGRI-NUTRITION GROUP SIGNS DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING AGREEMENT WITH VETOQUINOL SA.

MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 17, 1997-- Agri-Nutrition Group Limited (Nasdaq/NM:AGNU) today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, St. JON Laboratories, has entered into an exclusive Distribution and Marketing Agreement with Vetoquinol SA. Under the terms of the agreement, St. JON was granted the US rights to market and distribute a unique bioadhesive patch technology.

"The primary benefit of this new technology is its ability to deliver medications to pets with minimal pet owner involvement," said Dr. Stephen Lotz, director of veterinary services for St. JON Laboratories. "We look forward to working closely with Vetoquinol SA on developing additional uses for the bioadhesive patch technology." The agreement includes the marketing and distribution rights for the product Stomadhex. Patented and produced by Vetoquinol in France, Stomadhex is a chlorhexidine based antibacterial patch which can be placed in the pet's mouth following dental procedures to maintain oral health.

Bruce G. Baker, president and chief executive officer of Agri- Nutrition Group Limited, said, "This agreement demonstrates our commitment to license or acquire additional products which strengthen our core business in the animal health care market. Stomadhex is an important product since it further strengthens our position as the world's leader in dental care for companion animals."

Vetoquinol SA, privately owned by the family of the founder, Mr. Frenchin, was founded in 1933 and is located in Lure, France. With research as its foundation, Vetoquinol SA is fully dedicated to animal health with a respected presence in 80 countries worldwide.

Agri-Nutrition Group Limited produces, markets and distributes a wide variety of health, grooming, and nutritional products for the pet and animal health care industry through its subsidiaries St. JON Laboratories, Inc., Los Angeles, California; St. JON VRx Products, London, UK; Mardel Laboratories, Inc., Glendale Heights, Illinois; Zema Corporation, Raleigh, North Carolina; and PM Resources, Inc., St. Louis, Missouri. The Company selectively seeks and evaluates acquisition and alignment candidates in support of its core business.

This press release contains forward-looking information made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements may be affected by certain risks and uncertainties described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company's actual results could differ materially from such forward- looking statements.

CONTACT: Agri-Nutrition Group Ltd., Maryland Heights

Robert J. Elfanbaum, 314/298-7330