Del Monte Foods' Options to List On Chicago, Pacific and Philadelphia Exchanges.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 12, 1999--

Del Monte Foods Company (NYSE:DLM), the country's largest producer and distributor of premium quality, branded canned fruits, vegetables and tomatoes, today announced that The Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE), The Pacific Exchange (PCX), and The Philadelphia Stock Exchange (PHLX) will list options for Del Monte, effective immediately. The options will be traded under the ticker symbol DLM.

"Having our options listed on these exchanges is another positive step in Del Monte's evolution as a public company," said Richard G. Wolford, Chief Executive Officer. "We look forward to enjoying the increased visibility and liquidity that comes with having our options listed on three nationally recognized exchanges."

Del Monte options will trade on the January expiration cycle with introductory expiration in June, July, October and January. Eclipse J.V. has been named the Designated Primary Market Maker in the options.

Del Monte Foods Company is the country's largest producer and distributor of premium quality, branded canned fruits, vegetables and tomatoes. Its principal brands include Del Monte and Contadina. In the United States, the Company employees 2,660 full time employees and 12,000 additional seasonal workers in 14 production facilities in California, the Midwest, Washington and Texas, as well as six distribution centers. The Company is not an affiliate of Fresh Del Monte Produce N.A., Inc.