Del Monte Foods Commends USDA On Establishing Guidelines for Organic Foods and Notes Importance of Fruits and Vegetables in Healthy Diet.

Business Editors

SAN FRANCISCO, CA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--December 20, 2000

USDA Endorses Use of Canned Fruits and Vegetables

Del Monte Foods Company (NYSE: DLM), the largest producer and distributor of premium quality, branded processed fruit, vegetable and tomato products in the United States today applauded the USDA for establishing a stricter set of guidelines for the production of organic food.

Del Monte, which does not use organic fruits and vegetables, has long been a proponent of establishing uniform regulations to ensure that all fruit and vegetable products are harvested and sold to consumers in the safest and healthiest way possible.

"The USDA has long noted the importance of fruit and vegetables in a healthy diet," said Richard Wolford, Chairman and CEO of Del Monte Foods. "In fact, while the USDA did not today endorse the use of organic fruits and vegetables, it has endorsed the use of canned fruits and vegetables. The USDA, along with other important health organizations, agrees that canned fruits and vegetables, like those produced by Del Monte, offer a nutritious and healthful alternative for fresh products."

In its most recent report on eating a balanced diet and the importance of grains, fruits and vegetables, the USDA noted that, "the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables varies by season and region of the country, but frozen and canned fruits and vegetables ensure a plentiful supply of these healthful foods throughout the year."

Del Monte fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and provide many essential nutrients and other food components important for health. These foods are also excellent sources of vitamin and minerals and many scientists believe that certain fruits and vegetables may play a potentially beneficial role in reducing the risk for cancer and certain other chronic diseases. Additionally, unlike most fresh produce which are picked prior to ripeness, Del Monte foods are picked when fully ripe and immediately packaged, a process that ensures enhanced quality and freshness characteristics.

Del Monte Foods Company, with net sales of $1.5 billion in fiscal 2000, is the largest producer and distributor of premium quality, branded processed fruit, vegetable and tomato products in the United States. The Del Monte brand was introduced in 1892 and is one of the best known brands in the United States. Del Monte products are sold through national grocery chains, independent grocery stores, warehouse club stores, mass merchandisers, drug stores and convenience stores. The Company also sells its products to the U.S. military, certain export markets, the foodservice industry and food processors. The Company operates fourteen production facilities and seven distribution centers in the U.S., has operations in Venezuela and owns Del Monte brand marketing rights in South America.