Edgar Filing: SMITHFIELD FOODS INC

form_10-q.htm

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended January 31, 2010

COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 1-15321

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

200 Commerce Street

Smithfield, Virginia 23430

(757) 365-3000


	Virginia		52-0845861
	(State of Incorporation)		(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ¨ No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer x	Accelerated filer	¨
Non-accelerated filer ¨	Smaller reporting company	¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No x

At March 5, 2010, 165,835,632 shares of the registrant’s Common Stock ($.50 par value per share) were outstanding.

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

TABLE OF CONTENTS


		PAGE
	PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.	Financial Statements	3

	Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income—Three and Nine Months Ended January 31, 2010 and February 1, 2009	3

	Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets—January 31, 2010 and May 3, 2009	4

	Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows—Nine Months Ended January 31, 2010 and February 1, 2009	5

	Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements	6

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	23

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	41

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	41


	PART II—OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	42

Item 1A.	Risk Factors	42

Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	44

Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	44

Item 4.	(Removed and Reserved)	44

Item 5.	Other Information	44

Item 6.	Exhibits	45

SIGNATURES		46

PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(in millions, except per share data)

	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(unaudited)						(unaudited)
Sales	$	2,884.7		$	3,348.2		$	8,292.4		$	9,637.1
Cost of sales		2,600.5			3,263.9			7,741.2			9,125.0
Gross profit		284.2			84.3			551.2			512.1
Selling, general and administrative expenses		194.5			202.2			558.3			602.5
Equity in (income) loss of affiliates		(6.8	)		17.6			(30.6	)		41.6
Operating profit (loss)		96.5			(135.5	)		23.5			(132.0	)
Interest expense		67.2			62.2			198.9			163.7
Other (income) loss		-			(63.5	)		11.0			(63.5	)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes		29.3			(134.2	)		(186.4	)		(232.2	)
Income tax benefit		(8.0	)		(26.1	)		(89.6	)		(62.5	)
Income (loss) from continuing operations		37.3			(108.1	)		(96.8	)		(169.7	)
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax of $2.1 and $44.3		-			2.4			-			52.5
Net income (loss)	$	37.3		$	(105.7	)	$	(96.8	)	$	(117.2	)


Income (loss) per basic and diluted share:
Continuing operations	$	.22		$	(.75	)	$	(.63	)	$	(1.21	)
Discontinued operations		-			.01			-			.37
Net income (loss)	$	.22		$	(.74	)	$	(.63	)	$	(.84	)
Weighted average shares:
Weighted average basic shares		165.8			143.6			154.2			140.3
Effect of dilutive stock options		0.2			-			-			-
Weighted average diluted shares		166.0			143.6			154.2			140.3

See Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(in millions, except share data)

	January 31, 2010			May 3, 2009
	(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	401.7		$	119.0
Accounts receivable, net		651.1			595.2
Inventories		1,843.4			1,896.1
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		372.6			174.2
Total current assets		3,268.8			2,784.5

Property, plant and equipment, net		2,376.9			2,443.0
Goodwill		823.0			820.0
Investments		643.9			601.6
Intangible assets, net		390.7			392.2
Other assets		201.1			158.9
Total assets	$	7,704.4		$	7,200.2

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Notes payable	$	25.1		$	17.5
Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations		86.1			320.8
Accounts payable		378.6			390.2
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		631.6			558.3
Total current liabilities		1,121.4			1,286.8

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations		2,892.8			2,567.3
Other liabilities		783.4			715.5

Redeemable noncontrolling interests		-			8.3

Commitments and contingencies

Equity:
Shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value, 1,000,000 authorized shares		-			-
Common stock, $.50 par value, 500,000,000 authorized shares; 165,835,632 and 143,576,842 issued and outstanding		82.9			71.8
Additional paid-in capital		1,612.6			1,353.8
Stock held in trust		(65.4	)		(64.8	)
Retained earnings		1,543.3			1,640.1
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(275.2	)		(388.5	)
Total shareholders’ equity		2,898.2			2,612.4
Noncontrolling interests		8.6			9.9
Total equity		2,906.8			2,622.3
Total liabilities and equity	$	7,704.4		$	7,200.2

See Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in millions)

	Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(Unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$	(96.8	)	$	(117.2	)
Adjustments to reconcile net cash flows from operating activities:
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax		-			(52.5	)
Impairment of assets		45.1			78.2
Equity in (income) loss of affiliates		(30.6	)		41.6
Depreciation and amortization		178.3			207.3
Loss on sale of property, plant and equipment		18.5			9.9
Gain on sale of investments		(4.5	)		(57.6	)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities and other, net		32.5			(29.4	)
Net cash flows from operating activities		142.5			80.3

Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures		(136.4	)		(154.4	)
Dispositions		23.3			575.5
Insurance proceeds		9.9			-
Investments and other		12.5			3.7
Net cash flows from investing activities		(90.7	)		424.8

Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt		840.1			600.0
Principal payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations		(323.7	)		(169.4	)
Net repayments on revolving credit facilities and notes payables		(479.4	)		(892.3	)
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock and stock option exercises		294.8			122.3
Repurchases of debt		-			(86.2	)
Purchase of call options		-			(88.2	)
Proceeds from the sale of warrants		-			36.7
Debt issuance costs and other		(62.8	)		(11.0	)
Purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest		(38.9	)		-
Net cash flows from financing activities		230.1			(488.1	)

Cash flows from discontinued operations:
Net cash flows from operating activities		-			34.7
Net cash flows from investing activities		-			(7.0	)
Net cash flows from financing activities		-			(0.8	)
Net cash flows from discontinued operations activities		-			26.9

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash		0.8			(10.6	)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		282.7			33.3
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		119.0			57.3
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	401.7		$	90.6

Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Investment in Butterball	$	-		$	(24.5	)
Common stock issued for acquisition	$	-		$	(60.4	)

See Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1: GENERAL

Smithfield Foods, Inc., together with its subsidiaries (the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”), is the largest hog producer and pork processor in the world. We produce and market a wide variety of fresh meat and packaged meats products both domestically and internationally. We conduct our operations through five reporting segments: Pork, International, Hog Production, Other and Corporate.

You should read these statements in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the related notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009. The enclosed interim consolidated condensed financial information is unaudited. The information reflects all normal recurring adjustments which we believe are necessary to present fairly the financial position and results of operations for all periods included.

Unless otherwise stated, the amounts presented in these notes to our consolidated condensed financial statements are based on continuing operations for all fiscal periods included. The three months ended January 31, 2010 correspond to the third quarter of fiscal 2010 and the three months ended February 1, 2009 correspond to the third quarter of fiscal 2009. Certain prior year amounts have changed as a result of the adoption of certain accounting pronouncements as discussed in Note 2—Accounting Changes and New Accounting Guidance, and to conform to current year presentations.

Our year consists of either 52 or 53 weeks, ending on the Sunday nearest April 30. The three and nine months ended January 31, 2010 consisted of 13 and 39 weeks, respectively. The three and nine months ended February 1, 2009 consisted of 14 and 40 weeks, respectively.

NOTE 2: ACCOUNTING CHANGES AND NEW ACCOUNTING GUIDANCE

In January 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued authoritative guidance intended to improve disclosures about fair value measurements. The guidance requires entities to disclose significant transfers in and out of fair value hierarchy levels and the reasons for the transfers and to present information about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements separately in the reconciliation of fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Additionally, the guidance clarifies that a reporting entity should provide fair value measurements for each class of assets and liabilities and disclose the inputs and valuation techniques used for fair value measurements using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). The new guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2009. Accordingly, we will adopt the new guidance in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010.

In June 2009 and December 2009, the FASB issued guidance requiring an analysis to determine whether a variable interest gives the entity a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. This guidance requires an ongoing assessment and eliminates the quantitative approach previously required for determining whether an entity is the primary beneficiary. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009. Accordingly, we will adopt this guidance in fiscal year 2011. We are in the process of evaluating the potential impacts of such adoption.

In April 2009, the FASB issued new disclosure requirements about the fair value of financial instruments in interim financial statements. We adopted the new requirements in the first quarter of fiscal 2010. See Note 15—Fair Value Measurements for required disclosures.

In September 2008, the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) issued guidance for determining whether an equity-linked financial instrument (or embedded feature) is indexed to an entity’s own stock. The new guidance requires retrospective application with restatement of prior periods. We adopted the new guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 and determined that it had no impact on our consolidated condensed financial statements.

In May 2008, the FASB issued new accounting guidance for convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion (including partial cash settlement). Under the new guidance, issuers of such instruments should separately account for the liability and equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity’s nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. The amount allocated to the equity component represents a discount to the debt, which is amortized into interest expense using the effective interest method over the life of the debt. We adopted the new accounting guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 and applied it retrospectively to all periods presented. Refer to Note 9—Debt for further discussion of the impact of this new accounting guidance on our consolidated condensed financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued new accounting and disclosure guidance on how to recognize, measure and present assets acquired, liabilities assumed, noncontrolling interests and any goodwill recognized in a business combination. The objective of this new guidance is to improve the information included in financial reports about the nature and financial effects of business combinations. We adopted the new guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, and will apply it prospectively to all future business combinations. The adoption did not have a significant impact on our consolidated condensed financial statements, and the impact on our consolidated condensed financial statements in future periods will depend on the nature and size of any future business combinations.

In December 2007, the FASB issued new accounting and reporting guidance for a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This guidance clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity and should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements, rather than as a liability or in the mezzanine section between liabilities and equity. The new guidance also requires consolidated net income to be reported at amounts that include the amounts attributable to both the parent and the noncontrolling interest. We adopted the new accounting guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, and are applying it prospectively, except for the consolidated condensed statements of income where income attributable to noncontrolling interests is immaterial for the periods presented. The new presentation and disclosure requirements have been applied retrospectively. The adoption of this guidance did not have a significant impact on our consolidated condensed financial statements.

In September 2006, the FASB issued new accounting and disclosure guidance that defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. It does not require any new fair value measurements. The new guidance was effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years for financial assets and liabilities, and for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 for all nonrecurring fair value measurements of nonfinancial assets and liabilities. We adopted the new guidance for financial assets and liabilities in the first quarter of fiscal 2009 and for nonrecurring fair value measurements of nonfinancial assets and liabilities in the first quarter of fiscal 2010. The adoption did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. See Note 15— Fair Value Measurements for additional disclosures on fair value measurements.

NOTE 3: DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

Smithfield Beef, Inc. (Smithfield Beef)

In March 2008 (fiscal 2008), we entered into an agreement with JBS S.A., a company organized and existing under the laws of Brazil (JBS), to sell Smithfield Beef, our beef processing and cattle feeding operation that encompassed our entire Beef segment. In October 2008 (fiscal 2009), we completed the sale of Smithfield Beef for $575.5 million in cash.

The remaining live cattle inventories of Smithfield Beef, which were excluded from the JBS transaction, were sold in the first quarter of fiscal 2010. Our results from the sale of the live cattle inventories that were excluded from the JBS transaction are reported in income from continuing operations in the Other segment.

We recorded an estimated pre-tax gain of $95.2 million ($51.9 million net of tax) on the sale of Smithfield Beef in income from discontinued operations in the second quarter of fiscal 2009. We recorded an additional gain of approximately $4.5 million ($2.4 million net of tax) in the third quarter of fiscal 2009 for the settlement of differences in working capital at closing from agreed-upon targets. These gains were recorded in income (loss) from discontinued operations.

The following table presents sales, interest expense and net income of Smithfield Beef for the fiscal periods indicated. Interest expense is allocated to discontinued operations based on specific borrowings by the discontinued operations. These results are reported in income from discontinued operations.

	Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009
	(in millions)				(in millions)
Sales	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	1,699.0
Interest expense		-		-		-		17.3
Net income		-		-		-		0.9

Smithfield Bioenergy, LLC (SBE)

In April 2007 (fiscal 2007), we decided to exit the alternative fuels business and in May 2008 (fiscal 2009), we completed the sale of substantially all of the assets of SBE for $11.5 million. The results of SBE are presented in income from discontinued operations. The following table presents sales, interest expense and net loss of SBE for the fiscal periods indicated. These results are reported in income from discontinued operations.

	Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009
	(in millions)				(in millions)
Sales	$	-	$	-	$	-	$	3.8
Interest expense		-		-		-		1.3
Net loss		-		-		-		(2.7	)

NOTE 4: INVENTORIES

Inventories consist of the following:

	January 31, 2010		May 3, 2009
	(in millions)
Live hogs	$	846.3	$	838.4
Fresh and packaged meats		742.8		789.1
Manufacturing supplies		83.1		72.7
Grains and other		171.2		195.9
Total inventories	$	1,843.4	$	1,896.1

NOTE 5: DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

Our meat processing and hog production operations use various raw materials, primarily live hogs, corn and soybean meal, which are actively traded on commodity exchanges. We hedge these commodities when we determine conditions are appropriate to mitigate price risk. While this hedging may limit our ability to participate in gains from favorable commodity fluctuations, it also tends to reduce the risk of loss from adverse changes in raw material prices. We attempt to closely match the commodity contract terms with the hedged item. We also enter into interest rate swaps to hedge exposure to changes in interest rates on certain financial instruments and foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge certain exposures to fluctuating foreign currency rates.

We record all derivatives in the balance sheet as either assets or liabilities at fair value. Accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on whether it qualifies and has been designated as part of a hedging relationship. For derivatives that qualify and have been designated as hedges for accounting purposes, changes in fair value have no net impact on earnings, to the extent the derivative is considered perfectly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows attributable to the risk being hedged, until the hedged item is recognized in earnings (commonly referred to as the “hedge accounting” method). For derivatives that do not qualify or are not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes, changes in fair value are recorded in current period earnings (commonly referred to as the “mark-to-market” method). We may elect either method of accounting for our derivative portfolio, assuming all the necessary requirements are met. We have in the past, and will in the future, avail ourselves of either acceptable method. We believe all of our derivative instruments represent economic hedges against changes in prices and rates, regardless of their designation for accounting purposes.

We do not offset amounts recognized for derivative instruments and amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral (a receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (a payable) arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement. As of January 31, 2010, prepaid expenses and other current assets included $88.2 million representing cash on deposit with brokers to cover losses on our open derivative instruments. Changes in commodity prices could have a significant impact on cash deposit requirements under our broker and counterparty agreements. As of January 31, 2010, we had $14.0 million posted as collateral related to an interest rate swap. We have reviewed our derivative contracts and have determined that they do not contain credit contingent features which would require us to post additional collateral if we did not maintain a credit rating equivalent to what was in place at the time the contracts were entered into.

We are exposed to losses in the event of nonperformance or nonpayment by counterparties under financial instruments. Although our counterparties primarily consist of financial institutions that are investment grade, there is still a possibility that one or more of these companies could default. However, a majority of our financial instruments are exchange traded futures contracts held with brokers and counterparties with whom we maintain margin accounts that are settled on a daily basis, and therefore our credit risk is not significant. Determination of the credit quality of our counterparties is based upon a number of factors, including credit ratings and our evaluation of their financial condition. As of January 31, 2010, we had credit exposure of $4.8 million on non-exchange traded derivative contracts, excluding the effects of netting arrangements. As a result of netting arrangements, our credit exposure was reduced to $3.8 million. No significant concentrations of credit risk existed as of January 31, 2010.

The size and mix of our derivative portfolio varies from time to time based upon our analysis of current and future market conditions. The following table presents the fair values of our open derivative financial instruments in the consolidated balance sheets on a gross basis. All grain contracts, livestock contracts and foreign exchange contracts are recorded in prepaid expenses and other current assets or accrued expenses and other current liabilities within the consolidated condensed balance sheets, as appropriate. Interest rate contracts are recorded in accrued expenses and other current liabilities or other liabilities, as appropriate.

	Assets				Liabilities
	January 31, 2010		May 3, 2009		January 31, 2010		May 3, 2009
	(in millions)				(in millions)
Derivatives using the "hedge accounting" method:
Grain contracts	$	6.9	$	10.4	$	21.6	$	17.7
Livestock contracts		11.6		-		2.0		-
Interest rate contracts		-		0.6		9.6		10.3
Foreign exchange contracts		2.1		2.8		0.1		14.4
Total		20.6		13.8		33.3		42.4

Derivatives using the “mark-to-market” method:
Grain contracts		1.5		10.2		12.9		16.2
Livestock contracts		11.8		21.9		10.5		6.3
Energy contracts		0.1		-		3.9		13.0
Foreign exchange contracts		1.7		0.3		0.8		1.6
Total		15.1		32.4		28.1		37.1
Total fair value of derivative instruments	$	35.7	$	46.2	$	61.4	$	79.5

Hedge Accounting Method

Cash Flow Hedges

We enter into derivative instruments, such as futures, swaps and options contracts, to manage our exposure to the variability in expected future cash flows attributable to commodity price risk associated with the forecasted sale of live hogs and the forecasted purchase of corn and soybean meal. In addition, we enter into interest rate swaps to manage our exposure to changes in interest rates associated with our variable interest rate debt, and we enter into foreign exchange contracts to manage our exposure to the variability in expected future cash flows attributable to changes in foreign exchange rates associated with the forecasted purchase or sale of assets denominated in foreign currencies. We generally do not hedge anticipated transactions beyond twelve months.

During the nine months ended January 31, 2010, the range of notional volumes associated with open derivative instruments designated in cash flow hedging relationships was as follows:

	Minimum		Maximum		Metric
Commodities:
Corn		-		79,035,000	Bushels
Soybean meal		78,900		551,200	Tons
Lean Hogs		-		264,800,000	Pounds
Interest rate		200,000,000		200,000,000	U.S. Dollars
Foreign currency (1)		37,993,270		106,247,277	U.S. Dollars

(1) Amounts represent the U.S. dollar equivalent of various foreign exchange contracts.

When cash flow hedge accounting is applied, derivative gains or losses from these cash flow hedges are recognized as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI) and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affect earnings. Derivative gains and losses, when reclassified into earnings, are recorded in cost of sales for grain contracts, sales for lean hog contracts, interest expense for interest rate contracts, and selling, general and administrative expenses for foreign exchange contracts.

The following table presents the effects on our consolidated condensed financial statements of gains and losses on derivative instruments designated in cash flow hedging relationships for the fiscal periods indicated:

	Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)						Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings (Effective Portion)						Loss Recognized in Earnings on Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
	Three Months Ended						Three Months Ended						Three Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)						(in millions)						(in millions)
Commodity contracts:
Grain contracts	$	(12.7	)	$	14.1		$	(0.6	)	$	(41.1	)	$	0.2		$	3.4
Lean hog contracts		(3.8	)		-			1.7			-			(0.3	)		-
Interest rate contracts		(0.9	)		(6.1	)		(1.1	)		(0.8	)		-			-
Foreign exchange contracts		1.0			(8.1	)		1.1			(1.3	)		-			-
Total	$	(16.4	)	$	(0.1	)	$	1.1		$	(43.2	)	$	(0.1	)	$	3.4


	Nine Months Ended						Nine Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)						(in millions)						(in millions)
Commodity contracts:
Grain contracts	$	(9.9	)	$	(202.6	)	$	(84.3	)	$	(42.0	)	$	(6.6	)	$	(4.7	)
Lean hog contracts		1.9			-			4.9			-			(0.4	)		-
Interest rate contracts		0.5			(11.1	)		(3.7	)		(1.1	)		-			-
Foreign exchange contracts		11.6			(9.1	)		(3.5	)		(0.8	)		-			-
Total	$	4.1		$	(222.8	)	$	(86.6	)	$	(43.9	)	$	(7.0	)	$	(4.7	)

For the fiscal periods presented, foreign exchange contracts were determined to be highly effective. We have excluded from the assessment of effectiveness differences between spot and forward rates, which we have determined to be immaterial.

As of January 31, 2010, there were deferred net losses of $16.0 million, net of tax of $10.2 million, in accumulated other comprehensive loss. As of May 3, 2009, there were deferred net losses of $77.1 million, net of tax of $34.6 million, in accumulated other comprehensive loss. We expect to reclassify $2.5 million ($1.5 million net of tax) of the deferred net losses on closed commodity contracts into earnings within the next twelve months.

Fair Value Hedges

We enter into derivative instruments (primarily futures contracts) that are designed to hedge changes in the fair value of live hog inventories and firm commitments to buy grains. We also enter into interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risk associated with our fixed rate borrowings. When fair value hedge accounting is applied, derivative gains and losses from these fair value hedges are recognized in earnings currently along with the change in fair value of the hedged item attributable to the risk being hedged. The gains or losses on the derivative instruments and the offsetting losses or gains on the related hedged items are recorded in cost of sales for commodity contracts and interest expense for interest rate contracts.

During the nine months ended January 31, 2010, the range of notional volumes associated with open derivative instruments designated in fair value hedging relationships was as follows:


	Minimum		Maximum		Metric
Commodities:
Corn		2,435,000		11,610,000	Bushels
Lean Hogs		-		726,160,000	Pounds
Interest rate		-		50,000,000	U.S. Dollars
Foreign currency (1)		16,051,549		24,836,547	U.S. Dollars

(1) Amounts represent the U.S. dollar equivalent of various foreign exchange contracts.

The following table presents the effects on our consolidated condensed statements of income of gains and losses on derivative instruments designated in fair value hedging relationships and the related hedged items for the fiscal periods indicated:

	Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivative						Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Related Hedged Item
	Three Months Ended						Three Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)						(in millions)
Commodity contracts	$	11.1		$	0.1		$	(15.5	)	$	-
Interest rate contracts		-			0.4			-			(0.4	)
Foreign exchange contracts		(0.3	)		(0.6	)		0.3			-
Total	$	10.8		$	(0.1	)	$	(15.2	)	$	(0.4	)


	Nine Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)						(in millions)
Commodity contracts	$	18.0		$	13.6		$	(21.2	)	$	(14.8	)
Interest rate contracts		0.6			2.4			(0.6	)		(2.4	)
Foreign exchange contracts		2.8			(1.8	)		(1.1	)		-
Total	$	21.4		$	14.2		$	(22.9	)	$	(17.2	)

Mark-to-Market Method

Derivative instruments that are not designated as a hedge, have been de-designated from a hedging relationship, or do not meet the criteria for hedge accounting are marked-to-market with the unrealized gains and losses together with actual realized gains and losses from closed contracts being recognized in current period earnings. Under the mark-to-market method, gains and losses are recorded in cost of sales for commodity contracts, and selling, general and administrative expenses for interest rate contracts and foreign exchange contracts.

During the nine months ended January 31, 2010, the range of notional volumes associated with open derivative instruments using the “mark-to-market” method was as follows:


	Minimum		Maximum		Metric
Commodities:
Lean hogs		9,000,000		872,160,000	Pounds
Corn		3,125,000		27,560,000	Bushels
Soybean meal		-		501,272	Tons
Soybeans		140,000		575,000	Bushels
Wheat		-		360,000	Bushels
Live cattle		-		6,000,000	Pounds
Pork bellies		-		1,920,000	Pounds
Natural gas		2,770,000		5,040,000	Million BTU's
Foreign currency (1)		60,029,232		152,462,490	U.S. Dollars

(1) Amounts represent the U.S. dollar equivalent of various foreign exchange contracts.

The following table presents the amount of gains (losses) recognized in the consolidated condensed statements of income on derivative instruments using the “mark-to-market” method by type of derivative contract for the fiscal periods indicated:

	Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009		January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)					(in millions)
Commodity contracts	$	(8.1	)	$	22.7	$	6.4		$	74.0
Interest rate contracts		-			-		-			0.2
Foreign exchange contracts		(0.9	)		5.3		(11.9	)		6.3
Total	$	(9.0	)	$	28.0	$	(5.5	)	$	80.5

NOTE 6: IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS

Hog Farms

In June 2009 (fiscal 2010), we decided to further reduce our domestic sow herd by 3%, or approximately 30,000 sows, which was accomplished by ceasing hog production operations and closing certain of our hog farms. In addition, in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we began marketing certain other hog farms. As a result of these decisions, we recorded total impairment charges of $34.1 million, including an allocation of goodwill, in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 to write down the hog farm assets to their estimated fair values. The impairment charges were recorded in the Hog Production segment. See Note 15—Fair Value Measurements for further discussion.

Prior to the third quarter of fiscal 2010, we had classified certain hog farm assets that were being marketed as held for sale within prepaid expenses and other current assets in the consolidated condensed balance sheets. During the third quarter of fiscal 2010, it became apparent that a sale of these assets was not likely to be completed within twelve months. We have reclassified these assets, which consist primarily of property, plant and equipment, as assets held and used within property, plant and equipment, net in the consolidated condensed balance sheets. The carrying amount of these assets was $27.9 million as of January 31, 2010 and $33.1 million as of May 3, 2009.

RMH Foods, LLC (RMH)

In October 2009 (fiscal 2010), we entered into an agreement to sell substantially all of the assets of RMH, a subsidiary within the Pork segment, for $9.5 million, plus the assumption by the buyer of certain liabilities, subject to customary post-closing adjustments, including adjustments for differences in working capital at closing from agreed-upon targets. We recorded pre-tax charges totaling $3.5 million in the Pork segment in the second quarter of fiscal 2010 to write-down the assets of RMH to their fair values. These charges were recorded in cost of sales in the consolidated condensed statement of income.

In December 2009 (fiscal 2010), we completed the sale of RMH for $9.1 million, plus $1.4 million of liabilities assumed by the buyer.

Sioux City, Iowa Plant

In January 2010 (fiscal 2010), we announced that we will be closing our fresh pork processing plant located in Sioux City, Iowa in April 2010 (fiscal 2010). The Sioux City plant is one of our oldest and least efficient plants. The plant design severely limits our ability to produce value-added packaged meats products and maximize production throughput. A majority of the plant’s production will be transferred to other nearby Smithfield plants.

As a result of the planned closure, we recorded charges of $13.1 million. These charges consisted of $3.6 million for the write-down of long-lived assets, $2.5 million of unusable inventories and $7.0 million for estimated severance benefits pursuant to contractual and ongoing benefit arrangements. Substantially all of these charges were recorded in cost of sales in the Pork segment. We do not expect any significant future charges associated with the plant closure.

NOTE 7: RESTRUCTURING

The following table summarizes the balance of accrued expenses, the cumulative expense incurred to date and the expected remaining expenses to be incurred related to the Restructuring Plan by major type of cost. All of these charges were recorded in the Pork segment.

	Accrued Balance May 3, 2009		1st Quarter FY 2010 Expense			2nd Quarter FY 2010 Expense		3rd Quarter FY 2010 Expense		Payments			Accrued Balance January 31, 2010		Cumulative Expense-to-Date		Estimated Remaining Expense
Restructuring charges:	(in millions)
Employee severance and related benefits	$	11.9	$	(0.2	)	$	0.4	$	0.2	$	(3.0	)	$	9.3	$	12.7	$	0.4
Other associated costs		0.5		6.5			3.0		3.1		(11.4	)		1.7		14.3		8.5
Total restructuring charges	$	12.4	$	6.3		$	3.4	$	3.3	$	(14.4	)	$	11.0		27.0	$	8.9

Impairment charges:
Property, plant and equipment																69.9
Inventory																4.8
Total impairment charges																74.7
Total restructuring and impairment charges															$	101.7

Employee severance and related benefits primarily include severance benefits and an estimated obligation for the partial withdrawal from a multiemployer pension plan. Other associated costs consist primarily of plant consolidation and plant wind-down expenses, all of which are expensed as incurred. Of the $13.5 million of restructuring and impairment charges recorded in fiscal 2010, $8.6 million was recorded in cost of sales with the remainder recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. Substantially all of the estimated remaining expenses are expected to be incurred by the first half of fiscal 2011.

NOTE 8: INVESTMENTS

Investments consist of the following:

Equity Investment	% Owned		January 31, 2010		May 3, 2009
			(in millions)
Campofrío Food Group (CFG) (1)		37%	$	444.5	$	417.8
Butterball, LLC (Butterball)		49%		96.3		78.2
Mexican joint ventures	Various			66.7		53.9
Other	Various			36.4		51.7
Total investments			$	643.9	$	601.6

(1)

Prior to the third quarter of fiscal 2009, we owned 50% of Groupe Smithfield S.L. (Groupe Smithfield) and 24% of Campofrío Alimentación, S.A. (Campofrío). Those entities merged in the third quarter of fiscal 2009 to form CFG, of which we currently own 37%. The amounts presented for CFG throughout this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q represent the combined historical results of Groupe Smithfield and Campofrío.

Equity in (income) loss of affiliates consists of the following:

		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
Equity Investment	Segment	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
		(in millions)						(in millions)
Butterball	Other	$	(7.9	)	$	(3.9	)	$	(15.3	)	$	16.6
CFG (2)	International		5.3			0.6			(2.5	)		4.2
Mexican joint ventures	Various		(4.4	)		9.1			(11.3	)		10.3
All other equity method investments	Various		0.2			11.8			(1.5	)		10.5
Equity in (income) loss of affiliates		$	(6.8	)	$	17.6		$	(30.6	)	$	41.6

(2)	CFG prepares its financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards. Our share of CFG’s results reflects U.S. GAAP adjustments and thus, there may be differences between the amounts we report for CFG and the amounts reported by CFG.

CFG

As of January 31, 2010, we held 37,811,302 shares of CFG common stock. The stock was valued at €6.48 per share (approximately $8.98 per share) on the close of the last day of trading before the end of our third quarter of fiscal 2010. Based on the stock price and foreign exchange rate as of January 31, 2010, the carrying value of our investment in CFG, net of the cumulative translation adjustment, exceeded the market value of the underlying securities by $79.9 million. We have analyzed our investment in CFG for impairment and have determined that the decline in value is temporary. We have based our conclusion on the historical prices and trading volumes of the stock, the impact of the movement in foreign currency translation, the duration of time in which the carrying value of the investment exceeded its fair value, our level of involvement with the entity, and our intent and ability to hold the investment long-term. Based on our assessment, no impairment was recorded.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2010, as part of a debt restructuring, CFG redeemed certain of its debt instruments and as a result, we recorded $10.4 million of charges in equity income in the third quarter of fiscal 2010.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we received a cash dividend from CFG totaling approximately $16.6 million.

Sale of Farasia Corporation (Farasia)

In November 2009 (fiscal 2010), we completed the sale of our investment in Farasia, a 50/50 Chinese joint venture formed in 2001, for RMB 97.0 million ($14.2 million at the time of the transaction). Farasia's wholly-owned subsidiary, Maverick Food Company Limited, focuses mainly on hot dogs and other sausages, whole and sliced ham, bacon, Chinese-style processed meat, and frozen and convenience food. We recorded, in selling, general and administrative expenses, a $4.5 million pre-tax gain in the third quarter of fiscal 2010 on the sale of our investment in Farasia.

NOTE 9: DEBT

2014 Notes

Interest payments are due semi-annually on January 15 and July 15. The 2014 Notes are guaranteed by substantially all of our U.S. subsidiaries. The 2014 Notes are secured by first-priority liens, subject to permitted liens and exceptions for excluded assets, in substantially all of the guarantors’ real property, fixtures and equipment (collectively, the Non-ABL Collateral) and are secured by second-priority liens on cash and cash equivalents, deposit accounts, accounts receivable, inventory, other personal property relating to such inventory and accounts receivable and all proceeds therefrom, intellectual property, and certain capital stock and interests, which secure the ABL Credit Facility (as defined below) on a first-priority basis (collectively, the ABL Collateral).

The 2014 Notes will rank equally in right of payment to all of our existing and future senior debt and senior in right of payment to all of our existing and future subordinated debt. The guarantees will rank equally in right of payment with all of the guarantors’ existing and future senior debt and senior in right of payment to all of the guarantors’ existing and future subordinated debt. In addition, the 2014 Notes are structurally subordinated to the liabilities of our non-guarantor subsidiaries.

We incurred offering expenses of approximately $22.8 million, which are being amortized, along with the discount and premium, into interest expense over the five-year life of the 2014 Notes. We used the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2014 Notes, together with other available cash, to repay borrowings and terminate commitments under our then existing $1.3 billion secured revolving credit agreement (the U.S. Credit Facility), to repay the outstanding balance under our then existing €300 million European secured revolving credit facility (the Euro Credit Facility), to repay and/or refinance other indebtedness and for other general corporate purposes. We cancelled the Euro Credit Facility, which was scheduled to mature in August 2010 (fiscal 2011), upon repayment of the outstanding balance. In the second quarter of fiscal 2010, in connection with the cancellation of the Euro Credit Facility, we recorded $3.0 million of charges primarily related to the write-off of unamortized costs associated with the facility as a loss on debt extinguishment.

Asset-Based Credit Facility

In July 2009 (fiscal 2010), we entered into a new asset-based revolving credit agreement totaling $1.0 billion that supports short-term funding needs and letters of credit (the ABL Credit Facility), which, along with the 2014 Notes, replaced the U.S. Credit Facility, which was scheduled to expire in August 2010 (fiscal 2011). Loans made under the ABL Credit Facility will mature and the commitments thereunder will terminate in July 2012. However, the ABL Credit Facility will be subject to an earlier maturity if we fail to satisfy certain conditions related to the refinancing or repayment of our senior notes due 2011. The ABL Credit Facility provides for an option, subject to certain conditions, to increase total commitments to $1.3 billion in the future.

The ABL Credit Facility requires an unused commitment fee of 1% per annum on the undrawn portion of the facility (subject to a stepdown in the event more than 50% of the commitments under the facility are utilized).

Obligations under the ABL Credit Facility are guaranteed by substantially all of our U.S. subsidiaries and are secured by a first-priority lien on the ABL Collateral. Our obligations under the ABL Credit Facility are also secured by a second-priority lien on the Non-ABL Collateral, which secures the 2014 Notes and our obligations under the Rabobank Term Loan (as defined below) on a first-priority basis.

Availability under the ABL Credit Facility is based on a percentage of certain eligible accounts receivable and eligible inventory and is reduced by certain reserves. After reducing the amount available by outstanding letters of credit issued under the ABL Credit Facility of $188.6 million and a borrowing base adjustment of $139.4 million, the amount available for borrowing, as of January 31, 2010, was $672.0 million, of which, we had no outstanding borrowings.

We incurred approximately $39.9 million in transaction fees which will be amortized into interest expense over the three-year life of the ABL Credit Facility. In the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we recognized a $7.4 million charge related to the write-off of amendment fees and costs associated with the U.S. Credit Facility as a loss on debt extinguishment.

Rabobank Term Loan

In July 2009 (fiscal 2010), we entered into a new $200 million term loan due August 29, 2013 (the Rabobank Term Loan), which replaced our then existing $200 million term loan that was scheduled to mature in August 2011. We are obligated to repay $25 million of the borrowings under the Rabobank Term Loan on each of August 29, 2011 and August 29, 2012. We may elect to prepay the loan at any time, subject to the payment of certain prepayment fees in respect of any voluntary prepayment prior to August 29, 2011 and other customary breakage costs. Outstanding borrowings under this loan will accrue interest at variable rates. Our obligations under the Rabobank Term Loan are guaranteed by substantially all of our U.S. subsidiaries on a senior secured basis. The Rabobank Term Loan is secured by first-priority liens on the Non-ABL Collateral and is secured by second-priority liens on the ABL Collateral, which secures our obligations under the ABL Credit Facility on a first-priority basis. Transaction fees for the Rabobank Term Loan were immaterial.

Convertible Notes

In July 2008 (fiscal 2009), we issued $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4% convertible senior notes due June 30, 2013 (the Convertible Notes) in a registered offering. The Convertible Notes are senior unsecured obligations. The Convertible Notes are payable with cash and, at certain times, are convertible into shares of our common stock based on an initial conversion rate, subject to adjustment, of 44.082 shares per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes (which represents an initial conversion price of approximately $22.68 per share). Upon conversion, a holder will receive cash up to the principal amount of the Convertible Notes and shares of our common stock for the remainder, if any, of the conversion obligation.

The Convertible Notes were originally accounted for as a combined debt instrument as the conversion feature did not meet the requirements to be accounted for separately as a derivative financial instrument. In May 2008, the FASB issued new accounting guidance specifying that issuers of convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon conversion (including partial cash settlement) should separately account for the liability and equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity’s nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. The amount allocated to the equity component represents a discount to the debt recorded. This discount represents the amount of additional interest expense to be recognized using the effective interest method over the life of the debt, to accrete the debt to the principal amount due at maturity. We adopted the new accounting guidance beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 (beginning May 4, 2009).

On the date of issuance of the Convertible Notes, our nonconvertible debt borrowing rate was determined to be 10.2%. Based on that rate of interest, the liability component and equity component of the Convertible Notes were determined to be $304.2 million and $95.8 million, respectively.

The following table presents the effects of the retrospective application of the new accounting guidance on our consolidated condensed balance sheet as of May 3, 2009:

	As Originally Presented May 3, 2009		Adjustments			As Adjusted May 3, 2009
	(in millions)
Other assets	$	161.2	$	(2.3	)	$	158.9
Total assets		7,202.5		(2.3	)		7,200.2
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations		2,649.9		(82.6	)		2,567.3
Other liabilities		686.2		29.3			715.5
Additional paid-in capital		1,294.7		59.1			1,353.8
Retained earnings		1,648.2		(8.1	)		1,640.1
Total shareholders’ equity		2,561.4		51.0			2,612.4
Total liabilities and equity		7,202.5		(2.3	)		7,200.2

The following table presents the effects of the retrospective application of the new accounting guidance on our consolidated income statement for fiscal 2009:

	As Originally Presented Fiscal 2009			Adjustments			As Adjusted Fiscal 2009
	(in millions, except per share data)
Interest expense	$	209.1		$	12.7		$	221.8
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes		(369.5	)		(12.7	)		(382.2	)
Income tax benefit		(126.7	)		(4.6	)		(131.3	)
Loss from continuing operations		(242.8	)		(8.1	)		(250.9	)
Net loss		(190.3	)		(8.1	)		(198.4	)

Loss per diluted share:
Continuing operations	$	(1.72	)	$	(.06	)	$	(1.78	)
Net loss		(1.35	)		(.06	)		(1.41	)

The following table presents the effects of the retrospective application of the new accounting guidance on our consolidated condensed income statements for the three and nine months ended February 1, 2009:

	Three Months Ended February 1, 2009									Nine Months Ended February 1, 2009
	As Originally Presented			Adjustments			As Adjusted			As Originally Presented			Adjustments			As Adjusted
	(in millions, except per share data)									(in millions, except per share data)
Interest expense	$	58.0		$	4.2		$	62.2		$	154.6		$	9.1		$	163.7
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes		(130.0	)		(4.2	)		(134.2	)		(223.1	)		(9.1	)		(232.2	)
Income tax benefit		(24.5	)		(1.6	)		(26.1	)		(59.1	)		(3.4	)		(62.5	)
Loss from continuing operations		(105.5	)		(2.6	)		(108.1	)		(164.0	)		(5.7	)		(169.7	)
Net loss		(103.1	)		(2.6	)		(105.7	)		(111.5	)		(5.7	)		(117.2	)

Loss per diluted share:
Continuing operations	$	(.73	)	$	(.02	)	$	(.75	)	$	(1.17	)	$	(.04	)	$	(1.21	)
Net loss		(.72	)		(.02	)		(.74	)		(.79	)		(.05	)		(.84	)

The adoption of the new accounting guidance impacted our results for the three and nine months ended January 31, 2010 as follows:

	Three Months Ended January 31, 2010			Nine Months Ended January 31, 2010
	(in millions, except per share data)
Interest expense	$	4.2		$	12.3
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes		(4.2	)		(12.3	)
Income tax benefit		(1.5	)		(4.5	)
Loss from continuing operations		(2.7	)		(7.8	)
Net loss		(2.7	)		(7.8	)

Loss per diluted share:
Continuing operations	$	(.02	)	$	(.05	)
Net loss		(.02	)		(.05	)

As of January 31, 2010, the amount of the unamortized debt discount was $70.3 million, which will be amortized into interest expense through maturity of the Convertible Notes in June 2013 (fiscal 2014). As of January 31, 2010, the net carrying amount of the liability component was $329.7 million. In addition to the interest expense recognized due to the new accounting guidance as presented above, we recognized contractual coupon interest expense on the Convertible Notes of $4.0 million and $12.0 million for the three and nine months ended January 31, 2010, respectively, and $4.0 million and $8.9 million for the three and nine months ended February 1, 2009, respectively.

In connection with the issuance of the Convertible Notes, we entered into separate convertible note hedge transactions with respect to our common stock to reduce potential economic dilution upon conversion of the Convertible Notes, and separate warrant transactions (collectively referred to as the Call Spread Transactions). We purchased call options that permit us to acquire up to approximately 17.6 million shares of our common stock, subject to adjustment, which is the number of shares initially issuable upon conversion of the Convertible Notes. In addition, we sold warrants permitting the purchasers to acquire up to approximately 17.6 million shares of our common stock, subject to adjustment. See Note 14—Equity for more information on the Call Spread Transactions.

Debt Covenants and the Incurrence Test

Our various debt agreements contain covenants that limit additional borrowings, acquisitions, dispositions, leasing of assets and payments of dividends to shareholders, among other restrictions.

Our senior unsecured and secured notes limit our ability to incur additional indebtedness, subject to certain exceptions, when our interest coverage ratio is, or after incurring additional indebtedness would be, less than 2.0 to 1.0 (the Incurrence Test). As of January 31, 2010, we did not meet the Incurrence Test. Due to the trailing twelve month nature of the Incurrence Test, we do not expect to meet the Incurrence Test again until the first quarter of fiscal 2011 at the earliest. The Incurrence Test is not a maintenance covenant and our failure to meet the Incurrence Test is not a default. In addition to limiting our ability to incur additional indebtedness, our failure to meet the Incurrence Test restricts us from engaging in certain other activities, including paying cash dividends, repurchasing our common stock and making certain investments. However, our failure to meet the Incurrence Test does not preclude us from borrowing on the ABL Credit Facility or from refinancing existing indebtedness. Therefore we do not expect the limitations resulting from our inability to satisfy the Incurrence Test to have a material adverse effect on our business or liquidity.

Our ABL Credit Facility contains a covenant requiring us to maintain a fixed charges coverage ratio of at least 1.1 to 1.0 when the amounts available for borrowing under the ABL Credit Facility are less than the greater of $120 million or 15% of the total commitments under the facility (currently $1.0 billion). We currently are not subject to this restriction and we do not anticipate that our borrowing availability will decline below those thresholds during fiscal 2010, although there can be no assurance that this will not occur because our borrowing availability depends upon our borrowing base calculated for purposes of that facility.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we determined that we previously and unintentionally breached a non-financial covenant under our senior unsecured notes relating to certain foreign subsidiaries' indebtedness. We promptly cured this minor breach by amending certain debt agreements of the subsidiaries and extinguishing other indebtedness of the subsidiaries, and, as a result, no event of default occurred under our senior unsecured notes or any other facilities.

NOTE 10: GUARANTEES

As part of our business, we are a party to various financial guarantees and other commitments as described below. These arrangements involve elements of performance and credit risk that are not included in the consolidated condensed balance sheets. We could become liable in connection with these obligations depending on the performance of the guaranteed party or the occurrence of future events that we are unable to predict. If we consider it probable that we will become responsible for an obligation, we will record the liability on our consolidated balance sheet.

We (together with our joint venture partners) guarantee financial obligations of certain unconsolidated joint ventures. The financial obligations are: up to $83.8 million of debt borrowed by Agroindustrial del Noroeste (Norson), of which $67.3 million was outstanding as of January 31, 2010, and up to $3.5 million of liabilities with respect to currency swaps executed by another of our unconsolidated Mexican joint ventures, Granjas Carroll de Mexico (Granjas). The covenants in the guarantee relating to Norson’s debt incorporate our covenants under the ABL Credit Facility. In addition, we continue to guarantee $13.7 million of leases that were transferred to JBS in connection with the sale of Smithfield Beef. Some of these lease guarantees will be released in the near future and others will remain in place until the leases expire through August 2021.

NOTE 11: INCOME TAXES

Our effective tax rate was (27)% and 19% for the three months ended January 31, 2010 and February 1, 2009, respectively, and 48% and 27% for the nine months ended January 31, 2010 and February 1, 2009, respectively. The current quarter effective tax rate reflects an income tax benefit on pre-tax income while the year-to-date rate reflects an income tax benefit on pre-tax losses. The current quarter effective tax rate is derived from changes in our annual effective tax rate between the six month period ending November 1, 2009 and the nine month period ending January 31, 2010. Our annual effective tax rate for the nine month period ending January 31, 2010 primarily reflects a change in earnings expectations between foreign and domestic operations from prior quarters, and the resolution of prior estimates. These benefits were limited due to our year to date loss exceeding our full year expected results.

NOTE 12: PENSION PLANS

The components of net periodic pension cost consist of:

	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)						(in millions)
Service cost	$	5.6		$	6.3		$	16.9		$	19.1
Interest cost		18.4			17.2			55.3			51.5
Expected return on plan assets		(12.4	)		(17.4	)		(37.0	)		(52.3	)
Net amortization		5.1			1.6			15.2			4.8
Net periodic pension cost	$	16.7		$	7.7		$	50.4		$	23.1

NOTE 13: REDEMPTION OF NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS

Prior to the third quarter of fiscal 2010, we had a 51% ownership interest in Premium Pet Health, LLC (PPH), a leading protein by-product processor that supplies many of the leading pet food processors in the United States. The partnership agreement afforded the noncontrolling interest holders an option to require us to redeem their ownership interests beginning in November 2009 (fiscal 2010). The redemption value was determinable from a specified formula based on the earnings of PPH.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2010, as a result of discussions with the noncontrolling interest holders, we determined that the noncontrolling interests were probable of becoming redeemable. As such, in the second quarter of fiscal 2010, we recorded an adjustment to increase the carrying amount of the redeemable noncontrolling interests by $32.9 million with an offsetting decrease to additional paid-in capital.

In November 2009 (fiscal 2010), the noncontrolling interest holders exercised their put option. In December 2009 (fiscal 2010), we acquired the remaining 49% interest in PPH for $38.9 million. Because PPH was previously consolidated into our financial statements, the acquisition of the remaining 49% interest in PPH was accounted for as an equity transaction.

NOTE 14: EQUITY

Increase of Authorized Shares of Common Stock

On August 26, 2009, our shareholders approved an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of our common stock from 200 million to 500 million.

Common Stock Offering

In September 2009 (fiscal 2010), we issued 21,660,649 shares of common stock in a registered public offering at $13.85 per share. In October 2009 (fiscal 2010), we issued an additional 598,141 shares of common stock at $13.85 per share to cover over-allotments from the offering. The net proceeds of $294.8 million from the offering were used to repay our $206.3 million senior unsecured notes, which matured in October 2009 (fiscal 2010), and for working capital and other general corporate purposes.

Stock Options

We issued 12,000 shares of common stock upon exercise of stock options in fiscal 2009. There have been no exercises of common stock options during fiscal 2010. As of January 31, 2010, 2,144,703 stock options were outstanding.

Performance Share Units

In July 2009 (fiscal 2010), we granted a total of 622,000 performance share units under the 2008 Incentive Compensation Plan. Each performance share unit represents and has a value equal to one share of our common stock. The performance share units will vest ratably over a three-year service period provided that the Company achieves a certain earnings target in any of fiscal years 2010, 2011 or 2012. Payment of the vested performance share units shall be in our common stock.

The fair value of the performance share units was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The performance share units were valued in separate tranches according to the expected life of each tranche. The weighted average grant-date fair value of each of the performance share units was $22.14. The fair value is being recognized over the expected life of each tranche. If the expected life of each tranche is inconsistent with the actual vesting period, for example, because the earnings target is met in a period that differs from our expectation, then compensation expense will be adjusted prospectively to reflect the change in the expected life of the award.

In December 2009 (fiscal 2010), we granted a total of 100,000 performance share units under the 2008 Incentive Compensation Plan. Each performance share unit represents and has a value equal to one share of our common stock. The performance share units will vest two years from the grant date provided that certain performance goals are met and the employees remain employed through the vesting date. The fair value of these performance share units was also estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair value of each performance share unit of $27.57 will be recognized as compensation expense over the two-year requisite service period.

In addition to the performance share units granted in fiscal 2010, we also have 160,000 performance share units outstanding, which were granted in fiscal 2009.

Compensation expense related to all outstanding performance share units was $1.8 million and $4.2 million for the three and nine months ended January 31, 2010, respectively. Compensation expense related to performance share units was immaterial for the three and nine months ended February 1, 2009.

Call Spread Transactions

In connection with the issuance of the Convertible Notes (see Note 9—Debt), we entered into separate convertible note hedge transactions with respect to our common stock to minimize the impact of potential economic dilution upon conversion of the Convertible Notes, and separate warrant transactions.

We purchased call options in private transactions that permit us to acquire up to approximately 17.6 million shares of our common stock at an initial strike price of $22.68 per share, subject to adjustment, for $88.2 million. In general, the call options allow us to acquire a number of shares of our common stock initially equal to the number of shares of common stock issuable to the holders of the Convertible Notes upon conversion. These call options will terminate upon the maturity of the Convertible Notes.

We also sold warrants in private transactions for total proceeds of approximately $36.7 million. The warrants permit the purchasers to acquire up to approximately 17.6 million shares of our common stock at an initial exercise price of $30.54 per share, subject to adjustment. The warrants expire on various dates from October 2013 (fiscal 2014) to December 2013 (fiscal 2014).

The Call Spread Transactions, in effect, increase the initial conversion price of the Convertible Notes from $22.68 per share to $30.54 per share, thus reducing the potential future economic dilution associated with conversion of the notes. The Convertible Notes and the warrants could have a dilutive effect on our earnings per share to the extent that the price of our common stock during a given measurement period exceeds the respective exercise prices of those instruments. The call options are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share as their impact is anti-dilutive.

We have analyzed the Call Spread Transactions and determined that they meet the criteria for classification as equity instruments. As a result, we recorded the purchase of the call options as a reduction to additional paid-in capital and the proceeds of the warrants as an increase to additional paid-in capital. Subsequent changes in fair value of those instruments are not recognized in the financial statements as long as the instruments continue to meet the criteria for equity classification.

New Accounting Guidance for Convertible Notes

As more fully described in Note 9—Debt, the FASB issued new accounting guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, which required us to separately account for the conversion feature of the Convertible Notes as a component of equity, thereby increasing additional paid-in capital by $59.1 million.

Comprehensive Income

The components of comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, consist of:

	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)						(in millions)
Net income (loss)	$	37.3		$	(105.7	)	$	(96.8	)	$	(117.2	)
Hedge accounting		(2.0	)		18.1			61.1			(122.2	)
Foreign currency translation		(18.2	)		(122.0	)		40.9			(217.4	)
Pension accounting		5.8			(1.7	)		11.3			(1.0	)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	22.9		$	(211.3	)	$	16.5		$	(457.8	)

NOTE 15: FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We are required to consider and reflect the assumptions of market participants in fair value calculations.

We use, as appropriate, a market approach (generally, data from market transactions), an income approach (generally, present value techniques), and/or a cost approach (generally, replacement cost) to measure the fair value of an asset or liability. These valuation approaches incorporate inputs such as observable, independent market data that management believes are predicated on the assumptions market participants would use to price an asset or liability. These inputs may incorporate, as applicable, certain risks such as nonperformance risk, which includes credit risk.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The following table sets forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our financial assets and liabilities that were measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of January 31, 2010. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted market prices (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). Financial assets and liabilities have been classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

	Fair Value Measurements			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in millions)
Assets
Derivatives	$	3.8		$	-	$	3.8	$	-
Live hog inventory adjustment		(15.2	)		-		-		(15.2	)
Money market fund		253.3			253.3		-		-
Cash surrender value of life insurance policies		39.8			39.8		-		-
Total	$	281.7		$	293.1	$	3.8	$	(15.2	)


Liabilities
Derivatives	$	29.5		$	11.4	$	18.1	$	-

When available, we use quoted market prices to determine fair value and we classify such measurements within Level 1. In some cases where market prices are not available, we make use of observable market-based inputs (i.e., Bloomberg and commodity exchanges) to calculate fair value, in which case the measurements are classified within Level 2. When quoted market prices or observable market-based inputs are unavailable, or when our fair value measurements incorporate significant unobservable inputs, we classify such measurements within Level 3. These fair value measurements are based upon internally developed valuation techniques that use, where possible, current market-based or independently sourced market inputs. Items valued using such internally generated valuation techniques are classified according to the lowest level input or value driver that is significant to the valuation. Thus, an item may be classified in Level 3 even though there may be some significant inputs that are readily observable.

A portion of our live hog inventory is designated in fair value hedging relationships. We therefore record fair value adjustments to this inventory. These fair value adjustments are based on an internally generated model using both observable and unobservable inputs such as projected feed consumption, grain and lean hog futures prices and other cost assumptions. These fair value adjustments have been classified within Level 3.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of our live hog inventory fair value adjustment on a recurring basis for the three months ended January 31, 2010:

		(in millions)
Balance at November 1, 2009	$	-
Unrealized losses included in earnings		(14.4	)
Realized gains included in earnings		(0.8	)
Balance at January 31, 2010	$	(15.2	)

For additional disclosures regarding the fair value of our derivative instruments and the location of such amounts in our consolidated condensed balance sheets, refer to Note 5—Derivatives and Hedging Activities.

We invest our cash in an overnight money market fund, which is treated as a trading security with the unrealized gains recorded in earnings.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis; that is, the assets and liabilities are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis but are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances, for example, when there is evidence of impairment.

As discussed further in Note 6—Impairment of Long-Lived Assets, we recorded impairment charges totaling $34.1 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, $3.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2010 and $3.6 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2010 to write down certain long-lived assets to their estimated fair values. Certain of these assets have since been sold. The fair value of the remaining assets, which consist primarily of property, plant and equipment, was determined to be approximately $49.0 million as of January 31, 2010. The fair value measurements of these assets were determined using relevant market data based on recent transactions for similar assets and third party estimates, which we classify as Level 2 inputs. Fair values were also determined using valuation techniques, which incorporate unobservable inputs that reflect our own assumptions regarding how market participants would price the assets, which we classify as Level 3 inputs.

Other Financial Instruments

We determine the fair value of public debt using quoted market prices. We value all other debt using discounted cash flow techniques at estimated market prices for similar issues. The following table presents the fair value and carrying value of long-term debt, including the current portion of long-term debt as of January 31, 2010 and May 3, 2009.

	January 31, 2010				May 3, 2009
	Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value
	(in millions)				(in millions)
Total Debt	$	3,087.3	$	2,975.2	$	2,448.2	$	2,882.8

The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, notes payable and accounts payable approximate their fair values because of the relatively short-term maturity of these instruments.

NOTE 16: CONTINGENCIES

Insurance Recoveries

In July 2009 (fiscal 2010), a fire occurred at the primary manufacturing facility of our subsidiary, Patrick Cudahy, Incorporated (Patrick Cudahy), in Cudahy, WI. The fire damaged a portion of the facility’s production space and required the temporary cessation of operations, but did not consume the entire facility. Shortly after the fire, we resumed production activities in undamaged portions of the plant, including the distribution center, and took steps to address the supply needs for Patrick Cudahy products by shifting production to other Company and third party facilities.

The products produced at the facility include precooked and traditional bacon, dry sausage, ham and sliced meats. Patrick Cudahy’s operating results are reported in the Pork segment. Annual revenues for Patrick Cudahy’s packaged meats business have exceeded $450 million in recent years.

We maintain comprehensive general liability and property insurance, including business interruption insurance, with loss limits that we believe will provide substantial and broad coverage for the currently foreseeable losses arising from this accident. We are working with our insurance carrier to determine the extent of loss. We have received advances totaling $47.8 million toward the ultimate settlement through the third quarter of fiscal 2010. The magnitude and timing of the ultimate settlement is currently unknown. However, we expect the level of insurance proceeds to fully cover the costs and losses incurred from the fire.

We have also been working with a third-party specialist to determine the amount of business interruption losses incurred. During the third quarter of fiscal 2010, based on an evaluation of business interruption losses incurred, we recognized $22.5 million of the insurance proceeds in cost of sales to offset these previously recorded losses. The evaluation revealed that we incurred business interruption losses of approximately $8.1 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2010, $10.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2010 and $3.9 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2010.

Of the $47.8 million in insurance proceeds received during fiscal 2010, $9.9 million has been classified in net cash flows from investing activities in the consolidated condensed statements of cash flows, which represents the portion of proceeds related to destruction of the plant. The remainder of the proceeds was recorded in net cash flows from operating activities in the consolidated condensed statements of cash flows and was directly attributed to business interruption recoveries and reimbursable costs covered under our insurance policy.

Litigation

Other than the following matter, there have been no significant developments regarding litigation disclosed in Note 15 to our Consolidated Financial Statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009, nor have any significant new matters arisen during the nine months ended January 31, 2010.

Missouri Litigation

As previously disclosed in “Note 15-Regulation and Litigation” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 24, 2009, lawsuits based on the law of nuisance were filed against Premium Standard Farms (PSF), a wholly-owned subsidiary that we acquired on May 7, 2007, and Continental Grain Company (CGC), in the Circuit Court of Jackson County, Missouri entitled Steven Adwell, et al. v. PSF, et al. and Michael Adwell, et al. v. PSF, et al. On March 4, 2010, a jury trial involving 15 plaintiffs who live near Homan farm resulted in a jury verdict of compensatory damages for the plaintiffs for a total of $11,050,000. Thirteen of the Homan farm plaintiffs received damages in the amount of $825,000 each. One of the plaintiffs received damages in the amount of $250,000, while another plaintiff received $75,000. As of the date of this report, the Company is reviewing all of its options relative to this verdict and believes that there are substantial grounds for reversal on appeal. Pursuant to a pre-existing arrangement, PSF is obligated to indemnify CGC for certain liabilities, if any, resulting from the Missouri litigation, including any liabilities resulting from the foregoing verdict. We believe our reserves are adequate to cover our estimated future costs associated with this matter.

NOTE 17: SEGMENT DATA

We conduct our operations through five reportable segments: Pork, International, Hog Production, Other and Corporate, each of which is comprised of a number of subsidiaries, joint ventures and other investments. As discussed in Note 3—Discontinued Operations, we sold our Beef operations, which are reported as discontinued operations.

The Pork segment consists mainly of our three wholly-owned U.S. fresh pork and packaged meats subsidiaries. The International segment is comprised mainly of our meat processing and distribution operations in Poland, Romania and the United Kingdom, as well as our interests in meat processing operations, mainly in Western Europe and Mexico. The Hog Production segment consists of our hog production operations located in the U.S., Poland and Romania as well as our interests in hog production operations in Mexico. The Other segment is comprised of our turkey production operations, our 49% interest in Butterball, and through the first quarter of fiscal 2010, our live cattle operations. The Corporate segment provides management and administrative services to support our other segments.

The following table presents sales and operating profit (loss) by segment for the fiscal periods indicated:

	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)						(in millions)
Sales:
Segment sales—
Pork	$	2,399.4		$	2,826.6		$	6,892.9		$	7,995.9
International		343.1			333.2			977.4			1,141.0
Hog Production		691.8			660.5			1,798.9			2,135.1
Other		27.3			96.0			125.2			187.0
Total segment sales		3,461.6			3,916.3			9,794.4			11,459.0
Intersegment sales—
Pork		(8.8	)		(6.2	)		(24.4	)		(34.6	)
International		(12.8	)		(15.3	)		(39.9	)		(49.4	)
Hog Production		(555.3	)		(546.6	)		(1,437.7	)		(1,737.9	)
Total intersegment sales		(576.9	)		(568.1	)		(1,502.0	)		(1,821.9	)
Consolidated sales	$	2,884.7		$	3,348.2		$	8,292.4		$	9,637.1

Operating profit (loss):
Pork	$	152.8		$	129.4		$	427.5		$	284.5
International		13.1			14.5			36.0			31.4
Hog Production		(55.6	)		(253.6	)		(385.0	)		(350.4	)
Other		6.6			(9.5	)		1.2			(28.3	)
Corporate		(20.4	)		(16.3	)		(56.2	)		(69.2	)
Consolidated operating profit (loss)	$	96.5		$	(135.5	)	$	23.5		$	(132.0	)

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

You should read the following information in conjunction with the unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements and the related notes in this Quarterly Report and the audited financial statements and the related notes as well as Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009.

Unless otherwise stated, the amounts presented in the following discussion are based on continuing operations for all fiscal periods included. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year presentations.

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW

We are the largest hog producer and pork processor in the world. We produce and market a wide variety of fresh meat and packaged meats products both domestically and internationally. We operate in a cyclical industry and our results are significantly affected by fluctuations in commodity prices for livestock (primarily hogs) and grains. Some of the factors that we believe are critical to the success of our business are our ability to:

maintain and expand market share, particularly in packaged meats,

develop and maintain strong customer relationships,

continually innovate and differentiate our products,

manage risk in volatile commodities markets, and

maintain our position as a low cost producer of live hogs, fresh pork and packaged meats.

We conduct our operations through five reporting segments: Pork, International, Hog Production, Other and Corporate. Each segment is comprised of a number of subsidiaries, joint ventures and other investments. The Pork segment consists mainly of our three wholly-owned U.S. fresh pork and packaged meats subsidiaries. The International segment is comprised mainly of our meat processing and distribution operations in Poland, Romania and the United Kingdom, as well as our interests in meat processing operations, mainly in Western Europe and Mexico. The Hog Production segment consists of our hog production operations located in the U.S., Poland and Romania as well as our interests in hog production operations in Mexico. The Other segment is comprised of our turkey production operations, our 49% interest in Butterball and through the first quarter of fiscal 2010, our live cattle operations. The Corporate segment provides management and administrative services to support our other segments.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Third Quarter of Fiscal 2010 Summary

Net income was $37.3 million, or $.22 per diluted share, in the third quarter of fiscal 2010, compared to a net loss of $105.7 million, or $(.74) per diluted share, in the same quarter last year. The following significant factors impacted third quarter of fiscal 2010 results compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2009:

Pork segment operating profit in the prior year included $84.8 million of restructuring charges, which were partially offset by an additional week of operations. Pork segment operating profit increased $23.4 million. The effect of this year-over-year improvement was partially offset by lower sales volumes, attributable in part to the additional week in the prior year.

International segment operating profit was relatively consistent with prior year results.

Hog Production operating loss improved $198.0 million due primarily to significantly lower feed costs and improved live hog market prices.

Operating results in the Other segment improved $16.1 million due to the prior year inclusion of losses related to the remainder of our live-cattle operations, which had been completely liquidated by the first quarter of fiscal 2010, as well as improvements in Butterball, which reflected significantly lower raw material costs.

Outlook

The commodity markets affecting our business are volatile and fluctuate on a daily basis. In this unpredictable operating environment, it is very difficult to make meaningful forecasts of industry trends and conditions. The outlook statements that follow must be viewed in this context.

Pork— Operating profits in this segment were the highest the Company has ever recorded through the first nine-month period, despite year-over-year volume decreases, closure of major export markets and a fresh pork environment that was depressed in the first part of the year.

Pricing discipline, rationalization of low margin business, lower raw material costs and the early benefits of the Restructuring Plan (as defined below) pushed packaged meats profits higher through the first nine months of fiscal 2010, despite $13.5 million in charges related to the restructuring effort.

As we move into the fourth quarter and fiscal 2011, we expect our packaged meats business will continue to be solidly profitable, notwithstanding anticipated increases in raw material prices as live hog markets move up. Margins may move temporarily lower, but are still expected to be strong in historical terms.

We expect tighter hog supplies and higher live hog prices may place modest pressure on the fresh pork complex in the very near term. However, we remain optimistic about our fresh pork performance moving into fiscal 2011. Newly coordinated international sales efforts are expected to drive improvements in export sales as volumes remain robust in historical terms, despite the closure of the Chinese and Russian markets this year. We are encouraged by recent trade developments with these two countries and expect that they will re-open in the near-term, which should further improve the overall fresh pork environment.

In summary, we are optimistic about Pork segment results for the full fiscal year and as we move into fiscal 2011. We expect the actions we have taken on the sales, operating, and restructuring fronts will support segment profitability, even if raw material prices move moderately higher. With our Pork Restructuring Plan nearing completion, we expect to focus our efforts on sales and marketing initiatives designed to drive profitable top line growth.

International—We expect our international meat operations to continue improving their operating performance as we move into the final quarter of fiscal 2010 and into fiscal 2011. We expect to continue to see positive contributions from our investment in CFG due to an improving pork environment in Europe and as the realization of synergies associated with the prior year merger with Groupe Smithfield begin to be more fully realized.

Hog Production—Over the last several quarters, the swine industry in the U.S. has coped with an oversupply of market hogs and worldwide recessionary conditions. Hog producers industry-wide suffered considerable losses as the price of feed grains remained high in relation to historical prices, and at the same time, oversupply conditions depressed live hog prices.

After a considerable and extended period of sizable losses in the hog production industry, we believe the cycle has reached a bottom and expect to see hog producers return to moderate profitability in the middle to latter parts of calendar 2010. Modest contractions in the U.S. sow herd have contributed to tightening supplies which, in turn, is resulting in higher live hog market prices in the U.S.

Our own domestic hog production operations continued to experience losses through the third quarter of fiscal 2010 as raising costs remained elevated relative to live hog market prices. Looking forward into fiscal 2011, we expect to see, and futures markets are currently pointing towards, higher live hog prices over the next six to nine months as contractions in the U.S. sow herd should bring supply and demand back into balance. At the same time, our domestic raising costs have fallen dramatically in the last six months. Even though we expect a modest increase in our raising cost attributable to poor grain quality in the eastern Corn Belt, we expect our own operations to return to modest profitability in the latter part of the fourth quarter and into fiscal 2011. We are taking steps to lessen the impact of the grain issue on feed conversions, including buying and blending local corn.

Livestock producers continue to feel the negative impacts of the current ethanol policy in the United States. Currently, it is estimated that 30% of the U.S corn crop is diverted from livestock feed and other consumer products to the ethanol industry. Although we are encouraged by the EPA’s recent determination to delay its decision on the ethanol industry’s petition to raise the allowable ethanol blend in gasoline from 10% to 15%, we remain concerned about these proposals and their impact on the long-term profitability of livestock production in this country. If such proposals are approved, the portion of the U.S. corn crop diverted to ethanol production could increase to as much as 40%. The impact to the protein industry would be higher feed costs and, ultimately, higher food prices for consumers.

Other—As with the Hog Production segment, high grain costs adversely impacted the profitability of our turkey operations throughout fiscal 2009. We saw improvements in turkey raising costs in the first nine months of fiscal 2010 as corn prices have declined from last year’s highs. We expect our turkey operations and our investment in Butterball to continue to improve as we move through fiscal 2010 and into fiscal 2011.

Significant Fiscal 2010 Events Affecting Results of Operations

Hog Farm Impairments

Sioux City Plant Closure

In January 2010 (fiscal 2010), we announced that we will be closing our fresh pork processing plant located in Sioux City, Iowa in April 2010 (fiscal 2010). The Sioux City plant is one of our oldest and least efficient plants. The plant design severely limits our ability to produce value-added packaged meats products and maximize production throughput. A portion of the plant’s production will be transferred to other nearby Smithfield plants.

Pork Segment Restructuring

In February 2009 (fiscal 2009), we announced a plan to consolidate and streamline the corporate structure and manufacturing operations of our Pork segment (the Restructuring Plan). The plan included the closure of six plants, the last of which was closed in February 2010 (fiscal 2010). This restructuring is intended to make us more competitive by improving operating efficiencies and increasing plant utilization. The Restructuring Plan is expected to result in annual cost savings and improved pre-tax earnings, after applicable restructuring charges, of approximately $55 million in fiscal 2010 and $125 million by fiscal 2011. Our results through the first three quarters of fiscal 2010 indicate that we are on target to achieve these estimates.

	Accrued Balance May 3, 2009		1st Quarter FY 2010 Expense			2nd Quarter FY 2010 Expense		3rd Quarter FY 2010 Expense		Payments			Accrued Balance January 31, 2010		Cumulative Expense-to-Date		Estimated Remaining Expense
Restructuring charges:	(in millions)
Employee severance and related benefits	$	11.9	$	(0.2	)	$	0.4	$	0.2	$	(3.0	)	$	9.3	$	12.7	$	0.4
Other associated costs		0.5		6.5			3.0		3.1		(11.4	)		1.7		14.3		8.5
Total restructuring charges	$	12.4	$	6.3		$	3.4	$	3.3	$	(14.4	)	$	11.0		27.0	$	8.9

Impairment charges:
Property, plant and equipment																69.9
Inventory																4.8
Total impairment charges																74.7
Total restructuring and impairment charges															$	101.7

Of the $13.5 million of restructuring and impairment charges recorded in fiscal 2010, $8.6 million was recorded in cost of sales with the remainder recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. Substantially all of the estimated remaining expenses are expected to be incurred by the first half of fiscal 2011. We also estimate that an additional $11.0 million in capital expenditures will be incurred relative to plant consolidations through the remainder of fiscal 2010.

Consolidated Results of Operations

Sales and cost of sales

	Three Months Ended									Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			% Change			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			% Change
	(in millions)									(in millions)
Sales	$	2,884.7		$	3,348.2			(14	)%	$	8,292.4		$	9,637.1			(14	)%
Cost of sales		2,600.5			3,263.9			(20	)		7,741.2			9,125.0			(15	)
Gross profit	$	284.2		$	84.3			237	%	$	551.2		$	512.1			8	%
Gross profit margin		10	%		3	%					7	%		5	%

The following items explain the significant changes in sales and gross profit:

Three Months:

The prior year included an additional week of results, which had the effect of decreasing sales by approximately $217.2 million, or 6%.

Excluding the effect of the additional week in the prior year, sales volumes in the Pork segment decreased 7%, which had the effect of decreasing consolidated sales by 6%.

The prior year included $50.8 million in sales related to the remainder of our live-cattle business, which had been completely liquidated by the first quarter of fiscal 2010.

Lower feed costs contributed to a 16% decrease in domestic raising costs.

Domestic live hog market prices increased 12%.

Cost of sales for the current year included $13.6 million of impairment and severance charges compared to $79.3 million in the prior year.

Nine Months:

Excluding the effect of the additional week in the prior year, sales volumes in the Pork segment decreased 6%, mainly due to pricing discipline and the rationalization of low margin business. Average unit selling prices decreased 6%, primarily in fresh pork, as packaged meats products were consistent with prior year prices. These declines had the effect of decreasing consolidated sales by 10%.

Foreign currency translation decreased sales by approximately $265 million, or 3%, due to a stronger U.S. dollar.

The effect of an additional week of results in the prior year decreased sales by approximately $217.2 million, or 2%.

Lower feed costs contributed to a 12% decline in domestic raising costs.

Domestic live hog market prices decreased 17%.

Cost of sales for the current year included $59.3 million of impairment, severance and other restructuring charges compared to $79.3 million in the prior year.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

	Three Months Ended							Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		% Change			January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		% Change
	(in millions)							(in millions)
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$	194.5	$	202.2		(4	)%	$	558.3	$	602.5		(7	)%

The following items explain the significant changes in selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A):

Three Months:

Foreign currency transaction gains for the current year were $4.3 million compared to losses of $12.4 million in the prior year, resulting in a year-over-year decrease in SG&A of $16.7 million.

The prior year included an additional week of results, which had the effect of decreasing SG&A by approximately $12 million.

SG&A was positively impacted by an $8.8 million increase in the cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance policies.

Advertising and marketing expenses decreased $7.3 million. The decrease is due to synergies related to the consolidation of our sales function.

SG&A was negatively impacted by a $34.7 million increase in compensation expense which is primarily attributable to higher performance compensation due to higher operating results, as well as higher pension expenses.

Nine Months:

Advertising and marketing expenses decreased $23.3 million. The decrease is due to synergies related to the consolidation of our sales function.

The collection of additional farming subsidies related to our Romanian hog production operations decreased SG&A by $18.3 million.

Improvements in the cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance policies decreased SG&A by $18.5 million

The prior year included $15.2 million of union-related litigation and settlement costs.

The prior year included an additional week of results, which had the effect of decreasing SG&A by approximately $12 million.

The impact of foreign currency translation decreased SG&A by approximately $8.4 million.

Foreign currency transaction gains for the current year were $1.4 million compared to losses of $6.4 million in the prior year, resulting in a year-over-year decrease in SG&A of $7.8 million.

SG&A was negatively impacted by a $55.6 million increase in compensation expense which is primarily attributable to higher performance compensation due to higher operating results, as well as higher pension expenses.

Equity in (income) loss of affiliates

	Three Months Ended									Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			% Change			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009		% Change
	(in millions)									(in millions)
Butterball	$	(7.9	)	$	(3.9	)		103	%	$	(15.3	)	$	16.6		192	%
Campofrío Food Group (CFG) (1)		5.3			0.6		NM				(2.5	)		4.2		160
Mexican joint ventures		(4.4	)		9.1			148			(11.3	)		10.3		210
All other equity method investments		0.2			11.8			98			(1.5	)		10.5		114
Equity in (income) loss of affiliates	$	(6.8	)	$	17.6			139	%	$	(30.6	)	$	41.6		174	%

(1)

Prior to the third quarter of fiscal 2009, we owned 50% of Groupe Smithfield S.L. (Groupe Smithfield) and 24% of Campofrío Alimentacion, S.A. (Campofrío). Those entities merged in the third quarter of fiscal 2009 to form CFG, of which we currently own 37%. The amounts presented for CFG throughout this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q represent the combined historical results of Groupe Smithfield and Campofrío.

The following items explain the significant changes in equity in (income) loss of affiliates:

Three Months:

The improvements in our Mexican joint ventures reflect substantially lower feed costs.

The prior year included $10.9 million of losses related to our former cattle joint venture, which had been completely liquidated by the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Our investment in CFG was negatively impacted by $10.4 million of debt restructuring charges and $1.3 million of charges related to CFG's discontinued Russian operation.

Improved results at Butterball were mainly driven by lower raw material costs as a result of lower commodity prices and a modification of our live turkey transfer pricing agreement with Butterball from a cost-based pricing arrangement to a market-based pricing arrangement. The same modification was made to the transfer pricing agreement between Butterball and our joint venture partner.

Nine Months:

Improved results at Butterball were mainly driven by lower raw material costs as a result of lower commodity prices and a modification of our live turkey transfer pricing agreement with Butterball from a cost-based pricing arrangement to a market-based pricing arrangement, as well as reduced plant operating costs due to production initiatives.

The improvements in our Mexican hog production joint ventures reflect substantially lower feed costs and foreign currency transaction gains of $1.9 million in the current year compared to foreign currency transaction losses of $10.8 million in the prior year.

Our investment in CFG was negatively impacted by $10.4 million of debt restructuring charges and $1.3 million of charges related to CFG's discontinued Russian operation. However, the year-over-year impact of these charges was offset by $8.8 million of charges recorded in the prior year related to CFG’s discontinued Russian operation and $3.2 million of charges related to a restructuring at Groupe Smithfield.

The prior year included $10.3 million of losses related to our former cattle joint venture, which had been completely liquidated by the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Interest expense

	Three Months Ended							Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		% Change			January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		% Change
	(in millions)							(in millions)
Interest expense	$	67.2	$	62.2		8	%	$	198.9	$	163.7		22	%

The increase in interest expense for the three months and nine months ended January 31, 2010 was primarily due to the issuance of higher cost debt in fiscal 2010 and the amortization of the associated debt issuance costs. The new debt instruments are more fully described under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below. The increase in interest expense was partially offset by the effect of an additional week in the prior year periods.

Other (income) loss

	Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009			% Change			January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009			% Change
	(in millions)								(in millions)
Other (income) loss	$	-	$	(63.5	)		(100	)%	$	11.0	$	(63.5	)		(117	)%

Other income for the three and nine months ended February 1, 2009, included a $56.0 million gain on the sale of our interest in Groupe Smithfield to Campofrío and a $7.5 million gain on the repurchase of long-term debt. Other expense for the nine months ended January 31, 2010 included $11.0 million of charges for the write-off of amendment fees and costs associated with the U.S. Credit Facility and the Euro Credit Facility. The purpose of these write-offs is more fully described under “Liquidity and Capital Resources” below.

Income tax expense

	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
Income tax benefit (in millions)	$	(8.0	)	$	(26.1	)	$	(89.6	)	$	(62.5	)
Effective tax rate		(27	)%		19	%		48	%		27	%

Segment Results

The following information reflects the results from each respective segment prior to eliminations of inter-segment sales.

Pork Segment

	Three Months Ended							Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		% Change			January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		% Change
	(in millions, unless indicated otherwise)							(in millions, unless indicated otherwise)
Sales:
Fresh pork	$	1,022.1	$	1,141.5		(10	)%	$	3,046.4	$	3,742.0		(19	)%
Packaged meats		1,377.3		1,685.1		(18	)		3,846.5		4,253.9		(10	)
Total	$	2,399.4	$	2,826.6		(15	)%	$	6,892.9	$	7,995.9		(14	)%

Operating profit:
Fresh pork	$	7.5	$	13.5		(44	)%	$	43.3	$	94.2		(54	)%
Packaged meats		145.3		115.9		25			384.2		190.3		102
Total	$	152.8	$	129.4		18	%	$	427.5	$	284.5		50	%

Sales volume:
Fresh pork				.		(14	)%						(8	)%
Packaged meats						(14	)						(10	)
Total						(14	)						(9	)

Average unit selling price:
Fresh pork						4	%						(12	)%
Packaged meats						(5	)						0
Total						(1	)						(6	)

Average domestic live hog prices (per hundredweight) (1)	$	44.44	$	39.69		12	%	$	40.94	$	49.35		(17	)%

(1)	Represents the average live hog market price as quoted by the Iowa-Southern Minnesota hog market.

In addition to the changes in sales volume, selling prices and live hog market prices presented in the table above, the following items explain the significant changes in Pork segment sales and operating profit:

Three Months:

The prior year included an additional week of results, which had the effect of decreasing sales by $201.9 million, or 7%.

Excluding the effect of an additional week of results in the prior year, fresh pork and packaged meats sales volumes each decreased 7%. Sales volumes were impacted by pricing discipline and the ratonalization of low margin business due to the Restructuring Plan, which took effect in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Operating profit in the prior year included $84.8 million of restructuring charges related to the Restructuring Plan. Of this amount, $63.6 million related to our packaged meats operations and $21.2 related to our fresh pork operations.

Operating profit in the current year included both incremental costs and offsetting recoveries of business interruption losses related to the Patrick Cudahy fire. We recorded $22.5 million of insurance proceeds in cost of sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2010, which represented the estimated business interruption losses incurred through the third quarter of fiscal 2010. We have estimated that $8.1 million of the losses were incurred in the third quarter of fiscal 2010, with $10.5 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2010 and $3.9 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2010.

Operating profit was negatively impacted by $13.6 million of impairment and severance costs primarily related to the Sioux City plant closure.

Nine Months:

Excluding the effect of an additional week of results in the prior year, sales volumes decreased 6%, with fresh pork volumes decreasing 5% and packaged meats volumes decreasing 7%. The decrease in sales volumes is attributable to pricing discipline, rationalization of low margin business, and the effects of A(H1N1), particularly during the first half of fiscal 2010.

Sales and operating profit were negatively impacted by lower average unit selling prices due primarily to weaker fresh pork market prices.

The effect of an additional week of results in the prior year decreased sales by $201.9 million, or 3%.

Improvements in packaged meats operating profit reflect pricing discipline, rationalization of less profitable business, lower raw material costs and early benefits of the Restructuring Plan.

The prior year included $15.2 million of union-related litigation and settlement costs.

Operating profit was negatively impacted by $13.6 million of impairment and severance costs primarily related to the Sioux City plant closure.

International Segment

	Three Months Ended							Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		% Change			January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009		% Change
	(in millions)							(in millions)
Sales	$	343.1	$	333.2		3	%	$	977.4	$	1,141.0		(14	)%
Operating profit		13.1		14.5		(10	)		36.0		31.4		15

Sales volume						19	%						15	%
Average unit selling price						(13	)						(25	)

In addition to the changes in sales volume and selling prices presented in the table above, the following items explain the significant changes in International segment sales and operating profit:

Three Months:

Operating profit in the current year was negatively impacted by $10.4 million of debt restructuring charges at CFG and $1.3 million of charges related to CFG's discontinued Russian operation.

Operating profit was positively impacted by $2.5 million in foreign currency transaction gains in the current year, compared to $10.4 million of foreign currency transaction losses in the prior year.

Nine Months:

Foreign currency translation caused sales to decrease by $265.6 million, or 23%, due to a stronger U.S. dollar.

Operating profit was positively impacted by a decrease in foreign currency transaction losses of $9.5 million.

Operating profit was positively impacted by a $7.6 million improvement in equity income as CFG benefited from merger synergies and cost reduction programs. The current year included $10.4 million of debt restructuring charges at CFG and $1.3 million of charges related to CFG's discontinued Russian operation. However, the year-over-year impact of these charges was offset by $8.8 million of charges recorded in the prior year related to CFG’s discontinued Russian operation and $3.2 million of charges related to a restructuring at Groupe Smithfield.

Hog Production Segment

	Three Months Ended									Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			% Change			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			% Change
	(in millions, unless indicated otherwise)									(in millions, unless indicated otherwise)
Sales	$	691.8		$	660.5			5	%	$	1,798.9		$	2,135.1			(16	)%
Operating loss		(55.6	)		(253.6	)		78			(385.0	)		(350.4	)		(10	)

Head sold		5.16			5.64			(9	)%		14.49			15.36			(6	)%

Average domestic live hog prices (per hundredweight) (1)	$	44.44		$	39.69			12	%	$	40.94		$	49.35			(17	)%
Domestic raising costs (per hundredweight)	$	51.40		$	61.09			(16	)	$	53.92		$	61.24			(12	)

(1)	Represents the average live hog market price as quoted by the Iowa-Southern Minnesota hog market.

In addition to the changes in head sold, live hog market prices and domestic raising costs presented in the table above, the following items explain the significant changes in Hog Production segment sales and operating profit:

Three Months:

The prior year included an additional week of results, which caused a year-over-year decrease in sales of $41.1 million, or 6%.

Excluding the effect of the prior year additional week of results, head sold decreased 2% reflecting the impact of our sow reduction program.

The decrease in domestic raising costs is primarily attributable to lower feed prices.

Operating loss was positively impacted by a $14.9 million increase in equity income, which is primarily attributable to lower feed costs at our Mexican joint ventures.

Operating loss was positively impacted by foreign currency transaction gains in the current year of $1.1 million compared to foreign currency transaction losses of $5.3 million in the prior year related to our international hog production operations.

Nine Months:

Excluding the effect of the prior year additional week of results, head sold decreased 3% reflecting the impact of our sow reduction program.

The effect of an additional week of results in the prior year decreased sales $41.1 million, or 2%.

The decrease in domestic raising costs is primarily attributable to lower feed prices.

Operating loss was positively impacted by a $22.3 million increase in equity income, which is primarily attributable to lower feed costs at our Mexican joint ventures. Equity income from our Mexican joint ventures also included $1.7 million of foreign currency transaction gains in the current year compared to $9.0 million of foreign currency transaction losses in the prior year.

Operating loss was positively impacted by an $18.3 million increase in farming subsidies related to our Romanian hog production operations.

Operating loss in the current year included $34.1 million of impairment charges related to certain hog farms, which are more fully explained under "Significant Fiscal 2010 Events Affecting Results of Operations" above.

Operating profit was negatively impacted by a decrease in foreign currency transaction gains of $8.0 million related to our international hog production operations.

Other Segment

	Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009			% Change			January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009			% Change
	(in millions)								(in millions)
Sales	$	27.3	$	96.0			(71	)%	$	125.2	$	187.0			(33	)%
Operating profit (loss)		6.6		(9.5	)		169			1.2		(28.3	)		104

The following items explain the significant changes in Other segment sales and operating profit:

Three Months:

Sales in the prior year included $50.8 million related to our remaining cattle business, which had been completely liquidated by the first quarter of fiscal 2010.

Sales volume in our turkey production operations declined 23% due to production cuts aimed at reducing the oversupply of turkeys in the market.

Average unit selling prices of turkeys decreased 22% as a result of a modification to our live turkey transfer pricing agreement with Butterball in the second quarter of fiscal 2010 from a cost-based pricing arrangement to a market-based pricing arrangement. The same modification was made to the transfer pricing agreement between Butterball and our joint venture partner.

We recorded income from our equity method investments of $7.9 million in the current year compared to a loss of $7.1 million in the prior year. The prior year included $10.9 million of losses from our cattle joint venture, which had been completely liquidated by the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. Lower raw material costs at Butterball also contributed to the improvement in equity income.

Nine Months:

We sold our remaining live-cattle inventories in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, which resulted in a $20.1 million year-over-year decrease in sales.

Sales volume in our turkey production operations declined 22% due to production cuts aimed at reducing the oversupply of turkeys in the market.

Average unit selling prices of turkeys decreased 19% as a result of a modification to our live turkey transfer pricing agreement with Butterball in the second quarter of fiscal 2010 from a cost-based pricing arrangement to a market-based pricing arrangement. The same modification was made to the transfer pricing agreement between Butterball and our joint venture partner.

We recorded income from our equity method investments of $15.4 million in the current year compared to a loss of $26.9 million in the prior year. The year-over-year change is primarily attributable to improvements in Butterball’s results, which reflect substantially lower raw material costs and $10.3 million of prior year losses from our former cattle joint venture, which had been completely liquidated by the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Corporate Segment

	Three Months Ended									Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			% Change			January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009			% Change
	(in millions)									(in millions)
Operating loss	$	(20.4	)	$	(16.3	)		(25	)%	$	(56.2	)	$	(69.2	)		19	%

The following items explain the significant changes in the Corporate segment’s operating loss:

Three Months:

Operating loss was negatively impacted by a $10.2 million increase in variable compensation expense due to improved operating results of the Company.

Operating loss was negatively impacted by a $3.0 million decrease in foreign currency transaction gains.

Operating loss was positively impacted by an $8.8 million increase in the cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance policies.

Operating loss was positively impacted by a $4.5 million gain on the sale of our interest in Farasia Corporation (Farasia), which was partially offset by prior year gains on the disposal of assets.

Nine Months:

Operating loss was positively impacted by an $18.5 million increase in the cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance policies.

Foreign currency transaction gains were $2.0 million in the current year compared to losses of $3.9 million in the prior year, reflecting a year-over-year improvement in operating loss of $5.9 million.

Operating loss was positively impacted by a $4.5 million gain on the sale of our interest in Farasia, which was partially offset by prior year gains on the disposal of assets

Operating loss was negatively impacted by a $14.6 million increase in variable compensation expense due to improved operating results of the Company.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Summary

Our cash requirements consist primarily of the purchase of raw materials used in our hog production and pork processing operations, long-term debt obligations and related interest, lease payments for real estate, machinery, vehicles and other equipment, and expenditures for capital assets, other investments and other general business purposes. Our primary sources of liquidity are cash we receive as payment for the products we produce and sell, as well as our credit facilities.

Our focus has shifted from acquisitions and capital spending to integration and debt reduction. Capital expenditures have averaged $365.1 million over the last three full fiscal years. We expect capital spending for fiscal 2010 to be well below this average after taking into consideration capital expenditures associated with the Restructuring Plan.

We have taken a number of steps to strengthen our balance sheet during fiscal 2010, including a significant refinancing of our debt and the issuance of 22,258,790 shares of common stock. These steps have reduced our near-term debt maturities and increased our liquidity. We also have significantly reduced our exposure to financial covenant maintenance risk, and we believe that the steps we have taken will enable us to better weather the current economic environment.

Based on the following, we believe that our current liquidity position is strong and that our cash flows from operations and availability under our credit facilities will be sufficient to meet our working capital needs and financial obligations for at least the next twelve months:

As of January 31, 2010, our liquidity position exceeded $1.1 billion, comprised of $672.0 million of availability under the ABL Credit Facility (as defined below), $401.7 million in cash and cash equivalents and $47.4 million of availability under international credit lines.

We have generated positive net cash flows from operating activities in the past five consecutive quarters, including $142.5 million through the first nine months of fiscal 2010.

We have no substantial debt obligations coming due until the second quarter of fiscal 2012.

Future cash flows from operations should continue to benefit from improved operating efficiencies and plant utilization as a result of the Restructuring Plan.

Sources of Liquidity

We have available a variety of sources of liquidity and capital resources, both internal and external. These resources provide funds required for current operations, integration costs, debt retirement, acquisitions and other capital requirements.

Accounts Receivable and Inventories

The meat processing industry is characterized by high sales volume and rapid turnover of inventories and accounts receivable. Because of the rapid turnover rate, we consider our meat inventories and accounts receivable highly liquid and readily convertible into cash. In addition, although inventory turnover in the Hog Production segment is slower, mature hogs are readily convertible into cash. Borrowings under our credit facilities are used, in part, to finance increases in the levels of inventories resulting from seasonal and other market-related fluctuations in raw material costs.

Credit Facilities

	January 31, 2010
Facility	Capacity		Borrowing Base Adjustment			Outstanding Letters of Credit			Outstanding Borrowings			Amount Available
	(in millions)
ABL Credit Facility	$	1,000.0	$	(139.4	)	$	(188.6	)	$	-		$	672.0
International facilities		97.1		-			-			(49.7	)		47.4
Total credit facilities	$	1,097.1	$	(139.4	)	$	(188.6	)	$	(49.7	)	$	719.4

In July 2009 (fiscal 2010), we entered into a new asset-based revolving credit agreement totaling $1.0 billion that supports short-term funding needs and letters of credit (the ABL Credit Facility), and terminated the U.S. Credit Facility, which was scheduled to expire in August 2010 (fiscal 2011). Loans made under the ABL Credit Facility will mature and the commitments thereunder will terminate in July 2012 (fiscal 2013). However, the ABL Credit Facility will be subject to an earlier maturity if we fail to satisfy certain conditions related to the refinancing or repayment of our senior notes due 2011. The ABL Credit Facility provides for an option, subject to certain conditions, to increase total commitments to $1.3 billion in the future.

Availability under the ABL Credit Facility is based on a percentage of certain eligible accounts receivable and eligible inventory and is reduced by certain reserves. The ABL Credit Facility requires an unused commitment fee of 1% per annum on the undrawn portion of the facility (subject to a stepdown in the event more than 50% of the commitments under the facility are utilized).

Obligations under the ABL Credit Facility are guaranteed by substantially all of our U.S. subsidiaries and are secured by a first-priority lien on the ABL Collateral (as defined below). Our obligations under the ABL Facility are also secured by a second-priority lien on the Non-ABL Collateral (as defined below), which secures the 2014 Notes (as defined below) and our obligations under the Rabobank Term Loan (as defined below) on a first-priority basis.

In August 2009 (fiscal 2010), we paid off the outstanding balance under the Euro Credit Facility and cancelled the facility, which was scheduled to mature in August 2010 (fiscal 2011).

The weighted average interest rate on amounts outstanding under all of our credit facilities and credit lines as of January 31, 2010 was 4.5%.

In addition to these credit facilities, we enter into short-term uncommitted credit lines from time to time as an ordinary course financing activity.

Securities

We have a shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission to register sales of debt, stock and other securities from time to time. We would use the net proceeds from the possible sale of these securities for repayment of existing debt or general corporate purposes.

Cash Flows

Operating Activities

	Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010		February 1, 2009
	(in millions)
Net cash flows from operating activities	$	142.5	$	80.3

The following items explain the significant changes in cash flows from operating activities:

Cash paid to outside hog suppliers was significantly less than the prior year due to a 17% decline in average live hog market prices.

We paid approximately $133.5 million less for grains in fiscal 2010 due to substantially lower feed prices.

We received $37.9 million in insurance proceeds which we determined are directly attributable to business interruption recoveries and reimbursable costs related to the fire that occured at the primary manufacturing facility of our subsidiary, Patrick Cudahy, Incorporated, in Cudahy, Wisconsin.

Cash paid for the settlement of derivative contracts and for margin requirements decreased by $26.0 million.

Cash paid for transportation and energy decreased due to significantly lower fuel prices and energy costs.

We received a cash dividend from CFG of approximately $16.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2010.

The decline in cash paid for raw materials was partially offset by less cash received from customers as a result of lower sales.

Investing Activities

	Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
	(in millions)
Capital expenditures	$	(136.4	)	$	(154.4	)
Dispositions		23.3			575.5
Insurance proceeds		9.9			-
Investments and other		12.5			3.7
Net cash flows from investing activities	$	(90.7	)	$	424.8

The following items explain the significant investing activities for the nine months ended January 31, 2010 and February 1, 2009:

Fiscal 2010

Capital expenditures primarily related to the Restructuring Plan, the purchase of property and equipment previously leased and plant and hog farm improvement projects. Capital spending was reduced in fiscal 2010 due to our continued focus on driving efficiencies and debt reduction.

Dispositions included $14.2 million in proceeds from the sale of our interest in Farasia and $9.1 million in proceeds from the sale of RMH.

The insurance proceeds represent the portion of total insurance proceeds received through the third quarter of fiscal 2010, which we determined are related to the destruction of property, plant and equipment due to the fire that occured at our Patrick Cudahy facility.

Fiscal 2009

We received $575.5 million from the sale of Smithfield Beef.

Capital expenditures primarily related to plant and hog farm improvement projects.

Financing Activities

	Nine Months Ended
		January 31, 2010			February 1, 2009
		(in millions)
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt		$	840.1		$	600.0
Principal payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations			(323.7	)		(169.4	)
Net repayments on revolving credit facilities and notes payables			(479.4	)		(892.3	)
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock and stock option exercises			294.8			122.3
Repurchases of debt			-			(86.2	)
Purchase of call options			-			(88.2	)
Proceeds from the sale of warrants			-			36.7
Debt issuance costs and other			(62.8	)		(11.0	)
Purchase of redeemble noncontrolling interest			(38.9	)		-
Net cash flows from financing activities		$	230.1		$	(488.1	)

The following items explain the significant financing activities for the nine months ended January 31, 2010 and February 1, 2009:

Fiscal 2010

In July 2009 (fiscal 2010), we issued $625 million aggregate principal amount of 10% senior secured notes at a price equal to 96.201% of their face value. In August 2009 (fiscal 2010), we issued an additional $225 million aggregate principal amount of 10% senior secured notes at a price equal to 104% of their face value, plus accrued interest from July 2, 2009 to August 14, 2009. Collectively, these notes, which mature in July 2014, are referred to as the “2014 Notes.” Interest payments are due semi-annually on January 15 and July 15. The 2014 Notes are guaranteed by substantially all of our U.S. subsidiaries. The 2014 Notes are secured by first-priority liens, subject to permitted liens and exceptions for excluded assets, in substantially all of the guarantors’ real property, fixtures and equipment (collectively, the Non-ABL Collateral) and are secured by second-priority liens on cash and cash equivalents, deposit accounts, accounts receivable, inventory, other personal property relating to such inventory and accounts receivable and all proceeds therefrom, intellectual property, and certain capital stock and interests, which secure the ABL Credit Facility on a first-priority basis (collectively, the ABL Collateral).

The 2014 Notes rank equally in right of payment to all of our existing and future senior debt and senior in right of payment to all of our existing and future subordinated debt. The guarantees will rank equally in right of payment with all of the guarantors’ existing and future senior debt and senior in right of payment to all of the guarantors’ existing and future subordinated debt. In addition, the 2014 Notes are structurally subordinated to the liabilities of our non-guarantor subsidiaries.

We used the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2014 Notes, together with other available cash, to repay borrowings and terminate commitments under the U.S. Credit Facility, to repay the outstanding balance under the Euro Credit Facility, to repay and/or refinance other indebtedness and for other general corporate purposes.

In July 2009, we entered into a new $200 million term loan due August 29, 2013 (the Rabobank Term Loan), which replaced our then existing $200 million term loan that was scheduled to mature in August 2011. We are obligated to repay $25 million of the borrowings under the Rabobank Term Loan on each of August 29, 2011 and August 29, 2012. We may elect to prepay the loan at any time, subject to the payment of certain prepayment fees in respect of any voluntary prepayment prior to August 29, 2011 and other customary breakage costs. Outstanding borrowings under this loan will accrue interest at variable rates. Our obligations under the Rabobank Term Loan are guaranteed by substantially all of our U.S. subsidiaries on a senior secured basis. The Rabobank Term Loan is secured by first-priority liens on the Non-ABL Collateral and is secured by second-priority liens on the ABL Collateral, which secures our obligations under the ABL Credit Facility on a first-priority basis.

In September 2009, we issued 21,660,649 shares of common stock in a registered public offering at $13.85 per share. In October 2009, we issued an additional 598,141 shares of common stock at $13.85 per share to cover over-allotments from the offering. We incurred costs of $13.5 million associated with the offering. The net proceeds from the offering were used to repay our $206.3 million senior unsecured notes, which matured in October 2009, and for working capital and other general corporate purposes.

We paid debt issuance costs totaling $62.8 million related to the 2014 Notes, the Rabobank Term Loan and the ABL Credit Facility. The debt issuance costs were capitalized and are being amortized into interest expense over the life of each instrument.

In November 2009 (fiscal 2010), the noncontrolling interest holders of Premium Pet Health, LLC (PPH), a subsidiary in our Pork segment, notified us of their intention to exercise their put option, requiring us to purchase all of their ownership interests in the subsidiary. In December 2009 (fiscal 2010), we acquired the remaining 49% interest in PPH for $38.9 million. PPH is a leading protein by-product processor that supplies many of the leading pet food processors in the United States.

Fiscal 2009

In July 2008, we issued $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4% convertible senior notes due June 30, 2013 in a registered offering (the Convertible Notes). The Convertible Notes are payable with cash and, at certain times, are convertible into shares of our common stock based on an initial conversion rate, subject to adjustment, of 44.082 shares per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes (which represents an initial conversion price of approximately $22.68 per share). Upon conversion, a holder will receive cash up to the principal amount of the Convertible Notes and shares of our common stock for the remainder, if any, of the conversion obligation.

In connection with the issuance of the Convertible Notes, we entered into separate convertible note hedge transactions with respect to our common stock to reduce potential economic dilution upon conversion of the Convertible Notes, and separate warrant transactions (collectively referred to as the Call Spread Transactions). We purchased call options in private transactions that permit us to acquire up to approximately 17.6 million shares of our common stock at an initial strike price of $22.68 per share, subject to adjustment, for $88.2 million. We also sold warrants in private transactions for total proceeds of approximately $36.7 million. The warrants permit the purchasers to acquire up to approximately 17.6 million shares of our common stock at an initial exercise price of $30.54 per share, subject to adjustment.

We incurred fees and expenses associated with the issuance of the Convertible Notes totaling $11.4 million, which were capitalized and will be amortized to interest expense over the life of the Convertible Notes. The net proceeds of $337.1 million from the issuance of the Convertible Notes and the Call Spread Transactions were used to retire short-term uncommitted credit lines and to reduce amounts outstanding under the U.S. Credit Facility.

We borrowed $200.0 million under a three-year term loan with Rabobank.

In July 2008, we issued a total of 7,000,000 shares of our common stock to Starbase International Limited, a company registered in the British Virgin Islands which is a subsidiary of COFCO (Hong Kong) Limited (COFCO). The shares were issued at a purchase price of $17.45 per share. The proceeds from the issuance of these shares were used to reduce amounts outstanding under the U.S. Credit Facility.

Credit Ratings

On August 7, 2009, Standard & Poor’s Rating Services (S&P) downgraded our ‘B’ credit rating to ‘B-’. As of January 31, 2010, our credit ratings were ‘B-’ by S&P and ‘B2’ by Moody’s Investor Services (Moody’s). Although we had no borrowings outstanding on the ABL Credit Facility, the interest expense spread that would have been applicable based on these ratings would have been 4.50%. Additionally, a further downgrade by either rating agency would not result in an increase in our interest expense spread because any borrowings would currently be subject to the maximum spread under our ratings based pricing.

Debt Covenants and the Incurrence Test

Our various debt agreements contain covenants that limit additional borrowings, acquisitions, dispositions, leasing of assets and payments of dividends to shareholders, among other restrictions.

Guarantees

Additional Matters Affecting Liquidity

Capital Projects

As of January 31, 2010, we had total estimated remaining capital expenditures of $55 million on approved projects, including $11 million related to the Restructuring Plan. These projects are expected to be funded over the next several years with cash flows from operations and borrowings under credit facilities. Total capital expenditures are expected to remain below depreciation in fiscal 2010.

Risk Management Activities

We are exposed to market risks primarily from changes in commodity prices, and to a lesser degree, interest rates and foreign exchange rates. To mitigate these risks, we utilize derivative instruments to hedge our exposure to changing prices and rates, as more fully described under “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Derivative Financial Instruments” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009. Our liquidity position may be positively or negatively affected by changes in the underlying value of our derivative portfolio. When the value of our open derivative contracts decrease, we may be required to post margin deposits with our brokers to cover a portion of the decrease. Conversely, when the value of our open derivative contracts increase, our brokers may be required to deliver margin deposits to us for a portion of the increase. During the third quarter of fiscal 2010, margin deposits posted by us ranged from $(2.5) million to $158.2 million (negative amounts representing margin deposits we have received from our brokers). The average daily amount on deposit with brokers during fiscal 2010 was $28.5 million. As of January 31, 2010, the net amount on deposit with brokers was $88.2 million.

The effects, positive or negative, on liquidity resulting from our risk management activities tend to be mitigated by offsetting changes in cash prices in our core business. For example, in a period of rising grain prices, gains resulting from long grain derivative positions would generally be offset by higher cash prices paid to farmers and other suppliers in spot markets. These offsetting changes do not always occur, however, in the same amounts or in the same period, with lag times of as much as twelve months.

Increase of Authorized Shares of Common Stock

On August 26, 2009, our shareholders approved an amendment to our Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of our common stock from 200 million to 500 million.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

The preparation of consolidated condensed financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates and assumptions are based on our experience and our understanding of the current facts and circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The following describes updates to our critical accounting policies and estimates, which are more fully described in “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009.

Goodwill Considerations

As set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009, our policy is to perform an annual goodwill impairment test in the fourth quarter of each year. We are also required to test goodwill for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. In the third quarter of fiscal 2009, we engaged an independent third party valuation specialist to assist us in performing an interim test of goodwill in our U.S. hog production reporting unit. The decision to test goodwill at that date was based upon a perception that certain indicators of impairment may have been present, including losses in the reporting unit and a decline in the market price of our common stock. At that time, the fair value of the reporting unit was determined to be in excess of its carrying value by more than 20 percent. Accordingly, no impairment of goodwill was indicated. Since then, we have continued to re-examine key assumptions used in the valuation as well as closely monitor industry macro-economic trends that have the potential to alter or significantly influence those assumptions. In this regard, we are closely monitoring developments related to U.S. ethanol policy and proposals that promote the production and use of corn-based ethanol, including current proposals that would mandate an increase in blending percentages from 10 to 15 percent. We are concerned about the effects of the ethanol policy on the price of corn and, ultimately, on the cost of feed grains and resultant impact on longer-term industry profitability.

As of January 31, 2010, the carrying amount of goodwill related to our U.S. hog production operations was $442.9 million. Based on our ongoing evaluation of changes that may have occurred in key assumptions utilized in our prior evaluation of the fair value of the U.S. hog production reporting unit, we believe that fair value still exceeds carrying value. While we believe we have made reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the fair value of this reporting unit, it is reasonably possible a material change could occur. If actual results are not consistent with our estimates or key assumptions used to calculate the fair value of this reporting unit, or if conditions or events change our estimates of future profitability, such as unfavorable developments in U.S. ethanol policies and continued depressed U.S. hog market prices, a material impairment of our goodwill could result. If goodwill were determined to be impaired, it would result in a non-cash charge to earnings with a corresponding decrease in shareholder’s equity. However, a non-cash goodwill impairment charge would not have any effect on our liquidity.

Impairment Considerations of Equity Method Investments

We consider whether the fair values of our equity method investments have declined below their carrying values whenever adverse events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If we consider any such decline to be other than temporary (based on various factors, including historical financial results, product development activities and the overall health of the affiliate’s industry), then we would write down the carrying value of the investment to its estimated fair value.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report contains “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. The forward-looking statements include statements concerning our outlook for the future, as well as other statements of beliefs, future plans and strategies or anticipated events, and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Our forward-looking information and statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the statements. These risks and uncertainties include the availability and prices of live hogs, raw materials, fuel and supplies, food safety, livestock disease, live hog production costs, product pricing, the competitive environment and related market conditions, hedging risk, operating efficiencies, changes in interest rate and foreign currency exchange rates, changes in our credit ratings, access to capital, the investment performance of our pension plan assets and the availability of legislative funding relief, the cost of compliance with environmental and health standards, adverse results from on-going litigation, actions of domestic and foreign governments, labor relations issues, credit exposure to large customers, the ability to make effective acquisitions and dispositions and successfully integrate newly acquired businesses into existing operations, our ability to effectively restructure portions of our operations and achieve cost savings from such restructurings and other risks and uncertainties described in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009 and in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2010. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because actual results may differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the statements. Any forward-looking statement that we make speaks only as of the date of such statement, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Comparisons of results for current and any prior periods are not intended to express any future trends or indications of future performance, unless expressed as such, and should only be viewed as historical data.

ITEM 3.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

For complete quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk affecting the Company, see “Item 7A. Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market Risk” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009. Our exposure to market risk from commodities is detailed below.

The following table presents the sensitivity of the fair value of our open commodity contracts and interest rate and foreign currency contracts to a hypothetical 10% change in market prices or in interest rates and foreign exchange rates, as of January 31, 2010 and May 3, 2009.

	January 31, 2010		May 3, 2009
	(in millions)
Livestock	$	124.5	$	12.6
Grains		47.7		17.1
Energy		3.0		2.0
Interest rates		0.3		0.5
Foreign currency		7.0		15.7

ITEM 4.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), regarding the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of January 31, 2010. Based on that evaluation, management, including the CEO and CFO, has concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of January 31, 2010.

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during our third quarter of fiscal 2010 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II—OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Missouri Litigation

As previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 24, 2009, lawsuits based on the law of nuisance were filed against Premium Standard Farms (PSF), a wholly-owned subsidiary that we acquired on May 7, 2007, and Continental Grain Company (CGC), in the Circuit Court of Jackson County, Missouri entitled Steven Adwell, et al. v. PSF, et al. and Michael Adwell, et al. v. PSF, et al. On March 4, 2010, a jury trial involving 15 plaintiffs who live near Homan farm resulted in a jury verdict of compensatory damages for the plaintiffs for a total of $11,050,000. Thirteen of the Homan farm plaintiffs received damages in the amount of $825,000 each. One of the plaintiffs received damages in the amount of $250,000, while another plaintiff received $75,000. As of the date of this report, the Company is reviewing all of its options relative to this verdict and believes that there are substantial grounds for reversal on appeal. Pursuant to a pre-existing arrangement, PSF is obligated to indemnify CGC for certain liabilities, if any, resulting from the Missouri litigation, including any liabilities resulting from the foregoing verdict.

John Morrell/Patrick Cudahy Facility

On January 14, 2010, the State of Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources issued a notification to Patrick Cudahy advising that the Department referred the facility to Wisconsin’s Department of Justice for enforcement. The referral alleges that the facility violated its air management permits by failing to obtain an approved NOx plan and to submit various reports in a timely manner. We are investigating the matter and anticipate holding informal conferences with Wisconsin officials and remain hopeful that we will be able to resolve the matter amicably. While we could face potential monetary penalties, depending upon the results of the Wisconsin investigation, management believes that any ultimate liability with respect to these matters would not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or operations.

Farmland Crete Facility

As previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 24, 2009, in December 2008, EPA Region 7 issued a Notice of Violation (the NOV) to our subsidiary, Farmland Foods, Inc. (Farmland), relative to Farmland’s facility in Crete, Nebraska. The NOV alleged that the Crete facility exceeded opacity limitations and violated testing and recordkeeping requirements specified in an air permit issued to the Crete facility by the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality. The parties have settled the matter and Farmland has paid a penalty of $70,425.

ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS

The following two risk factors have been updated from those previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009 and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 1, 2009.

Our level of indebtedness and the terms of our indebtedness could adversely affect our business and liquidity position.

As of January 31, 2010, we had:

approximately $3,004.0 million of indebtedness;

guarantees of up to $83.8 million for the financial obligations of certain unconsolidated joint ventures and hog farmers;

guarantees of $13.7 million for leases that were transferred to JBS in connection with the sale of Smithfield Beef; and

aggregate borrowing capacity available under our ABL Credit Facility totaling $672.0 million, taking into account a borrowing base adjustment of $139.4 million, no outstanding borrowings and outstanding letters of credit of $188.6 million.

Our indebtedness may increase from time to time in the future for various reasons, including fluctuations in operating results, capital expenditures and potential acquisitions or joint ventures. In addition, due to the volatile nature of the commodities markets, we may have to borrow significant amounts to cover any margin calls under our risk management and hedging programs. During fiscal 2010, margin deposits posted by us ranged from $(2.5) million to $158.2 million (negative amounts representing margin deposits we have received from our brokers). Our consolidated indebtedness level could significantly affect our business because:

it may, together with the financial and other restrictive covenants in the agreements governing our indebtedness, significantly limit or impair our ability in the future to obtain financing, refinance any of our indebtedness, sell assets or raise equity on commercially reasonable terms or at all, which could cause us to default on our obligations and materially impair our liquidity,

a downgrade in our credit rating could restrict or impede our ability to access capital markets at attractive rates and increase the cost of future borrowings. For example, in fiscal 2009, both Standard & Poor’s Rating Services (S&P) and Moody’s Investors Services twice downgraded our credit ratings, which resulted in increased interest expense, and our credit rating is currently on negative watch by S&P,

it may reduce our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions or to take advantage of business opportunities that may arise,

a portion of our cash flow from operations must be dedicated to interest payments on our indebtedness and is not available for other purposes, which amount would increase if prevailing interest rates rise,

substantially all of our assets in the United States secure our ABL Credit Facility, our Rabobank Term Loan and our Senior Secured Notes, which could limit our ability to dispose of such assets or utilize the proceeds of such dispositions and, upon an event of default under any such secured indebtedness, the lenders thereunder could foreclose upon our pledged assets, and

it could make us more vulnerable to downturns in general economic or industry conditions or in our business.

Further, our debt agreements restrict the payment of dividends to shareholders and, under certain circumstances, may limit additional borrowings, investments, the acquisition or disposition of assets, mergers and consolidations, transactions with affiliates, the creation of liens and the repayment of certain debt. For example, we anticipate that, if availability under the ABL Credit Facility does not meet certain thresholds, we will be subject to financial condition maintenance tests under the ABL Credit Facility and the Rabobank Term Loan. In addition, as more fully described in the section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009 entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Debt Covenants and the Incurrence Test,” the indentures relating to our senior unsecured notes preclude us from incurring certain additional indebtedness and restrict us from engaging in certain other activities, including paying cash dividends, repurchasing our common stock and making certain investments when our interest coverage ratio is less than 2.0 to 1.0 (the “Incurrence Test”). As of January 31, 2010, we did not meet the Incurrence Test, and we do not expect to meet the Incurrence Test again until the first quarter of fiscal 2011 at the earliest. Failure to meet the Incurrence Test limits our flexibility in accessing the credit markets and, should this failure continue, could adversely affect our business and financial condition by, among other things, limiting our ability to obtain financing, refinance existing indebtedness when it becomes due and take advantage of corporate opportunities.

Should market conditions continue to deteriorate or fail to improve, or our operating results continue to be depressed in the future, we may have to request amendments to our covenants and restrictions. There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain such relief should it be needed in the future. A breach of any of these covenants or restrictions could result in a default that would permit our senior lenders, including lenders under the ABL Credit Facility or the Rabobank Term Loan, the holders of our Senior Secured Notes or the holders of our senior unsecured notes, as the case may be, to declare all amounts outstanding under the ABL Credit Facility, the Rabobank Term Loan, the Senior Secured Notes or the senior unsecured notes to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, and the commitments of the relevant senior lenders to make further extensions of credit under the ABL Credit Facility could be terminated. If we were unable to repay our indebtedness to our lenders under our secured debt, these lenders could proceed, where applicable, against the collateral securing that indebtedness, which could include substantially all of our assets. Our future ability to comply with financial covenants and other conditions, make scheduled payments of principal and interest, or refinance existing borrowings depends on future business performance that is subject to economic, financial, competitive and other factors, including the other risks set forth in this Item 1A and in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009 and this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2010.

Our operations are subject to the risks associated with acquisitions and investments in joint ventures.

Although our overall focus has shifted from acquisitions to integration of existing operations, we may continue to review opportunities for strategic growth through acquisitions in the future. We have also pursued and may in the future pursue strategic growth through investment in joint ventures. These acquisitions and investments may involve large transactions or realignment of existing investments such as the recent merger of Groupe Smithfield and Campofrío. These transactions present financial, managerial and operational challenges, including:

diversion of management attention from other business concerns,

difficulty with integrating businesses, operations, personnel and financial and other systems,

lack of experience in operating in the geographical market of the acquired business,

increased levels of debt potentially leading to associated reduction in ratings of our debt securities and adverse impact on our various financial ratios,

the requirement that we periodically review the value at which we carry our investments in joint ventures, and, in the event we determine that the value at which we carry a joint venture investment has been impaired, the requirement to record a non-cash impairment charge, which charge could substantially affect our reported earnings in the period of such charge, would negatively impact our financial ratios and could limit our ability to obtain financing in the future,

potential loss of key employees and customers of the acquired business,

assumption of and exposure to unknown or contingent liabilities of acquired businesses,

potential disputes with the sellers, and

for our investments, potential lack of common business goals and strategies with, and cooperation of, our joint venture partners

In addition, acquisitions outside the U.S. may present unique difficulties and increase our exposure to those risks associated with international operations.

We could experience financial or other setbacks if any of the businesses that we have acquired or may acquire in the future have problems of which we are not aware or liabilities that exceed expectations. See “Item 3. Legal Proceedings—Missouri Litigation” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009 and "Item 1. Legal Proceedings-Missouri Litigation" in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2010 regarding lawsuits filed in Missouri against PSF and Continental Grain Company by neighboring individuals largely based on the laws of nuisance. Although we are continuing PSF’s vigorous defense of these claims, we cannot assure you that we will be successful, that additional nuisance claims will not arise in the future or that the reserves for this litigation will not have to be substantially increased.

Our numerous equity investments in joint ventures, partnerships and other entities, both within and outside the U.S., are periodically involved in modifying and amending their credit facilities and loan agreements. The ability of these entities to refinance or amend their facilities on a successful and satisfactory basis, and to comply with the covenants in their financing facilities, affects our assessment of the carrying value of any individual investment. As of January 31, 2010, none of our equity investments represented more than 6% of our total consolidated assets. If the Company determines in the future that an investment is impaired, we would be required to record a non-cash impairment charge, which could substantially affect our reported earnings in the period of such charge. In addition, any such impairment charge would negatively impact our financial ratios. See the section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 3, 2009 entitled “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note 1: Investments” for a discussion of the accounting treatment of our equity investments.

ITEM 2.

UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased			Average Price Paid per Share		Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs		Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(1)
November 2, 2009 to November 30, 2009		-			n/a		n/a		2,873,430
December 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009		6,173		$	16.30		n/a		2,873,430
January 1, 2010 to January 31, 2010		-			n/a		n/a		2,873,430
Total		6,173	(2)	$	16.30		n/a		2,873,430

(1)

As of January 31, 2010, our board of directors had authorized the repurchase of up to 20,000,000 shares of our common stock. The original repurchase plan was announced on May 6, 1999 and increases in the number of shares we may repurchase under the plan were announced on December 15, 1999, January 20, 2000, February 26, 2001, February 14, 2002 and June 2, 2005. There is no expiration date for this repurchase plan.

(2)

The purchases were made in open market transactions by Wells Fargo, as trustee, and the shares are held in a rabbi trust for the benefit of participants in the Smithfield Foods, Inc. 2008 Incentive Compensation Plan director fee deferral program. The 2008 Incentive Compensation Plan was approved by our shareholders on August 27, 2008.

ITEM 3.

DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

Not applicable.

ITEM 4. (REMOVED AND RESERVED)

Not applicable

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

Not applicable.

ITEM 6.

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 3.1	—	Articles of Amendment effective August 27, 2009 to the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, including the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company, as amended to date (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on September 11, 2009).
Exhibit 3.2	—	Amendment to the Bylaws effective August 27, 2008, including the Bylaws of the Company, as amended to date (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 3, 2008).
Exhibit 10.1	—	Summary of Incentive Award, One-Time Cash Bonus and Performance Share Units granted to Robert W. Manly, IV (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on December 14, 2009).
Exhibit 10.2	—	Form of Smithfield Foods, Inc. 2008 Incentive Compensation Plan Performance Share Unit Award granted December 2009 (filed herewith).
Exhibit 10.3	—	Market Hog Contract Grower Agreement, dated May 13, 1998, by and between Continental Grain Company and CGC Asset Acquisition Corp. (filed herewith).
Exhibit 31.1	—	Certification of C. Larry Pope, President and Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
Exhibit 31.2	—	Certification of Robert W. Manly, IV, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
Exhibit 32.1	—	Certification of C. Larry Pope, President and Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
Exhibit 32.2	—	Certification of Robert W. Manly, IV, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


	SMITHFIELD FOODS, INC.

	/s/ ROBERT W. MANLY, IV
	Robert W. Manly, IV Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

	/s/ KENNETH M. SULLIVAN
	Kenneth M. Sullivan Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer

Date: March 12, 2010