UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

þ		QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

o		TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number: 1-7275

 

CONAGRA FOODS, INC.

Delaware (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		47-0248710 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
One ConAgra Drive, Omaha, Nebraska (Address of principal executive offices)		68102-5001 (Zip Code)

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

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 þ      No o

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 (232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).      Yes þ      No o

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 definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer þ		Accelerated filer o		Non-accelerated filer o		Smaller reporting company o
		(Do not check if a 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 o      No þ

Number of shares outstanding of issuer’s common stock, as of December 27, 2009, was 443,405,103.

 

 

Table of Contents

Part I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1		Financial Statements			3
		Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the Thirteen and Twenty-six Weeks ended November 29, 2009 and November 23, 2008			3
		Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Thirteen and Twenty-six Weeks ended November 29, 2009 and November 23, 2008			4
		Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of November 29, 2009, May 31, 2009, and November 23, 2008			5
		Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Twenty-six Weeks ended November 29, 2009 and November 23, 2008			6
		Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements			8
Item 2		Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations			25
Item 3		Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk			35
Item 4		Controls and Procedures			36
Part II. OTHER INFORMATION					37
Item 1		Legal Proceedings			37
Item 2		Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds			37
Item 4		Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders			37
Item 6		Exhibits			38
Signatures					39
Exhibit Index					40
Exhibit 10.1
Exhibit 10.2
Exhibit 10.3
Exhibit 10.4
Exhibit 10.5
Exhibit 10.6
Exhibit 10.7					41
Exhibit 12					42
Exhibit 31.1					43
Exhibit 31.2					44
Exhibit 32.1					45
Exhibit 101.1

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in millions except per share amounts)

(unaudited)

		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Net sales		$	3,172.6			$	3,251.7			$	6,134.0			$	6,308.2
Costs and expenses:
Cost of goods sold			2,317.3				2,565.2				4,562.2				5,030.2
Selling, general and administrative expenses			460.0				389.0				886.4				757.7
Interest expense, net			40.6				42.7				82.1				92.8
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity method investment earnings			354.7				254.8				603.3				427.5
Income tax expense			117.4				84.6				208.4				150.6
Equity method investment earnings			5.9				1.9				14.8				2.8
Income from continuing operations			243.2				172.1				409.7				279.7
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax			(4.0	)			(3.6	)			(5.3	)			331.2
Net income		$	239.2			$	168.5			$	404.4			$	610.9
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests			(0.5	)			0.4				(1.2	)			0.4
Net income attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc.		$	239.7			$	168.1			$	405.6			$	610.5
Earnings per share - basic
Income from continuing operations attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders		$	0.55			$	0.38			$	0.93			$	0.61
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders			(0.01	)			—				(0.02	)			0.72
Net income attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders		$	0.54			$	0.38			$	0.91			$	1.33
Earnings per share - diluted
Income from continuing operations attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders		$	0.55			$	0.38			$	0.92			$	0.61
Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders			(0.01	)			(0.01	)			(0.01	)			0.71
Net income attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders		$	0.54			$	0.37			$	0.91			$	1.32

          See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

ConAgra Foods, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in millions)

(unaudited)

		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Net income		$	239.2			$	168.5			$	404.4			$	610.9
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Net derivative adjustment, net of tax			0.1				—				0.1				—
Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of tax:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period			0.1				(0.6	)			—				(0.9	)
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income			—				0.3				—				0.3
Currency translation adjustment:
Unrealized translation gains (losses) arising during the period			13.9				(96.1	)			15.1				(120.5	)
Reclassification adjustment for net losses included in net income			—				—				—				2.0
Pension and postretirement healthcare liabilities, net of tax			0.2				0.1				(0.6	)			(2.3	)
Comprehensive income			253.5				72.2				419.0				489.5
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests			(0.5	)			0.4				(1.2	)			0.4
Comprehensive income attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc.		$	254.0			$	71.8			$	420.2			$	489.1

          See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

ConAgra Foods, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in millions except share data)

(unaudited)

		November 29,				May 31,				November 23,
		2009				2009				2008
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents		$	490.2			$	243.2			$	132.1
Receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $10.2, $13.9, and $14.4			861.6				781.4				972.1
Inventories			2,192.2				2,025.1				2,275.3
Prepaid expenses and other current assets			307.9				282.0				455.5
Current assets held for sale			—				4.9				5.5
Total current assets			3,851.9				3,336.6				3,840.5
Property, plant and equipment			5,455.2				5,301.5				5,147.9
Less accumulated depreciation			(2,765.2	)			(2,661.1	)			(2,589.7	)
Property, plant and equipment, net			2,690.0				2,640.4				2,558.2
Goodwill			3,494.0				3,491.3				3,474.4
Brands, trademarks and other intangibles, net			834.7				835.3				824.3
Other assets			695.9				768.1				1,062.6
Noncurrent assets held for sale			—				1.6				10.7
		$	11,566.5			$	11,073.3			$	11,770.7
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities
Notes payable		$	1.2			$	3.7			$	300.1
Current installments of long-term debt			260.5				24.7				316.8
Accounts payable			956.4				823.8				1,019.5
Accrued payroll			184.1				166.9				175.5
Other accrued liabilities			605.3				555.6				860.0
Total current liabilities			2,007.5				1,574.7				2,671.9
Senior long-term debt, excluding current installments			3,027.2				3,265.4				2,856.6
Subordinated debt			195.9				195.9				195.9
Other noncurrent liabilities			1,351.3				1,316.4				1,271.7
Total liabilities			6,581.9				6,352.4				6,996.1
Commitments and contingencies (Note 14)
Common stockholders’ equity
Common stock of $5 par value, authorized 1,200,000,000 shares; issued 567,895,641, 567,154,823, and 567,075,215			2,839.6				2,835.9				2,835.5
Additional paid-in capital			879.4				884.4				788.1
Retained earnings			4,274.8				4,042.5				3,844.9
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)			(89.1	)			(103.7	)			165.1
Less treasury stock, at cost, 124,855,099, 125,497,708, and 119,984,111 common shares			(2,920.1	)			(2,938.2	)			(2,859.0	)
Total common stockholders’ equity			4,984.6				4,720.9				4,774.6
		$	11,566.5			$	11,073.3			$	11,770.7

          See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

ConAgra Foods, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in millions)

(unaudited)

		Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income		$	404.4			$	610.9
Income (loss) from discontinued operations			(5.3	)			331.2
Income from continuing operations			409.7				279.7
Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization			165.1				154.9
Impairment charges related to Garner accident			19.6				—
Insurance recoveries recognized related to Garner accident			(41.0	)			—
Advances from insurance carriers related to Garner accident			28.6				—
(Gain) loss on sale of fixed assets			2.8				(3.1	)
Gain on sale of businesses			—				(19.7	)
Distributions from affiliates greater than current earnings			3.4				4.5
Share-based payments expense			26.7				22.8
Non-cash interest income on payment-in-kind notes			(39.8	)			(30.6	)
Other items			19.9				(27.9	)
Change in operating assets and liabilities before effects of business acquisitions and dispositions:
Accounts receivable			(76.6	)			(99.6	)
Inventory			(171.8	)			(339.2	)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets			28.7				(3.9	)
Accounts payable			150.3				248.1
Accrued payroll			17.2				(80.5	)
Other accrued liabilities			110.7				8.5
Net cash flows from operating activities – continuing operations			653.5				114.0
Net cash flows from operating activities – discontinued operations			3.7				(729.7	)
Net cash flows from operating activities			657.2				(615.7	)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment			(241.9	)			(221.1	)
Advances from insurance carriers related to Garner accident			10.6				—
Sale of property, plant and equipment			2.3				14.8
Sale of businesses			—				29.8
Purchase of businesses and intangible assets			(3.0	)			(76.3	)
Notes receivable and other items			—				1.0
Net cash flows from investing activities – continuing operations			(232.0	)			(251.8	)
Net cash flows from investing activities – discontinued operations			6.4				2,252.8
Net cash flows from investing activities		$	(225.6	)		$	2,001.0

ConAgra Foods, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (continued)
(in millions)
(unaudited)

		Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net short-term borrowings		$	—			$	(285.6	)
Issuance of long-term debt by variable interest entity			—				20.0
Repayment of long-term debt			(9.4	)			(57.5	)
Repurchase of ConAgra Foods common shares			—				(900.0	)
Cash dividends paid			(169.2	)			(178.2	)
Exercise of stock options and issuance of other stock awards			(11.7	)			6.1
Other items			1.4				(8.6	)
Net cash flows from financing activities – continuing operations			(188.9	)			(1,403.8	)
Net cash flows from financing activities – discontinued operations			—				—
Net cash flows from financing activities			(188.9	)			(1,403.8	)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents			4.3				(21.1	)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents			247.0				(39.6	)
Discontinued operations cash activity included above:
Add: Cash balance included in assets held for sale at beginning of period			—				30.8
Less: Cash balance included in assets held for sale at end of period			—				—
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period			243.2				140.9
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period		$	490.2			$	132.1

     See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

ConAgra Foods, Inc. and Subsidiaries

1.      SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The unaudited financial information reflects all adjustments, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations, financial position, and cash flows for the periods presented. The adjustments are of a normal recurring nature, except as otherwise noted. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in the ConAgra Foods, Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2009.

The results of operations for any quarter or a partial fiscal year period are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for other periods or the full fiscal year.

Basis of Consolidation – The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of ConAgra Foods, Inc. and all majority-owned subsidiaries. In addition, the accounts of all variable interest entities for which we have been determined to be the primary beneficiary are included in our condensed consolidated financial statements from the date such determination is made. All significant intercompany investments, accounts, and transactions have been eliminated.

Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates – The investments in and the operating results of 50%-or-less-owned entities not required to be consolidated are included in the condensed consolidated financial statements on the basis of the equity method of accounting or the cost method of accounting, depending on specific facts and circumstances.

We review our investments in unconsolidated affiliates for impairment whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the investments may not be fully recoverable. Evidence of a loss in value that is other than temporary might include the absence of an ability to recover the carrying amount of the investment, the inability of the investee to sustain an earnings capacity which would justify the carrying amount of the investment, or, where applicable, estimated sales proceeds which are insufficient to recover the carrying amount of the investment. Management’s assessment as to whether any decline in value is other than temporary is based on our ability and intent to hold the investment and whether evidence indicating the carrying value of the investment is recoverable within a reasonable period of time outweighs evidence to the contrary. Management generally considers our investments in equity method investees to be strategic long-term investments. Therefore, management completes its assessments with a long-term viewpoint. If the fair value of the investment is determined to be less than the carrying value and the decline in value is considered to be other than temporary, an appropriate write-down is recorded based on the excess of the carrying value over the best estimate of fair value of the investment.

Cash and Cash Equivalents – Cash and all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less at the date of acquisition, including short-term time deposits and government agency and corporate obligations, are classified as cash and cash equivalents.

Shipping and Handling – Amounts billed to customers related to shipping and handling are included in net sales. Shipping and handling costs are included in cost of goods sold.

Comprehensive Income – Comprehensive income includes net income, currency translation adjustments, certain derivative-related activity, changes in the value of available-for-sale investments, and changes in prior service cost and net actuarial gains (losses) from pension and postretirement health care plans. We generally deem our foreign investments to be essentially permanent in nature and we do not provide for taxes on currency translation adjustments arising from converting the investment denominated in a foreign currency to U.S. dollars. When we determine that a foreign investment, as well as undistributed earnings, are no longer permanent in nature, estimated taxes are provided for the related deferred tax liability (asset), if any, resulting from currency translation adjustments. We reclassified $2.0 million of foreign currency translation net losses to net income due to the disposal and substantial liquidation of foreign subsidiaries in the first half of fiscal 2009.

The following details the income tax expense (benefit) on components of other comprehensive income:

		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Net derivative adjustment		$	0.1			$	—			$	0.1			$	—
Unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities			0.1				(0.3	)			—				(0.5	)
Reclassification adjustment for losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income			—				0.2				—				0.2
Pension and postretirement healthcare liabilities			0.5				0.6				0.7				3.5
		$	0.7			$	0.5			$	0.8			$	3.2

Accounting Changes – In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance on noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements. This guidance establishes accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest (minority interest) in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This guidance requires that noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries be reported as a component of stockholders’ equity in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. However, securities of an issuer that are redeemable at the option of the holder continue to be classified outside stockholders’ equity. The noncontrolling interest holder in the potato processing venture, Lamb Weston BSW, LLC (“Lamb Weston BSW” or the “venture”), has the contractual right to put its equity interest to us at a future date. Accordingly, the noncontrolling interest in this venture is classified within other noncurrent liabilities in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. This guidance also requires that earnings or losses attributed to the noncontrolling interests be reported as part of consolidated earnings and not as a separate component of income or expense and requires disclosure of the attribution of consolidated earnings to the controlling and noncontrolling interests on the face of the condensed consolidated statement of earnings. We adopted the provisions of this guidance on a prospective basis, except for the presentation and disclosure requirements, as of the beginning of our fiscal 2010. We adopted the presentation and disclosure requirements of this guidance retrospectively in the first quarter of fiscal 2010.

In December 2007, the FASB issued guidance on business combinations that establishes principles and requirements for how an acquirer in a business combination recognizes and measures the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree. The provisions of this guidance are effective for our business combinations occurring on or after June 1, 2009.

In June 2008, the FASB issued guidance which provides that unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are participating securities and must be included in the computation of earnings per share under the two-class method. This guidance was effective as of the beginning of our fiscal 2010. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on our financial statements.

In September 2006, the FASB issued guidance for fair value measurements, which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This guidance was effective as of the beginning of our fiscal 2009 for our financial assets and liabilities, as well as for other assets and liabilities that are carried at fair value on a recurring basis in our consolidated financial statements. As of the beginning of fiscal 2010, we adopted additional new guidance relating to nonrecurring fair value measurement requirements for nonfinancial assets and liabilities. The adoption did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements – In June 2009, the FASB issued guidance that requires an enterprise to perform an analysis to determine whether the enterprise’s variable interest or interests give it a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. This analysis identifies the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity as the enterprise that has both of the following characteristics: the power to direct the activities of a variable interest entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, and the obligation to absorb losses of the entity that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entity or the right to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entity. The provisions of this guidance are effective as of the beginning of our fiscal 2011. Earlier application is prohibited. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this guidance.

Use of Estimates – Preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses as reflected in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Reclassifications – Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with current year presentation.

Subsequent Events – We have performed an evaluation of subsequent events through January 5, 2010, the date we issued these financial statements. Based on our evaluation, no material events have occurred requiring disclosure.

2.      DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS AND DIVESTITURES

Fernando’s^® Operations

During the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we completed the divestiture of the Fernando’s^® foodservice business for proceeds of approximately $6.4 million. Based on our estimate of proceeds from the sale of this business, we recognized impairment charges totaling $8.9 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009. No further significant gain or loss resulted from the completion of the divestiture in the first half of fiscal 2010. We reflected the results of these operations as discontinued operations for all periods presented. The assets and liabilities of the divested Fernando’s^® business have been reclassified as assets and liabilities held for sale within our consolidated balance sheets for all periods prior to the divestiture.

Trading and Merchandising Operations

On March 27, 2008, we entered into an agreement with affiliates of Ospraie Special Opportunities Fund to sell our commodity trading and merchandising operations conducted by ConAgra Trade Group (previously principally reported as the Trading and Merchandising segment). The operations included the domestic and international grain merchandising, fertilizer distribution, agricultural and energy commodities trading and services, and grain, animal, and oil seed byproducts merchandising and distribution business. In June 2008, the sale of the trading and merchandising operations was completed for before-tax proceeds of: 1) approximately $2.2 billion in cash; net of transaction costs (including incentive compensation amounts due to employees due to accelerated vesting); 2) $550 million (original principal amount) of payment-in-kind debt securities issued by the purchaser (the “Notes”) that were recorded at an initial estimated fair value of $479 million; 3) a short-term receivable of $37 million due from the purchaser; and 4) a four-year warrant to acquire approximately 5% of the issued common equity of the parent company of the divested operations, which has been recorded at an estimated fair value of $1.8 million. We recognized an after-tax gain on the disposition of approximately $294 million in the first half of fiscal 2009.

During fiscal 2009, we collected the $37 million short-term receivable due from the purchaser. See Note 4 for further discussion on the Notes.

We reflected the results of the divested trading and merchandising operations as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Summary of Operational Results

The summary comparative financial results of the discontinued operations were as follows:

		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Net sales		$	0.1			$	12.8			$	1.4			$	226.3
Operating results from discontinued operations before income taxes			(7.6	)			1.9				(9.6	)			59.4
Gain from disposal of businesses			—				2.0				—				490.0
Income (loss) before income taxes			(7.6	)			3.9				(9.6	)			549.4
Income tax benefit (expense)			3.6				(7.5	)			4.3				(218.2	)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax		$	(4.0	)		$	(3.6	)		$	(5.3	)		$	331.2

Losses in the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2010 reflected charges related to certain legal and environmental matters of divested businesses.

The assets and liabilities classified as held for sale as of May 31, 2009 and November 23, 2008 were as follows:

		May 31,				November 23,
		2009				2008
Inventories		$	4.9			$	5.5
Current assets held for sale		$	4.9			$	5.5
Property, plant and equipment, net		$	1.6			$	7.5
Goodwill and other intangibles			—				3.2
Noncurrent assets held for sale		$	1.6			$	10.7

Other Divestitures

In July 2008, we completed the sale of our Pemmican^® beef jerky business for proceeds of approximately $29.4 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of approximately $19.4 million ($10.6 million, after-tax), reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses. Due to our continuing involvement with the Pemmican^® business through providing sales and distribution services, the results of operations of the Pemmican^® business have not been reclassified as discontinued operations.

3.      ACQUISITIONS

On September 22, 2008, we acquired a 49.99% interest in Lamb Weston BSW, a potato processing venture with Ochoa Ag Unlimited Foods, Inc. (“Ochoa”), for approximately $46 million in cash. Lamb Weston BSW subsequently distributed $20 million of our initial investment to us. This venture is considered a variable interest entity and is consolidated in our financial statements (see Note 5). Approximately $19 million of the purchase price was allocated to goodwill and approximately $11 million was allocated to brands, trademarks and other identifiable intangibles. This business is included in the Commercial Foods segment.

On August 1, 2008, we acquired Saroni Sugar & Rice, Inc., a distribution company included in the Commercial Foods segment, for approximately $9 million in cash plus assumed liabilities. Approximately $5 million of the purchase price was allocated to brands, trademarks and other identifiable intangibles.

4.      PAYMENT-IN-KIND NOTES RECEIVABLE

In connection with the divestiture of the trading and merchandising operations, we received the Notes described in Note 2 that were recorded at an initial estimated fair value of $479 million.

The Notes were issued in three tranches: $99,990,000 original principal amount of 10.5% notes due June 19, 2010; $200,035,000 original principal amount of 10.75% notes due June 19, 2011; and $249,975,000 original principal amount of 11.0% notes due June 19, 2012.

The Notes permit payment of interest in cash or additional notes. The Notes may be redeemed in whole or in part prior to maturity at the option of the issuer of the Notes. Redemption is at par plus accrued interest. The Notes contain certain covenants that govern the issuer’s ability to make restricted payments and enter into certain affiliate transactions. The Notes also provide for the making of mandatory offers to repurchase upon certain change of control events involving the purchaser, their co-investors, or their affiliates. In the third quarter of fiscal 2009, we received a cash interest payment on the Notes of $30 million from the purchaser. All subsequent interest payments have been made in-kind. The Note due June 19, 2010, which is classified within prepaid expenses and other current assets, had a carrying value of $107 million at November 29, 2009. The Notes due June 19, 2011 and June 19, 2012, which are classified as other assets, had a total carrying value of $455 million at November 29, 2009.

Based on market interest rates of comparable instruments provided by third-party advisors, we estimated the fair market value of the Notes was $588 million at November 29, 2009.

5.      VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

As discussed in Note 3, in September 2008, we entered into a potato processing venture, Lamb Weston BSW. We provide all sales and marketing services to the venture. Commencing on June 1, 2018, or on an earlier date under certain circumstances, we have a contractual right to purchase the remaining equity interest in Lamb Weston BSW from Ochoa (the “call option”). Commencing on July 30, 2011, or on an earlier date under certain circumstances, we are subject to a contractual obligation to purchase all of Ochoa’s equity investment in Lamb Weston BSW at the option of Ochoa (the “put option”). The purchase prices under the call option and the

put option (the “options”) are based on the book value of Ochoa’s equity interest at the date of exercise, as modified by an agreed-upon rate of return for the holding period of the investment balance. The agreed-upon rate of return varies depending on the circumstances under which any of the options are exercised. We have determined that the venture is a variable interest entity and that we are the primary beneficiary of the entity. Accordingly, we consolidate the financial statements of the venture.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we established a line of credit with Lamb Weston BSW, under which we will lend up to $1.5 million to Lamb Weston BSW, due on August 24, 2010. Borrowings under the line of credit, which are subordinate to Lamb Weston BSW’s borrowings from a syndicate of banks, bear interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 3%.

Our variable interests in this venture include an equity investment in the venture, the options, and the line of credit advanced to Lamb Weston BSW. Other than our equity investment in the venture, the line of credit extended to the venture, and our sales and marketing services provided to the venture, we have not provided financial support to this entity. Our maximum exposure to loss as a result of our involvement with this venture is equal to our equity investment in the venture and advances under the line of credit extended to the venture.

We also consolidate the assets and liabilities of several entities from which we lease corporate aircraft. Each of these entities has been determined to be a variable interest entity and we have been determined to be the primary beneficiary of each of these entities. Under the terms of the aircraft leases, we provide guarantees to the owners of these entities of a minimum residual value of the aircraft at the end of the lease term. We also have fixed price purchase options on the aircraft leased from these entities. Our maximum exposure to loss from our involvement with these entities is limited to the difference between the fair value of the leased aircraft and the amount of the residual value guarantees at the time we terminate the leases (the leases expire between December 2011 and October 2012). The total amount of the residual value guarantees for these aircraft at the end of the respective lease terms is $38.4 million.

Due to the consolidation of these variable interest entities, we reflected in our balance sheets:

		November 29,				May 31,				November 23,
		2009				2009				2008
Cash and cash equivalents		$	0.8			$	1.2			$	2.0
Receivables, net			10.5				12.6				21.4
Inventories			1.5				3.1				1.6
Prepaid expenses and other current assets			0.1				0.1				—
Property, plant and equipment, net			98.4				100.5				114.5
Goodwill			18.6				18.6				18.0
Brands, trademarks and other intangibles, net			10.2				10.6				0.1
Total assets		$	140.1			$	146.7			$	157.6
Notes payable		$	—			$	—			$	6.8
Current installments of long-term debt			6.4				6.1				4.8
Accounts payable			3.0				4.3				3.2
Accrued payroll			0.2				0.2				0.3
Other accrued liabilities			0.8				0.7				6.1
Senior long-term debt, excluding current installments			80.1				83.3				67.5
Other noncurrent liabilities (noncontrolling interest)			26.1				27.3				36.1
Total liabilities		$	116.6			$	121.9			$	124.8

The liabilities recognized as a result of consolidating these entities do not represent additional claims on our general assets. The creditors of these entities have claims only on the assets of the specific variable interest entities to which they have advanced credit. The assets recognized as a result of consolidating Lamb Weston BSW are the property of the venture and are not available to us for any other purpose.

6.      GARNER, NORTH CAROLINA ACCIDENT

On June 9, 2009, an accidental explosion occurred at our manufacturing facility in Garner, North Carolina. This facility was the primary production facility for our Slim Jim^® branded meat snacks, and the packaging area of the plant is expected to be out of service for the foreseeable future. On June 13, 2009, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announced its determination that the explosion was the result of an accidental natural gas release, and not a deliberate act.

We maintain comprehensive property (including business interruption), workers’ compensation, and general liability insurance policies with very significant loss limits that we believe will provide substantial and broad coverage for the currently foreseeable losses arising from this accident.

The costs incurred and insurance recoveries recognized, to date, are reflected in our condensed consolidated financial statements, as follows:

		Thirteen weeks ended November 29, 2009												Twenty-six weeks ended November 29, 2009
		Consumer Foods				Corporate				Total				Consumer Foods				Corporate				Total
Cost of goods sold:
Inventory write-downs and other costs		$	4.4			$	—			$	4.4			$	10.6			$	—			$	10.6
Selling, general and administrative expenses:
Fixed asset impairments, clean-up costs, etc.		$	2.9			$	0.8			$	3.7			$	32.8			$	1.3			$	34.1
Insurance recoveries recognized			(7.3	)			—				(7.3	)			(41.0	)			—				(41.0	)
Total selling, general and administrative expenses		$	(4.4	)		$	0.8			$	(3.6	)		$	(8.2	)		$	1.3			$	(6.9	)
Net loss		$	—			$	0.8			$	0.8			$	2.4			$	1.3			$	3.7

The amounts in the table, above, exclude lost profits due to the interruption of the business.

We are currently unable to fully access the portion of the facility that was damaged in the explosion. As a result, we are unable to ascertain whether or not certain equipment located in the facility, with a book value of approximately $12 million, is impaired. We may be required to recognize further impairment charges for some, or all, of this amount when we are able to fully access the site and ascertain the status of the equipment. We expect to be able to ascertain the status of the equipment in the second half of fiscal 2010. We expect to be reimbursed by our insurers for the cost of replacing these assets in the event that they are determined to be impaired.

At November 29, 2009, we reflected approximately $15 million of expected insurance recoveries within accounts receivable in our condensed consolidated balance sheet. Through November 29, 2009, we had received payment advances from the insurers of approximately $39 million for our initial insurance claims for this matter. As of the date of this report, we have received payment advances in excess of $53 million from insurers. Based on management’s current assessment of production options, the expected level of insurance proceeds, and the estimated potential amount of losses and impact on the Slim Jim^® brand, we do not believe that the accident will have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity.

7.      GOODWILL AND OTHER IDENTIFIABLE INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The change in the carrying amount of goodwill for the first half of fiscal 2010 was as follows:

		Consumer				Commercial
		Foods				Foods				Total
Balance as of May 31, 2009		$	3,354.3			$	137.0			$	3,491.3
Translation and other			2.2				0.5				2.7
Balance as of November 29, 2009		$	3,356.5			$	137.5			$	3,494.0

Other identifiable intangible assets were as follows:

		November 29, 2009								May 31, 2009								November 23, 2008
		Gross								Gross								Gross
		Carrying				Accumulated				Carrying				Accumulated				Carrying				Accumulated
		Amount				Amortization				Amount				Amortization				Amount				Amortization
Non-amortizing intangible assets		$	778.2			$	—			$	778.2			$	—			$	778.3			$	—
Amortizing intangible assets			83.5				27.0				80.5				23.4				65.8				19.8
		$	861.7			$	27.0			$	858.7			$	23.4			$	844.1			$	19.8

Non-amortizing intangible assets are comprised of brands and trademarks.

Amortizing intangible assets, carrying a weighted average life of approximately 13 years, are principally composed of licensing arrangements and customer relationships. Based on amortizing assets recognized in our balance sheet as of November 29, 2009, amortization expense is estimated to be approximately $6.2 million for each of the next five years.

8.      DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Our operations are exposed to market risks from adverse changes in commodity prices affecting the cost of raw materials and energy, foreign currency exchange rates, and interest rates. In the normal course of business, these risks are managed through a variety of strategies, including the use of derivatives.

Commodity futures and options contracts are used from time to time to economically hedge commodity input prices on items such as natural gas, vegetable oils, proteins, dairy, grains, and electricity. Generally, we economically hedge a portion of our anticipated consumption of commodity inputs for periods of up to 36 months. We may enter into longer-term economic hedges on particular commodities if deemed appropriate. As of November 29, 2009, we had economically hedged certain portions of our anticipated consumption of commodity inputs using derivative instruments with expiration dates through March 2011.

In order to reduce exposures related to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, when deemed prudent, we enter into forward exchange or options contracts for transactions denominated in a currency other than the applicable functional currency. This includes, but is not limited to, hedging against foreign currency risk in purchasing inventory and capital equipment, sales of finished goods, and future settlement of foreign-denominated assets and liabilities. As of November 29, 2009, we had economically hedged certain portions of our foreign currency risk in anticipated transactions using derivative instruments with expiration dates through December 2012.

From time to time, we may use derivative instruments, including interest rate swaps, to reduce exposures related to changes in interest rates. No interest rate derivatives were outstanding during the periods presented.

In prior periods, we have designated certain commodity-based and foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges qualifying for hedge accounting treatment. We discontinued designating such derivatives as cash flow hedges during the first quarter of fiscal 2008.

Economic Hedges of Forecasted Cash Flows

Many of our derivatives do not qualify for, and, as noted above, we are not currently designating any commodity or foreign currency derivatives to achieve hedge accounting treatment. We reflect realized and unrealized gains and losses from derivatives used to economically hedge anticipated commodity consumption and to mitigate foreign currency cash flow risk in earnings immediately within general corporate expense (within cost of goods sold). The gains and losses are reclassified to segment operating results in the period in which the underlying item being economically hedged is recognized in cost of goods sold.

Other Derivative Activity (Primarily in the Milling Operations)

We also use derivative instruments within our milling operations, which are part of the Commercial Foods segment. Derivative instruments used to economically hedge commodity inventories and forward purchase and sales contracts are marked-to-market such that realized and unrealized gains and losses are immediately included in operating results. The underlying inventory and forward contracts being hedged are also marked-to-market with changes in market value recognized immediately in operating results.

For commodity derivative trading activities within our milling operations that are not intended to mitigate commodity input cost risk, the derivative instrument is marked-to-market each period with gains and losses included in net sales of the Commercial Foods segment. There were no material gains or losses from derivative trading activities during the periods being reported.

All derivative instruments are recognized on the balance sheet at fair value. The fair value of derivative assets is recognized within prepaid expenses and other current assets, while the fair value of derivative liabilities is recognized within other accrued liabilities. In accordance with FASB guidance, we offset certain derivative asset and liability balances, as well as certain amounts representing rights to reclaim cash collateral and obligations to return cash collateral, where legal right of setoff exists. At November 29, 2009, amounts representing a right to reclaim cash collateral of $8.5 million were included in prepaid expenses and other current assets in our balance sheet.

Derivative assets and liabilities and amounts representing a right to reclaim cash collateral were reflected in our balance sheets as follows:

		November 29,				May 31,				November 23,
		2009				2009				2008
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	50.7			$	52.1			$	203.4
Other accrued liabilities			17.6				30.8				37.2

The following table presents our derivative assets and liabilities, on a gross basis, prior to the offsetting of amounts where legal right of setoff existed at November 29, 2009:

		Derivative Assets						Derivative Liabilities
		Balance Sheet Location		Fair Value				Balance Sheet Location		Fair Value
Commodity contracts		Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	52.0			Other accrued liabilities		$	24.3
Foreign exchange contracts		Prepaid expenses and other current assets			0.6			Other accrued liabilities			3.7
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under FASB guidance				$	52.6					$	28.0

The location and amount of gains and losses from derivatives reported in our consolidated statements of earnings were as follows:

Location in Condensed

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized on Derivatives

Consolidated Statement

in Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings

of Earnings of Gain

For the Thirteen

For the Twenty-six

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging

(Loss) Recognized

weeks ended

weeks ended

Instruments Under FASB Guidance

on Derivatives

November 29, 2009

November 29, 2009

Commodity contracts

Cost of goods sold

$

13.4

$

79.3

Foreign exchange contracts

Cost of goods sold

(5.1

)

(6.8

)

Total derivative gain

$

8.3

$

72.5

9.      SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

For the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended November 29, 2009, we recognized total stock-based compensation expense (including stock options, restricted stock units, performance shares, and restricted cash) of $14.7 million and $26.7 million, respectively. For the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended November 23, 2008, we recognized total stock-based compensation expense of $10.2 million and $22.8 million, respectively. During the first half of fiscal 2010, we granted 1.1 million restricted stock units at a weighted average grant date price of $19.13, 7.8 million stock options at a weighted average exercise price of $19.14, and 0.5 million performance shares at a weighted average grant date price of $19.15.

The performance shares are granted to selected executives and other key employees with vesting contingent upon meeting various Company-wide performance goals. The performance goals are based upon our earnings before interest and taxes and our return on average invested capital measured over a defined performance period. The awards actually earned will range from zero to three hundred percent of the targeted number of performance shares and will be paid in shares of common stock. Subject to limited exceptions set forth in the plan, any shares earned will be distributed at the end of the three-year period. The value of the performance shares granted in fiscal 2009 and 2010 is adjusted based upon the market price of our stock at the end of each reporting period and amortized as compensation expense over the vesting period.

The weighted average Black-Scholes assumptions for stock options granted during the first half of fiscal 2010 were as follows:

Expected volatility (%)			22.94
Dividend yield (%)			3.77
Risk-free interest rate (%)			2.31
Expected life of stock option (years)			4.75

The weighted average value of stock options granted during the first half of fiscal 2010 was $2.73 per option, based upon a Black-Scholes methodology.

10.      EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share is calculated on the basis of weighted average outstanding common shares. Diluted earnings per share is computed on the basis of basic weighted average outstanding common shares adjusted for the dilutive effect of stock options, restricted stock awards, and other dilutive securities.

The following table reconciles the income and average share amounts used to compute both basic and diluted earnings per share:

		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Net income available to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders:
Income from continuing operations attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders		$	243.7			$	171.7			$	410.9			$	279.3
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax, attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders			(4.0	)			(3.6	)			(5.3	)			331.2
Net income attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders		$	239.7			$	168.1			$	405.6			$	610.5
Less: Increase in redemption value of noncontrolling interests in excess of earnings allocated			(0.3	)			—				(0.6	)			—
Net income available to ConAgra Foods, Inc. common stockholders		$	239.4			$	168.1			$	405.0			$	610.5
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic weighted average shares outstanding			443.2				447.1				443.2				458.5
Add: Dilutive effect of stock options, restricted stock awards, and other dilutive securities			3.0				2.4				2.6				2.5
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding			446.2				449.5				445.8				461.0

For the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2010, there were 29.8 million and 36.4 million stock options outstanding, respectively, that were excluded from the computation of shares contingently issuable upon exercise of the stock options because exercise prices exceeded the average market value of our common stock during the period. For the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2009, there were 34.5 million and 33.3 million stock options, respectively, excluded from the calculation.

11.      INVENTORIES

The major classes of inventories were as follows:

		November 29,				May 31,				November 23,
		2009				2009				2008
Raw materials and packaging		$	740.1			$	636.3			$	745.7
Work in process			112.6				105.0				120.0
Finished goods			1,255.7				1,202.1				1,333.2
Supplies and other			83.8				81.7				76.4
		$	2,192.2			$	2,025.1			$	2,275.3

12.      RESTRUCTURING

2008-2009 Plan

During fiscal 2008, our board of directors approved a plan (“2008-2009 plan”) recommended by executive management to improve the efficiency of our Consumer Foods operations and related functional organizations and to streamline our international operations to reduce manufacturing and selling, general, and administrative costs. The 2008-2009 plan, which was substantially completed by the end of fiscal 2009, included the reorganization of the Consumer Foods operations, the integration of the international headquarters functions into our domestic business, and exiting a number of international markets. The total cost of this plan was $36.4 million, of which $0.1 million and $9.7 million were recorded during the first half of fiscal 2010 and 2009, respectively. No significant expenses were recorded in the second quarter of fiscal 2010 or fiscal 2009. Expenses associated with this restructuring plan, included, but are not limited to, inventory write-downs, severance and related costs, and plan implementation costs (e.g., consulting and employee relocation, etc.). Approximately $0.5 million, $2.7 million, and $8.1 million of liabilities related to this plan remained outstanding at November 29, 2009, May 31, 2009, and November 23, 2008, respectively. Included in the above costs are $26.5 million of charges which have resulted in cash outflows and $9.9 million of non-cash charges.

2006-2008 Plan

As part of the 2006-2008 restructuring plan, we began construction of a new production facility in fiscal 2008. We are currently evaluating the best use of this facility, the construction of which is partially complete. We believe, based on our current assessment of likely scenarios, the carrying value of this facility ($39.3 million at November 29, 2009) is recoverable. In the event we determine that the future use of the new facility will not result in recovery of the recorded value of the asset, an impairment charge would be required.

13.      INCOME TAXES

Income tax expense from continuing operations for the second quarter of fiscal 2010 and 2009 was $117.4 million and $84.6 million, respectively. Income tax expense from continuing operations for the first half of fiscal 2010 and 2009 was $208.4 million and $150.6 million, respectively. The effective tax rate (calculated as the ratio of income tax expense to pre-tax income from continuing operations, inclusive of equity method investment earnings) from continuing operations was approximately 33% and 34% for the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2010, respectively, and 33% and 35% for the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2009, respectively. The effective tax rates for the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2010 reflected a benefit of approximately 2% and 1%, respectively, from certain income tax credits and deductions identified in the current period related to prior periods.

The amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions, including positions impacting only the timing of tax benefits, was $80.4 million as of November 29, 2009, $74.6 million as of May 31, 2009, and $73.8 million as of November 23, 2008. The net amount of unrecognized tax benefits at November 29, 2009, May 31, 2009, and November 23, 2008 that, if recognized, would impact the Company’s effective tax rate was $51.6 million, $51.0 million, and $50.0 million, respectively. Recognition of these tax benefits would have a favorable impact on the Company’s effective tax rate. The gross unrecognized tax benefits exclude related liabilities for gross interest and penalties of $16.7 million, $14.5 million, and $13.7 million as of November 29, 2009, May 31, 2009, and November 23, 2008, respectively.

We estimate that it is reasonably possible that the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits will decrease by $8 million to $12 million over the next twelve months due to various federal, state, and foreign audit settlements and the expiration of statutes of limitations.

14.      CONTINGENCIES

In fiscal 1991, we acquired Beatrice Company (“Beatrice”). As a result of the acquisition and the significant pre-acquisition contingencies of the Beatrice businesses and its former subsidiaries, our consolidated post-acquisition financial statements reflect liabilities associated with the estimated resolution of these contingencies. These include various litigation and environmental proceedings related to businesses divested by Beatrice prior to its acquisition by the Company. The litigation includes several public nuisance and personal injury suits against a number of lead paint and pigment manufacturers, including ConAgra Grocery Products and the Company as alleged successors to W. P. Fuller Co., a lead paint and pigment manufacturer owned and operated by Beatrice until 1967. Although decisions favorable to us have been rendered in Rhode Island, New Jersey, Wisconsin, and Ohio, we remain a defendant in active suits in Illinois and California. The Illinois suit seeks class-wide relief in the form of medical monitoring for

elevated levels of lead in blood. In California, a number of cities and counties have joined in a consolidated action seeking abatement of the alleged public nuisance.

The environmental proceedings include litigation and administrative proceedings involving Beatrice’s status as a potentially responsible party at 35 Superfund, proposed Superfund, or state-equivalent sites; these sites involve locations previously owned or operated by predecessors of Beatrice that used or produced petroleum, pesticides, fertilizers, dyes, inks, solvents, PCBs, acids, lead, sulfur, tannery wastes, and/or other contaminants. Beatrice has paid or is in the process of paying its liability share at 32 of these sites. Reserves for these matters have been established based on our best estimate of the undiscounted remediation liabilities, which estimates include evaluation of investigatory studies, extent of required cleanup, the known volumetric contribution of Beatrice and other potentially responsible parties, and its experience in remediating sites. The reserves for Beatrice environmental matters totaled $86.4 million as of November 29, 2009, a majority of which relates to the Superfund and state-equivalent sites referenced above. We expect expenditures for Beatrice environmental matters to continue for up to 20 years.

In limited situations, we will guarantee an obligation of an unconsolidated entity. At the time in which we initially provide such a guarantee, we assess the risk of financial exposure to us under these agreements. We consider the credit-worthiness of the guaranteed party, the value of any collateral pledged against the related obligation, and any other factors that may mitigate our risk (e.g., letters of credit from a financial institution). We periodically monitor market and entity-specific conditions that may result in a change of our assessment of its risk of loss under these agreements.

We guarantee certain leases and other commercial obligations resulting from the 2002 divestiture of our fresh beef and pork operations. The remaining terms of these arrangements do not exceed six years and the maximum amount of future payments we have guaranteed was approximately $17.2 million as of November 29, 2009.

We have also guaranteed the performance of the divested fresh beef and pork business with respect to a hog purchase contract. The hog purchase contract requires the divested business to purchase a minimum of approximately 1.2 million hogs annually through 2014. The contract stipulates minimum price commitments, based in part on market prices, and, in certain circumstances, also includes price adjustments based on certain inputs. We have not established a liability for any of the fresh beef and pork divestiture-related guarantees, as we have determined that the likelihood of our required performance under the guarantees is remote.

We are a party to various potato supply agreements. Under the terms of certain such potato supply agreements, we have guaranteed repayment of short-term bank loans of the potato suppliers, under certain conditions. At November 29, 2009, the amount of supplier loans we have effectively guaranteed was approximately $16.0 million. We have not established a liability for these guarantees, as we have determined that the likelihood of our required performance under the guarantees is remote.

We are a party to a supply agreement with an onion processing company. We have guaranteed repayment of a loan of this supplier, under certain conditions. At November 29, 2009, the amount of this loan was $25.0 million. In the event of default on this loan by the supplier, we have the contractual right to purchase the loan from the lender, thereby giving us the rights to the underlying collateral. We have not established a liability in connection with this guarantee, as we believe the likelihood of financial exposure to us under this agreement is remote.

We are a party to a number of lawsuits and claims arising out of the operation of our business, including lawsuits and claims related to the February 2007 recall of our peanut butter products and litigation we initiated against an insurance carrier to recover our settlement expenditures and defense costs. We recognized a charge of $25.3 million during the second half of fiscal 2009 in connection with the disputed coverage with this insurance carrier. During the second quarter of fiscal 2010, a Delaware state court rendered a decision on certain matters in our claim for the disputed coverage favorable to the insurance carrier. We intend to appeal this decision and continue to pursue this matter vigorously.

In June 2009, an accidental explosion occurred at our manufacturing facility in Garner, North Carolina. See Note 6 for information related to this matter.

An investigation by the Division of Enforcement of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) of certain commodity futures transactions of a former Company subsidiary has led to an investigation by the CFTC of the Company itself. The investigation may result in litigation by the CFTC against the Company. The former subsidiary was sold on June 23, 2008, as part of the divestiture of our trading and merchandising operations. The CFTC’s Division of Enforcement has advised the Company that it questions whether certain trading activities of the former subsidiary violated the Commodity Exchange Act and that the CFTC has been evaluating whether we should be implicated in the matter based on the existence of the parent-subsidiary relationship between the two entities at the time of the trades. Based on information we have learned to date, the Company believes that both it and the former subsidiary have meritorious defenses. There have been discussions with the CFTC concerning resolution of this matter. We also believe the sale contract with the purchaser of the business provides us indemnification rights. Accordingly, we do

not believe any decision by the CFTC to pursue this matter will have a material adverse effect on the Company. If litigation ensues, the Company intends to defend itself vigorously.

After taking into account liabilities recognized for all of the foregoing matters, management believes the ultimate resolution of such matters should not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or liquidity. It is reasonably possible that a change in one of the estimates of the foregoing matters may occur in the future. Costs of legal services are recognized in earnings as services are provided.

15.      PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

We have defined benefit retirement plans (“plans”) for eligible salaried and hourly employees. Benefits are based on years of credited service and average compensation or stated amounts for each year of service. We also sponsor postretirement plans which provide certain medical and dental benefits (“other postretirement benefits”) to qualifying U.S. employees.

Components of pension benefit and other postretirement benefit costs included:

		Pension Benefits
		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Service cost		$	12.5			$	12.7			$	25.0			$	25.6
Interest cost			37.0				35.3				74.0				70.6
Expected return on plan assets			(40.3	)			(39.6	)			(80.6	)			(79.2	)
Amortization of prior service cost			0.8				0.8				1.6				1.6
Settlement cost			1.9				—				1.9				—
Recognized net actuarial loss			1.0				0.5				1.9				1.0
Benefit cost - Company plans			12.9				9.7				23.8				19.6
Pension benefit cost - multi-employer plans			3.1				2.5				5.6				4.8
Total benefit cost		$	16.0			$	12.2			$	29.4			$	24.4

		Postretirement Benefits
		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Service cost		$	0.1			$	0.2			$	0.2			$	0.4
Interest cost			4.5				5.8				9.0				11.5
Expected return on plan assets			(0.1	)			(0.1	)			(0.2	)			(0.1	)
Amortization of prior service cost			(2.3	)			(2.8	)			(4.7	)			(5.6	)
Recognized net actuarial loss			—				2.4				—				4.9
Total cost - Company plans		$	2.2			$	5.5			$	4.3			$	11.1

During the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2010, we contributed $14.4 million and $17.1 million, respectively, to our pension plans and contributed $6.4 million and $15.2 million, respectively, to our other postretirement plans. Based upon the current funded status of the plans and the current interest rate environment, we anticipate making further contributions of approximately $9.0 million to our pension plans for the remainder of fiscal 2010. We anticipate making further contributions of $18.0 million to our other postretirement plans during the remainder of fiscal 2010. These estimates are based on current tax laws, plan asset performance, and liability assumptions, which are subject to change.

16.      LONG-TERM DEBT

As of May 31, 2009 and November 23, 2008, $9.2 million and $300.0 million, respectively, of senior debt due August 2027 was included in current installments of long-term debt due to the existence of a put option that was exercisable by the holders of this senior debt from June 1, 2009 to July 1, 2009. As part of debt refinancing activities in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009, we repaid $290.8 million of this senior debt. We reclassified the amount not put by the holders to senior long-term debt in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, when the put option expired.

We consolidate the financial statements of Lamb Weston BSW. During the second quarter of fiscal 2009, Lamb Weston BSW entered into a term loan agreement with a bank under which it borrowed $20.0 million of senior debt at an annual interest rate of 4.34% due September 2018. During the third quarter of fiscal 2009, Lamb Weston BSW restructured and repaid this debt and entered into a term loan agreement with a bank under which it borrowed $40.0 million of variable interest rate debt due in June 2018.

17.      ACCELERATED SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAM

We completed an accelerated share repurchase program during fiscal 2009. We paid $900 million and received 38.4 million shares in the first quarter of fiscal 2009 when the program was initiated. We received an additional 5.6 million shares in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 under this program.

18.      FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

FASB guidance on fair value measurements, which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements, was effective as of the beginning of our fiscal 2009 for our financial assets and liabilities, as well as for other assets and liabilities that are carried at fair value on a recurring basis in our consolidated financial statements. As of the beginning of fiscal 2010, we adopted additional new guidance relating to nonrecurring fair value measurement requirements for nonfinancial assets and liabilities. These include long-lived assets, goodwill, asset retirement obligations, and certain investments. These items are recognized at fair value when they are considered to be other than temporarily impaired. In the first half of fiscal 2010, there were no required fair value measurements for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.

FASB guidance establishes a three-level fair value hierarchy based upon the assumptions (inputs) used to price assets or liabilities. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows:

Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities,

Level 2 – Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in inactive markets, and

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs reflecting our own assumptions and best estimate of what inputs market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.

The following table presents our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value based upon the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall, as of November 29, 2009:

		Level 1				Level 2				Level 3				Total
Assets:
Derivative assets		$	9.1			$	41.6			$	—			$	50.7
Available for sale securities			1.8				—				—				1.8
Deferred compensation assets			6.8				—				—				6.8
Total assets		$	17.7			$	41.6			$	—			$	59.3
Liabilities:
Derivative liabilities		$	—			$	17.6			$	—			$	17.6
Deferred and share-based compensation liabilities			22.2				—				—				22.2
Total liabilities		$	22.2			$	17.6			$	—			$	39.8

The carrying amount of long-term debt (including current installments) was $3.5 billion as of November 29, 2009. Based on current market rates provided primarily by outside investment bankers, the fair value of this debt at November 29, 2009 was estimated at $3.9 billion.

19.      BUSINESS SEGMENTS AND RELATED INFORMATION

We report our operations in two reporting segments: Consumer Foods and Commercial Foods. The Consumer Foods reporting segment includes branded, private label, and customized food products, which are sold in various retail and foodservice channels, principally in North America. The products include a variety of categories (meals, entrees, condiments, sides, snacks, and desserts) across frozen, refrigerated, and shelf-stable temperature classes. The Commercial Foods reporting segment includes commercially

branded foods and ingredients, which are sold principally to foodservice, food manufacturing, and industrial customers. The Commercial Foods segment’s primary products include: specialty potato products, milled grain ingredients, a variety of vegetable products, seasonings, blends, and flavors which are sold under brands such as Lamb Weston^®, ConAgra Mills^®, Gilroy Foods & Flavors^TM, and Spicetec^®.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we completed the transition of the direct management of the Consumer Foods reporting segment from the Chief Executive Officer to the Consumer Foods President position. In conjunction with this organizational change, beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we aligned our segment reporting to be consistent with the manner in which our operating results are presented to, and reviewed by, our Chief Executive Officer. All prior periods have been recast to reflect these changes.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2010, we transferred the management of the Alexia^® frozen food operations from the Consumer Foods segment to the Commercial Foods segment. Segment results have been recast to reflect this change.

****

Intersegment sales have been recorded at amounts approximating market. Operating profit for each of the primary segments is based on net sales less all identifiable operating expenses. General corporate expense, net interest expense, and income taxes have been excluded from segment operations.

		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Net sales
Consumer Foods		$	2,078.1			$	2,017.0			$	3,938.2			$	3,866.3
Commercial Foods			1,094.5				1,234.7				2,195.8				2,441.9
Total net sales		$	3,172.6			$	3,251.7			$	6,134.0			$	6,308.2
Operating profit
Consumer Foods		$	330.0			$	251.2			$	579.9			$	437.5
Commercial Foods			159.7				157.7				300.5				291.6
Total operating profit		$	489.7			$	408.9			$	880.4			$	729.1
Equity method investment earnings
Consumer Foods		$	1.0			$	0.8			$	1.2			$	2.1
Commercial Foods			4.9				1.1				13.6				0.7
Total equity method investment earnings		$	5.9			$	1.9			$	14.8			$	2.8
Operating profit plus equity method investment earnings
Consumer Foods		$	331.0			$	252.0			$	581.1			$	439.6
Commercial Foods			164.6				158.8				314.1				292.3
Total operating profit plus equity method investment earnings		$	495.6			$	410.8			$	895.2			$	731.9
General corporate expenses		$	94.4			$	111.4			$	195.0			$	208.8
Interest expense, net			40.6				42.7				82.1				92.8
Income tax expense			117.4				84.6				208.4				150.6
Income from continuing operations		$	243.2			$	172.1			$	409.7			$	279.7
Less: Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests			(0.5	)			0.4				(1.2	)			0.4
Income from continuing operations attributable to ConAgra Foods, Inc.		$	243.7			$	171.7			$	410.9			$	279.3

Net sales by product type within each segment were:

		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Net sales
Consumer Foods:
Convenient Meals		$	698.8			$	649.9			$	1,341.2			$	1,266.7
Snacks			322.2				333.0				618.1				641.4
Meal Enhancers			282.6				245.9				527.8				476.6
Specialty Foods			774.5				788.2				1,451.1				1,481.6
Total Consumer Foods		$	2,078.1			$	2,017.0			$	3,938.2			$	3,866.3
Commercial Foods:
Specialty Potatoes		$	567.2			$	579.3			$	1,131.2			$	1,128.8
Milled Products			354.1				464.3				722.5				948.0
Seasonings, Blends, and Flavors			91.7				102.9				186.7				202.9
Other			81.5				88.2				155.4				162.2
Total Commercial Foods		$	1,094.5			$	1,234.7			$	2,195.8			$	2,441.9
Total Net Sales		$	3,172.6			$	3,251.7			$	6,134.0			$	6,308.2

In fiscal 2009, following the sale of our trading and merchandising operations and related organizational changes, we transferred the management of commodity hedging activities (except for those related to our milling operations) to a centralized procurement group. Beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2009, we began to reflect realized and unrealized gains and losses from derivatives (except for those related to our milling operations) used to hedge anticipated commodity consumption in earnings immediately within general corporate expenses. The gains and losses are reclassified to segment operating results in the period in which the underlying item being economically hedged is recognized in cost of goods sold. We believe this change results in better segment management focus on key operational initiatives and improved transparency to derivative gains and losses.

Foreign currency derivatives used to manage foreign currency risk are not designated for hedge accounting treatment. We believe these derivatives provide economic hedges of the foreign currency risk of certain forecasted transactions. As such, these derivatives are recognized at fair market value with realized and unrealized gains and losses recognized in general corporate expenses. The gains and losses are subsequently recognized in the operating results of the reporting segments in the period in which the underlying transaction being economically hedged is included in earnings.

The following table presents the net derivative gains (losses) from economic hedges of forecasted commodity consumption and currency risk of our foreign operations, under this methodology:

		Thirteen weeks ended								Twenty-six weeks ended
		November 29,				November 23,				November 29,				November 23,
		2009				2008				2009				2008
Net derivative gains (losses) incurred		$	2.2			$	(45.7	)		$	(14.9	)		$	(79.2	)
Less: Net derivative gains (losses) allocated to reporting segments			(4.0	)			1.9				(13.5	)			1.4
Net derivative gains (losses) recognized in general corporate expenses		$	6.2			$	(47.6	)		$	(1.4	)		$	(80.6	)
Net derivative gains (losses) allocated to Consumer Foods		$	(3.0	)		$	0.4			$	(8.8	)		$	(0.5	)
Net derivative gains (losses) allocated to Commercial Foods			(1.0	)			1.5				(4.7	)			1.9
Net derivative gains (losses) included in segment operating profit		$	(4.0	)		$	1.9			$	(13.5	)		$	1.4

Based on our forecasts of the timing of recognition of the underlying hedged items, we expect to reclassify losses of $5.1 million and $1.6 million to segment operating results in the second half of fiscal 2010 and fiscal 2011 and thereafter, respectively. Amounts allocated, or to be allocated, to segment operating results during fiscal 2010 and 2011 include $5.3 million of losses incurred during fiscal 2009.

We also use derivative instruments within our milling operations, which are part of the Commercial Foods segment. Derivative instruments used to economically hedge commodity inventories and forward purchase and sales contracts are marked-to-market such that realized and unrealized gains and losses are immediately included in operating results. The underlying inventory and forward contracts being hedged are also marked-to-market with changes in market value recognized immediately in operating results. For commodity derivative trading activities within our milling operations that are not intended to mitigate commodity input cost risk, the derivative instrument is marked-to-market each period with gains and losses included in net sales of the Commercial Foods segment. In the first half of fiscal 2010 and 2009, there were no material gains or losses from derivative trading activities.

Our largest customer, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and its affiliates, accounted for approximately 18% of consolidated net sales in both the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2010, and 17% and 16% of consolidated net sales in the second quarter and first half of fiscal 2009, respectively, primarily in the Consumer Foods segment.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and its affiliates accounted for approximately 15% of consolidated net receivables as of November 29, 2009, May 31, 2009, and November 23, 2008, primarily in the Consumer Foods segment.

ConAgra Foods, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Part I - Financial Information

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

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report, including Management’s Discussion & Analysis, contains forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management’s current views and assumptions of future events and financial performance and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Readers of this report should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. Many factors could affect our actual financial results and cause them to vary materially from the expectations contained in the forward-looking statements, including those set forth in this report. These factors include, among other things: availability and prices of raw materials; the impact of the accident at the Garner, North Carolina manufacturing facility, including the ultimate costs incurred and the amounts received under insurance policies; product pricing; future economic circumstances; industry conditions; our ability to execute our operating plans; the success of our innovation, marketing, and cost savings initiatives; competitive environment and related market conditions; operating efficiencies; the ultimate impact of recalls; access to capital; actions of governments and regulatory factors affecting our businesses; and other risks described in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements included in this report which speak only as of the date of this report.

The following discussion should be read together with our financial statements and related notes contained in this report and with the financial statements, related notes, and Management’s Discussion & Analysis in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2009. Results for the thirteen and twenty-six week periods ended November 29, 2009 are not necessarily indicative of results that may be attained in the future.

Fiscal 2010 Second Quarter Executive Overview

ConAgra Foods, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) is one of North America’s leading food companies, with brands in 97% of America’s households. Consumers find Banquet^®, Chef Boyardee^®, Egg Beaters^®, Healthy Choice^®, Hebrew National^®, Hunt’s^®, Marie Callender’s^®, Orville Redenbacher’s^®, PAM^®, Peter Pan^®, Reddi-wip^®, and many other ConAgra Foods brands in grocery, convenience, mass merchandise, and club stores. We also have a strong business-to-business presence, supplying potato, as well as other vegetable, spice, and grain products to a variety of well-known restaurants, foodservice operators, and commercial customers.

Diluted earnings per share were $0.54 in the second quarter of fiscal 2010, including earnings of $0.55 per share from continuing operations and a loss of $0.01 per share from discontinued operations. Diluted earnings per share were $0.37 in the second quarter of fiscal 2009, including earnings of $0.38 per share from continuing operations and a loss of $0.01 per share from discontinued operations. Several significant items affect the comparability of year-over-year results of continuing operations (see “Items Impacting Comparability” below).

Items Impacting Comparability