10-K

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

[X]	Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
	For the fiscal year ended	September 27, 2014
[ ]	Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
	For the transition period from  to

001-14704

(Commission File Number)

______________________________________________

TYSON FOODS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

______________________________________________

Delaware	71-0225165
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
2200 Don Tyson Parkway, Springdale, Arkansas	72762-6999
(Address of principal executive offices)	(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:	(479) 290-4000

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class	Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Class A Common Stock, Par Value $0.10	New York Stock Exchange

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Not Applicable

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes [X] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes [ ] No [X]

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 (§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 [X] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [ ]

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 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 [ ] (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	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]

On March 29, 2014, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s Class A Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class A stock), and Class B Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class B stock), held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $11,778,761,908 and $466,236, respectively. Class B stock is not publicly listed for trade on any exchange or market system. However, Class B stock is convertible into Class A stock on a share-for-share basis, so the market value was calculated based on the market price of Class A stock.

On October 25, 2014, there were 305,656,663 shares of Class A stock and 70,010,805 shares of Class B stock outstanding.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

Portions of the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the registrant’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held January 30, 2015, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
		PAGE
PART I
Item 1.	Business	2
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	7
Item 1B.	Unresolved Staff Comments	14
Item 2.	Properties	15
Item 3.	Legal Proceedings	16
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	17
PART II
Item 5.	Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	19
Item 6.	Selected Financial Data	21
Item 7.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	23
Item 7A.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	42
Item 8.	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	44
Item 9.	Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	95
Item 9A.	Controls and Procedures	95
Item 9B.	Other Information	95
PART III
Item 10.	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	96
Item 11.	Executive Compensation	96
Item 12.	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters	96
Item 13.	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	96
Item 14.	Principal Accounting Fees and Services	96
PART IV
Item 15.	Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules	97

1

PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

GENERAL

Founded in 1935, Tyson Foods, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) are one of the world's largest producers of chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods that include leading brands such as Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells® and State Fair®. Our operations are conducted in five segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and International. Some of the key factors influencing our business are customer demand for our products; the ability to maintain and grow relationships with customers and introduce new and innovative products to the marketplace; accessibility of international markets; market prices for our products; the cost and availability of live cattle and hogs, raw materials, grain and feed ingredients; and operating efficiencies of our facilities.

We operate a fully vertically integrated chicken production process. Our integrated operations consist of breeding stock, contract growers, feed production, processing, further-processing, marketing and transportation of chicken and related allied products, including animal and pet food ingredients. Through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Cobb-Vantress, Inc. (Cobb), we are one of the leading poultry breeding stock suppliers in the world. Investing in breeding stock research and development allows us to breed into our flocks the characteristics found to be most desirable.

We also process live fed cattle and hogs and fabricate dressed beef and pork carcasses into primal and sub-primal meat cuts, case ready beef and pork and fully-cooked meats. In addition, we derive value from allied products such as hides and variety meats sold to further processors and others.

We produce a wide range of fresh, value-added, frozen and refrigerated food products. Our products are marketed and sold primarily by our sales staff to grocery retailers, grocery wholesalers, meat distributors, warehouse club stores, military commissaries, industrial food processing companies, chain restaurants or their distributors, live markets, international export companies and domestic distributors who serve restaurants, foodservice operations such as plant and school cafeterias, convenience stores, hospitals and other vendors. Additionally, sales to the military and a portion of sales to international markets are made through independent brokers and trading companies.

On August 28, 2014, we acquired and consolidated The Hillshire Brands Company ("Hillshire Brands"), a manufacturer and marketer of branded, convenient foods. The fiscal 2014 one month results from operations for Hillshire Brands are included in the Prepared Foods segment and in this 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K. For further description of this transaction, refer to Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 3: Acquisitions and Dispositions.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF SEGMENTS

We operate in five segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and International. During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we

began reporting our International operation as a separate segment, which was previously included in our Chicken segment. Our International segment became a separate reportable segment as a result of changes to our internal financial reporting to align with previously announced executive leadership changes. All periods presented have been reclassified to reflect this change. Beef, Pork,

Prepared Foods and Other results were not impacted by this change. The contribution of each segment to net sales and operating income (loss), and the identifiable assets attributable to each segment, are set forth in Note 17: Segment Reporting of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

DESCRIPTION OF SEGMENTS

Chicken: Chicken includes our domestic operations related to raising and processing live chickens into fresh, frozen and value-added chicken products, as well as sales from allied products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes logistics operations to move products through our domestic supply chain and the global operations of our chicken breeding stock subsidiary.

Beef: Beef includes our operations related to processing live fed cattle and fabricating dressed beef carcasses into primal and sub-primal meat cuts and case-ready products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes sales from allied products such as hides and variety meats, as well as logistics operations to move products through the supply chain.

Pork: Pork includes our operations related to processing live market hogs and fabricating pork carcasses into primal and sub-primal cuts and case-ready products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes our live swine group, related allied product processing activities and logistics operations to move products through the supply chain.

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Prepared Foods: Prepared Foods includes our operations related to manufacturing and marketing frozen and refrigerated food products and logistics operations to move products through the supply chain. Products primarily include pepperoni, bacon, sausage, beef and pork pizza toppings, pizza crusts, flour and corn tortilla products, appetizers, prepared meals, ethnic foods, soups, sauces, side dishes, meat dishes, breadsticks and processed meats. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. As previously discussed, on August 28, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Hillshire Brands, a manufacturer and marketer of branded, convenient foods which includes brands such as Jimmy Dean®, Ball Park®, Hillshire Farm®, State Fair®, Van's®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery and Chef Pierre® pies as well as artisanal brands Aidells®, Gallo Salame®, and Golden Island® premium jerky. Hillshire Brands' one month results from operations for fiscal 2014 are included in the Prepared Foods segment.

International: International includes our foreign operations primarily related to raising and processing live chickens into fresh, frozen and value-added chicken products in Brazil, China, India and Mexico. Products are marketed in each respective country to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains, noncommercial foodservice establishments and live markets, as well as to other international export markets.

On July 28, 2014, we announced our plan to sell our Brazil and Mexico operations, part of our International segment, to JBS SA ("JBS") for $575 million in cash. We expect to complete the sale of our Brazil operation in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. The sale of our Mexico operation is pending the necessary government approvals and is expected to close in the first half of fiscal 2015. As a result, we have reclassified the assets and liabilities related to Mexico and Brazil to assets and liabilities held for sale. For further description of this transaction, refer to Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 3: Acquisitions and Dispositions.

RAW MATERIALS AND SOURCES OF SUPPLY

Chicken: The primary raw materials used in our domestic chicken operations are corn and soybean meal used as feed and live chickens raised primarily by independent contract growers. Our vertically-integrated chicken process begins with the grandparent breeder flocks and ends with broilers for processing. Breeder flocks (i.e., grandparents) are raised to maturity in grandparent growing and laying farms where fertile eggs are produced. Fertile eggs are incubated at the grandparent hatchery and produce pullets (i.e., parents). Pullets are sent to breeder houses, and the resulting eggs are sent to our hatcheries. Once chicks have hatched, they are sent to broiler farms. There, contract growers care for and raise the chicks according to our standards, with advice from our technical service personnel, until the broilers reach the desired processing weight. Adult chickens are transported to processing plants where they are slaughtered and converted into finished products, which are then sent to distribution centers and delivered to customers.

We operate our own feed mills to produce scientifically-formulated feeds. In fiscal 2014, corn, soybean meal and other feed ingredients were major production costs, representing roughly 68% of our cost of growing a live chicken domestically. In addition to feed ingredients to grow the chickens, we use cooking ingredients, packaging materials and cryogenic agents. We believe our sources of supply for these materials are adequate for our present needs, and we do not anticipate any difficulty in acquiring these materials in the future. While we produce nearly all our inventory of breeder chickens and live broilers, we also purchase live, ice-packed or deboned chicken to meet production and sales requirements.

Beef: The primary raw materials used in our beef operations are live cattle. We do not have facilities of our own to raise cattle but employ cattle buyers located throughout cattle producing areas who visit independent feed yards and public auctions and buy live cattle on the open spot market. These buyers are trained to select high quality animals, and we continually measure their performance. We also enter into various risk-sharing and procurement arrangements with producers to secure a supply of livestock for our facilities. Although we generally expect adequate supply of live cattle in the regions we operate, there may be periods of imbalance in supply and demand.

Pork: The primary raw materials used in our pork operations are live hogs. The majority of our live hog supply is obtained through various procurement relationships with independent producers. We employ hog buyers who make purchase agreements of various time durations as well as purchase hogs on a daily basis, generally a few days before the animals are processed. These buyers are trained to select high quality animals, and we continually measure their performance. We believe the supply of live hogs is adequate for our present needs. Additionally, we raise a small number of weanling swine to sell to independent finishers and supply a minimal amount of market hogs and live swine for our own processing needs.

Prepared Foods: The primary raw materials used in our prepared foods operations are commodity based raw materials, including chicken, beef, pork, turkey, corn, flour, vegetables and other cooking ingredients. Some of these raw materials are provided by our other segments, while others may be purchased from numerous suppliers and manufacturers. We believe the sources of supply of raw materials are adequate for our present needs.

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International: The primary raw materials used in our international chicken operations are corn and soybean meal used as feed and live chickens raised primarily by independent contract growers and company-owned farms. Pullets are sent to breeder houses, and the resulting eggs are sent to independent and company-owned hatcheries. Once chicks have hatched, they are sent to broiler farms. There, contract growers or employees care for and raise the chicks according to our standards, with advice from our technical service personnel, until the broilers reach the desired processing weight. Adult chickens are transported to processing plants where they are slaughtered and converted into finished products, which are then sent to distribution centers and delivered to customers.

We operate our own feed mills to produce scientifically-formulated feeds and procure outside feed at times to meet our production needs. In fiscal 2014, corn, soybean meal and other feed ingredients were major production costs, representing approximately two-thirds of our cost of growing a live chicken. In addition to feed ingredients to grow the chickens, we use cooking ingredients, packaging materials and cryogenic agents. We believe our sources of supply for these materials are adequate for our present needs, and we do not anticipate any difficulty in acquiring these materials in the future. We also purchase live, ice-packed or fresh chicken to meet production and sales requirements.

SEASONAL DEMAND

Demand for chicken, beef, and certain prepared foods products, such as hot dogs and smoked sausage, generally increases during the spring and summer months and generally decreases during the winter months. Pork and certain other prepared foods products, such as prepared meals, meat dishes, appetizers, frozen pies and breakfast sausage generally experience increased demand during the winter months, primarily due to the holiday season, while demand generally decreases during the spring and summer months.

CUSTOMERS

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. accounted for 14.6% of our fiscal 2014 consolidated sales. Sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. were included in all of our segments. Any extended discontinuance of sales to this customer could, if not replaced, have a material impact on our operations. No other single customer or customer group represented more than 10% of fiscal 2014 consolidated sales.

COMPETITION

Our food products compete with those of other food producers and processors and certain prepared food manufacturers. Additionally, our food products compete in markets around the world.

We seek to achieve a leading market position for our products via our principal marketing and competitive strategy, which includes:

• identifying target markets for value-added products;

• concentrating production, sales and marketing efforts to appeal to and enhance demand from those markets; and

• utilizing our national distribution systems and customer support services.

Past efforts indicate customer demand can be increased and sustained through application of our marketing strategy, as supported by our distribution systems. The principal competitive elements are price, product safety and quality, brand identification, innovation, breadth and depth of product offerings, availability of products, customer service and credit terms.

FOREIGN OPERATIONS

We sold products in approximately 130 countries in fiscal 2014. Major sales markets include Brazil, Canada, Central America, China, the European Union, Japan, Mexico, the Middle East, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam.

We have the following foreign operations:

• Tyson de Mexico, a Mexican subsidiary, is a vertically-integrated poultry production company. The sale of this subsidiary to JBS is pending necessary government approvals in Mexico and is expected to close in the first half of fiscal 2015.

• Cobb-Vantress, a chicken breeding stock subsidiary, has business interests in Argentina, Brazil, China, the Dominican Republic, India, Japan, the Netherlands, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, the United Kingdom and Venezuela.

• Tyson do Brazil, a Brazilian subsidiary, is a vertically-integrated poultry production operation. We expect to complete the sale of this subsidiary to JBS in the first quarter of fiscal 2015.

• Tyson Rizhao, located in Rizhao, China, is a vertically-integrated poultry production operation.

• Tyson Dalong, a joint venture in China in which we have a majority interest, is a chicken further processing facility.

• Tyson Nantong, located in Nantong, China, is a vertically-integrated poultry production operation.

• Godrej Tyson Foods, a joint venture in India in which we have a majority interest, is a poultry processing business.

We continue to evaluate growth opportunities in foreign countries. Additional information regarding export sales, long-lived assets located in foreign countries and income (loss) from foreign operations is set forth in Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 17: Segment Reporting and Note 9: Income Taxes.

4

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

We conduct continuous research and development activities to improve product development, to automate manual processes in our processing plants and growout operations, and to improve chicken breeding stock. Our Discovery Center includes 19 research kitchens and a USDA-inspected pilot plant. The Discovery Center enables us to bring new market-leading retail and foodservice products to the customer quickly and efficiently. We also lease an approximately 73,000 square foot research and development facility outside Chicago, Illinois assumed in our Hillshire Brands acquisition. Research and development costs totaled $52 million, $50 million, and $43 million in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION AND FOOD SAFETY

Our facilities for processing chicken, beef, pork, turkey and prepared foods, milling feed and housing live chickens and swine are subject to a variety of international, federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations, which include provisions relating to the discharge of materials into the environment and generally provide for protection of the environment. We believe we are in substantial compliance with such applicable laws and regulations and are not aware of any violations of such laws and regulations likely to result in material penalties or material increases in compliance costs. The cost of compliance with such laws and regulations has not had a material adverse effect on our capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position, and except as described below, is not anticipated to have a material adverse effect in the future.

Congress and the United States Environmental Protection Agency are considering various options to control greenhouse gas emissions. It is unclear at this time when or if such options will be finalized, or what the final form may be. Due to the uncertainty surrounding this issue, it is premature to speculate on the specific nature of impacts that imposition of greenhouse gas emission controls would have on us, and whether such impacts would have a material adverse effect.

We work to ensure our products meet high standards of food safety and quality. In addition to our own internal Food Safety and Quality Assurance oversight and review, our chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods products are subject to inspection prior to distribution, primarily by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We are also participants in the United States Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) program and are subject to the Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures and the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002. Additionally, our International operation is subject to various other food safety and quality assurance oversight and review.

EMPLOYEES AND LABOR RELATIONS

As of September 27, 2014, we employed approximately 124,000 employees. Approximately 108,000 employees were employed in the United States and 16,000 employees were in foreign countries, primarily Brazil, China and Mexico. Approximately 32,000 employees in the United States were subject to collective bargaining agreements with various labor unions, with approximately 18% of those employees included under agreements expiring in fiscal 2015. The remaining agreements expire over the next several years. Approximately 10,000 employees in foreign countries were subject to collective bargaining agreements. We believe our overall relations with our workforce are good.

MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION

Our principal marketing objective is to be the primary provider of chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods products for our customers and consumers. We build the Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells® and State Fair® brands while supporting strong regional and emerging brands primarily through well-defined product-specific advertising, marketing, and public relations efforts focused toward key consumer targets with specific needs. We identify distinct markets and business opportunities through continuous consumer and market research. These efforts are designed to present key products as everyday solutions to relevant consumer problems; thereby becoming part of regular eating routines. We utilize our national distribution system and customer support services to achieve the leading market position for our products.

We have the ability to produce and ship fresh, frozen and refrigerated products worldwide. Domestically, our distribution system extends to a broad network of food distributors and is supported by our owned or leased cold storage warehouses, public cold storage facilities and our transportation system. Our distribution centers accumulate fresh and frozen products so we can fill and consolidate partial-truckload orders into full truckloads, thereby decreasing shipping costs while increasing customer service. In addition, we provide our customers a wide selection of products that do not require large volume orders. Our distribution system enables us to supply large or small quantities of products to meet customer requirements anywhere in the continental United States. Internationally, we utilize both rail and truck refrigerated transportation to domestic ports, where consolidations take place to transport to foreign destinations.

5

PATENTS AND TRADEMARKS

We have filed a number of patents and trademarks relating to our processes and products that either have been approved or are in the process of application. Because we do a significant amount of brand name and product line advertising to promote our products, we consider the protection of our trademarks to be important to our marketing efforts. We also have developed non-public proprietary information regarding our production processes and other product-related matters. We utilize internal procedures and safeguards to protect the confidentiality of such information and, where appropriate, seek patent and/or trademark protection for the technology we utilize.

INDUSTRY PRACTICES

Our agreements with customers are generally short-term, primarily due to the nature of our products, industry practices and fluctuations in supply, demand and price for such products. In certain instances where we are selling further processed products to large customers, we may enter into written agreements whereby we will act as the exclusive or preferred supplier to the customer, with pricing terms that are either fixed or variable.

AVAILABILITY OF SEC FILINGS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE DOCUMENTS ON INTERNET WEBSITE

We maintain an internet website for investors at http://ir.tyson.com. On this website, we make available, free of charge, annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language) reports, and all amendments to any of those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such reports with, or furnish to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. Also available on the website for investors are the Corporate Governance Principles, Audit Committee charter, Compensation and Leadership Development Committee charter, Governance and Nominating Committee charter, Strategy and Acquisitions Committee charter, Code of Conduct and Whistleblower Policy. Our corporate governance documents are available in print, free of charge to any shareholder who requests them.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS RELEVANT TO FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF “SAFE HARBOR” PROVISIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

Certain information in this report constitutes forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, current views and estimates of our outlook for fiscal 2015, other future economic circumstances, industry conditions in domestic and international markets, our performance and financial results (e.g., debt levels, return on invested capital, value-added product growth, capital expenditures, tax rates, access to foreign markets and dividend policy). These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause our actual results and experiences to differ materially from anticipated results and expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. We wish to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Among the factors that may cause actual results and experiences to differ from anticipated results and expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are the following: (i) the effect of, or changes in, general economic conditions; (ii) fluctuations in the cost and availability of inputs and raw materials, such as live cattle, live swine, feed grains (including corn and soybean meal) and energy; (iii) market conditions for finished products, including competition from other global and domestic food processors, supply and pricing of competing products and alternative proteins and demand for alternative proteins; (iv) successful rationalization of existing facilities and operating efficiencies of the facilities; (v) risks associated with our commodity purchasing activities; (vi) access to foreign markets together with foreign economic conditions, including currency fluctuations, import/export restrictions and foreign politics; (vii) outbreak of a livestock disease (such as avian influenza (AI) or bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE)), which could have an adverse effect on livestock we own, the availability of livestock we purchase, consumer perception of certain protein products or our ability to access certain domestic and foreign markets; (viii) changes in availability and relative costs of labor and contract growers and our ability to maintain good relationships with employees, labor unions, contract growers and independent producers providing us livestock; (ix) issues related to food safety, including costs resulting from product recalls, regulatory compliance and any related claims or litigation; (x) changes in consumer preference and diets and our ability to identify and react to consumer trends; (xi) significant marketing plan changes by large customers or loss of one or more large customers; (xii) adverse results from litigation; (xiii) impacts on our operations caused by factors and forces beyond our control, such as natural disasters, fire, bioterrorism, pandemic or extreme weather; (xiv) risks associated with leverage, including cost increases due to rising interest rates or changes in debt ratings or outlook; (xv) compliance with and changes to regulations and laws (both domestic and foreign), including changes in accounting standards, tax laws, environmental laws, agricultural laws and occupational, health and safety laws; (xvi) our ability to make effective acquisitions or joint ventures and successfully integrate newly acquired businesses into existing operations; (xvii) failures or security breaches of our information technology systems; (xviii) effectiveness of advertising and marketing programs; and (xix) those factors listed under Item 1A. “Risk Factors.”

6

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

These risks, which should be considered carefully with the information provided elsewhere in this report, could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

The integration of The Hillshire Brands Company may be more difficult, costly or time consuming than expected, and the acquisition may not result in any or all of the anticipated benefits, including cost synergies.

The success of the acquisition of Hillshire Brands, including the realization of the anticipated benefits, will depend in part on our ability to successfully integrate Hillshire Brands’ businesses in an efficient and effective manner. We may not be able to accomplish this integration process smoothly or successfully. The necessity of coordinating geographically separated organizations, systems and facilities and addressing possible differences in business backgrounds, corporate cultures and management philosophies may increase the difficulties of integration. Failure to effectively integrate the businesses could adversely impact the expected benefits of the acquisition, including cost synergies stemming from supply chain efficiencies, merchandising activities and overlapping general and administrative functions.

The integration of two large companies is complex, and we will be required to devote significant management attention and incur substantial costs to integrate Hillshire Brands’ and Tyson’s business practices, policies, cultures and operations. This diversion of our management’s attention from day-to-day business operations and the execution and pursuit of strategic plans and initiatives could result in performance shortfalls, which could adversely impact the combined company’s business, operations and financial results. The integration process could also result in the loss of key employees, which could adversely impact the combined company’s future financial results.

Furthermore, during the integration planning process, we may encounter additional challenges and difficulties, including those related to, without limitation, managing a larger combined company; streamlining supply chains, consolidating corporate and administrative infrastructures and eliminating overlapping operations; retaining our existing vendors and customers; unanticipated issues in integrating information technology, communications and other systems; and unforeseen and unexpected liabilities related to the acquisition of Hillshire Brands’ business. Delays encountered in the integration could adversely impact the business, financial condition and operations of the combined company.

We continue to evaluate our estimates of synergies to be realized from the Hillshire Brands acquisition and refine them, so that our actual cost-savings could differ materially from our current estimates. Actual cost-savings, the costs required to realize the cost-savings and the source of the cost-savings could differ materially from our estimates, and we cannot assure you that we will achieve the full amount of cost-savings on the schedule anticipated or at all or that these cost-savings programs will not have other adverse effects on our business. In light of these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on our estimated cost-savings.

Finally, we may not be able to achieve the targeted operating or long-term strategic benefits of the Hillshire Brands acquisition or could incur higher transition costs. An inability to realize the full extent of, or any of, the anticipated benefits of the Hillshire Brands acquisition, as well as any delays encountered in the integration process, could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Fluctuations in commodity prices and in the availability of raw materials, especially feed grains, live cattle, live swine and other inputs could negatively impact our earnings.

Our results of operations and financial condition, as well as the selling prices for our products, are dependent upon the cost and supply of commodities and raw materials such as pork, beef, poultry, corn, soybean, packaging materials and energy and, to a lesser extent, cheese, fruit, seasoning blends, flour, corn syrup, corn oils, butter and sugar. Corn, soybean meal and other feed ingredients, for instance, represented roughly 68% of our cost of growing a live chicken in fiscal 2014. Production and pricing of these commodities are determined by constantly changing market forces of supply and demand over which we have limited or no control. Such factors include, among other things, weather patterns throughout the world, outbreaks of disease, the global level of supply inventories and demand for grains and other feed ingredients, as well as agricultural and energy policies of domestic and foreign governments.

Volatility in our commodity and raw material costs directly impact our gross margin and profitability. The company’s objective is to offset commodity price increases with pricing actions over time. However, we may not be able to increase our product prices enough to sufficiently offset increased raw material costs due to consumer price sensitivity or the pricing postures of our competitors. In addition, if we increase prices to offset higher costs, we could experience lower demand for our products and sales volumes. Conversely, decreases in our commodity and other input costs may create pressure on us to decrease our prices. While we use derivative financial instruments, primarily futures and options, to reduce the effect of changing prices and as a mechanism to procure the underlying commodity, we do not fully hedge against changes in commodities prices.

Over time, if we are unable to price our products to cover increased costs, to offset operating cost increases with continuous improvement savings or are not successful in our commodity hedging program, then commodity and raw material price volatility or increases could materially and adversely affect our profitability, financial condition and results of operations.

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The prices we receive for our products may fluctuate due to competition from other food producers and processors.

The food industry in general is intensely competitive. We face competition from other food producers and processors that have various product ranges and geographic reach. Some of the factors on which we compete include: pricing, product safety and quality, brand identification, innovation, breadth and depth of product offerings, availability of our products and competing products, customer service, and credit terms.

From time to time in response to these competitive pressures or to maintain market share, we may need to reduce the prices for some of our products or increase or reallocate spending on marketing, advertising and promotions and new product innovation. Such pressures also may restrict our ability to increase prices in response to raw material and other cost increases. Any reduction in prices as a result of competitive pressures, or any failure to increase prices to offset cost increases, could harm our profit margins. If we reduce prices but we cannot increase sales volumes to offset the price changes, then our financial condition and results of operations will suffer. Alternatively, if we do not reduce our prices and our competitors seek advantage through pricing or promotional changes, our revenues and market share would be adversely affected.

Outbreaks of livestock diseases can adversely impact our ability to conduct our operations and demand for our products.

Demand for our products can be adversely impacted by outbreaks of livestock diseases, which can have a significant impact on our financial results. Efforts are taken to control disease risks by adherence to good production practices and extensive precautionary measures designed to ensure the health of livestock. However, outbreaks of disease and other events, which may be beyond our control, either in our own livestock or cattle and hogs owned by independent producers who sell livestock to us, could significantly affect demand for our products, consumer perceptions of certain protein products, the availability of livestock for purchase by us and our ability to conduct our operations. Moreover, the outbreak of livestock diseases, particularly in our Chicken segment, could have a significant effect on the livestock we own by requiring us to, among other things, destroy any affected livestock. Furthermore, an outbreak of disease could result in governmental restrictions on the import and export of our products to or from our suppliers, facilities or customers. This could also result in negative publicity that may have an adverse effect on our ability to market our products successfully and on our financial results.

We are subject to risks associated with our international activities, which could negatively affect our sales to customers in foreign countries, as well as our operations and assets in such countries.

In fiscal 2014, we sold products to approximately 130 countries. Major sales markets include Brazil, Canada, Central America, China, the European Union, Japan, Mexico, the Middle East, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Our sales to customers in foreign countries for fiscal 2014 totaled $6.3 billion, of which $4.7 billion related to export sales from the United States. In addition, we had approximately $324 million of long-lived assets located in foreign countries, primarily Brazil, China, and India, at the end of fiscal 2014.

As a result, we are subject to various risks and uncertainties relating to international sales and operations, including:

• imposition of tariffs, quotas, trade barriers and other trade protection measures imposed by foreign countries regarding the importation of poultry, beef, pork and prepared foods products, in addition to import or export licensing requirements imposed by various foreign countries;

• closing of borders by foreign countries to the import of poultry, beef and pork products due to animal disease or other perceived health or safety issues;

• impact of currency exchange rate fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies, particularly the Brazilian real, the British pound sterling, the Canadian dollar, the Chinese renminbi, the European euro, the Indian rupee and the Mexican peso;

• political and economic conditions;

• difficulties and costs to comply with, and enforcement of remedies under, a wide variety of complex domestic and international laws, treaties and regulations, including, without limitation, the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and economic and trade sanctions enforced by the United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control;

• different regulatory structures and unexpected changes in regulatory environments;

• tax rates that may exceed those in the United States and earnings that may be subject to withholding requirements and incremental taxes upon repatriation;

• potentially negative consequences from changes in tax laws; and

• distribution costs, disruptions in shipping or reduced availability of freight transportation.

Negative consequences relating to these risks and uncertainties could jeopardize or limit our ability to transact business in one or more of those markets where we operate or in other developing markets and could adversely affect our financial results.

We depend on the availability of, and good relations with, our employees.

We have approximately 124,000 employees, approximately 42,000 of whom are covered by collective bargaining agreements or are members of labor unions. Our operations depend on the availability and relative costs of labor and maintaining good relations with employees and the labor unions. If we fail to maintain good relations with our employees or with the labor unions, we may experience labor strikes or work stoppages, which could adversely affect our financial results.

8

We depend on contract growers and independent producers to supply us with livestock.

We contract primarily with independent contract growers to raise the live chickens and turkeys processed in our poultry operations. A majority of our cattle and hogs are purchased from independent producers who sell livestock to us under marketing contracts or on the open market. If we do not attract and maintain contracts with growers or maintain marketing and purchasing relationships with independent producers, our production operations could be negatively affected.

If our products become contaminated, we may be subject to product liability claims and product recalls.

Our products may be subject to contamination by disease-producing organisms or pathogens, such as Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella and E. coli. These organisms and pathogens are found generally in the environment; therefore, there is a risk that one or more, as a result of food processing, could be present in our products. These organisms and pathogens also can be introduced to our products as a result of improper handling at the further processing, foodservice or consumer level. These risks may be controlled, but may not be eliminated, by adherence to good manufacturing practices and finished product testing. We have little, if any, control over handling procedures once our products have been shipped for distribution. Even an inadvertent shipment of contaminated products may be a violation of law and may lead to increased risk of exposure to product liability claims, increased scrutiny and penalties, including injunctive relief and plant closings, by federal and state regulatory agencies, and adverse publicity, which could exacerbate the associated negative consumer reaction. Any of these occurrences may have an adverse effect on our financial results.

In addition, we may be required to recall some of our products if they spoil, become contaminated, are tampered with or are mislabeled. A widespread product recall could result in significant losses due to the costs of a recall, the destruction of product inventory and lost sales due to the unavailability of product for a period of time. Such a product recall also could result in adverse publicity, damage to our reputation, and a loss of consumer confidence in our products, which could have a material adverse effect on our business results and the value of our brands.

Changes in consumer preference and failure to maintain favorable consumer perception of our brands and products could negatively impact our business.

The food industry in general is subject to changing consumer trends, demands and preferences. Trends within the food industry change often, and failure to identify and react to changes in these trends could lead to, among other things, reduced demand and price reductions for our brands and products. We strive to respond to consumer preferences and social expectations, but we may not be successful in our efforts.

We could be adversely affected if consumers lose confidence in the safety and quality of certain food products or ingredients, or the food safety system generally. Prolonged negative perceptions concerning the health implications of certain food products or ingredients or loss of confidence in the food safety system generally could influence consumer preferences and acceptance of some of our products and marketing programs. Continued negative perceptions and failure to satisfy consumer preferences could materially and adversely affect our product sales, financial condition and results of operations.

We have a number of iconic brands with significant value. Maintaining and continually enhancing the value of these brands is critical to the success of our business. Brand value is based in large part on consumer perceptions. Success in promoting and enhancing brand value depends in large part on our ability to provide high-quality products. Brand value could diminish significantly due to a number of factors, including consumer perception that we have acted in an irresponsible manner, adverse publicity about our products (whether or not valid), our failure to maintain the quality of our products, the failure of our products to deliver consistently positive consumer experiences or the products becoming unavailable to consumers.

Failure to continually innovate and successfully launch new products and maintain our brand image through marketing investment could adversely impact our operating results.

Our financial success is dependent on anticipating changes in consumer preferences and dietary habits and successfully developing and launching new products and product extensions that consumers want. We devote significant resources to new product development and product extensions, however we may not be successful in developing innovative new products or our new products may not be commercially successful. To the extent we are not able to effectively gauge the direction of our key markets and successfully identify, develop, manufacture and market new or improved products in these changing markets, our financial results and our competitive position will suffer. In addition, our introduction of new products or product extensions may generate litigation or other legal proceedings against us by competitors claiming infringement of their intellectual property or other rights, which could negatively impact our results of operations.

We also seek to maintain and extend the image of our brands through marketing investments, including advertising, consumer promotions and trade spend. Due to inherent risks in the marketplace associated with advertising, promotions and new product introductions, including uncertainties about trade and consumer acceptance, our marketing investments may not prove successful in maintaining or increasing our market share and could result in lower sales and profits. Continuing global focus on health and wellness, including weight management, and increasing media attention to the role of food marketing could adversely affect our brand image or lead to stricter regulations and greater scrutiny of food marketing practices.

9

Our success in maintaining, extending and expanding our brand image also depends on our ability to adapt to a rapidly changing media environment, including our increasing reliance on social media and online dissemination of advertising campaigns. The growing use of social and digital media increases the speed and extent that information or misinformation and opinions can be shared.

We are subject to a variety of legal and regulatory restrictions on how and to whom we market our products, for instance marketing to children, which may limit our ability to maintain or extend our brand image. Negative posts or comments about us, our brands or our products on social or digital media could seriously damage our reputation and brand image. If we do not maintain or extend our brand image, then our product sales, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Failure to leverage our brand value propositions to compete against private label products, especially during economic downturn, may adversely affect our profitability.

In many product categories, we compete not only with other widely advertised branded products, but also with private label products that generally are sold at lower prices. Consumers are more likely to purchase our products if they believe that our products provide a higher quality and greater value than less expensive alternatives. If the difference in quality between our brands and private label products narrows, or if there is a perception of such a narrowing, consumers may choose not to buy our products at prices that are profitable for us. In addition, in periods of economic uncertainty, consumers tend to purchase more lower-priced private label or other economy brands. To the extent this occurs, we could experience a reduction in the sales volume of our higher margin products or a shift in our product mix to lower margin offerings. In addition, in times of economic uncertainty, consumers reduce the amount of food that they consume away from home at our foodservice customers, which in turn reduces our product sales.

Our level of indebtedness and the terms of our indebtedness could negatively impact our business and liquidity position.

Our indebtedness, including borrowings under our revolving credit facility, may increase from time to time for various reasons, including fluctuations in operating results, working capital needs, capital expenditures and possible acquisitions, joint ventures or other significant initiatives. Our consolidated indebtedness level could adversely affect our business because:

• it may limit or impair our ability to obtain financing in the future;

• our credit ratings (or any decrease to our credit ratings) could restrict or impede our ability to access capital markets at desired interest rates and increase our borrowing costs;

• 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; and

• it may restrict our ability to pay dividends.

Our revolving credit facility contains affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: create liens and encumbrances; incur debt; merge, dissolve, liquidate or consolidate; make acquisitions and investments; dispose of or transfer assets; change the nature of our business; engage in certain transactions with affiliates; and enter into hedging transactions, in each case, subject to certain qualifications and exceptions. In addition, we are required to maintain minimum interest expense coverage and maximum debt to capitalization ratios.

Our senior notes and term loans also contain affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: create liens; engage in certain sale/leaseback transactions; and engage in certain consolidations, mergers and sales of assets.

An impairment in the carrying value of our goodwill or indefinite life intangible assets could negatively impact our consolidated results of operations and net worth.

Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. In assessing the carrying value of goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets, we make estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates based on budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and marketplace data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and management’s judgment in applying these factors. Goodwill valuations have been calculated principally using an income approach based on the present value of future cash flows of each reporting unit and are believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Indefinite life intangible asset valuations have been calculated principally using relief-from-royalty and excess earnings approaches and are believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Under these valuation approaches, we are required to make various judgmental assumptions about appropriate discount rates. Disruptions in global credit and other financial markets and deterioration of economic conditions, could, among other things, cause us to increase the discount rate used in the valuations. We could be required to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets prior to the annual assessment if we experience disruptions to the business, unexpected significant declines in operating results, divestiture of a significant component of our business or sustained market capitalization declines. These types of events and the resulting analyses could result in impairment charges in the future, which could be substantial. As of September 27, 2014, we had $10.8 billion of goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets, which represented approximately 45% of total assets.

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New or more stringent domestic and international government regulations could impose material costs on us and could adversely affect our business.

Our operations are subject to extensive federal, state and foreign laws and regulations by authorities that oversee food safety standards and processing, packaging, storage, distribution, advertising, labeling and export of our products. See “Environmental Regulation and Food Safety” in Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Changes in laws or regulations that impose additional regulatory requirements on us could increase our cost of doing business or restrict our actions, causing our results of operations to be adversely affected. For example, increased governmental interest in advertising practices may result in regulations that could require us to change or restrict our advertising practices.

Increased government regulations to limit carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions as a result of concern over climate change may result in increased compliance costs, capital expenditures and other financial obligations for us. We use natural gas, diesel fuel and electricity in the manufacturing and distribution of our products. Legislation or regulation affecting these inputs could materially affect our profitability. In addition, climate change could affect our ability to procure needed commodities at costs and in quantities we currently experience and may require us to make additional unplanned capital expenditures.

Legal claims, other regulatory enforcement actions, or failure to comply with applicable legal standards or requirements could affect our product sales, reputation and profitability.

We operate in a highly regulated environment with constantly evolving legal and regulatory frameworks. Consequently, we are subject to heightened risk of legal claims or other regulatory enforcement actions. Although we have implemented policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations, there can be no assurance that our employees, contractors, or agents will not violate our policies and procedures. Moreover, a failure to maintain effective control processes could lead to violations, unintentional or otherwise, of laws and regulations. Legal claims or regulatory enforcement actions arising out of our failure or alleged failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations could subject us to civil and criminal penalties that could materially and adversely affect our product sales, reputation, financial condition and results of operations. Loss of or failure to obtain necessary permits and registrations could delay or prevent us from meeting current product demand, introducing new products, building new facilities or acquiring new businesses and could adversely affect operating results.

The Company is subject to stringent environmental regulation and potentially subject to environmental litigation, proceedings, and investigations.

Our past and present business operations and ownership and operation of real property are subject to stringent federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations pertaining to the discharge of materials into the environment, and the handling and disposition of wastes (including solid and hazardous wastes) or otherwise relating to protection of the environment. Compliance with these laws and regulations, and the ability to comply with any modifications to these laws and regulations, is material to our business. New matters or sites may be identified in the future that will require additional investigation, assessment, or expenditures. In addition, some of our facilities have been in operation for many years and, over time, we and other prior operators of these facilities may have generated and disposed of wastes that now may be considered hazardous. Future discovery of contamination of property underlying or in the vicinity of our present or former properties or manufacturing facilities and/or waste disposal sites could require us to incur additional expenses. The occurrence of any of these events, the implementation of new laws and regulations, or stricter interpretation of existing laws or regulations, could adversely affect our financial results.

Failures or security breaches of our information technology systems could disrupt our operations and negatively impact our business.

Information technology is an important part of our business operations and we increasingly rely on information technology systems to manage business data and increase efficiencies in our production and distribution facilities and inventory management processes. We also use information technology to process financial information and results of operations for internal reporting purposes and to comply with regulatory, legal and tax requirements. In addition, we depend on information technology for digital marketing and electronic communications between our facilities, personnel, customers and suppliers. Like other companies, our information technology systems may be vulnerable to a variety of interruptions, including during the process of upgrading or replacing software, databases or components thereof, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, telecommunications failures, computer viruses, cyber-attacks, hackers, unauthorized access attempts and other security issues. We have implemented technology security initiatives and disaster recovery plans to mitigate our exposure to these risks, but these measures may not be adequate. Any significant failure of our systems, including failures that prevent our systems from functioning as intended, could cause transaction errors, processing inefficiencies, loss of customers and sales, have negative consequences on our employees and our business partners and have a negative impact on our operations or business reputation.

In addition, if we are unable to prevent security breaches, we may suffer financial and reputational damage or penalties because of the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information belonging to us or to our partners, customers, consumers or suppliers. In addition, the disclosure of non-public sensitive information through external media channels could lead to the loss of intellectual property or damage our reputation and brand image.

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If we pursue strategic acquisitions or divestitures, we may not be able to successfully consummate favorable transactions or successfully integrate acquired businesses.

We periodically evaluate potential acquisitions, joint ventures and other initiatives, and may seek to expand our business through the acquisition of companies, processing plants, technologies, products and services. Acquisitions and joint ventures involve financial and operational risks and uncertainties, including:

• challenges in realizing the anticipated benefits of the transaction;

• difficulty integrating acquired businesses, technologies, operations and personnel with our existing business;

• diversion of management attention in connection with negotiating transactions and integrating the businesses acquired;

• difficulty identifying suitable candidates or consummating a transaction on terms that are favorable to us;

• challenges in retaining the acquired businesses' customers and key employees;

• inability to implement and maintain consistent standards, controls, procedures and information systems;

• exposure to unforeseen or undisclosed liabilities of acquired companies; and

• the need to obtain additional debt or equity financing for any transaction.

We may not be able to address these risks and successfully develop these acquired companies or businesses into profitable units. If we are unable to do this, such expansion could adversely affect our financial results.

Market fluctuations could negatively impact our operating results as we hedge certain transactions.

Our business is exposed to fluctuating market conditions. We use derivative financial instruments to reduce our exposure to various market risks including changes in commodity prices, interest rates and foreign exchange rates. We hold certain positions, primarily in grain and livestock futures, that do not qualify as hedges for financial reporting purposes. These positions are marked to fair value, and the unrealized gains and losses are reported in earnings at each reporting date. Therefore, losses on these contracts will adversely affect our reported operating results. While these contracts reduce our exposure to changes in prices for commodity products, the use of such instruments may ultimately limit our ability to benefit from favorable commodity prices.

Deterioration of economic conditions could negatively impact our business.

Our business may be adversely affected by changes in economic conditions, including inflation, interest rates, access to capital markets, consumer spending rates, energy availability and costs (including fuel surcharges) and the effects of governmental initiatives to manage economic conditions. Any such changes could adversely affect the demand for our products, or the cost and availability of our needed raw materials, cooking ingredients and packaging materials, thereby negatively affecting our financial results.

Disruptions in global credit and other financial markets and deterioration of economic conditions could, among other things:

• make it more difficult or costly for us to obtain financing for our operations or investments or to refinance our debt in the future;

• cause our lenders to depart from prior credit industry practice and make more difficult or expensive the granting of any amendment of, or waivers under, our credit agreements to the extent we may seek them in the future;

• impair the financial condition of some of our customers and suppliers, thereby increasing customer bad debts or non-performance by suppliers;

• negatively impact global demand for protein products, which could result in a reduction of sales, operating income and cash flows;

• decrease the value of our investments in equity and debt securities, including our marketable debt securities, company-owned life insurance and pension and other postretirement plan assets;

• negatively impact our commodity purchasing activities if we are required to record losses related to derivative financial instruments; or

• impair the financial viability of our insurers.

The loss of one or more of our largest customers could negatively impact our business.

Our business could suffer significant setbacks in sales and operating income if our customers’ plans and/or markets change significantly or if we lost one or more of our largest customers, including, for example, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., which accounted for 14.6% of our sales in fiscal 2014. Our retail customers typically do not enter into written contracts, and if they do sign contracts, they generally are limited in scope and duration. There can be no assurance that significant customers will continue to purchase our products in the same mix or quantities or on the same terms as in the past. Many of our customers, such as supermarkets, warehouse clubs and food distributors, have consolidated in recent years, and consolidation is expected to continue throughout the United States and in other major markets. These consolidations have produced large, sophisticated customers with increased buying power who are more capable of operating with reduced inventories, opposing price increases, and demanding lower pricing, increased promotional programs and specifically tailored products. These customers also may use shelf space currently used for our products for their own private label products. Because of these trends, our volume growth could slow or we may need to lower prices or increase promotional spending for our products. The loss of a significant customer or a material reduction in sales to, or adverse change to trade terms with, a significant customer could materially and adversely affect our product sales, financial condition and results of operations.

12

Extreme factors or forces beyond our control could negatively impact our business.

Our ability to make, move and sell products is critical to our success. Natural disasters, fire, bioterrorism, pandemic or extreme weather, including droughts, floods, excessive cold or heat, hurricanes or other storms, could impair the health or growth of livestock or interfere with our operations due to power outages, fuel shortages, damage to our production and processing facilities or disruption of transportation channels, among other things. Any of these factors could have an adverse effect on our financial results.

Failure to maximize or to successfully assert our intellectual property rights could impact our competitiveness.

We consider our intellectual property rights, particularly and most notably our trademarks, but also our trade secrets, patents and copyrights, to be a significant and valuable aspect of our business. We attempt to protect our intellectual property rights through a combination of trademark, trade secret, patent and copyright laws, as well as licensing agreements, third-party nondisclosure and assignment agreements and policing of third-party misuses of our intellectual property. We cannot be sure that these intellectual property rights will be maximized or that they can be successfully asserted. There is a risk that we will not be able to obtain and perfect our own or, where appropriate, license intellectual property rights necessary to support new product introductions. We cannot be sure that these rights, if obtained, will not be invalidated, circumvented or challenged in the future. In addition, even if such rights are obtained in the United States, the laws of some of the other countries in which our products are or may be sold do not protect our intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Our failure to perfect or successfully assert our intellectual property rights could make us less competitive and could have an adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

Tyson Limited Partnership can exercise significant control.

As of September 27, 2014, Tyson Limited Partnership (the TLP) owns 99.985% of the outstanding shares of the Company's Class B Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class B stock) and the TLP and members of the Tyson family own, in the aggregate, 1.78% of the outstanding shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class A stock), giving them, collectively, control of approximately 70.14% of the total voting power of the Company's outstanding voting stock. At this time, the TLP does not have a managing general partner, as such, the management rights of the managing general partner may be exercised by a majority of the percentage interests of the general partners. As of September 27, 2014, Mr. John Tyson, Chairman of the Board of Directors, has 33.33% of the general partner percentage interests, and Ms. Barbara Tyson, a director of the Company, has 11.115% general partner percentage interests (the remaining general partnership interests are held by the Tyson Partnership Interest Trust (44.44%) and Harry C. Erwin, III (11.115%)). As a result of these holdings, positions and directorships, the partners in the TLP have the ability to exert substantial influence or actual control over our management and affairs and over substantially all matters requiring action by our stockholders, including amendments to our restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws, the election and removal of directors, any proposed merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of our assets and other corporate transactions. This concentration of ownership may also delay or prevent a change in control otherwise favored by our other stockholders and could depress our stock price. Additionally, as a result of the TLP's significant ownership of our outstanding voting stock, we are eligible for “controlled company” exemptions from certain corporate governance requirements of the New York Stock Exchange.

We could incur substantial tax liabilities as a result of the DEMB Master Blenders 1753 N.V (“DEMB”) Spin-Off.

On June 28, 2012, Hillshire Brands divested its international coffee and tea business segment through the spin-off of DEMB (the “Spin-Off”). Hillshire Brands intended for the Spin-Off and certain related transactions to qualify as tax-free under Sections 355, 368(a)(1)(D), and 361 and related provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, which we refer to as the Code, and Hillshire Brands received a private letter ruling from the IRS substantially to the effect that the Spin-Off and certain related transactions, including the debt exchange, will qualify as tax-free to Hillshire Brands and its stockholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Although a private letter ruling generally is binding on the IRS, if the factual representations or assumptions made in the private letter ruling request are untrue or incomplete in any material respect, or any material forward-looking covenants or undertakings are not complied with, then Hillshire Brands would not be able to rely on the ruling. In addition, the ruling is based on current law, and cannot be relied upon if the applicable law changes with retroactive effect. As a matter of practice the IRS does not rule on every requirement for a tax-free spin-off or tax-free debt-for-debt exchange, and the parties relied solely on the opinion of counsel for comfort that such additional requirements should be satisfied. The opinion of counsel relies on, among other things, the continuing validity of the ruling and various assumptions and representations as to factual matters made by Hillshire Brands and DEMB which, if inaccurate or incomplete in any material respect, would jeopardize the conclusions reached by counsel in its opinion. The opinion is not binding on the IRS or the courts, and there can be no assurance that the IRS or the courts will not challenge the conclusions stated in the opinion or that any such challenge would not prevail. Accordingly, even though Hillshire Brands obtained a ruling and a “should” opinion of counsel, the IRS could assert that Hillshire Brands has not satisfied the requirements for tax-free treatment and such assertion, if successful, could result in significant U.S. federal income tax liabilities for us.

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Events subsequent to the Spin-Off could cause the Spin-Off to become taxable. Under the terms of the tax sharing agreement Hillshire Brands entered into with DEMB in connection with the Spin-Off, DEMB will generally be required to indemnify Hillshire Brands for 100% of any taxes imposed on DEMB and its subsidiaries or Hillshire Brands and its subsidiaries in the event that the Spin-Off and certain related transactions were to fail to qualify for tax-free treatment as a result of an acquisition of DEMB (including the acquisition of DEMB by J.A. Benckiser), or actions or omissions (including breaches of certain representations and warranties made in the tax sharing agreement) by DEMB or any of its affiliates. However, if the Spin-Off or certain related transactions were to fail to qualify for tax-free treatment because of actions or omissions by Hillshire Brands or any of its affiliates, Hillshire Brands would be responsible for all such taxes. In addition, Hillshire Brands would be responsible for 50% of any taxes resulting from the failure of the Spin-Off and certain related transactions to qualify as tax-free, which failure is not due to actions or omissions (including breaches of certain representations and warranties made in the tax sharing agreement) by Hillshire Brands, DEMB or any of Hillshire Brands’ or DEMB's respective subsidiaries. There can be no assurance that the tax sharing agreement will be sufficient to protect Hillshire Brands against any tax liabilities that may arise, or that DEMB will be able to fully satisfy its indemnification obligations. Hillshire Brands’ inability to enforce the indemnification provisions of the tax sharing agreement or obtain indemnification payments in a timely manner could adversely affect our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Multiemployer Pension Plan could adversely affect our business.

Through our wholly owned subsidiary, Hillshire Brands, we participate in a “multiemployer” pension plan administered by a labor union representing some of its employees. We are required to make periodic contributions to this plan to allow them to meet their pension benefit obligations to their participants. Our required contributions to this fund could increase because of a shrinking contribution base as a result of the insolvency or withdrawal of other companies that currently contribute to this fund, inability or failure of withdrawing companies to pay their withdrawal liability, lower than expected returns on pension fund assets or other funding deficiencies. In the event that we withdraw from participation in this plan, then applicable law could require us to make an additional lump-sum contribution to the plan, and we would have to reflect that as an expense in our consolidated statement of operations and as a liability on our consolidated balance sheet. Our withdrawal liability would depend on the extent of the plan's funding of vested benefits. The multiemployer plan in which we participate is reported to have significant underfunded liabilities. Such underfunding could increase the size of our potential withdrawal liability. In the event a withdrawal or partial withdrawal was to occur with respect to the multiemployer plan, the impact to our consolidated financial statements could be material.

Volatility in the capital markets or interest rates could adversely impact our pension costs and the funded status of our pension plans.

We sponsor a number of defined benefit plans for employees in the United States. The difference between plan obligations and assets, which signifies the funded status of the plans, is a significant factor in determining the net periodic benefit costs of the pension plans and our ongoing funding requirements. As of September 27, 2014, the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans was an underfunded position of $381 million, as compared to an underfunded position of $86 million at the end of fiscal 2013. The increase in the underfunded position is due to the acquisition of Hillshire Brands. Changes in interest rates and the market value of plan assets can impact the funded status of the plans and cause volatility in the net periodic benefit cost and our future funding requirements. The exact amount of cash contributions made to pension plans in any year is dependent upon a number of factors, including minimum funding requirements.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

We have production and distribution operations in the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin. We also have sales offices throughout the United States. Additionally, we, either directly or through our subsidiaries, have sales offices, facilities or participate in joint venture operations in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, the Dominican Republic, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Venezuela.

	Number of Facilities
	Owned	Leased	Total
Chicken Segment:
Processing plants	45	1	46
Rendering plants	9	—	9
Blending mills	2	—	2
Feed mills	32	—	32
Broiler hatcheries	59	3	62
Breeder houses	368	—	368
Broiler farm houses	48	—	48
Pet treats plant	1	—	1
Beef Segment Production Facilities	13	—	13
Pork Segment Production Facilities	9	—	9
Prepared Foods Segment:
Processing plants(1)	35	6	41
Hillshire Brands turkey operation facilities	6	—	6
Hillshire Brands distribution centers	5	—	5
International Segment:
Processing plants	9	2	11
Rendering plants	6	—	6
Feed mills	7	4	11
Broiler hatcheries	3	4	7
Breeder houses	159	—	159
Broiler farm houses	439	—	439
Distribution Centers	10	9	19
Cold Storage Facilities	60	14	74
Research and Development Facilities(2)	1	1	2
		Capacity(3) per week at September 27, 2014	Fiscal 2014 Average Capacity Utilization
Chicken Processing Plants		40 million head	90	%
Beef Production Facilities		173,000 head	77	%
Pork Production Facilities		445,000 head	86	%
Prepared Foods Processing Plants		85 million pounds	86	%
International Processing Plants		8 million head	67	%

⁽¹⁾  Includes 12 owned and four leased legacy Hillshire Brands processing plants. Additionally the 35 owned processing plants include three facilities, two legacy Prepared Foods (Buffalo, New York and Santa Teresa, New Mexico) and one legacy Hillshire Brands (Florence, Alabama), scheduled to close in fiscal 2015.

⁽²⁾  Includes one leased facility outside Chicago, Illinois assumed in our acquisition of Hillshire Brands.

⁽³⁾  Capacity per week based on the following: Chicken- five day week, Prepared Foods and International- five to six day week, Beef and Pork- six day week.

15

Chicken: Chicken processing plants include various phases of slaughtering, dressing, cutting, packaging, deboning and further-processing. We also have 30 animal nutrition operations, nine of which are associated with the Chicken rendering plants, 20 within various Chicken processing facilities and one pet treats plant. The blending mills, feed mills and broiler hatcheries have sufficient capacity to meet the needs of the chicken growout operations.

Beef: Beef plants include various phases of slaughtering live cattle and fabricating beef products. Some also treat and tan hides. The Beef segment includes three case-ready operations that share facilities with the Pork segment. One of the beef facilities contains a tallow refinery. Carcass facilities reduce live cattle to dressed carcass form. Processing facilities conduct fabricating operations to produce boxed beef and allied products.

Pork: Pork plants include various phases of slaughtering live hogs and fabricating pork products and allied products. The Pork segment includes three case-ready operations that share facilities with the Beef segment.

Prepared Foods: Prepared Foods plants process fresh and frozen chicken, turkey, beef, pork and other raw materials into pizza toppings, branded and processed meats, appetizers, prepared meals, ethnic foods, soups, sauces, side dishes, pizza crusts, flour and corn tortilla products and meat dishes.

International: International chicken processing plants include various phases of slaughtering, dressing, cutting, packaging, deboning and further-processing. The feed mills and broiler hatcheries generally have sufficient capacity to meet the needs of the chicken growout operations.

We believe our present facilities are generally adequate and suitable for our current purposes; however, seasonal fluctuations in inventories and production may occur as a reaction to market demands for certain products. We regularly engage in construction and other capital improvement projects intended to expand capacity and improve the efficiency of our processing and support facilities. We also consider the efficiencies of our operations and may from time to time consider changing the number or type of plants we operate to align with our capacity needs.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Refer to the description of certain legal proceedings pending against us under Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 20: Commitments and Contingencies, which discussion is incorporated herein by reference. Listed below are certain additional legal proceedings involving the Company and/or its subsidiaries.

On June 17, 2014, the Missouri attorney general filed a civil lawsuit against us in the circuit court of Barry County, Missouri, concerning an incident that occurred in May 2014 in which some feed supplement was discharged from our plant in Monett, Missouri, to the City of Monett’s wastewater treatment plant allegedly leading to a fish kill in a local stream and odor issues around the plant. That lawsuit alleges six violations stemming from the incident and seeks penalties against us, compensation for damage to the stream, and reimbursement for the State of Missouri’s costs in investigating the matter. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has also indicated to us that it has begun a criminal investigation into the incident. If we become subject to criminal charges, we may be subject to a fine and other relief, as well as government contract suspension and debarment. We are cooperating with the Environmental Protection Agency but cannot predict the outcome of its investigation at this time. It is also possible that other regulatory agencies may commence investigations and allege additional violations. Finally, we may be subject to claims from the City of Monett for causing it to violate various municipal regulations and for damages to the City’s treatment system. We are currently in settlement discussions with the State of Missouri.

On June 19, 2005, the Attorney General and the Secretary of the Environment of the State of Oklahoma filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma against Tyson Foods, Inc., three subsidiaries and six other poultry integrators. The complaint, which was subsequently amended, asserts a number of state and federal causes of action including, but not limited to, counts under Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and state-law public nuisance theories. Oklahoma alleges that the defendants and certain contract growers who were not joined in the lawsuit polluted the surface waters, groundwater and associated drinking water supplies of the Illinois River Watershed through the land application of poultry litter. Oklahoma’s claims were narrowed through various rulings issued before and during trial and its claims for natural resource damages were dismissed by the district court in a ruling issued on July 22, 2009 which was subsequently affirmed on appeal by the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. A non-jury trial of the remaining claims including Oklahoma’s request for injunctive relief began on September 24, 2009. Closing arguments were held on February 11, 2010. The district court has not yet rendered its decision from the trial.

Other Matters: We currently have approximately 124,000 employees and, at any time, have various employment practices matters outstanding. In the aggregate, these matters are significant to the Company, and we devote significant resources to managing employment issues. Additionally, we are subject to other lawsuits, investigations and claims (some of which involve substantial amounts) arising out of the conduct of our business. While the ultimate results of these matters cannot be determined, they are not expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations or financial position.

16

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY

Our executive officers serve one-year terms from the date of their election, or until their successors are appointed and qualified. No family relationships exist among these officers. The name, title, age and calendar year of initial election to executive office of our executive officers are listed below:

Name	Title	Age	Year Elected Executive Officer
John Tyson	Chairman of the Board of Directors	61	2011
Curt T. Calaway	Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer	41	2012
Andrew P. Callahan	President, Retail Packaged Brands	48	2014
Howell P. Carper	Executive Vice President, Strategy and New Ventures	61	2013
Sally Grimes	President and Global Growth Officer	43	2014
Thomas P. Hayes	President, Food Service	49	2014
Donnie King	President of North American Operations and Food Service	52	2009
Dennis Leatherby	Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer	54	1994
Mary Oleksiuk	Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer	52	2014
Donnie Smith	President and Chief Executive Officer	55	2008
Stephen Stouffer	President, Fresh Meats	54	2013
David L. Van Bebber	Executive Vice President and General Counsel	58	2008
Noel White	President, Poultry	56	2009

John Tyson has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors since 1998 and was previously Chief Executive Officer of the Company from 2001 until 2006. Mr. Tyson was initially employed by the Company in 1973.

Curt T. Calaway was appointed Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer in 2012, after serving as Vice President, Audit and Compliance since 2008, prior to which he served as the Company's Senior Director of Financial Reporting. Mr. Calaway was initially employed by the Company in 2006.

Andrew P. Callahan was appointed President, Retail Packaged Brands in September 2014. Mr. Callahan previously served as Executive Vice President and President, Retail of The Hillshire Brands Company, since 2012, prior to which he served as Senior Vice President, Chief Customer Officer for Sara Lee Corporation's North American operations from 2011 to 2012, after serving as President, of Sara Lee's North American Foodservice segment from 2009 to 2011. The Hillshire Brands Company was acquired by the Company in August 2014.

Howell P. (“Hal”) Carper was appointed Executive Vice President Strategy and New Ventures in 2013, after serving as Group Vice President, Research and Development, Logistics, and Technical Services since 2008, prior to which he served as Senior Vice President, Corporate Research and Development since 2003, and Senior Vice President and General Manager, Foodbrands Foodservice since 2001. Mr. Carper was appointed by IBP, inc. as Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing in 1999. IBP, inc. was acquired by the Company in 2001. Prior to employment with IBP, inc., he served as Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing with Foodbrands, Inc., which was acquired by IBP, inc. in 1997.

Sally Grimes was appointed President and Global Growth Officer in September 2014. Ms. Grimes previously served as Senior Vice President, Chief Innovation Officer and President, Gourmet Food Group, of The Hillshire Brands Company since 2012. Prior to joining Hillshire Brands, Ms. Grimes served as Global Vice President, Marketing, for the writing and creative expression business unit at Newell Rubbermaid, Inc. (global marketer of consumer and commercial products) from 2007 to 2012.

Thomas P. Hayes was appointed President, Food Service in September 2014. Mr. Hayes previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer of The Hillshire Brands Company since 2012, prior to which he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer for Sara Lee Corporation's North American Retail and Foodservice businesses from 2009 to 2012. Mr. Hayes was initially employed by Sara Lee Corporation in 2006.

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Donnie King was appointed President of North American Operations and Food Service in 2014, after serving as President of Prepared Foods, Customer and Consumer Solutions since 2013, Senior Group Vice President, Poultry and Prepared Foods since 2009, Group Vice President, Refrigerated and Deli since 2008, Group Vice President, Operations since 2007, Senior Vice President, Consumer Products Operations since 2006 and Senior Vice President, Poultry Operations since 2003. Mr. King was initially employed by Valmac Industries, Inc. in 1982. Valmac Industries, Inc. was acquired by the Company in 1984.

Dennis Leatherby was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 2008 after serving as Senior Vice President, Finance and Treasurer since 1998. He also served as Interim Chief Financial Officer from 2004 to 2006. Mr. Leatherby was initially employed by the Company in 1990.

Mary Oleksiuk was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer in September 2014. Ms. Oleksiuk previously served as Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer for The Hillshire Brands Company since 2012. Prior to joining Hillshire Brands, Ms. Oleksiuk served as Chief Human Resources Officer and Senior Vice President for Discover Financial Services from 2011 to 2012. From 2010 to 2011, she served as Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources with Alberto Culver Company and as Vice President, Global Human Resources with Alberto Culver Company from 2007 to 2010.

Donnie Smith was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer in 2009, after serving as Senior Group Vice President, Poultry and Prepared Foods since January 2009, prior to which he served as Group Vice President of Consumer Products since 2008, Group Vice President of Logistics and Operations Services since 2007, Group Vice President Information Systems, Purchasing and Distribution since 2006 and Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer since 2005. Mr. Smith was initially employed by the Company in 1980.

Stephen R. Stouffer was appointed President, Fresh Meats in 2013, after serving as Senior Vice President, Beef Margin Management since 2012, prior to which he served as Vice President, Ground Beef, Trim and Variety Meats Sales since 2009, and Director, Ground Beef, Trim and Carcass Sales since 2006. Mr. Stouffer was initially employed by IBP, inc. in 1982.

David L. Van Bebber was appointed Executive Vice President and General Counsel in 2008, after serving as Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel since 2004. Mr. Van Bebber was initially employed by Lane Processing in 1982. Lane Processing was acquired by the Company in 1986.

Noel White was appointed President, Poultry in 2013, after serving as Senior Group Vice President, Fresh Meats since 2009, after serving as Senior Vice President, Pork Margin Management since 2007 and Group Vice President, Fresh Meats Operations/Commodity Sales since 2005. Mr. White was initially employed by IBP, inc. in 1983.

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PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

We have issued and outstanding two classes of capital stock, Class A stock and Class B stock. Holders of Class B stock may convert such stock into Class A stock on a share-for-share basis. Holders of Class B stock are entitled to 10 votes per share and holders of Class A stock are entitled to one vote per share on matters submitted to shareholders for approval. As of October 25, 2014, there were approximately 24,000 holders of record of our Class A stock and seven holders of record of our Class B stock, excluding holders in the security position listings held by nominees.

DIVIDENDS

Cash dividends cannot be paid to holders of Class B stock unless they are simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. The per share amount of the cash dividend paid to holders of Class B stock cannot exceed 90% of the cash dividend simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. We have paid uninterrupted quarterly dividends on common stock each year since 1977. In fiscal 2014, the annual dividend rate for Class A stock was $0.30 per share and the annual dividend rate for Class B stock was $0.27 per share. In fiscal 2013, the annual dividend rate for Class A stock was $0.20 per share and the annual dividend rate for Class B stock was $0.18 per share. On November 13, 2014, the Board of Directors increased the quarterly dividend previously declared on July 30, 2014, to $0.10 per share on our Class A stock and $0.09 per share on our Class B stock. The increased quarterly dividend is payable on December 15, 2014, to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 1, 2014.

MARKET INFORMATION

Our Class A stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “TSN.” No public trading market currently exists for our Class B stock. The high and low sales prices of our Class A stock for each quarter of fiscal 2014 and 2013 are represented in the table below.

	2014				2013
	High		Low		High		Low
First Quarter	$	34.38	$	27.33	$	19.91	$	15.93
Second Quarter	43.45		33.03		24.85		19.08
Third Quarter	44.24		34.90		26.00		22.47
Fourth Quarter	41.88		36.12		32.40		25.69

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The table below provides information regarding our purchases of Class A stock during the periods indicated.

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)
Jun. 29, 2014 to Jul. 26, 2014	81,199		$	39.01	—		32,054,771
Jul. 27, 2014 to Aug. 30, 2014	107,377		38.41		—		32,054,771
Aug. 31, 2014 to Sept. 27, 2014	40,859		38.35		—		32,054,771
Total	229,435	(2)	$	38.61	—	(3)	32,054,771

⁽¹⁾  On February 7, 2003, we announced our Board of Directors approved a program to repurchase up to 25 million shares of Class A stock from time to time in open market or privately negotiated transactions. On May 3, 2012, our Board of Directors approved an increase of 35 million shares authorized for repurchase under this program. On January 30, 2014, our Board of Directors approved an increase of 25 million shares authorized for repurchase under this program. The program has no fixed or scheduled termination date.

⁽²⁾  We purchased 229,435 shares during the period that were not made pursuant to our previously announced stock repurchase program, but were purchased to fund certain Company obligations under our equity compensation plans. These transactions included 176,258 shares purchased in open market transactions and 53,177 shares withheld to cover required tax withholdings on the vesting of restricted stock.

⁽³⁾  There were no shares purchased during the period pursuant to our previously announced stock repurchase program.

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PERFORMANCE GRAPH

The following graph shows a five-year comparison of cumulative total returns for our Class A stock, the Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 500 Index and a group of peer companies described below.

	Fiscal Years Ending
	Base Period 10/3/09		10/2/10		10/1/11		9/29/12		9/28/13		9/27/14
Tyson Foods, Inc.	$	100.00	$	133.34	$	143.66	$	133.73	$	242.06	$	322.02
S&P 500 Index	100.00		110.16		111.42		145.07		173.13		207.30
Previous Peer Group	100.00		114.42		120.23		136.08		150.45		169.01
Current Peer Group	100.00		115.87		123.31		145.13		179.48		200.67

The total cumulative return on investment (change in the year-end stock price plus reinvested dividends), which is based on the stock price or composite index at the end of fiscal 2009, is presented for each of the periods for the Company, the S&P 500 Index, the previous peer group and the current peer group. The previous peer group included: Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, Bunge Limited, Campbell Soup Company, ConAgra Foods, Inc., Dean Foods Company, General Mills, Inc., H.J. Heinz Co. (up to June 7, 2013), Hillshire Brands (beginning on June 28, 2012), Hormel Foods Corp., Kellogg Co., Kraft Foods Group Inc., McCormick & Co., Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation, Sanderson Farms, Inc., Smithfield Foods, Inc. (up to September 26, 2013) and The J.M. Smucker Company. The current peer group includes: Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, Bunge Limited, Campbell Soup Company, ConAgra Foods, Inc., Dean Foods Company, General Mills, Inc., Hillshire Brands (up to August 28, 2014), Hormel Foods Corp., Kellogg Co., Kraft Foods Group Inc., McCormick & Co., Mondelez Interenational Inc., Pilgrim's Pride Corporation, Sanderson Farms, Inc., and The J.M. Smucker Company. Hillshire Brands was removed from the current peer group at the time its shares ceased public trading. The differences between the current peer group and the previous peer group were the removal of H.J. Heinz Co. and Smithfield Foods, Inc. because both ceased being publicly traded companies in fiscal 2014, and the addition of Mondelez International, Inc. (formerly Kraft Foods, Inc.) to more accurately reflect the Company’s peers in terms of industry standing. The graph compares the performance of the Company with that of the S&P 500 Index and both peer groups, with the investment weighted on market capitalization.

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY

in millions, except per share and ratio data
	2014			2013			2012			2011			2010
Summary of Operations
Sales	$	37,580		$	34,374		$	33,055		$	32,032		$	28,212
Operating income	1,430			1,375			1,286			1,289			1,574
Net interest expense	125			138			344			231			333
Income from continuing operations	856			848			614			738			783
Loss from discontinued operation, net of tax	—			(70		)	(38		)	(5		)	(18		)
Net income	856			778			576			733			765
Net income attributable to Tyson	864			778			583			750			780
Diluted net income per share attributable to Tyson:
Income from continuing operations	2.37			2.31			1.68			1.98			2.09
Loss from discontinued operation	—			(0.19		)	(0.10		)	(0.01		)	(0.03		)
Net income	2.37			2.12			1.58			1.97			2.06
Dividends declared per share:
Class A	0.325			0.310			0.160			0.160			0.160
Class B	0.294			0.279			0.144			0.144			0.144
Balance Sheet Data
Cash and cash equivalents	$	438		$	1,145		$	1,071		$	716		$	978
Total assets	23,956			12,177			11,896			11,071			10,752
Total debt	8,178			2,408			2,432			2,182			2,536
Shareholders’ equity	8,904			6,233			6,042			5,685			5,201
Other Key Financial Measures
Depreciation and amortization	$	530		$	519		$	499		$	506		$	497
Capital expenditures	632			558			690			643			550
EBITDA	1,897			1,818			1,731			1,767			1,987
Return on invested capital	11.8		%	18.5		%	17.7		%	18.5		%	23.0		%
Effective tax rate for continuing operations	31.6		%	32.6		%	36.4		%	31.6		%	35.9		%
Total debt to capitalization	47.9		%	27.9		%	28.7		%	27.7		%	32.8		%
Book value per share	$	23.70		$	18.13		$	16.84		$	15.38		$	13.78
Stock price high	44.24			32.40			21.06			20.12			20.57
Stock price low	27.33			15.93			14.07			14.59			11.91

Notes to Five-Year Financial Summary

a. Fiscal 2014 included a $42 million pretax impairment charge and other costs related to the sale of our Brazil operation and Mexico's undistributed earnings tax, $197 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition, integration and costs associated with our Prepared Foods improvement plan, $40 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands post-closing results, purchase price accounting, and ongoing plant related legacy Hillshire Brands fire costs, $27 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition financing incremental interest cost and $52 million unrecognized tax benefit gain.

b. Fiscal 2013 included a $19 million currency translation adjustment gain recognized in conjunction with the receipt of proceeds constituting the final resolution of our investment in Canada.

c. During fiscal 2013 we determined our Weifang operation (Weifang) was no longer core to the execution of our strategy in China. In July 2013, we completed the sale of Weifang. Non-cash charges related to the impairment of assets in Weifang amounted to $56 million and $15 million in fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively.

d. Fiscal 2012 included a pretax charge of $167 million related to the early extinguishment of debt.

e. Fiscal 2011 included an $11 million non-operating gain related to the sale of interest in an equity method investment and a $21 million reduction to income tax expense related to a reversal of reserves for foreign uncertain tax positions.

f. Fiscal 2010 included $61 million of interest expense related to losses on notes repurchased/redeemed during fiscal 2010, a $29 million non-tax deductible charge related to a full goodwill impairment related to an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit and a $12 million non-operating charge related to the partial impairment of an equity method investment. Additionally, fiscal 2010 included insurance proceeds received of $38 million related to Hurricane Katrina.

g. Return on invested capital is calculated by dividing operating income by the sum of the average of beginning and ending total debt and shareholders’ equity less cash and cash equivalents.

h. For the total debt to capitalization calculation, capitalization is defined as total debt plus total shareholders’ equity.

i. "EBITDA" is defined as net income less interest income, plus interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

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EBITDA RECONCILIATIONS

A reconciliation of net income to EBITDA is as follows:

in millions, except ratio data
	2014			2013			2012			2011			2010
Net income	$	856		$	778		$	576		$	733		$	765
Less: Interest income	(7		)	(7		)	(12		)	(11		)	(14		)
Add: Interest expense	132			145			356			242			347
Add: Income tax expense (a)	396			411			351			341			438
Add: Depreciation	494			474			443			433			416
Add: Amortization (b)	26			17			17			29			35
EBITDA	$	1,897		$	1,818		$	1,731		$	1,767		$	1,987
Total gross debt	$	8,178		$	2,408		$	2,432		$	2,182		$	2,536
Less: Cash and cash equivalents	(438		)	(1,145		)	(1,071		)	(716		)	(978		)
Less: Short-term investments	(1		)	(1		)	(3		)	(2		)	(2		)
Total net debt	$	7,739		$	1,262		$	1,358		$	1,464		$	1,556
Ratio Calculations:
Gross debt/EBITDA	4.3x			1.3x			1.4x			1.2x			1.3x
Net debt/EBITDA	4.1x			0.7x			0.8x			0.8x			0.8x

(a) Includes income tax expense of discontinued operation.

(b) Excludes the amortization of debt discount expense of $10 million, $28 million, $39 million, $44 million and $46 million for fiscal 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, as it is included in Interest expense.

EBITDA represents net income, net of interest, income tax and depreciation and amortization. Net debt to EBITDA represents the ratio of our debt, net of cash and short-term investments, to EBITDA. EBITDA and net debt to EBITDA are presented as supplemental financial measurements in the evaluation of our business. We believe the presentation of these financial measures helps investors to assess our operating performance from period to period, including our ability to generate earnings sufficient to service our debt, and enhances understanding of our financial performance and highlights operational trends. These measures are widely used by investors and rating agencies in the valuation, comparison, rating and investment recommendations of companies; however, the measurements of EBITDA and net debt to EBITDA may not be comparable to those of other companies, which limits their usefulness as comparative measures. EBITDA and net debt to EBITDA are not measures required by or calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and should not be considered as substitutes for net income or any other measure of financial performance reported in accordance with GAAP or as a measure of operating cash flow or liquidity. EBITDA is a useful tool for assessing, but is not a reliable indicator of, our ability to generate cash to service our debt obligations because certain of the items added to net income to determine EBITDA involve outlays of cash. As a result, actual cash available to service our debt obligations will be different from EBITDA. Investors should rely primarily on our GAAP results, and use non-GAAP financial measures only supplementally, in making investment decisions.

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

DESCRIPTION OF THE COMPANY

We are one of the world's largest producers of chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods that include leading brands such as Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells® and State Fair®. Some of the key factors influencing our business are customer demand for our products; the ability to maintain and grow relationships with customers and introduce new and innovative products to the marketplace; accessibility of international markets; market prices for our products; the cost and availability of live cattle and hogs, raw materials, and feed ingredients; and operating efficiencies of our facilities.

Our operations are conducted in five segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and International. Our International segment became a separate reportable segment in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 as a result of changes to our internal financial reporting to align with previously announced executive leadership changes. The International segment includes our foreign operations primarily related to raising and processing live chickens into fresh, frozen and value-added chicken products in Brazil, China, India and Mexico. All periods presented have been reclassified to reflect this change. Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and Other results were not impacted by this change.

On August 28, 2014, we acquired and consolidated The Hillshire Brands Company ("Hillshire Brands"), a manufacturer and marketer of branded, convenient foods. Hillshire Brands' one month results from operations for fiscal 2014 are included in the Prepared Foods segment.

OVERVIEW

• General – Operating income grew 4% in fiscal 2014 over fiscal 2013, which was led by record earnings in our Chicken segment and strong performance in our Beef and Pork segments. Revenues increased 9% to a record $37.6 billion, driven by price and mix improvements. We were able to overcome a $2.3 billion increase in input costs through strong operational execution and margin management. We continued to execute our strategy of accelerating growth in domestic value-added chicken sales, prepared food sales, innovating products, services and customer insights and cultivating our talent development to support Tyson's growth for the future.

• Market environment – Our Chicken segment delivered record results in fiscal 2014 driven by strong demand and favorable domestic market conditions. Our Beef segment experienced higher fed cattle costs and reduced availability of fed cattle supplies but delivered strong results by maximizing our revenues relative to the rising costs experienced in the live cattle markets. The Pork segment's operating margins remained within its normalized range due to favorable market conditions associated with lower pork supplies. Our Prepared Foods segment was challenged by rapidly increasing raw material prices in addition to costs incurred as we continue to execute our Prepared Foods strategy. Our International segment experienced higher volumes, offset with lower average sales prices due to weak demand of chicken in our foreign operations.

Margins – Our total operating margin was 3.8% in fiscal 2014. Operating margins by segment were as follows:

• Chicken – 7.9%

• Beef – 2.1%

• Pork – 7.2%

• Prepared Foods – (1.5)%

• International - (8.8)%

• Liquidity – During fiscal 2014, we generated $1.2 billion of operating cash flows. We repurchased 7.1 million shares of our Class A common stock for $250 million under our share repurchase program in fiscal 2014. At September 27, 2014, we had $1.6 billion of liquidity, which includes the availability under our credit facility and $438 million of cash and cash equivalents.

• Our accounting cycle resulted in a 52-week year for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

23

	in millions, except per share data
	2014		2013			2012
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	$	864	$	848		$	621
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson – per diluted share	2.37		2.31			1.68
Net loss from discontinued operation attributable to Tyson	—		(70		)	(38		)
Net loss from discontinued operation attributable to Tyson – per diluted share	—		(0.19		)	(0.10		)
Net income attributable to Tyson	864		778			583
Net income attributable to Tyson - per diluted share	2.37		2.12			1.58

2014 – Net income included the following items (fiscal 2014 per diluted share adjustments utilized a weighted average shares outstanding amount of 356 million):

• $52 million, or $0.15 per diluted share, related to a gain from previously unrecognized tax benefits.

• $197 million, or $0.37 per diluted share, related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition, integration and costs associated with our Prepared Foods improvement plan.

• $42 million, or $0.16 per diluted share, related to an impairment in our Brazil operation and Mexico undistributed earnings tax.

• $40 million, or $0.07 per diluted share, related to the Hillshire Brands post-closing results, purchase price accounting adjustments and ongoing costs related to a legacy Hillshire Brands plant fire.

• $27 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition financing incremental interest costs and share dilution.

2013 – Net income included the following item:

• $19 million, or $0.05 per diluted share, related to recognized currency translation adjustment gain.

2012 – Net income included the following item:

• $167 million pretax charge, or $0.29 per diluted share, related to the early extinguishment of debt.

SUMMARY OF RESULTS

Sales	in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Sales	$	37,580		$	34,374		$	33,055
Change in sales volume	2.4		%	(0.2		)%
Change in average sales price	6.9		%	4.6		%
Sales growth	9.3		%	4.0		%

2014 vs. 2013 –

• Sales Volume – Sales were positively impacted by an increase in sales volume, which accounted for an increase of $679 million. All segments, with the exception of the Beef segment, had an increase in sales volume. Prepared Foods contributed to the majority of the increase due to the acquisition and consolidation of Hillshire Brands in our final month of fiscal 2014.

• Average Sales Price – Sales were positively impacted by higher average sales price, which accounted for an increase of approximately $2.5 billion. Beef, Pork and Prepared Foods experienced increased average sales price, partially offset by decreased pricing in Chicken and International. The increase in average sales price was largely due to continued tight domestic availability of protein, increased pricing associated with rising live and raw material costs, and improved mix. The majority of the increase was driven by the Beef and Pork segments.

2013 vs. 2012 –

• Sales Volume – Sales were negatively impacted by a slight decrease in sales volume, which accounted for a decrease of $255 million. This was primarily due to decreases in the Beef and Pork segments, partially offset by increases in the Chicken, Prepared Foods and International segments.

• Average Sales Price – Sales were positively impacted by higher average sales price, which accounted for an increase of approximately $1.6 billion. All segments experienced increased average sales price, largely due to continued tight domestic availability of protein, increased pricing associated with rising live and raw material costs, and improved mix. The majority of the increase was driven by the Chicken and Beef segments.

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Cost of Sales	in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Cost of sales	$	34,895		$	32,016		$	30,865
Gross profit	2,685			2,358			2,190
Cost of sales as a percentage of sales	92.9		%	93.1		%	93.4		%

2014 vs. 2013 –

• Cost of sales increased by approximately $2.9 billion. Higher input costs per pound increased cost of sales $2.3 billion and higher sales volume increased cost of sales $610 million.

• The $2.3 billion impact of higher input costs was primarily driven by:

• Increase in live cattle and live hog costs of approximately $1.7 billion and $550 million, respectively.

• Increase in raw material and other input costs in our Prepared Foods segment of approximately $210 million.

• Increase due to net losses of $260 million in fiscal 2014, compared to net gains of approximately $5 million in fiscal 2013, from our Beef and Pork segment commodity risk management activities. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical purchase transactions, which mostly offset the losses.

• Decrease in feed costs of $600 million in our Chicken segment and $42 million in our International segment.

• The $610 million impact of higher sales volume was driven by increases in all of our segments, with the exception of Beef. Chicken and Prepared Foods contributed to the majority of the increase, with the Prepared Foods increase mainly attributable to the acquisition and consolidation of Hillshire Brands in our final month of fiscal 2014.

2013 vs. 2012 –

• Cost of sales increased by approximately $1.2 billion due to higher input cost per pound.

• The $1.2 billion impact of higher input costs was primarily driven by:

• Increase in feed costs of $406 million in our Chicken segment and $64 million in our International segment.

• Increase in live cattle and hog costs of approximately $395 million.

• Increase in raw material and other input costs in our Prepared Foods segment of approximately $110 million.

• Increase due to net losses of $15 million in fiscal 2013, compared to net gains of approximately $66 million in fiscal 2012, from our Pork segment commodity risk management activities. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical purchase transactions, which impact future period operating results.

Selling, General and Administrative	in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Selling, general and administrative	$	1,255		$	983		$	904
As a percentage of sales	3.3		%	2.9		%	2.7		%

2014 vs. 2013 –

• Increase of $272 million in selling, general and administrative was primarily driven by:

• Increase of $71 million related to employee costs including payroll and stock-based and incentive-based compensation, of which $19 million related to employee severance and retention costs associated with the Hillshire Brands acquisition and implementation of our Prepared Foods strategy.

• Increase of $32 million related to advertising and sales promotions.

• Increase of $82 million related to professional fees, of which $52 million related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition and integration costs.

• Increases of $17 million in information technology costs, $7 million in charitable contributions and donations and $5 million in commissions.

• Increase of $50 million related to the Hillshire Brands selling, general and administrative post-closing expenses in our final month of fiscal 2014.

2013 vs. 2012 –

• Increase of $79 million in selling, general and administrative was primarily driven by:

• Increase of $44 million related to employee costs including payroll and stock-based and incentive-based compensation.

• Increase of $32 million related to advertising and sales promotions.

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Interest Income	in millions
	2014			2013			2012
	$	(7	)	$	(7	)	$	(12	)

2014/2013/2012 – Interest income remained relatively flat due to continued low interest rates.

Interest Expense	in millions
	2014		2013		2012
Cash interest expense, net of amounts capitalized	$	124	$	117	$	151
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	—		—		167
Non-cash interest expense	8		28		38
Total Interest Expense	$	132	$	145	$	356

2014/2013/2012 –

• Cash interest expense primarily included interest expense related to the coupon rates for senior notes and term loans and commitment/letter of credit fees incurred on our revolving credit facilities. The increase in cash interest expense in fiscal 2014 was primarily due to senior notes and term loans issued and debt assumed in connection with our completed acquisition of Hillshire Brands on August 28, 2014, partially offset by lower cash interest expense on our 3.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 (2013 Notes) which matured October 15, 2013. The decrease in cash interest expense in fiscal 2013 is due to lower average coupon rates compared to fiscal 2012. This decrease was driven by the full extinguishment of the 10.50% Senior Notes due 2014 (2014 Notes) in fiscal 2012, partially offset with the 4.5% Senior Notes due 2022 (2022 Notes) issued in fiscal 2012.

• Loss on early extinguishment of debt included the amount paid exceeding the par value of debt, unamortized discount and unamortized debt issuance costs related to the full extinguishment of the 2014 Notes.

• Non-cash interest expense primarily included interest related to the amortization of debt issuance costs and discounts/premiums on note issuances. This includes debt issuance costs incurred on our revolving credit facility, the senior notes and term loans issued in connection with our acquisition of Hillshire Brands and the accretion of the debt discount on the 2013 Notes. The decrease in non-cash interest expense in fiscal 2014 is due primarily to lower non-cash interest expense on our 2013 Notes.

Other (Income) Expense, net	in millions
	2014		2013			2012
	$	53	$	(20	)	$	(23	)

2014– Included $60 million of costs associated with bridge financing facilities for the Hillshire Brands acquisition and $6 million of other than temporary impairment related to an available-for-sale security, partially offset with $14 million of equity earnings in joint ventures and net foreign currency exchange gains.

2013– Included $19 million related to recognized currency translation adjustment gain.

2012– Included $16 million of equity earnings in joint ventures and $4 million in net foreign currency exchange gains.

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Effective Tax Rate
	2014		2013		2012
	31.6	%	32.6	%	36.4	%

The effective tax rate on continuing operations was impacted by a number of items which result in a difference between our effective tax rate and the U.S. statutory rate of 35%. The table below reflects significant items impacting the rate as indicated.

2014 –

• Domestic production activity deduction reduced the rate 4.0%.

• Net decrease in unrecognized tax benefits, mostly related to expiration of statutes of limitations and settlements with taxing authorities, reduced the rate 4.7%.

• State income taxes increased the rate 2.8%.

• Foreign rate differences and valuation allowances increased the rate 2.8%.

2013 –

• Domestic production activity deduction reduced the rate 3.2%.

• General business credits reduced the rate 1.3%.

• State income taxes increased the rate 2.4%.

2012 –

• Domestic production activity deduction reduced the rate 1.8%.

• General business credits reduced the rate 0.7%.

• State income taxes increased the rate 1.5%.

• Foreign rate differences and valuation allowances increased the rate 1.8%.

SEGMENT RESULTS

We operate in five segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and International. The results from Dynamic Fuels are included in Other. We allocate expenses related to corporate activities to the segments, except for acquisition and integration related fees which are included in Other. The following table is a summary of sales and operating income (loss), which is how we measure segment income (loss).

																in millions
	Sales									Operating Income (Loss)
	2014			2013			2012			2014			2013			2012
Chicken	$	11,116		$	10,988		$	10,270		$	883		$	683		$	554
Beef	16,177			14,400			13,755			347			296			218
Pork	6,304			5,408			5,510			455			332			417
Prepared Foods	3,927			3,322			3,237			(60		)	101			181
International	1,381			1,324			1,104			(121		)	(37		)	(70		)
Other	—			46			167			(74		)	—			(14		)
Intersegment Sales	(1,325		)	(1,114		)	(988		)	—			—			—
Total	$	37,580		$	34,374		$	33,055		$	1,430		$	1,375		$	1,286

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Chicken Segment Results													in millions
	2014			2013			Change 2014 vs. 2013			2012			Change 2013 vs. 2012
Sales	$	11,116		$	10,988		$	128		$	10,270		$	718
Sales Volume Change							2.6		%				0.7		%
Average Sales Price Change							(1.4		)%				6.2		%
Operating Income	$	883		$	683		$	200		$	554		$	129
Operating Margin	7.9		%	6.2		%				5.4		%

2014 vs. 2013 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume grew as a result of stronger demand for chicken products and mix of rendered product sales.

• Average Sales Price – Average sales price decreased as feed ingredient costs declined, partially offset by mix changes.

• Operating Income – Operating income increased due to higher sales volume and lower feed ingredient costs of $600 million, partially offset by decreased average sales price.

2013 vs. 2012 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume grew due to increased production driven by stronger demand for our chicken products.

• Average Sales Price – The increase in average sales price was primarily due to mix changes and price increases associated with higher input costs. Since many of our sales contracts are formula based or shorter-term in nature, we were able to offset rising input costs through improved pricing and mix.

• Operating Income – Operating income was positively impacted by increased average sales price, and improved live performance and operational execution. These increases were partially offset by increased feed costs of $406 million.

Beef Segment Results													in millions
	2014			2013			Change 2014 vs. 2013			2012			Change 2013 vs. 2012
Sales	$	16,177		$	14,400		$	1,777		$	13,755		$	645
Sales Volume Change							(0.4		)%				(1.8		)%
Average Sales Price Change							12.8		%				6.6		%
Operating Income	$	347		$	296		$	51		$	218		$	78
Operating Margin	2.1		%	2.1		%				1.6		%

2014 vs. 2013 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume decreased due to a reduction in live cattle processed.

• Average Sales Price – Average sales price increased due to lower domestic availability of beef products.

• Operating Income – Operating income increased due to improved operational execution and maximizing our revenues relative to the rising live cattle markets, partially offset by increased operating costs.

• Derivative Activities – Operating results included net losses of $72 million in fiscal 2014, compared to net gains of $9 million in fiscal 2013 for commodity risk management activities related to futures contracts. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical sale and purchase transactions, which mostly offset the commodity risk management gains and losses.

2013 vs. 2012 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume decreased due to less outside trim and tallow purchases, partially offset by increased production volumes.

• Average Sales Price – Average sales price increased due to lower domestic availability of fed cattle supplies, which drove up livestock costs.

• Operating Income – Operating income increased due to improved operational execution, less volatile live cattle markets and improved export markets, partially offset by increased operating costs.

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Pork Segment Results													in millions
	2014			2013			Change 2014 vs. 2013			2012			Change 2013 vs. 2012
Sales	$	6,304		$	5,408		$	896		$	5,510		$	(102	)
Sales Volume Change							0.8		%				(3.6		)%
Average Sales Price Change							15.7		%				1.9		%
Operating Income	$	455		$	332		$	123		$	417		$	(85	)
Operating Margin	7.2		%	6.1		%				7.6		%

2014 vs. 2013 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume increased due to better domestic demand for our pork products.

• Average Sales Price – Average sales price increased due to lower total hog supplies, which resulted in higher input costs.

• Operating Income – Operating income increased as we maximized our revenues relative to live hog markets, partially attributable to operational and mix performance.

• Derivative Activities – Operating results included net losses of $112 million in fiscal 2014, compared to net losses of $15 million in fiscal 2013 for commodity risk management activities related to futures contracts. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical sale and purchase transactions, which mostly offset the commodity risk management losses.

2013 vs. 2012 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume decreased as a result of decreased customer demand and reduced exports.

• Average Sales Price – Demand for pork products improved, which drove up average sales price and livestock cost despite a slight increase in live hog supplies.

• Operating Income – While reduced compared to prior year, operating income remained strong in fiscal 2013 despite brief periods of imbalance in industry supply and customer demand. We were able to maintain strong operating margins by maximizing our revenues relative to the live hog markets, partially due to operational and mix performance.

• Derivative Activities – Operating results included net losses of $15 million in fiscal 2013, compared to net gains of $66 million in fiscal 2012 for commodity risk management activities related to futures contracts. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical sale and purchase transactions, which impact current and future period operating results.

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Prepared Foods Segment Results										in millions
	2014			2013			Change 2014 vs. 2013			2012			Change 2013 vs. 2012
Sales	$	3,927		$	3,322		$	605		$	3,237		$	85
Sales Volume Change							10.4		%				1.9		%
Average Sales Price Change							7.1		%				0.7		%
Operating Income	$	(60	)	$	101		$	(161	)	$	181		$	(80	)
Operating Margin	(1.5		)%	3.0		%				5.6		%

2014 vs. 2013 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume increased as a result of improved demand for our Prepared Foods products and incremental volumes as a result of the acquisition of Hillshire Brands in our final month of fiscal 2014.

• Average Sales Price – Average sales price increased due to price increases associated with higher input costs along with better product mix which was positively impacted incrementally by the acquisition of Hillshire Brands in our final month of fiscal 2014.

• Operating Income – Operating income decreased as a result of higher raw material and other input costs of approximately $210 million. Because many of our sales contracts are formula based or shorter-term in nature, we are typically able to offset rising input costs through pricing. However, there is a lag time for price increases to take effect. Additionally, operating income was reduced by $113 million due to additional costs associated with the Prepared Foods improvement plan, Hillshire Brands post-closing results, purchase price accounting adjustments and ongoing costs related to a legacy Hillshire Brands plant fire.

2013 vs. 2012 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume increased as a result of improved demand for our prepared products and incremental volumes from the purchase of two businesses in fiscal 2013.

• Average Sales Price – Average sales price increased due to price increases associated with higher input costs.

• Operating Income – Operating income decreased, despite increases in sales volumes and average sales price, as a result of increased raw material and other input costs of approximately $110 million and additional costs incurred as we invested in our lunchmeat business and growth platforms. Because many of our sales contracts are formula based or shorter-term in nature, we are typically able to offset rising input costs through pricing. However, there is a lag time for price increases to take effect.

International Segment Results										in millions
	2014			2013			Change 2014 vs. 2013			2012			Change 2013 vs. 2012
Sales	$	1,381		$	1,324		$	57		$	1,104		$	220
Sales Volume Change							12.2		%				11.6		%
Average Sales Price Change							(7.0		)%				7.5		%
Operating Income (Loss)	$	(121	)	$	(37	)	$	(84	)	$	(70	)	$	33
Operating Margin	(8.8		)%	(2.8		)%				(6.3		)%

2014 vs. 2013 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume increased as we grew our businesses in Brazil and China.

• Average Sales Price – Average sales price decreased due to poor export market conditions in Brazil, supply imbalances associated with weak demand in China and a less favorable pricing environment in Mexico.

• Operating Income – Operating income decreased due to poor operational execution in Brazil, challenging market conditions in Brazil and China and additional costs incurred as we grew our International operation. Additionally, operating income was reduced by $42 million related to an impairment of Brazil assets and other costs related to the pending sale of our Brazil operation.

2013 vs. 2012 –

• Sales Volume – Sales volume increased as we continued to grow our International operation.

• Average Sales Price – Average sales price increased due to improved market conditions and more favorable pricing environments in Brazil and Mexico.

• Operating Loss – Operating income improved due to better performance in Brazil and Mexico, partially offset by increased feed costs of $64 million and supply imbalances associated with weak demand in China as a result of avian influenza.

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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our cash needs for working capital, capital expenditures, growth opportunities, the repurchases of senior notes, repayment of term loans and share repurchases are expected to be met with current cash on hand, cash flows provided by operating activities, or short-term borrowings. Based on our current expectations, we believe our liquidity and capital resources will be sufficient to operate our business. However, we may take advantage of opportunities to generate additional liquidity or refinance existing debt through capital market transactions. The amount, nature and timing of any capital market transactions will depend on our operating performance and other circumstances; our then-current commitments and obligations; the amount, nature and timing of our capital requirements; any limitations imposed by our current credit arrangements; and overall market conditions.

Cash Flows from Operating Activities				in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Net income	$	856		$	778		$	576
Non-cash items in net income:
Depreciation and amortization	530			519			499
Deferred income taxes	(105		)	(12		)	140
Convertible debt discount	(92		)	—			—
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	—			—			167
Impairment of assets	107			74			34
Other, net	31			26			18
Net changes in working capital	(149		)	(71		)	(247		)
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	1,178		$	1,314		$	1,187

• Operating cash flows associated with the Convertible debt discount relates to the initial debt discount of $92 million on our 2013 Notes, which matured and were retired in fiscal 2014.

• Operating cash flows associated with Loss on early extinguishment of debt included the amount paid exceeding the par value of debt, unamortized discount and unamortized debt issuance costs related to the full extinguishment of the 2014 Notes issued in 2009.

• Cash flows associated with changes in working capital:

• 2014 – Decreased primarily due to the increase in inventory and accounts receivable balances and decrease in income taxes payable, partially offset by the increase in accounts payable. The higher inventory, accounts receivable and accounts payable balances are primarily attributable to significant increases in input costs and price increases associated with the increased input costs.

• 2013 – Decreased primarily due to a higher accounts receivable balance, partially offset by increases in accrued salaries, wages and benefits and income tax payable. The higher accounts receivable balance is largely due to significant increases in input costs and price increases associated with the increased input costs.

• 2012 – Decreased due to the increase in inventory and accounts receivable balances, partially offset by the increase in accounts payable. The higher inventory and accounts receivable balances were driven by significant increases in input costs and price increases associated with the increased input costs.

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Cash Flows from Investing Activities							in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Additions to property, plant and equipment	$	(632	)	$	(558	)	$	(690	)
Proceeds from sale/(Purchases) of marketable securities, net	15			(18		)	(11		)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(8,193		)	(106		)	—
Other, net	10			39			41
Net cash used for investing activities	$	(8,800	)	$	(643	)	$	(660	)

• Additions to property, plant and equipment include acquiring new equipment and upgrading our facilities to maintain competitive standing and position us for future opportunities.

• Capital spending for fiscal 2015 is expected to approximate $900 million and will include spending on our operations for production and labor efficiencies, yield improvements and sales channel flexibility.

• Acquisitions in fiscal 2014 related to acquiring Hillshire Brands and an additional value-added food business as part of our strategy to accelerate growth in our prepared foods sales. Both of these acquisitions are included in the Prepared Foods segment. For further description regarding these transactions refer to Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 3: Acquisitions and Dispositions.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities							in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Payments on debt	$	(639	)	$	(91	)	$	(993	)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	5,576			68			1,116
Proceeds from issuance of debt component of tangible equity units	205			—			—
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	873			—			—
Net proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	1,255			—			—
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295		)	(614		)	(264		)
Dividends	(104		)	(104		)	(57		)
Stock options exercised	67			123			34
Other, net	(23		)	18			(7		)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities	$	6,915		$	(600	)	$	(171	)

• Payments on debt included –

• 2014 – Our 2013 Notes matured in fiscal 2014 at which time we paid the $458 million principal value with cash on hand and settled the conversion premium by issuing 11.7 million shares of our Class A stock from available treasury shares. The 2013 Notes were initially recorded at a $92 million discount, which equaled the fair value of an equity conversion premium instrument. The portion of the payment of the Notes related to the initial $92 million discount was recorded in cash flows from operating activities. Simultaneous to the settlement of the conversion premium, we received 11.7 million shares of our Class A stock from the call options.

• 2014 – $194 million related to the 5-year tranche A term loan facility and $30 million related to the 3-year tranche term loan facility.

• 2013 – $91 million primarily related to borrowings at our foreign subsidiaries.

• 2012 – $885 million for the extinguishment of the 2014 Notes and $103 million related to borrowings at our foreign subsidiaries.

• Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt included –

• 2014 – $2,300 million from term loans and $3,243 million from senior unsecured notes after original issue discounts of $7 million. Additionally, total debt related to our foreign subsidiaries was $8 million at September 27, 2014, all of which is classified as long-term in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

• 2013 – $68 million primarily from our foreign subsidiaries. Total debt related to our foreign subsidiaries was $60 million at September 28, 2013 ($40 million current, $20 million long-term).

• 2012 – We received net proceeds of $995 million from the issuance of the 2022 Notes. We used the net proceeds towards the extinguishment of the 2014 Notes, including the payments of accrued interest and related premiums, and general corporate purposes. Additionally, our foreign subsidiaries received proceeds of $115 million from borrowings. Total debt related to our foreign subsidiaries was $102 million at September 29, 2012 ($62 million current, $40 million long-term).

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• Proceeds from issuance of debt and equity components of tangible equity units –

• 2014 – We issued 30 million, 4.75% tangible equity units (TEUs). Total proceeds, net of underwriting discounts and other expenses, were $1,454 million. Each TEU is comprised of a prepaid stock purchase contract and a senior amortizing note due July 15, 2017. We allocated the proceeds from the issuance of the TEUs to equity and debt based on the relative fair values of the respective components of each TEU. The fair value of the prepaid stock purchase contracts, which was $1,295 million, is recorded in Capital in Excess of Par Value, net of $40 million issuance costs. The fair value of the senior amortizing notes, which was $205 million, is recorded in debt, of which $65 million is current.

• Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs –

• 2014 – We issued 23.8 million shares of our Class A common stock, for total proceeds, net of underwriting discounts and other offering related fees and expenses, of $873 million.

• Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock include –

• $250 million, $550 million and $230 million for shares repurchased pursuant to our share repurchase program in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

• $45 million, $64 million and $34 million for shares repurchased to fund certain obligations under our equity compensation plans in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

• We currently do not plan to repurchase shares other than to fund obligations under equity compensation programs.

Liquidity								in millions
	Commitments Expiration Date	Facility Amount		Outstanding Letters of Credit under Revolving Credit Facility (no draw downs)		Amount Borrowed		Amount Available
Cash and cash equivalents								$	438
Short-term investments								1
Revolving credit facility	September 2019	$	1,250	$	41	$	—	1,209
Total liquidity								$	1,648

• The revolving credit facility supports our short-term funding needs and letters of credit. The letters of credit issued under this facility are primarily in support of workers’ compensation insurance programs and derivative activities.

• Our 2013 Notes matured in October 2013. Upon maturity, we paid the $458 million principal value with cash on hand, and settled the conversion premium by issuing 11.7 million shares of our Class A stock from available treasury shares. Simultaneous to the settlement of the conversion premium, we received 11.7 million shares of our Class A stock from call options we entered into concurrently with the 2013 Note issuance.

• We expect net interest expense will approximate $290 million for fiscal 2015 (53-weeks).

• At September 27, 2014, approximately $380 million of our cash was held in the international accounts of our foreign subsidiaries. Generally, we do not rely on the foreign cash as a source of funds to support our ongoing domestic liquidity needs. Rather, we manage our worldwide cash requirements by reviewing available funds among our foreign subsidiaries and the cost effectiveness with which those funds can be accessed. The repatriation of cash balances from certain of our subsidiaries could have adverse tax consequences or be subject to regulatory capital requirements; however, those balances are generally available without legal restrictions to fund ordinary business operations. U.S. income taxes, net of applicable foreign tax credits, have not been provided on undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries with the exception of $17 million provided on the undistributed earnings of our Mexico and Brazil operations due to the pending sale of those operations. Except for cash generated from the sale of our Mexico and Brazil operations, our intention is to reinvest the cash held by foreign subsidiaries permanently or to repatriate the cash only when it is tax effective to do so.

• Our current ratio was 1.64 to 1 and 1.86 to 1 at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively. The decrease in fiscal 2014 is due to the acquisition of Hillshire Brands.

Capital Resources

Credit Facility

Cash flows from operating activities and current cash on hand are our primary sources of liquidity for funding debt service, capital expenditures, dividends and share repurchases. We also have a revolving credit facility, with a committed capacity of $1.25 billion, to provide additional liquidity for working capital needs, letters of credit and a source of financing for growth opportunities. As of September 27, 2014, we had outstanding letters of credit totaling $41 million issued under this facility, none of which were drawn upon, which left $1,209 million available for borrowing. Our revolving credit facility is funded by a syndicate of 42 banks, with commitments ranging from $0.3 million to $85 million per bank. The syndicate includes bank holding companies that are required to be adequately capitalized under federal bank regulatory agency requirements.

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Capitalization

To monitor our credit ratings and our capacity for long-term financing, we consider various qualitative and quantitative factors. We monitor the ratio of our net debt to EBITDA as support for our long-term financing decisions. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, the ratio of our net debt to EBITDA was 4.1x and 0.7x, respectively. Refer to Part II, Item 6, Selected Financial Data, for an explanation and reconciliation to comparable GAAP measures. The increase in this ratio for fiscal 2014 is due to the additional debt incurred related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition. As previously described, we incurred $2,300 million in term loans, $3,243 million in senior unsecured notes and $205 million in the debt component of tangible equity units. Additionally, as part of the transaction we assumed $868 million of senior notes and other debt from Hillshire Brands.

Credit Ratings

2016 Notes

On February 11, 2013, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services (S&P), upgraded the credit rating of the 2016 Notes from "BBB-" to "BBB." This upgrade did not impact the interest rate on the 2016 Notes.

On June 7, 2012, Moody's Investors Service, Inc. (Moody's) upgraded the credit rating of the 2016 Notes from "Ba1" to "Baa3." This upgrade decreased the interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 6.85% to 6.60%, effective beginning with the six-month interest payment due October 1, 2012.

A one-notch downgrade by Moody's would increase the interest rates on the 2016 Notes by 0.25%. A two-notch downgrade from S&P would increase the interest rates on the 2016 Notes by 0.25%.

Revolving Credit Facility

S&P’s corporate credit rating for Tyson Foods, Inc. is "BBB." Moody’s senior, unsecured, subsidiary guaranteed long-term debt rating for Tyson Foods, Inc. is "Baa3." Fitch Ratings' (Fitch), issuer default rating for Tyson Foods, Inc. is "BBB." The below table outlines the fees paid on the unused portion of the facility (Facility Fee Rate) and letter of credit fees (Undrawn Letter of Credit Fee and Borrowing Spread) depending on the rating levels of Tyson Foods, Inc. from S&P, Moody's and Fitch.

Ratings Level (S&P/Moody's/Fitch)	Facility Fee Rate		Undrawn Letter of Credit Fee and Borrowing Spread
A-/A3/A- or above	0.100	%	1.000	%
BBB+/Baa1/BBB+	0.125	%	1.125	%
BBB/Baa2/BBB (current level)	0.150	%	1.250	%
BBB-/Baa3/BBB-	0.200	%	1.500	%
BB+/Ba1/BB+ or lower	0.250	%	1.750	%

In the event the rating levels are split, the applicable fees and spread will be based upon the rating level in effect for two of the rating agencies, or, if all three rating agencies have different rating levels, the applicable fees and spread will be based upon the rating level that is between the rating levels of the other two rating agencies.

Debt Covenants

Our revolving credit facility contains affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: create liens and encumbrances; incur debt; merge, dissolve, liquidate or consolidate; make acquisitions and investments; dispose of or transfer assets; change the nature of our business; engage in certain transactions with affiliates; and enter into hedging transactions, in each case, subject to certain qualifications and exceptions. In addition, we are required to maintain minimum interest expense coverage and maximum debt to capitalization ratios.

Our senior notes and term loans also contain affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: create liens; engage in certain sale/leaseback transactions; and engage in certain consolidations, mergers and sales of assets.

We were in compliance with all debt covenants at September 27, 2014.

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Pension Plans

As further described in Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 15: Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits, the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans is defined as the amount the projected benefit obligation exceeds the plan assets. The funded status of the plans is an underfunded position of $381 million at the end of fiscal 2014 as compared to an underfunded position of $86 million at the end of fiscal 2013. The increase in the underfunded position is due to the acquisition of Hillshire Brands.

We expect to contribute approximately $14 million of cash to our pension plans in 2015 as compared to approximately $9 million in 2014 and $8 million in 2013. The exact amount of cash contributions made to pension plans in any year is dependent upon a number of factors, including minimum funding requirements. As a result, the actual funding in 2015 may be different from the estimate.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements material to our financial position or results of operations. The off-balance sheet arrangements we have are guarantees of debt of outside third parties, including leases and grower loans, and residual value guarantees covering certain operating leases for various types of equipment. See Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 20: Commitments and Contingencies for further discussion.

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CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of September 27, 2014:

									in millions
	Payments Due by Period
	2015		2016-2017		2018-2019		2020 and thereafter		Total
Debt and capital lease obligations:
Principal payments (1)	$	644	$	1,944	$	1,864	$	3,710	$	8,162
Interest payments (2)	312		488		423		1,540		2,763
Guarantees (3)	33		33		31		27		124
Operating lease obligations (4)	107		136		69		104		416
Purchase obligations (5)	2,625		844		460		249		4,178
Capital expenditures (6)	525		114		11		11		661
Other long-term liabilities (7)	—		—		—		—		481
Total contractual commitments	$	4,246	$	3,559	$	2,858	$	5,641	$	16,785

⁽¹⁾  In the event of a default on payment, acceleration of the principal payments could occur.

⁽²⁾  Interest payments include interest on all outstanding debt. Payments are estimated for variable rate and variable term debt based on effective rates at September 27, 2014, and expected payment dates.

⁽³⁾  Amounts include guarantees of debt of outside third parties, which consist of leases and grower loans, all of which are substantially collateralized by the underlying assets, as well as residual value guarantees covering certain operating leases for various types of equipment. The amounts included are the maximum potential amount of future payments.

⁽⁴⁾  Amounts include minimum lease payments under lease agreements.

⁽⁵⁾  Amounts include agreements to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding and specify all significant terms, including: fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased; fixed, minimum or variable price provisions; and the approximate timing of the transaction. The purchase obligations amount included items, such as future purchase commitments for grains, livestock contracts and fixed grower fees that provide terms that meet the above criteria. For certain grain purchase commitments with a fixed quantity provision, we have assumed the future obligations under the commitment based on available commodity futures prices as published in observable active markets as of September 27, 2014. We have excluded future purchase commitments for contracts that do not meet these criteria. Purchase orders are not included in the table, as a purchase order is an authorization to purchase and is cancelable. Contracts for goods or services that contain termination clauses without penalty have also been excluded.

⁽⁶⁾  Amounts include estimated amounts to complete buildings and equipment under construction as of September 27, 2014.

⁽⁷⁾  Other long-term liabilities primarily consist of deferred compensation, deferred income, self-insurance, and asset retirement obligations. We are unable to reliably estimate the amount of these payments beyond fiscal 2015; therefore, we have only included the total liability in the table above. We also have employee benefit obligations consisting of pensions and other postretirement benefits of $532 million that are excluded from the table above. A discussion of the company's pension and postretirement plans, including funding matters, is included in Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 15: Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits.

In addition to the amounts shown above in the table, we have unrecognized tax benefits of $206 million and related interest and penalties of $54 million at September 27, 2014, recorded as liabilities.

The maximum contractual obligation associated with our cash flow assistance programs at September 27, 2014, based on the estimated fair values of the livestock supplier’s net tangible assets on that date, aggregated to approximately $330 million, or approximately $326 million remaining maximum commitment after netting the cash flow assistance related receivables.

RECENTLY ISSUED/ADOPTED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Refer to the discussion under Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 1: Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for recently issued accounting pronouncements and Note 2: Changes in Accounting Principles for recently adopted accounting pronouncements.

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

The preparation of consolidated 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. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following is a summary of certain accounting estimates we consider critical.

Description	Judgments and Uncertainties	Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions
Contingent liabilities
We are subject to lawsuits, investigations and other claims related to wage and hour/labor, environmental, product, taxing authorities and other matters, and are required to assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes to these matters, as well as potential ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of reserves and disclosures required, if any, for these contingencies is made after considerable analysis of each individual issue. We accrue for contingent liabilities when an assessment of the risk of loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. We disclose contingent liabilities when the risk of loss is reasonably possible or probable.	Our contingent liabilities contain uncertainties because the eventual outcome will result from future events, and determination of current reserves requires estimates and judgments related to future changes in facts and circumstances, differing interpretations of the law and assessments of the amount of damages, and the effectiveness of strategies or other factors beyond our control.	We have not made any material changes in the accounting methodology used to establish our contingent liabilities during the past three fiscal years. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used to calculate our contingent liabilities. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to gains or losses that could be material.
Marketing and advertising costs
We incur advertising, retailer incentive and consumer incentive costs to promote products through marketing programs. These programs include cooperative advertising, volume discounts, in-store display incentives, coupons and other programs. Marketing and advertising costs are charged in the period incurred. We accrue costs based on the estimated performance, historical utilization and redemption of each program. Cash consideration given to customers is considered a reduction in the price of our products, thus recorded as a reduction to sales. The remainder of marketing and advertising costs is recorded as a selling, general and administrative expense.	Recognition of the costs related to these programs contains uncertainties due to judgment required in estimating the potential performance and redemption of each program. These estimates are based on many factors, including experience of similar promotional programs.	We have not made any material changes in the accounting methodology used to establish our marketing accruals during the past three fiscal years. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used to calculate our marketing accruals. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to gains or losses that could be material. A 10% change in our marketing accruals at September 27, 2014, would impact pretax earnings by approximately $18 million.

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Description	Judgments and Uncertainties	Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions
Accrued self-insurance
We are self-insured for certain losses related to health and welfare, workers’ compensation, auto liability and general liability claims. We use an independent third-party actuary to assist in determining our self-insurance liability. We and the actuary consider a number of factors when estimating our self-insurance liability, including claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other actuarial assumptions. We periodically review our estimates and assumptions with our third-party actuary to assist us in determining the adequacy of our self-insurance liability. Our policy is to maintain an accrual within the central to high point of the actuarial range.	Our self-insurance liability contains uncertainties due to assumptions required and judgment used. Costs to settle our obligations, including legal and healthcare costs, could increase or decrease causing estimates of our self-insurance liability to change. Incident rates, including frequency and severity, could increase or decrease causing estimates in our self-insurance liability to change.	We have not made any material changes in the accounting methodology used to establish our self-insurance liability during the past three fiscal years. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used to calculate our self-insurance liability. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to gains or losses that could be material. A 10% increase in the actuarial estimate at September 27, 2014, would result in an increase in the amount we recorded for our self-insurance liability of approximately $3 million. A 10% decrease in the actuarial estimate at September 27, 2014, would result in a decrease in the amount we recorded for our self-insurance liability of approximately $23 million.

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Description	Judgments and Uncertainties	Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions
Defined benefit pension plans
We sponsor nine defined benefit pension plans that provide retirement benefits to certain employees. We also participate in a multi-employer plan that provides defined benefits to certain employees covered by collective bargaining agreements. Such plans are usually administered by a board of trustees composed of the management of the participating companies and labor representatives. We use independent third-party actuaries to assist us in determining our pension obligations and net periodic benefit cost. We and the actuaries review assumptions that include estimates of the present value of the projected future pension payment to all plan participants, taking into consideration the likelihood of potential future events such as salary increases and demographic experience. We accumulate and amortize the effect of actuarial gains and losses over future periods. Net periodic benefit costs for the defined benefit pension plans were $14 million in 2014. The projected benefit obligation was $2,031 million at the end of fiscal 2014. Unrecognized actuarial losses were $75 million at the end of fiscal 2014. We currently expect net periodic benefit cost for fiscal 2015 to be approximately $8 million. Plan assets are currently comprised of approximately 81% fixed income securities and 12% equity securities. Fixed income securities can include, but are not limited to, direct bond investments and pooled or indirect bond investments. Other investments may include, but are not limited to, international and domestic equities, real estate, commodities and private equity. We expect to contribute approximately $14 million of cash to our pension plans in fiscal 2015. The exact amount of cash contributions made to pension plans in any year is dependent upon a number of factors, including minimum funding requirements.	Our defined benefit pension plans contain uncertainties due to assumptions required and judgments used. The key assumptions used in developing the required estimates include such factors as discount rates, expected returns on plan assets, retirement rates, and mortality. These assumptions can have a material impact upon the funded status and the net periodic benefit cost. The discount rates were determined using a cash flow matching technique whereby the rates of a yield curve, developed from high-quality debt securities, were applied to the benefit obligations to determine the appropriate discount rate. In determining the long-term rate of return on plan assets, we first examined historical rates of return for the various asset classes within the plans. We then determined a long-term projected rate-of-return based on expected returns. Investment, management and other fees paid out of plan assets are factored into the determination of asset return assumptions. Retirement rates are based primarily on actual plan experience, while standard actuarial tables are used to estimate mortality. It is reasonably likely that changes in external factors will result in changes to the assumptions used to measure pension obligations and net periodic benefit cost in future periods. The risks of participating in multiemployer plans are different from single-employer plans. The net pension cost of the multiemployer plans is equal to the annual contribution determined in accordance with the provisions of negotiated labor contracts. Assets contributed to such plans are not segregated or otherwise restricted to provide benefits only to our employees. The future cost of these plans is dependent on a number of factors including the funded status of the plans and the ability of the other participating companies to meet ongoing funding obligations.	We have not made any material changes in the accounting methodology used to establish our pension obligations and net periodic benefit cost during the past three fiscal years. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used to calculate our pension obligations and net periodic benefit cost. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, they are accumulated and amortized over future periods and, therefore generally affect the net periodic benefit cost in future periods. A 1% increase in the discount rate at September 27, 2014, would result in an decrease in the projected benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost of approximately $246 million and $2 million, respectively. A 1% decrease in the discount rate at September 27, 2014, would result in an increase in the projected benefit obligation and decrease in net periodic benefit cost of approximately $283 million and $1 million, respectively. A 1% change in the return on plan assets at September 27, 2014, would impact the net periodic benefit cost by approximately $16 million. The sensitivities reflect the impact of changing one assumption at a time and are specific to based conditions at the end of 2014. Economic factors and conditions often effect multiple assumption simultaneously and that the effect of changes in assumptions are not necessarily linear.

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Description	Judgments and Uncertainties	Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions
Income taxes
We estimate total income tax expense based on statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available to us in various jurisdictions in which we earn income. Federal income tax includes an estimate for taxes on earnings of foreign subsidiaries expected to be taxable upon remittance to the United States, except for earnings considered to be indefinitely invested in the foreign subsidiary. Deferred income taxes are recognized for the future tax effects of temporary differences between financial and income tax reporting using tax rates in effect for the years in which the differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are recorded when it is likely a tax benefit will not be realized for a deferred tax asset. We record unrecognized tax benefit liabilities for known or anticipated tax issues based on our analysis of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due.	Changes in tax laws and rates could affect recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities in the future. Changes in projected future earnings could affect the recorded valuation allowances in the future. Our calculations related to income taxes contain uncertainties due to judgment used to calculate tax liabilities in the application of complex tax regulations across the tax jurisdictions where we operate. Our analysis of unrecognized tax benefits contains uncertainties based on judgment used to apply the more likely than not recognition and measurement thresholds.	We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood there will be a material change in the tax related balances or valuation allowances. However, due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from the current estimate of the tax liabilities. To the extent we prevail in matters for which unrecognized tax benefit liabilities have been established, or are required to pay amounts in excess of our recorded unrecognized tax benefit liabilities, our effective tax rate in a given financial statement period could be materially affected. An unfavorable tax settlement would require use of our cash and generally result in an increase in our effective tax rate in the period of resolution. A favorable tax settlement would generally be recognized as a reduction in our effective tax rate in the period of resolution.
Impairment of long-lived assets
Long-lived assets are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Examples include a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which we use a long-lived asset or a change in its physical condition. When evaluating long-lived assets for impairment, we compare the carrying value of the asset to the asset’s estimated undiscounted future cash flows. An impairment is indicated if the estimated future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset. For long-lived assets held for sale, we compare the carrying value of the disposal group to fair value. The impairment is the excess of the carrying value over the fair value of the long-lived asset. We recorded impairment charges related to long-lived assets of $107 million, $74 million and $29 million, in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.	Our impairment analysis contains uncertainties due to judgment in assumptions and estimates surrounding undiscounted future cash flows of the long-lived asset, including forecasting useful lives of assets and selecting the discount rate that reflects the risk inherent in future cash flows to determine fair value.	We have not made any material changes in the accounting methodology used to evaluate the impairment of long-lived assets during the last three fiscal years. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions used to calculate impairments of long-lived assets. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions used to calculate estimated future cash flows, we may be exposed to impairment losses that could be material. Additionally, we continue to evaluate our domestic and international operations and strategies, which may expose us to future impairment losses.

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Impairment of goodwill and other indefinite life intangible assets

Description: Goodwill is evaluated for impairment by first performing a qualitative assessment to determine whether a quantitative goodwill test is necessary. If it is determined, based on qualitative factors, the fair value of the reporting unit may be more likely than not less than carrying amount or if significant changes to macro-economic factors related to the reporting unit have occurred that could materially impact fair value, a quantitative goodwill impairment test would be required. We can elect to forgo the qualitative assessment and perform the quantitative test.

The quantitative goodwill impairment test is performed using a two-step process. The first step is to identify if a potential impairment exists by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is not considered to have a potential impairment and the second step of the quantitative impairment test is not necessary. However, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step is performed to determine if goodwill is impaired and to measure the amount of impairment loss to recognize, if any.

The second step compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the carrying amount of goodwill. If the implied fair value of goodwill exceeds the carrying amount, then goodwill is not considered impaired. However, if the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination (i.e., the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all the assets and liabilities, including any unrecognized intangible assets, as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was determined as the exit price a market participant would pay for the same business).

For other indefinite life intangible assets, a qualitative assessment can also be performed to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicates it is more likely than not an intangible asset is impaired. Similar to goodwill, we can also elect to forgo the qualitative test for indefinite life intangible assets and perform the quantitative test. Upon performing the quantitative test, if the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. We elected to forgo the qualitative assessments on our indefinite life intangible assets for the fiscal 2014 impairment test.

We have elected to make the first day of the fourth quarter the annual impairment assessment date for goodwill and other indefinite life intangible assets. However, we could be required to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill and other indefinite life intangible assets prior to the required annual assessment if, among other things, we experience disruptions to the business, unexpected significant declines in operating results, divestiture of a significant component of the business or a sustained decline in market capitalization.

Judgments and Uncertainties: We estimate the fair value of our reporting units, using various valuation techniques, with the primary technique being a discounted cash flow analysis, which uses significant unobservable inputs, or Level 3 inputs, as defined by the fair value hierarchy. A discounted cash flow analysis requires us to make various judgmental assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount rates.

We include assumptions about sales, operating margins and growth rates which consider our budgets, business plans and economic projections, and are believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Assumptions are also made for varying perpetual growth rates for periods beyond the long-term business plan period. Generally, we utilize normalized operating margin assumptions based on future expectations and operating margins historically realized in the reporting units' industries.

Other indefinite life intangible asset fair values have been calculated for trademarks using a royalty rate method. Assumptions about royalty rates are based on the rates at which similar brands and trademarks are licensed in the marketplace.

Our impairment analysis contains uncertainties due to uncontrollable events that could positively or negatively impact the anticipated future economic and operating conditions.

Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions: We have not made any material changes in the accounting methodology used to evaluate impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets during the last three years other than the adoption of the new guidance allowing the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative impairment test.

The discount rate used in our annual goodwill impairment test decreased to an average of 7.9% in fiscal 2014 from 8.4% in fiscal 2013. There were no significant changes in the other key estimates and assumptions.

During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, all of our material reporting units that underwent a quantitative test passed the first step of the goodwill impairment analysis and therefore, the second step was not necessary.

Some of the inherent estimates and assumptions used in determining fair value of the reporting units are outside the control of management, including interest rates, cost of capital, tax rates and our credit ratings. While we believe we have made reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the fair value of the reporting units and other indefinite life intangible assets, it is possible a material change could occur. If our actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions used to calculate fair value, we may be required to perform the second step, which could result in additional material impairments of our goodwill.

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All of our material reporting units' estimated fair value exceeded their carrying value by more than 20% at the date of their most recent estimated fair value determination. Consequently, we do not currently consider any of our material reporting units at significant risk of failing the first step of the annual goodwill impairment test. At September 27, 2014, $4.8 billion of goodwill associated with our acquisition of Hillshire Brands has not yet been allocated to our reporting units. The allocation of this goodwill to our reporting units is pending finalization of the expected synergies and the impact of the synergies to our reporting units.

Our fiscal 2014 other indefinite life intangible asset impairment analysis did not result in an impairment charge. A hypothetical 20% decrease in the fair value of non-Hillshire Brands intangible assets would not result in a material impairment. We recorded $4.1 billion of indefinite life intangibles (brands and trademarks) associated with our acquisition of Hillshire Brands. Any significant decline in the estimated fair value of the Hillshire Brands indefinite life intangibles could result in a material impairment.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market risk relating to our operations results primarily from changes in commodity prices, interest rates and foreign exchange rates, as well as credit risk concentrations. To address certain of these risks, we enter into various derivative transactions as described below. If a derivative instrument is accounted for as a hedge, depending on the nature of the hedge, changes in the fair value of the instrument either will be offset against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments through earnings, or be recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of an instrument’s change in fair value is recognized immediately. Additionally, we hold certain positions, primarily in grain and livestock futures that either do not meet the criteria for hedge accounting or are not designated as hedges. With the exception of normal purchases and normal sales that are expected to result in physical delivery, we record these positions at fair value, and the unrealized gains and losses are reported in earnings at each reporting date. Changes in market value of derivatives used in our risk management activities relating to forward sales contracts are recorded in sales. Changes in market value of derivatives used in our risk management activities surrounding inventories on hand or anticipated purchases of inventories are recorded in cost of sales.

The sensitivity analyses presented below are the measures of potential losses of fair value resulting from hypothetical changes in market prices related to commodities. Sensitivity analyses do not consider the actions we may take to mitigate our exposure to changes, nor do they consider the effects such hypothetical adverse changes may have on overall economic activity. Actual changes in market prices may differ from hypothetical changes.

Commodities Risk: We purchase certain commodities, such as grains and livestock in the course of normal operations. As part of our commodity risk management activities, we use derivative financial instruments, primarily futures and options, to reduce the effect of changing prices and as a mechanism to procure the underlying commodity. However, as the commodities underlying our derivative financial instruments can experience significant price fluctuations, any requirement to mark-to-market the positions that have not been designated or do not qualify as hedges could result in volatility in our results of operations. Contract terms of a hedge instrument closely mirror those of the hedged item providing a high degree of risk reduction and correlation. Contracts designated and highly effective at meeting this risk reduction and correlation criteria are recorded using hedge accounting. The following table presents a sensitivity analysis resulting from a hypothetical change of 10% in market prices as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, on the fair value of open positions. The fair value of such positions is a summation of the fair values calculated for each commodity by valuing each net position at quoted futures prices. The market risk exposure analysis includes hedge and non-hedge derivative financial instruments.

Effect of 10% change in fair value	in millions
	2014		2013
Livestock:
Cattle	$	42	$	13
Hogs	32		35
Grain	10		23

Interest Rate Risk: At September 27, 2014, we had variable rate debt of $2.1 billion with a weighted average interest rate of 1.6%. A hypothetical 10% increase in interest rates effective at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, would have a minimal effect on interest expense.

Additionally, changes in interest rates impact the fair value of our fixed-rate debt. At September 27, 2014, we had fixed-rate debt of $6.1 billion with a weighted average interest rate of 4.3%. Market risk for fixed-rate debt is estimated as the potential increase in fair value, resulting from a hypothetical 10% decrease in interest rates. A hypothetical 10% decrease in interest rates would have increased the fair value of our fixed-rate debt by approximately $109 million at September 27, 2014, and $22 million at September 28, 2013. The fair values of our debt were estimated based on quoted market prices and/or published interest rates.

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We have interest rate risk associated with our pension and post-retirement benefit obligations. Changes in interest rates impact the liabilities associated with these benefit plans as well as the amount of income or expense recognized for these plans. Declines in the value of the plan assets could diminish the funded status of the pension plans and potentially increase the requirements to make cash contributions to these plans. See Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 15: Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits for additional information.

Foreign Currency Risk: We have foreign exchange exposure from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates primarily as a result of certain receivable and payable balances. The primary currencies we have exposure to are the Brazilian real, the British pound sterling, the Canadian dollar, the Chinese renminbi, the European euro, the Indian rupee and the Mexican peso. We periodically enter into foreign exchange forward and option contracts to hedge some portion of our foreign currency exposure. A hypothetical 10% change in foreign exchange rates effective at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, related to the foreign exchange forward and option contracts would have a $9 million and $11 million impact, respectively, on pretax income.

Concentrations of Credit Risk: Our financial instruments exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash equivalents and trade receivables. Our cash equivalents are in high quality securities placed with major banks and financial institutions. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to receivables are limited due to our large number of customers and their dispersion across geographic areas. We perform periodic credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and generally do not require collateral. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, 18.6% and 17.5%, respectively, of our net accounts receivable balance was due from Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. No other single customer or customer group represented greater than 10% of net accounts receivable.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

TYSON FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

	Three years ended September 27, 2014
	in millions, except per share data
	2014			2013			2012
Sales	$	37,580		$	34,374		$	33,055
Cost of Sales	34,895			32,016			30,865
Gross Profit	2,685			2,358			2,190
Selling, General and Administrative	1,255			983			904
Operating Income	1,430			1,375			1,286
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest income	(7		)	(7		)	(12		)
Interest expense	132			145			356
Other, net	53			(20		)	(23		)
Total Other (Income) Expense	178			118			321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	1,252			1,257			965
Income Tax Expense	396			409			351
Income from Continuing Operations	856			848			614
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			(70		)	(38		)
Net Income	856			778			576
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	(8		)	—			(7		)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	864		$	778		$	583
Amounts Attributable to Tyson:
Net Income from Continuing Operations	864			848			621
Net Loss from Discontinued Operation	—			(70		)	(38		)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	864		$	778		$	583
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:
Class A Basic	284			282			293
Class B Basic	70			70			70
Diluted	364			367			370
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	2.48		$	2.46		$	1.75
Class B Basic	$	2.26		$	2.22		$	1.57
Diluted	$	2.37		$	2.31		$	1.68
Net Loss Per Share from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	—		$	(0.20	)	$	(0.11	)
Class B Basic	$	—		$	(0.18	)	$	(0.09	)
Diluted	$	—		$	(0.19	)	$	(0.10	)
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	2.48		$	2.26		$	1.64
Class B Basic	$	2.26		$	2.04		$	1.48
Diluted	$	2.37		$	2.12		$	1.58
Dividends Declared Per Share:
Class A	$	0.325		$	0.310		$	0.160
Class B	$	0.294		$	0.279		$	0.144

See accompanying notes.

44

TYSON FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

	Three years ended September 27, 2014
	in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Net Income	$	856		$	778		$	576
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Taxes:
Derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges	1			(14		)	17
Investments	4			(3		)	—
Currency translation	(30		)	(37		)	3
Postretirement benefits	(14		)	9			(4		)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Taxes	(39		)	(45		)	16
Comprehensive Income	817			733			592
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	(8		)	—			(7		)
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Tyson	$	825		$	733		$	599

See accompanying notes.

45

TYSON FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013
in millions, except share and per share data
	2014			2013
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	438		$	1,145
Accounts receivable, net	1,684			1,497
Inventories	3,274			2,817
Other current assets	379			145
Assets held for sale	446			—
Total Current Assets	6,221			5,604
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	5,130			4,053
Goodwill	6,706			1,902
Intangible Assets	5,276			138
Other Assets	623			480
Total Assets	$	23,956		$	12,177
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current debt	$	643		$	513
Accounts payable	1,806			1,359
Other current liabilities	1,207			1,138
Liabilities held for sale	141			—
Total Current Liabilities	3,797			3,010
Long-Term Debt	7,535			1,895
Deferred Income Taxes	2,450			479
Other Liabilities	1,270			560
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 20)
Shareholders’ Equity:
Common stock ($0.10 par value):
Class A-authorized 900 million shares, issued 346 million shares in 2014 and 322 million shares in 2013	35			32
Convertible Class B-authorized 900 million shares, issued 70 million shares	7			7
Capital in excess of par value	4,257			2,292
Retained earnings	5,748			4,999
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(147		)	(108		)
Treasury stock, at cost – 40 million shares in 2014 and 48 million shares in 2013	(1,010		)	(1,021		)
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	8,890			6,201
Noncontrolling Interests	14			32
Total Shareholders’ Equity	8,904			6,233
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	23,956		$	12,177

See accompanying notes.

46

TYSON FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

						Three years ended September 27, 2014
								in millions
	2014					2013					2012
	Shares		Amount			Shares		Amount			Shares		Amount
Class A Common Stock:
Balance at beginning of year	322		$	32		322		$	32		322		$	32
Issuance of Class A common stock	24		3			—		—			—		—
Balance at end of year	346		35			322		32			322		32
Class B Common Stock:
Balance at beginning and end of year	70		7			70		7			70		7
Capital in Excess of Par Value:
Balance at beginning of year			2,292					2,278					2,261
Issuance of Class A common stock			870					—					—
Issuance of tangible equity units			1,255					—					—
Convertible debt settlement			(248		)			—					—
Convertible note hedge settlement			341					—					—
Warrant settlement			(289		)			—					—
Stock-based compensation			36					14					17
Balance at end of year			4,257					2,292					2,278
Retained Earnings:
Balance at beginning of year			4,999					4,327					3,801
Net income attributable to Tyson			864					778					583
Dividends			(115		)			(106		)			(57		)
Balance at end of year			5,748					4,999					4,327
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax:
Balance at beginning of year			(108		)			(63		)			(79		)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			(39		)			(45		)			16
Balance at end of year			(147		)			(108		)			(63		)
Treasury Stock:
Balance at beginning of year	48		(1,021		)	33		(569		)	22		(365		)
Purchase of Class A common stock	8		(295		)	24		(614		)	14		(264		)
Convertible debt settlement	(12	)	248			—		—			—		—
Convertible note hedge settlement	12		(341		)	—		—			—		—
Warrant settlement	(12	)	289			—		—			—		—
Stock-based compensation	(4	)	110			(9	)	162			(3	)	60
Balance at end of year	40		(1,010		)	48		(1,021		)	33		(569		)
Total Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to Tyson			$	8,890				$	6,201				$	6,012
Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests:
Balance at beginning of year			$	32				$	30				$	28
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests			(8		)			—					(7		)
Contributions by noncontrolling interest			—					3					9
Distributions to noncontrolling interest			(11		)			—					—
Net foreign currency translation adjustment and other			1					(1		)			—
Total Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests			$	14				$	32				$	30
Total Shareholders’ Equity			$	8,904				$	6,233				$	6,042

See accompanying notes.

47

TYSON FOODS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

	Three years ended September 27, 2014
	in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income	$	856		$	778		$	576
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	494			474			443
Amortization	36			45			56
Deferred income taxes	(105		)	(12		)	140
Convertible debt discount	(92		)	—			—
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	—			—			167
Impairment of assets	107			74			34
Other, net	31			26			18
Increase in accounts receivable	(93		)	(126		)	(69		)
(Increase) decrease in inventories	(148		)	15			(259		)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	202			(12		)	106
Increase (decrease) in income taxes payable/receivable	(133		)	80			8
Increase (decrease) in interest payable	5			(1		)	5
Net changes in other working capital	18			(27		)	(38		)
Cash Provided by Operating Activities	1,178			1,314			1,187
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(632		)	(558		)	(690		)
Purchases of marketable securities	(18		)	(135		)	(58		)
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities	33			117			47
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(8,193		)	(106		)	—
Other, net	10			39			41
Cash Used for Investing Activities	(8,800		)	(643		)	(660		)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Payments on debt	(639		)	(91		)	(993		)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	5,576			68			1,116
Proceeds from issuance of debt component of tangible equity units	205			—			—
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	873			—			—
Net proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	1,255			—			—
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295		)	(614		)	(264		)
Dividends	(104		)	(104		)	(57		)
Stock options exercised	67			123			34
Other, net	(23		)	18			(7		)
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	6,915			(600		)	(171		)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			3			(1		)
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(707		)	74			355
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1,145			1,071			716
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year	$	438		$	1,145		$	1,071

See accompanying notes.

48

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TYSON FOODS, INC.

NOTE 1: BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Description of Business: Tyson Foods, Inc. (collectively, “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”), founded in 1935 with world headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world's largest producers of chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods that include leading brands such as Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells® and State Fair®.

Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of all wholly-owned subsidiaries, as well as majority-owned subsidiaries over which we exercise control and, when applicable, entities for which we have a controlling financial interest or variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Fiscal Year: We utilize a 52- or 53-week accounting period ending on the Saturday closest to September 30. The Company’s accounting cycle resulted in a 52-week year for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash equivalents consist of investments in short-term, highly liquid securities having original maturities of three months or less, which are made as part of our cash management activity. The carrying values of these assets approximate their fair values. We primarily utilize a cash management system with a series of separate accounts consisting of lockbox accounts for receiving cash, concentration accounts where funds are moved to, and several zero-balance disbursement accounts for funding payroll, accounts payable, livestock procurement, grower payments, etc. As a result of our cash management system, checks issued, but not presented to the banks for payment, may result in negative book cash balances. These negative book cash balances are included in accounts payable and other current liabilities. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, checks outstanding in excess of related book cash balances totaled approximately $298 million and $246 million, respectively.

Accounts Receivable: We record accounts receivable at net realizable value. This value includes an appropriate allowance for estimated uncollectible accounts to reflect any loss anticipated on the accounts receivable balances and charged to the provision for doubtful accounts. We calculate this allowance based on our history of write-offs, level of past due accounts and relationships with and economic status of our customers. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, our allowance for uncollectible accounts was $34 million and $46 million, respectively. We generally do not have collateral for our receivables, but we do periodically evaluate the credit worthiness of our customers.

Inventories: Processed products, livestock and supplies and other are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost includes purchased raw materials, live purchase costs, growout costs (primarily feed, grower pay and catch and haul costs), labor and manufacturing and production overhead, which are related to the purchase and production of inventories.

In fiscal 2014, 66% of the cost of inventories was determined by the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method as compared to 58% in 2013. The remaining cost of inventories for both years is determined by the weighted-average method.

The following table reflects the major components of inventory at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

			in millions
	2014		2013
Processed products	$	1,794	$	1,423
Livestock	1,066		1,002
Supplies and other	414		392
Total inventory	$	3,274	$	2,817

Property, Plant and Equipment: Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and generally depreciated on a straight-line method over the estimated lives for buildings and leasehold improvements of 10 to 33 years, machinery and equipment of three to 12 years and land improvements and other of three to 20 years. Major repairs and maintenance costs that significantly extend the useful life of the related assets are capitalized. Normal repairs and maintenance costs are charged to operations.

We review the carrying value of long-lived assets at each balance sheet date if indication of impairment exists. Recoverability is assessed using undiscounted cash flows based on historical results and current projections of earnings before interest and taxes. We measure impairment as the excess of carrying cost over the fair value of an asset. The fair value of an asset is measured using discounted cash flows including market participant assumptions of future operating results and discount rates.

49

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. Our goodwill is allocated by reporting unit and is evaluated for impairment by first performing a qualitative assessment to determine whether a quantitative goodwill test is necessary. If it is determined, based on qualitative factors, the fair value of the reporting unit may be more likely than not less than carrying amount, or if significant changes to macro-economic factors related to the reporting unit have occurred that could materially impact fair value, a quantitative goodwill impairment test would be required. Additionally, we can elect to forgo the qualitative assessment and perform the quantitative test.

The first step of the quantitative test is to identify if a potential impairment exists by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is not considered to have a potential impairment and the second step of the quantitative impairment test is not necessary. However, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step is performed to determine if goodwill is impaired and to measure the amount of impairment loss to recognize, if any. The second step compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the carrying amount of goodwill. If the implied fair value of goodwill exceeds the carrying amount, then goodwill is not considered impaired. However, if the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination (i.e., the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all the assets and liabilities, including any unrecognized intangible assets, as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was determined as the exit price a market participant would pay for the same business). We have elected to make the first day of the fourth quarter the annual impairment assessment date for goodwill and other indefinite life intangible assets.

We estimate the fair value of our reporting units using a discounted cash flow analysis, which uses significant unobservable inputs, or Level 3 inputs, as defined by the fair value hierarchy. This analysis requires us to make various judgmental estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount factors and is believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Generally, we utilize normalized operating margin assumptions based on future expectations and operating margins historically realized in the reporting units' industries. Some of the inherent estimates and assumptions used in determining fair value of the reporting units are outside the control of management, including interest rates, cost of capital, tax rates and credit ratings. While we believe we have made reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the fair value of the reporting units, it is possible a material change could occur. If our actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions used to calculate fair value, we may be required to perform the second step of the quantitative test in future years, which could result in material impairments of our goodwill.

During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, all of our material reporting units that underwent the quantitative test passed the first step of the goodwill impairment analysis and therefore, the second step was not necessary.

For our other indefinite life intangible assets, a qualitative assessment can also be performed to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicates it is more likely than not an intangible asset is impaired. Similar to goodwill, we can also elect to forgo the qualitative test for indefinite life intangible assets and perform the quantitative test. Upon performing the quantitative test, if the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

The fair value of our indefinite life intangible assets is calculated principally using relief-from-royalty and excess earnings valuation approaches and is believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Under these valuation approaches, we are required to make estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates based on budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and marketplace data.

Investments: We have investments in joint ventures and other entities. We generally use the cost method of accounting when our voting interests are less than 20 percent. We use the equity method of accounting when our voting interests are in excess of 20 percent and we do not have a controlling interest or a variable interest in which we are the primary beneficiary. Investments in joint ventures and other entities are reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Other Assets.

We also have investments in marketable debt securities. We have determined all of our marketable debt securities are available-for-sale investments. These investments are reported at fair value based on quoted market prices as of the balance sheet date, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, recorded in other comprehensive income. The amortized cost of debt securities is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such amortization is recorded in interest income. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. Realized gains and losses on the sale of debt securities and declines in value judged to be other than temporary are recorded on a net basis in other income. Interest and dividends on securities classified as available-for-sale are recorded in interest income.

Accrued Self-Insurance: We use a combination of insurance and self-insurance mechanisms in an effort to mitigate the potential liabilities for health and welfare, workers’ compensation, auto liability and general liability risks. Liabilities associated with our risks retained are estimated, in part, by considering claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other actuarial assumptions.

50

Other Current Liabilities: Other current liabilities at September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, include:

	in millions
	2014		2013
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits	$	490	$	419
Other	717		719
Total other current liabilities	$	1,207	$	1,138

Defined Benefit Plans: We recognize the funded status of defined pension and postretirement plans in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the benefit obligation. We measure our plan assets and liabilities at the end of our fiscal year. For a defined benefit pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for any other defined benefit postretirement plan, such as a retiree health care plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation. Any overfunded status is recognized as an asset and any underfunded status is recognized as a liability. Any transitional asset/liability, prior service cost or actuarial gain/loss that has not yet been recognized as a component of net periodic cost is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. Accumulated other comprehensive income will be adjusted as these amounts are subsequently recognized as a component of net periodic benefit costs in future periods.

Financial Instruments: We purchase certain commodities, such as grains and livestock in the course of normal operations. As part of our commodity risk management activities, we use derivative financial instruments, primarily futures and options, to reduce our exposure to various market risks related to these purchases, as well as to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Contract terms of a financial instrument qualifying as a hedge instrument closely mirror those of the hedged item, providing a high degree of risk reduction and correlation. Contracts designated and highly effective at meeting risk reduction and correlation criteria are recorded using hedge accounting. If a derivative instrument is accounted for as a hedge, changes in the fair value of the instrument will be offset either against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments through earnings or recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of an instrument’s change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings as a component of cost of sales. Instruments we hold as part of our risk management activities that do not meet the criteria for hedge accounting are marked to fair value with unrealized gains or losses reported currently in earnings. Changes in market value of derivatives used in our risk management activities relating to forward sales contracts are recorded in sales, while changes surrounding inventories on hand or anticipated purchases of inventories or supplies are recorded in cost of sales. We generally do not hedge anticipated transactions beyond 18 months.

Revenue Recognition: We recognize revenue when title and risk of loss are transferred to customers, which is generally on delivery based on terms of sale. Revenue is recognized as the net amount estimated to be received after deducting estimated amounts for discounts, trade allowances and product terms.

Litigation Reserves: There are a variety of legal proceedings pending or threatened against us. Accruals are recorded when it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated based on current law, progress of each case, opinions and views of legal counsel and other advisers, our experience in similar matters and intended response to the litigation. These amounts, which are not discounted and are exclusive of claims against third parties, are adjusted periodically as assessment efforts progress or additional information becomes available. We expense amounts for administering or litigating claims as incurred. Accruals for legal proceedings are included in Other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Freight Expense: Freight expense associated with products shipped to customers is recognized in cost of sales.

Advertising and Promotion Expenses: Advertising and promotion expenses are charged to operations in the period incurred. Customer incentive and trade promotion activities are recorded as a reduction to sales based on amounts estimated as being due to customers, based primarily on historical utilization and redemption rates, while other advertising and promotional activities are recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses. Advertising and promotion expenses for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $641 million, $555 million and $496 million, respectively.

Research and Development: Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and development costs totaled $52 million, $50 million and $43 million in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Use of Estimates: The consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

51

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements: In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance changing the criteria for recognizing revenue. The guidance also modifies the related disclosure requirements, clarifies guidance for multiple-element arrangements and provides guidance for transactions that were not addressed fully in previous guidance. The guidance is effective for annual reporting periods and interim periods within those annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, our fiscal 2018. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 2: CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES

In December 2011 and February 2013, the FASB issued guidance enhancing disclosures related to offsetting of certain assets and liabilities. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. We adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. The adoption did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In April 2014, the FASB issued guidance changing the criteria for reporting discontinued operations. The guidance also modifies the related disclosure requirements. The guidance is effective on a prospective basis for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2014, and interim periods within annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted and we adopted it in the third quarter of fiscal 2014. The adoption did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

NOTE 3: ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS

Acquisitions

On August 28, 2014, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of The Hillshire Brands Company ("Hillshire Brands") as part of our strategic expansion initiative. The purchase price was equal to $63.00 per share for Hillshire Brands' outstanding common stock, or $8,081 million. In addition, we paid $163 million in cash for breakage costs incurred by Hillshire Brands related to a previously announced acquisition. We funded the acquisition with existing cash on hand, net proceeds from the issuance of new senior notes, Class A common stock (Class A stock), and tangible equity units as well as borrowings under a new term loan facility (refer to Note 7: Debt and Note 8: Equity). Hillshire Brands' results from operations subsequent to the acquisition closing are included in the Prepared Foods segment.

The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. Certain estimated values for the acquisition, including goodwill, intangible assets, plant property and equipment, and deferred taxes, are not yet finalized and the preliminary purchase price allocations are subject to change as we complete our analysis of the fair value at the date of acquisition.

	in millions
Cash and cash equivalents		$	72
Accounts receivable		236
Inventories		421
Other current assets		344
Property, Plant and Equipment		1,306
Goodwill		4,804
Intangible Assets		5,141
Other Assets		45
Accounts payable		(347		)
Other current liabilities		(324		)
Long-Term Debt		(868		)
Deferred Income Taxes		(2,069		)
Other Liabilities		(517		)
Net asset acquired		$	8,244

52

The fair value of identifiable intangible assets is as follows:

			in millions
Intangible Asset Category	Type	Life in Years	Fair Value
Brands & trademarks	Non-amortizable	Indefinite	$	4,062
Brands & trademarks	Amortizable	20 years	532
Customer relationships	Amortizable	Weighted average life of 16 years	541
Non-compete agreements	Amortizable	1 year	6
Total identifiable intangible assets			$	5,141

As a result of the acquisition, we recognized a total of $4,804 million of goodwill. The purchase price was assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition, and any excess was allocated to goodwill, as shown in the table above. Goodwill represents the value we expect to achieve through the implementation of operational synergies and growth opportunities primarily in our Prepared Foods segment. We do not expect the final fair value of goodwill to be deductible for U.S. income tax purposes.

We used various valuation techniques to determine fair value, with the primary techniques being discounted cash flow analysis, relief-from-royalty and excess earnings valuation approaches, which use significant unobservable inputs, or Level 3 inputs, as defined by the fair value hierarchy. Under these valuation approaches, we are required to make estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates based on budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and marketplace data.

The acquisition of Hillshire Brands was accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting, and consequently, the results of operations for Hillshire Brands are reported in our consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. Hillshire Brands' one month results were insignificant to our Consolidated Statements of Income.

The following unaudited pro forma information presents the combined results of operations as if the acquisition of Hillshire Brands had occurred at the beginning of fiscal 2013. Hillshire Brands' pre-acquisition results have been added to our historical results. The pro forma results contained in the table below include adjustments for amortization of acquired intangibles, depreciation expense, interest expense related to the financing and related income taxes. Any potential cost savings or other operational efficiencies that could result from the acquisition are not included in these pro forma results.

The 2013 pro forma results include transaction related expenses incurred by Hillshire Brands prior to the acquisition of $168 million, including items such as consultant fees, accelerated stock compensation and other deal costs; transaction related expenses incurred by the Company of $115 million, including fees paid to third parties, financing costs and other deal costs; and $32 million expense related to the fair value inventory adjustment at the date of acquisition.

These pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations as they would have been had the acquisitions occurred on the assumed dates, nor is it necessarily an indication of future operating results.

	in millions  (unaudited)
	2014		2013
Pro forma sales	$	41,311	$	38,195
Pro forma net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	1,047		655
Pro forma net income per diluted share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	$	2.50	$	1.52

During the second quarter of fiscal 2014 we acquired a value-added food business as part of our strategic expansion initiative, which is included in our Prepared Foods segment. The aggregate purchase price of the acquisition was $56 million, which included $12 million for Property, Plant and Equipment, $27 million allocated to Intangible Assets and $18 million allocated to Goodwill.

During fiscal 2013, we acquired two value-added food businesses as part of our strategic expansion initiative, which are included in our Prepared Foods segment. The aggregate purchase price of the acquisitions was $106 million, which included $50 million for Property, Plant and Equipment, $41 million allocated to Intangible Assets and $12 million allocated to Goodwill.

53

Dispositions

On July 28, 2014, we announced our plan to sell our Brazil and Mexico operations, which are included in our International segment, to JBS SA ("JBS") for $575 million in cash. As a result, we conducted an impairment test and recorded a $39 million impairment charge in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 related to our Brazil operation. We expect to complete the sale of our Brazil operation in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. We expect to realize a gain on the sale of our Mexico operation, which is pending the necessary government approvals, and expect it to close in the first half of fiscal 2015. We have reclassified the assets and liabilities related to Mexico and Brazil to assets and liabilities held for sale in our 2014 Consolidated Balance Sheet.

The following table summarizes the net assets and liabilities held for sale:

	in millions
	2014
Assets held for sale:
Accounts receivable, net	$	74
Inventories	141
Other current assets	72
Net property, plant and equipment	132
Goodwill	16
Other assets	11
Total assets held for sale	$	446
Liabilities held for sale:
Current debt	$	32
Accounts payable	61
Other current liabilities	27
Long-term debt	9
Deferred income taxes	12
Total liabilities held for sale	$	141

In June 2014, we sold our 50 percent ownership interest of Dynamic Fuels LLC (Dynamic Fuels) for $30 million cash consideration at closing and up to $35 million in future cash payments contingent on Dynamic Fuels' production volumes over a period of up to 11.5 years. Additionally as part of the terms of the sale, we were released from our guarantee of the $100 million Gulf Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds, which were issued in October 2008 to fund a portion of the plant construction costs. Dynamic Fuels previously qualified as a variable interest entity which we consolidated, as we were the primary beneficiary. As a result of the sale, we deconsolidated Dynamic Fuels and recorded a gain of approximately $3 million, which is reflected in Cost of Sales in our Consolidated Statements of Income. We will recognize the future contingent payments in income as the required volumes are produced. At September 28, 2013, Dynamic Fuels had $166 million of total assets, of which $142 million was net property, plant and equipment, and $113 million of total liabilities, of which $100 million was long-term debt.

In fiscal 2014, we recorded impairment charges of $52 million related to the planned closure of three Prepared Foods plants. The Company’s Cherokee, Iowa plant closed in September 2014, while the Company’s plants in Buffalo, New York and Santa Teresa, New Mexico are expected to cease operations during the first half of calendar 2015. The impairment charges are reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Cost of Sales. Additionally, in April 2014, Hillshire Brands announced that it will discontinue all production at its Florence, Alabama facility by December 30, 2014. The remaining closure costs are not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's financial results.

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NOTE 4: DISCONTINUED OPERATION

After conducting an assessment during fiscal 2013 of our long-term business strategy in China, we determined our Weifang operation (Weifang), which was previously part of our Chicken segment, was no longer core to the execution of our strategy given the capital investment it required to execute our future business plan. Consequently, we conducted an impairment test and recorded a $56 million impairment charge in the second quarter of fiscal 2013. We subsequently sold Weifang which resulted in reporting it as a discontinued operation. The sale was completed in July 2013 and did not result in a significant gain or loss as its carrying value approximated the sales proceeds at the time of sale. Weifang's prior periods results, including the impairment charge, have been reclassified and presented as a discontinued operation in our Consolidated Statements of Income. The following is a summary of the discontinued operation's results:

						in millions
	2014		2013			2012
Sales	$	—	$	108		$	223
Pretax loss	—		(68		)	(38		)
Income tax expense	—		2			—
Loss from discontinued operation, net of tax	$	—	$	(70	)	$	(38	)

NOTE 5: PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

The following table reflects major categories of property, plant and equipment and accumulated depreciation at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

	in millions
	2014		2013
Land	$	126	$	100
Building and leasehold improvements	3,501		2,945
Machinery and equipment	6,144		5,504
Land improvements and other	276		417
Buildings and equipment under construction	334		236
	10,381		9,202
Less accumulated depreciation	5,251		5,149
Net property, plant and equipment	$	5,130	$	4,053

Approximately $661 million will be required to complete buildings and equipment under construction at September 27, 2014.

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NOTE 6: GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The following table reflects goodwill activity for fiscal 2014 and 2013:

in millions
	Chicken			Beef			Pork		Prepared Foods			International			Unallocated		Consolidated
Balance at September 29, 2012
Goodwill	$	909		$	1,123		$	317	$	63		$	68		$	—	$	2,480
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(29		)	—		(589		)
	909			563			317		63			39			—		1,891
Fiscal 2013 Activity:
Acquisition	—			—			—		12			—			—		12
Impairment losses	—			—			—		—			—			—		—
Currency translation and other	(1		)	—			—		—			—			—		(1		)
Balance at September 28, 2013
Goodwill	908			1,123			317		75			68			—		2,491
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(29		)	—		(589		)
	$	908		$	563		$	317	$	75		$	39		$	—	$	1,902
Fiscal 2014 Activity:
Acquisition	$	—		$	—		$	—	$	18		$	5		$	4,804	$	4,827
Reclass to assets held for sale	—			—			—		—			(16		)	—		(16		)
Impairment losses	—			—			—		—			(5		)	—		(5		)
Currency translation and other	(1		)	—			—		(1		)	—			—		(2		)
Balance at September 27, 2014
Goodwill	907			1,123			317		92			57			4,804		7,300
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(34		)	—		(594		)
	$	907		$	563		$	317	$	92		$	23		$	4,804	$	6,706

On August 28, 2014, we acquired and consolidated Hillshire Brands. The unallocated portion of goodwill is attributable to our acquisition of Hillshire Brands. The allocation of goodwill to our reportable segments is pending finalization of the expected synergies and the impact of the synergies to our reporting units.

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The following table reflects other intangible assets by type at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

in millions
	2014		2013
Amortizable intangible assets:
Brands and trademarks	$	611	$	69
Customer relationships	570		12
Patents, intellectual property and other	136		140
Non-compete agreements	6		—
Land use rights	8		8
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	$	1,331	$	229
Less accumulated amortization	133		107
Total net amortizable intangible assets	$	1,198	$	122
Brands and trademarks not subject to amortization	4,078		16
Total intangible assets	$	5,276	$	138

Beginning with the date benefits are realized, amortizable intangible assets are generally amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated period of benefit of 20 years or less. Amortization expense of $26 million, $17 million and $16 million was recognized during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We estimate amortization expense on intangible assets for the next five fiscal years subsequent to September 27, 2014, will be: 2015 - $94 million; 2016 - $85 million; 2017 - $80 million; 2018 - $79 million; 2019 - $75 million.

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NOTE 7: DEBT

The following table reflects major components of debt as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

				in millions
	2014			2013
Revolving credit facility	$	—		$	—
Senior notes:
3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 (2013 Notes)	—			458
2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 (2015 Notes)	407			—
6.60% Senior notes due April 2016 (2016 Notes)	638			638
7.00% Notes due May 2018	120			120
2.65% Notes due August 2019 (2019 Notes)	1,000			—
4.10% Notes due September 2020 (2020 Notes)	287			—
4.50% Senior notes due June 2022 (2022 Notes)	1,000			1,000
3.95% Notes due August 2024 (2024 Notes)	1,250			—
7.00% Notes due January 2028	18			18
6.13% Notes due November 2032 (2032 Notes)	164			—
4.88% Notes due August 2034 (2034 Notes)	500			—
5.15% Notes due August 2044 (2044 Notes)	500			—
Discount on senior notes	(12		)	(6		)
Term loan facility:
3-year tranche	1,172			—
5-year tranche A	353			—
5-year tranche B	552			—
Amortizing Notes - Tangible Equity Units (see Note 8: Equity)	205			—
GO Zone tax-exempt bonds	—			100
Other	24			80
Total debt	8,178			2,408
Less current debt	643			513
Total long-term debt	$	7,535		$	1,895

Annual maturities of debt for the five fiscal years subsequent to September 27, 2014, are: 2015 - $644 million; 2016 - $885 million; 2017 - $1,059 million; 2018 - $176 million; 2019 - $1,688 million.

Revolving Credit Facility

In September 2014, we amended our existing credit facility which, among other things, increased our line of credit from $1.0 billion to $1.25 billion. The facility supports short-term funding needs and letters of credit and will mature with the commitments thereunder terminating in September 2019. After reducing the amount available by outstanding letters of credit issued under this facility, the amount available for borrowing at September 27, 2014, was $1,209 million. At September 27, 2014, we had outstanding letters of credit issued under this facility totaling $41 million, none of which were drawn upon. We had an additional $105 million of bilateral letters of credit issued separately from the revolving credit facility, none of which were drawn upon. Our letters of credit are issued primarily in support of workers’ compensation insurance programs and derivative activities.

The revolving credit facility is unsecured and is fully guaranteed by Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc. (TFM Parent), our wholly owned subsidiary, until such date TFM Parent is released from all of its guarantees of other material indebtedness. If in the future any of our other subsidiaries shall guarantee any of our material indebtedness, such subsidiary shall also be required to guarantee the indebtedness, obligations and liabilities under this facility.

58

2013 Notes

In September 2008, we issued $458 million principal amount 3.25% convertible senior unsecured notes due October 15, 2013. In connection with the issuance of the 2013 Notes, we entered into separate call option and warrant transactions with respect to our Class A stock to minimize the potential economic dilution upon conversion of the 2013 Notes. The call options contractually expired upon the maturity of the 2013 Notes. The 2013 Notes matured on October 15, 2013 at which time we paid the $458 million principal value with cash on hand and settled the conversion premium by issuing 11.7 million shares of our Class A stock from available treasury shares. Simultaneously with the settlement of the conversion premium, we received 11.7 million shares of our Class A stock from the call options.

The warrants were settled on various dates in fiscal 2014 resulting in the issuance of 11.7 million shares of Class A stock.

2016 Notes

The 2016 Notes carry an interest rate at issuance of 6.60%, with an interest step up feature dependent on their credit rating. On June 7, 2012, Moody's upgraded the credit rating of these notes from "Ba1" to "Baa3." This upgrade decreased the interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 6.85% to 6.60%, effective beginning with the six-month interest payment due October 1, 2012.

On February 11, 2013, S&P upgraded the credit rating of the 2016 Notes from "BBB-" to "BBB." This upgrade did not impact the interest rate on the 2016 Notes.

2019 / 2024 / 2034 / 2044 Notes

In August 2014, we issued senior unsecured notes with an aggregate principal amount of $3,250 million, consisting of $1,000 million due August 2019, $1,250 million due August 2024, $500 million due August 2034, and $500 million due August 2044. The 2019 Notes, 2024 Notes, 2034 Notes, and 2044 Notes carry interest rates of 2.65%, 3.95%, 4.88% and 5.15%, respectively, with interest payments due semi-annually on August 15 and February 15. After the original issue discounts of $7 million, we received net proceeds of $3,243 million. In addition, we incurred offering expenses of $27 million.

2022 Notes

In June 2012, we issued $1.0 billion of senior unsecured notes, which will mature in June 2022. The 2022 Notes carry a 4.50% interest rate, with interest payments due semi-annually on June 15 and December 15. After the original issue discount of $5 million, based on an issue price of 99.458%, we received net proceeds of $995 million. In addition, we incurred offering expenses of $9 million.

Term Loan Facility

In August 2014, we borrowed under our unsecured term loan facility, which provided for total term loans in an aggregate principal amount of $2,300 million, consisting of a $1,202 million3-year tranche facility, a $546 million5-year tranche A facility, and a $552 million5-year tranche B facility. The principal of the 3-year tranche facility and the 5-year tranche A facility each amortize at 2.5% per quarter. In addition, we incurred term loan issuance costs of approximately $11 million.

2015 / 2020 / 2032 Notes

In August 2014 and in connection with our acquisition of Hillshire Brands, we assumed $840 million of Hillshire Brands' debt, which had an estimated fair value of approximately $868 million as of the acquisition date. We recorded the assumed debt at fair value. This fair value adjustment will be amortized as a reduction of interest expense in future periods. The debt assumed is mainly comprised of senior unsecured notes which consist of $400 million due September 2015, $278 million due September 2020, and $152 million due November 2032. The 2015 Notes, 2020 Notes, and the 2032 Notes carry interest rates of 2.75%, 4.10%, and 6.13%, respectively.

GO Zone Tax-Exempt Bonds

In October 2008, Dynamic Fuels received $100 million in proceeds from the sale of Gulf Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds made available by the federal government to the regions affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. As further described in Note 3: Acquisitions and Dispositions, we sold our interest in Dynamic Fuels in fiscal 2014, which resulted in the deconsolidation of its assets and liabilities, including these bonds.

Debt Covenants

Our revolving credit facility contains affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: create liens and encumbrances; incur debt; merge, dissolve, liquidate or consolidate; make acquisitions and investments; dispose of or transfer assets; change the nature of our business; engage in certain transactions with affiliates; and enter into hedging transactions, in each case, subject to certain qualifications and exceptions. In addition, we are required to maintain minimum interest expense coverage and maximum debt to capitalization ratios.

Our senior notes and term loans also contain affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: create liens; engage in certain sale/leaseback transactions; and engage in certain consolidations, mergers and sales of assets.

We were in compliance with all debt covenants at September 27, 2014.

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NOTE 8: EQUITY

Capital Stock

We have two classes of capital stock, Class A stock, $0.10 par value and Class B Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class B stock). Holders of Class B stock may convert such stock into Class A stock on a share-for-share basis. Holders of Class B stock are entitled to 10 votes per share, while holders of Class A stock are entitled to one vote per share on matters submitted to shareholders for approval. As of September 27, 2014, Tyson Limited Partnership (the TLP) owned 99.985% of the outstanding shares of Class B stock and the TLP and members of the Tyson family owned, in the aggregate, 1.78% of the outstanding shares of Class A stock, giving them, collectively, control of approximately 70.14% of the total voting power of the outstanding voting stock.

The Class B stock is considered a participating security requiring the use of the two-class method for the computation of basic earnings per share. The two-class computation method for each period reflects the cash dividends paid for each class of stock, plus the amount of allocated undistributed earnings (losses) computed using the participation percentage, which reflects the dividend rights of each class of stock. Basic earnings per share were computed using the two-class method for all periods presented. The shares of Class B stock are considered to be participating convertible securities since the shares of Class B stock are convertible on a share-for-share basis into shares of Class A stock. Diluted earnings per share were computed assuming the conversion of the Class B shares into Class A shares as of the beginning of each period.

Dividends

Cash dividends cannot be paid to holders of Class B stock unless they are simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. The per share amount of the cash dividend paid to holders of Class B stock cannot exceed 90% of the cash dividend simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. We pay quarterly cash dividends to Class A and Class B shareholders. We paid Class A dividends per share of $0.30 and Class B dividends per share of $0.27 in fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively. Fiscal 2013 included a special dividend of $0.10 per share for Class A stock and $0.09 per share for Class B. We paid Class A dividends per share of $0.16 and Class B dividends per share of $0.144 in fiscal 2012. On November 13, 2014, the Board of Directors increased the quarterly dividend previously declared on July 30, 2014, to $0.10 per share on our Class A stock and $0.09 per share on our Class B stock. The increased quarterly dividend is payable on December 15, 2014, to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 1, 2014.

Share Repurchases

On January 30, 2014, our Board of Directors approved an increase of 25 million shares authorized for repurchase under our share repurchase program. As of September 27, 2014, 32.1 million shares remained available for repurchase. The share repurchase program has no fixed or scheduled termination date and the timing and extent to which we repurchase shares will depend upon, among other things, our working capital needs, market conditions, liquidity targets, our debt obligations and regulatory requirements. In addition to the share repurchase program, we purchase shares on the open market to fund certain obligations under our equity compensation plans.

A summary of cumulative share repurchases of our Class A Stock is as follows:

							in millions
	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013			September 29, 2012
	Shares	Dollars		Shares	Dollars		Shares	Dollars
Shares repurchased:
Under share repurchase program	7.1	$	250	21.1	$	550	12.5	$	230
To fund certain obligations under equity compensation plans	1.2	45		2.8	64		1.8	34
Total share repurchases	8.3	$	295	23.9	$	614	14.3	$	264

Share Issuance

In fiscal 2014, we issued 23.8 million shares of our Class A stock, to provide funding for the Hillshire Brands acquisition. Total proceeds, net of underwriting discounts and other offering related fees and expenses were $873 million.

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Tangible Equity Units

In July 2014, we completed the public issuance of 30 million, 4.75% tangible equity units (TEUs). Total proceeds, net of underwriting discounts and other expenses, were $1,454 million. Each TEU, which has a stated amount of $50, is comprised of a prepaid stock purchase contract and a senior amortizing note due July 15, 2017. We allocated the proceeds from the issuance of the TEUs to equity and debt based on the relative fair values of the respective components of each TEU. The fair value of the prepaid stock purchase contracts, which was $1,295 million, is recorded in Capital in Excess of Par Value, net of issuance costs. The fair value of the senior amortizing notes, which was $205 million, is recorded in debt, of which $65 million is current. Issuance costs associated with the TEU debt was recorded as deferred financing costs in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Other Assets and is amortized over the term of the instrument to July 15, 2017.

The aggregate values assigned upon issuance of each component of the TEU's, based on the relative fair value of the respective components of each TEU, were as follows:

				in millions, except price per TEU
	Equity Component			Debt Component			Total
Price per TEU	$	43.17		$	6.83		$	50.00
Gross Proceeds	1,295			205			1,500
Issuance cost	(40		)	(6		)	(46		)
Net proceeds	$	1,255		$	199		$	1,454

Each senior amortizing note has an initial principal amount of $6.83 and bears interest at 1.5% per annum. On each January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15, commencing on October 15, 2014, we will pay equal quarterly cash installments of $0.59 per amortizing note (except for the October 15, 2014 installment payment, which will be $0.46 per amortizing note), which cash payment in the aggregate (principal and interest) is equivalent to 4.75% per year with respect to the $50 stated amount per TEU. Each installment will constitute a payment of interest and partial repayment of principal. Unless settled earlier at the holder's or the Company's option, each purchase contract will automatically settle on July 15, 2017, subject to postponement in certain limited circumstances. We will deliver between a minimum of 31.7 million shares and a maximum of 39.7 million shares of our Class A stock, subject to adjustment, based upon the Applicable Market Value (as defined below) of our Class A stock as described below:

• If the Applicable Market Value is equal to or greater than the conversion price of $47.25 per share, we will deliver 1.0582 shares of Class A stock per purchase contract, or a minimum of 31.7 million Class A shares.

• If the Applicable Market Value is greater than the reference price of $37.80 but less than the conversion price of $47.25 per share, we will deliver a number of shares per purchase contract equal to $50, divided by the Applicable Market Value.

• If the Applicable Market Value is less than or equal to the reference price of $37.80 per share, we will deliver 1.3228 shares of Class A stock per purchase contract, or a maximum of 39.7 million Class A shares.

The "Applicable Market Value" means the average of the closing prices of our Class A stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding July 15, 2017.

The TEUs have a dilutive effect on our earnings per share. The 31.7 million minimum shares to be issued are included in the calculation of Class A Basic weighted average shares. The 8 million share difference between the minimum shares and the 39.7 million maximum shares are potentially dilutive securities, and accordingly, are included in our diluted earnings per share on a pro rata basis to the extent the Applicable Market Value is higher than the reference price but is less than the conversion price.

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NOTE 9: INCOME TAXES

Detail of the provision for income taxes from continuing operations consists of the following:

							in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Federal	$	325		$	341		$	310
State	67			38			22
Foreign	4			30			19
	$	396		$	409		$	351
Current	$	501		$	421		$	211
Deferred	(105		)	(12		)	140
	$	396		$	409		$	351

The reasons for the difference between the statutory federal income tax rate and our effective income tax rate from continuing operations are as follows:

	2014		2013		2012
Federal income tax rate	35.0	%	35.0	%	35.0	%
State income taxes	2.8		2.4		1.5
Unrecognized tax benefits, net	(4.7	)	(0.2	)	0.6
Domestic production deduction	(4.0	)	(3.2	)	(1.8	)
Foreign rate differences and valuation allowances	2.8		0.3		1.8
Other	(0.3	)	(1.7	)	(0.7	)
	31.6	%	32.6	%	36.4	%

During fiscal 2014, the domestic production deduction and the decrease in unrecognized tax benefits decreased tax expense by $50 million and $58 million, respectively.

During fiscal 2013, the domestic production deduction and estimated general business credits decreased tax expense by $40 million and $17 million, respectively.

During fiscal 2012, foreign valuation allowances increased tax expense by $10 million, and the domestic production deduction decreased tax expense by $17 million.

Approximately $18 million of loss and $53 million and $2 million of income from continuing operations before income taxes for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were from operations based in countries other than the United States.

We recognize deferred income taxes for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.

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The tax effects of major items recorded as deferred tax assets and liabilities as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, are as follows:

									in millions
	2014					2013
	Deferred Tax					Deferred Tax
	Assets			Liabilities		Assets			Liabilities
Property, plant and equipment	$	—		$	732	$	—		$	525
Suspended taxes from conversion to accrual method	—			66		—			71
Intangible assets	—			2,031		—			29
Inventory	24			121		8			110
Accrued expenses	474			—		209			—
Net operating loss and other carryforwards	96			—		77			—
Insurance reserves	21			—		22			—
Other	80			82		60			98
	$	695		$	3,032	$	376		$	833
Valuation allowance	$	(51	)			$	(77	)
Net deferred tax liability				$	2,388				$	534

We record deferred tax amounts in Other current assets, Other Assets, Other current liabilities and Deferred Income Taxes in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The deferred tax liability for suspended taxes from conversion to accrual method represents the 1987 change from the cash to accrual method of accounting and will be recognized by 2027.

The deferred tax liability for intangible assets increased over prior year due to the acquisition of Hillshire Brands.

At September 27, 2014, our gross state tax net operating loss carryforwards approximated $1.3 billion and expire in fiscal years 2015 through 2034. Gross foreign net operating loss carryforwards approximated $146 million, of which $50 million expire in fiscal years 2017 through 2024, and the remainder has no expiration. We also have tax credit carryforwards of approximately $25 million that expire in fiscal years 2015 through 2028.

We have accumulated undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries aggregating approximately $403 million and $351 million at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively. During fiscal 2014, the Company changed its permanent reinvestment assertion with respect to $183 million of earnings related to its poultry operations in Mexico and Brazil due to the planned sale of those operations and repatriation of the related proceeds, and as a result we recorded expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $17 million. With respect to the remaining $220 million of undistributed earnings for all other foreign subsidiaries at September 27, 2014, these earnings are expected to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States. If those earnings were distributed in the form of dividends or otherwise, we could be subject to federal income taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits), state income taxes and withholding taxes payable to the various foreign countries. It is not currently practicable to estimate the tax liability that might be payable on the repatriation of these foreign earnings.

The following table summarizes the activity related to our gross unrecognized tax benefits at September 27, 2014, September 28, 2013, and September 29, 2012:

							in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Balance as of the beginning of the year	$	175		$	168		$	174
Increases related to current year tax positions	11			3			3
Increases related to prior year tax positions	17			15			5
Increases related to Hillshire Brands balances	136			—			—
Reductions related to prior year tax positions	(20		)	(6		)	(10		)
Reductions related to settlements	(1		)	(2		)	(1		)
Reductions related to expirations of statute of limitations	(46		)	(3		)	(3		)
Balance as of the end of the year	$	272		$	175		$	168

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The amount of unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, that would impact our effective tax rate was $241 million and $149 million at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively. We classify interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, before tax benefits, we had $54 million and $63 million, respectively, of accrued interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits.

As of September 27, 2014, we are subject to income tax examinations for U.S. federal income taxes for fiscal years 2011 through 2013. We are also subject to income tax examinations by major state and foreign jurisdictions for fiscal years 2005 through 2013 and 2002 through 2013, respectively. We estimate that during the next twelve months it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits could decrease by as much as $30 million primarily due to expiration of statutes in various jurisdictions.

NOTE 10: OTHER INCOME AND CHARGES

During fiscal 2014, we recorded $11 million of equity earnings in joint ventures, $3 million in net foreign currency exchange gains, $6 million of other than temporary impairment related to an available-for-sale security and $60 million of costs associated with bridge financing facilities for the Hillshire Brands acquisition, which were recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net.

During fiscal 2013, we recorded a $19 million currency translation adjustment gain recognized in conjunction with the receipt of proceeds constituting the final resolution of our investment in Canada, which was recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net.

During fiscal 2012, we recorded $16 million of equity earnings in joint ventures and $4 million in net foreign currency exchange gains, which were recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net.

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NOTE 11: EARNINGS PER SHARE

The earnings and weighted average common shares used in the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:

	in millions, except per share data
	2014			2013		2012
Numerator:
Income from continuing operations	$	856		$	848	$	614
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(8		)	—		(7		)
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	864			848		621
Less dividends declared:
Class A	94			87		47
Class B	21			19		10
Undistributed earnings	$	749		$	742	$	564
Class A undistributed earnings	$	612		$	606	$	464
Class B undistributed earnings	137			136		100
Total undistributed earnings	$	749		$	742	$	564
Denominator:
Denominator for basic earnings per share:
Class A weighted average shares	284			282		293
Class B weighted average shares, and shares under if-converted method for diluted earnings per share	70			70		70
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options and restricted stock	5			5		4
Tangible Equity Units	1			—		—
Convertible 2013 Notes	—			7		3
Warrants	4			3		—
Denominator for diluted earnings per share – adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions	364			367		370
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	2.48		$	2.46	$	1.75
Class B Basic	$	2.26		$	2.22	$	1.57
Diluted	$	2.37		$	2.31	$	1.68
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	2.48		$	2.26	$	1.64
Class B Basic	$	2.26		$	2.04	$	1.48
Diluted	$	2.37		$	2.12	$	1.58

We had approximately 4 million of our stock-based compensation shares that were antidilutive for fiscal 2014, no stock-based compensation shares that were antidilutive for fiscal 2013 and approximately 4 million of our stock-based compensation shares that were antidilutive for fiscal 2012. These shares were not included in the dilutive earnings per share calculation.

We have two classes of capital stock, Class A stock and Class B stock. Cash dividends cannot be paid to holders of Class B stock unless they are simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. The per share amount of cash dividends paid to holders of Class B stock cannot exceed 90% of the cash dividends paid to holders of Class A stock.

We allocate undistributed earnings based upon a 1 to 0.9 ratio per share to Class A stock and Class B stock, respectively. We allocate undistributed earnings based on this ratio due to historical dividend patterns, voting control of Class B shareholders and contractual limitations of dividends to Class B stock.

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NOTE 12: DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Our business operations give rise to certain market risk exposures mostly due to changes in commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. We manage a portion of these risks through the use of derivative financial instruments, primarily futures and options, to reduce our exposure to commodity price risk, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk. Forwards on various commodities, including grains, livestock and energy, are primarily entered into to manage the price risk associated with forecasted purchases of these inputs used in our production processes. Foreign exchange forward contracts are entered into to manage the fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, primarily as a result of certain receivable and payable balances. We also periodically utilize interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risk associated with our variable-rate borrowings.

Our risk management programs are periodically reviewed by our Board of Directors’ Audit Committee. These programs are monitored by senior management and may be revised as market conditions dictate. Our current risk management programs utilize industry-standard models that take into account the implicit cost of hedging. Risks associated with our market risks and those created by derivative instruments and the fair values are strictly monitored, using Value-at-Risk and stress tests. Credit risks associated with our derivative contracts are not significant as we minimize counterparty concentrations, utilize margin accounts or letters of credit, and deal with credit-worthy counterparties. Additionally, our derivative contracts are mostly short-term in duration and we generally do not make use of credit-risk-related contingent features. No significant concentrations of credit risk existed at September 27, 2014.

We recognize all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the exception of normal purchases and normal sales expected to result in physical delivery. The accounting for changes in the fair value (i.e., gains or losses) of a derivative instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship and the type of hedging relationship. For those derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments, we designate the hedging instrument based upon the exposure being hedged (i.e., cash flow hedge or fair value hedge). We qualify, or designate, a derivative financial instrument as a hedge when contract terms closely mirror those of the hedged item, providing a high degree of risk reduction and correlation. If a derivative instrument is accounted for as a hedge, depending on the nature of the hedge, changes in the fair value of the instrument either will be offset against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments through earnings, or be recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of an instrument’s change in fair value is recognized in earnings immediately. We designate certain forward contracts as follows:

• Cash Flow Hedges – include certain commodity forward and option contracts of forecasted purchases (i.e., grains) and certain foreign exchange forward contracts.

• Fair Value Hedges – include certain commodity forward contracts of firm commitments (i.e., livestock).

Cash flow hedges

Derivative instruments, such as futures and options, are designated as hedges against changes in the amount of future cash flows related to procurement of certain commodities utilized in our production processes. We do not purchase forward and option commodity contracts in excess of our physical consumption requirements and generally do not hedge forecasted transactions beyond 18 months. The objective of these hedges is to reduce the variability of cash flows associated with the forecasted purchase of those commodities. For the derivative instruments we designate and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of OCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Gains and losses representing hedge ineffectiveness are recognized in earnings in the current period. Ineffectiveness related to our cash flow hedges was not significant during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

We had the following aggregated notional values of outstanding forward and option contracts accounted for as cash flow hedges:

		in millions, except soy meal tons
	Metric	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Corn	Bushels	—		5
Soy Meal	Tons	2,300		96,800
Foreign Currency	United States dollar	$	1	$	60

As of September 27, 2014, the net amounts expected to be reclassified into earnings within the next 12 months are pretax losses of $4 million related to grain. During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, we did not reclassify significant pretax gains/losses into earnings as a result of the discontinuance of cash flow hedges due to the probability the original forecasted transaction would not occur by the end of the originally specified time period or within the additional period of time allowed by generally accepted accounting principles.

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The following table sets forth the pretax impact of cash flow hedge derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Income:

														in millions
	Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives									Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	Gain/(Loss) Reclassified from OCI to Earnings
	2014			2013			2012				2014			2013			2012
Cash Flow Hedge – Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	(7	)	$	(29	)	$	24		Cost of Sales	$	(10	)	$	(5	)	$	(16	)
Foreign exchange contracts	(1		)	(2		)	(8		)	Other Income/Expense	—			(4		)	4
Total	$	(8	)	$	(31	)	$	16			$	(10	)	$	(9	)	$	(12	)

Fair value hedges

We designate certain futures contracts as fair value hedges of firm commitments to purchase livestock for slaughter. Our objective of these hedges is to minimize the risk of changes in fair value created by fluctuations in commodity prices associated with fixed price livestock firm commitments. We had the following aggregated notional values of outstanding forward contracts entered into to hedge firm commitments which are accounted for as a fair value hedge:

			in millions
	Metric	September 27, 2014	September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Live Cattle	Pounds	427	209
Lean Hogs	Pounds	329	384

For these derivative instruments we designate and qualify as a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative, as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk, are recognized in earnings in the same period. We include the gain or loss on the hedged items (i.e., livestock purchase firm commitments) in the same line item, Cost of Sales, as the offsetting gain or loss on the related livestock forward position.

		in millions
	Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	2014			2013			2012
Gain/(Loss) on forwards	Cost of Sales	$	(154	)	$	21		$	47
Gain/(Loss) on purchase contract	Cost of Sales	154			(21		)	(47		)

Ineffectiveness related to our fair value hedges was not significant during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Undesignated positions

In addition to our designated positions, we also hold forward and option contracts for which we do not apply hedge accounting. These include certain derivative instruments related to commodities price risk, including grains, livestock, energy and foreign currency risk. We mark these positions to fair value through earnings at each reporting date. We generally do not enter into undesignated positions beyond 18 months.

The objective of our undesignated grains, livestock and energy commodity positions is to reduce the variability of cash flows associated with the forecasted purchase of certain grains, energy and livestock inputs to our production processes. We also enter into certain forward sales of boxed beef and boxed pork and forward purchases of cattle and hogs at fixed prices. The fixed price sales contracts lock in the proceeds from a future sale and the fixed cattle and hog purchases lock in the cost. However, the cost of the livestock and the related boxed beef and boxed pork market prices at the time of the sale or purchase could vary from this fixed price. As we enter into fixed forward sales of boxed beef and boxed pork and forward purchases of cattle and hogs, we also enter into the appropriate number of livestock options and futures positions to mitigate a portion of this risk. Changes in market value of the open livestock options and futures positions are marked to market and reported in earnings at each reporting date, even though the economic impact of our fixed prices being above or below the market price is only realized at the time of sale or purchase. These positions generally do not qualify for hedge treatment due to location basis differences between the commodity exchanges and the actual locations when we purchase the commodities.

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We have a foreign currency cash flow hedging program to hedge portions of forecasted transactions denominated in foreign currencies, primarily with forward and option contracts, to protect against the reduction in value of forecasted foreign currency cash flows. Our undesignated foreign currency positions generally would qualify for cash flow hedge accounting. However, to reduce earnings volatility, we normally will not elect hedge accounting treatment when the position provides an offset to the underlying related transaction that impacts current earnings.

We had the following aggregate outstanding notional values related to our undesignated positions:

		in millions, except soy meal tons
	Metric	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Corn	Bushels	—		69
Soy Meal	Tons	195,800		204,600
Soy Oil	Pounds	3		11
Live Cattle	Pounds	22		60
Lean Hogs	Pounds	22		159
Foreign Currency	United States dollars	$	108	$	95

The following table sets forth the pretax impact of the undesignated derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Income:

		in millions
	Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Earnings
		2014			2013			2012
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	Sales	$	75		$	(10	)	$	(10	)
Commodity contracts	Cost of Sales	(136		)	(24		)	51
Foreign exchange contracts	Other Income/Expense	—			2			—
Total		$	(61	)	$	(32	)	$	41

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The following table sets forth the fair value of all derivative instruments outstanding in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	in millions
	Fair Value
	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Derivative Assets:
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	17	$	4
Foreign exchange contracts	—		1
Total derivative assets – designated	17		5
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	42		25
Foreign exchange contracts	—		2
Total derivative assets – not designated	42		27
Total derivative assets	$	59	$	32
Derivative Liabilities:
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	78	$	29
Foreign exchange contracts	—		—
Total derivative liabilities – designated	78		29
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	80		72
Foreign exchange contracts	2		1
Total derivative liabilities – not designated	82		73
Total derivative liabilities	$	160	$	102

Our derivative assets and liabilities are presented in our Consolidated Balance Sheets on a net basis. We net derivative assets and liabilities, including cash collateral when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the counterparty to a derivative contract and us. See Note 13: Fair Value Measurements for a reconciliation to amounts reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Other current assets and Other current liabilities.

NOTE 13: FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The fair value hierarchy contains three levels as follows:

Level 1 — Unadjusted quoted prices available in active markets for the identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.

Level 2 — Other observable inputs available at the measurement date, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, either directly or indirectly, including:

• Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets;

• Quoted prices for identical or similar assets in non-active markets;

• Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and

• Inputs derived principally from or corroborated by other observable market data.

Level 3 — Unobservable inputs that cannot be corroborated by observable market data and reflect the use of significant management judgment. These values are generally determined using pricing models for which the assumptions utilize management’s estimates of market participant assumptions.

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Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The fair value hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. In instances where the inputs used to measure fair value fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the fair value measurement has been determined based on the lowest level input significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Our assessment of the significance of a particular item to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, including the consideration of inputs specific to the asset or liability.

The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our financial assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis according to the valuation techniques we used to determine their fair values:

							in millions
September 27, 2014	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Netting (a)			Total
Assets:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	59	$	—	$	(50	)	$	9
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		—		—		—			—
Available for Sale Securities:
Current	—		1		—		—			1
Non-current	1		24		67		—			92
Deferred Compensation Assets	15		218		—		—			233
Total Assets	$	16	$	302	$	67	$	(50	)	$	335
Liabilities:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	158	$	—	$	(148	)	$	10
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		2		—		—			2
Total Liabilities	$	—	$	160	$	—	$	(148	)	$	12
September 28, 2013	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Netting (a)			Total
Assets:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	29	$	—	$	(21	)	$	8
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		3		—		(1		)	2
Available for Sale Securities:
Current	—		1		—		—			1
Non-current	4		24		65		—			93
Deferred Compensation Assets	23		191		—		—			214
Total Assets	$	27	$	248	$	65	$	(22	)	$	318
Liabilities:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	101	$	—	$	(101	)	$	—
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		1		—		—			1
Total Liabilities	$	—	$	102	$	—	$	(101	)	$	1

(a) Our derivative assets and liabilities are presented in our Consolidated Balance Sheets on a net basis. We net derivative assets and liabilities, including cash collateral, when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the counterparty to a derivative contract and us. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, we had posted with various counterparties $98 million and $79 million, respectively, of cash collateral related to our commodity derivatives and held no cash collateral.

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The following table provides a reconciliation between the beginning and ending balance of debt securities measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the table above that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):

				in millions
	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013
Balance at beginning of year	$	65		$	86
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses):
Included in earnings	—			1
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	—			—
Purchases	25			19
Issuances	—			—
Settlements	(23		)	(41		)
Balance at end of year	$	67		$	65
Total gains (losses) for the periods included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at end of year	$	—		$	—

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument:

Derivative Assets and Liabilities: Our commodities and foreign exchange forward contracts primarily include exchange-traded and over-the-counter contracts which are further described in Note 12: Derivative Financial Instruments. We record our commodity derivatives at fair value using quoted market prices adjusted for credit and non-performance risk and internal models that use as their basis readily observable market inputs including current and forward commodity market prices. Our foreign exchange forward contracts are recorded at fair value based on quoted prices and spot and forward currency prices adjusted for credit and non-performance risk. We classify these instruments in Level 2 when quoted market prices can be corroborated utilizing observable current and forward commodity market prices on active exchanges or observable market transactions of spot currency rates and forward currency prices.

Available for Sale Securities: Our investments in marketable debt securities are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at fair value based on pricing models and quoted market prices adjusted for credit and non-performance risk. Short-term investments with maturities of less than 12 months are included in Other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and primarily include certificates of deposit and commercial paper. All other marketable debt securities are included in Other Assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and have maturities ranging up to 35 years. We classify our investments in U.S. government, U.S. agency, certificates of deposit and commercial paper debt securities as Level 2 as fair value is generally estimated using discounted cash flow models that are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including time value and yield curve as well as other readily available relevant economic measures. We classify certain corporate, asset-backed and other debt securities as Level 3 as there is limited activity or less observable inputs into valuation models, including current interest rates and estimated prepayment, default and recovery rates on the underlying portfolio or structured investment vehicle. Significant changes to assumptions or unobservable inputs in the valuation of our Level 3 instruments would not have a significant impact to our consolidated financial statements.

									in millions
	September 27, 2014						September 28, 2013
	Amortized Cost Basis		Fair Value		Unrealized Gain/(Loss)		Amortized Cost Basis		Fair Value		Unrealized Gain/(Loss)
Available for Sale Securities:
Debt Securities:
U.S. Treasury and Agency	$	25	$	25	$	—	$	25	$	25	$	—
Corporate and Asset-Backed	65		67		2		64		65		1
Equity Securities:
Common Stock and Warrants (a)	1		1		—		9		4		(5		)

(a) At September 27, 2014, the amortized cost basis for Equity Securities had been reduced by accumulated other than temporary impairment of approximately $2 million.

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Unrealized holding gains (losses), net of tax, are excluded from earnings and reported in OCI until the security is settled or sold. On a quarterly basis, we evaluate whether losses related to our available-for-sale securities are temporary in nature. Losses on equity securities are recognized in earnings if the decline in value is judged to be other than temporary. If losses related to our debt securities are determined to be other than temporary, the loss would be recognized in earnings if we intend, or more likely than not will be required, to sell the security prior to recovery. For debt securities in which we have the intent and ability to hold until maturity, losses determined to be other than temporary would remain in OCI, other than expected credit losses which are recognized in earnings. We consider many factors in determining whether a loss is temporary, including the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been below cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer and our ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery. We recognized $6 million of other than temporary impairment for the year ended September 27, 2014, which is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net. No other than temporary losses were deferred in OCI as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013.

Deferred Compensation Assets: We maintain non-qualified deferred compensation plans for certain executives and other highly compensated employees. Investments are generally maintained within a trust and include money market funds, mutual funds and life insurance policies. The cash surrender value of the life insurance policies is invested primarily in mutual funds. The investments are recorded at fair value based on quoted market prices and are included in Other Assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We classify the investments which have observable market prices in active markets in Level 1 as these are generally publicly-traded mutual funds. The remaining deferred compensation assets are classified in Level 2, as fair value can be corroborated based on observable market data. Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on deferred compensation are included in earnings.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

In addition to assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, we record assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Generally, assets are recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as a result of impairment charges.

In fiscal 2014, we recorded a $52 million impairment charge related to the closure of three Prepared Foods plants, which is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Cost of Sales and in the Prepared Foods segment. Our valuation of these assets was primarily based on discounted cash flow models which included unobservable Level 3 inputs.

On July 28, 2014, we announced our plan to sell our Brazil operation. As a result, we recorded a $39 million charge to impair its assets to its fair value of $144 million. The impairment charge was recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Cost of Sales and in the International segment. The fair value used to determine the impairment was based upon the contracted sales price.

Other Financial Instruments

Fair value of our debt is principally estimated using Level 2 inputs based on quoted prices for those or similar instruments. Fair value and carrying value for our debt are as follows:

					in millions
	September 27, 2014				September 28, 2013
	Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value
Total Debt	$	8,347	$	8,178	$	2,541	$	2,408

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Our financial instruments exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Our cash equivalents are in high quality securities placed with major banks and financial institutions. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to receivables are limited due to the large number of customers and their dispersion across geographic areas. We perform periodic credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and generally do not require collateral. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, 18.6% and 17.5%, respectively, of our net accounts receivable balance was due from Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. No other single customer or customer group represented greater than 10% of net accounts receivable.

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NOTE 14: STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

We issue shares under our stock-based compensation plans by issuing Class A stock from treasury. The total number of shares available for future grant under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan (Incentive Plan) was 30,428,186 at September 27, 2014.

Stock Options

Shareholders approved the Incentive Plan in January 2001. The Incentive Plan is administered by the Compensation and Leadership Development Committee of the Board of Directors (Compensation Committee). The Incentive Plan includes provisions for granting incentive stock options for shares of Class A stock at a price not less than the fair value at the date of grant. Nonqualified stock options may be granted at a price equal to or more than the fair value of Class A stock on the date the option is granted. Stock options under the Incentive Plan generally become exercisable ratably over three years from the date of grant and must be exercised within 10 years from the date of grant. Our policy is to recognize compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.

	Shares Under Option		Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
Outstanding, September 28, 2013	13,912,168		$	16.59
Exercised	(4,168,070	)	16.13
Canceled	(270,989	)	23.79
Granted	4,251,300		31.82
Outstanding, September 27, 2014	13,724,409		$	21.30	7.0	$	226
Exercisable, September 27, 2014	6,866,204		$	16.35	5.3	$	147

We generally grant stock options once a year. The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $10.83, $6.44 and $6.99, respectively. The fair value of each option grant is established on the date of grant using a binomial lattice method. We use historical volatility for a period of time comparable to the expected life of the option to determine volatility assumptions. Expected life is calculated based on the contractual term of each grant and takes into account the historical exercise and termination behavior of participants. Risk-free interest rates are based on the five-year Treasury bond rate. Assumptions as of the grant date used in the fair value calculation of each year’s grants are outlined in the following table.

	2014		2013		2012
Expected life (in years)	6.0		6.2		6.7
Risk-free interest rate	1.3	%	0.7	%	0.9	%
Expected volatility	36.0	%	36.8	%	36.6	%
Expected dividend yield	1.0	%	1.0	%	1.0	%

We recognized stock-based compensation expense related to stock options, net of income taxes, of $20 million, $14 million and $15 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The related tax benefit for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $13 million, $9 million and $10 million, respectively. We had 4.8 million, 3.9 million and 3.4 million options vest in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, with a grant date fair value of $30 million, $22 million and $17 million, respectively.

In fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, we received cash of $67 million, $123 million and $34 million, respectively, for the exercise of stock options. Shares are issued from treasury for stock option exercises. The related tax benefit realized from stock options exercised during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, was $33 million, $35 million and $7 million, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, was $87 million, $90 million and $21 million, respectively. Cash flows resulting from tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost of those options (excess tax deductions) are classified as financing cash flows. We realized $24 million, $18 million and $3 million related to excess tax deductions during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

As of September 27, 2014, we had $35 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock option plans that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.4 years.

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Restricted Stock

We issue restricted stock at the market value as of the date of grant, with restrictions expiring over periods through fiscal 2017. Unearned compensation is recognized over the vesting period for the particular grant using a straight-line method.

	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
Nonvested, September 28, 2013	1,138,699		$	16.86
Granted	423,453		31.98
Dividends	9,225		37.14
Vested	(584,360	)	17.66
Forfeited	(48,073	)	20.83
Nonvested, September 27, 2014	938,944		$	23.18	1.2	$	35

As of September 27, 2014, we had $10 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock awards that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.2 years.

We recognized stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock, net of income taxes, of $6 million, $5 million and $7 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The related tax benefit for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $4 million, $3 million and $4 million, respectively. We had 0.6 million, 1.4 million and 1.2 million restricted stock awards vest in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, with a grant date fair value of $11 million, $20 million and $17 million, respectively.

Performance-Based Shares

We award performance-based shares of our Class A stock to certain senior executives. These awards are typically granted once a year. Performance-based shares vest based upon the passage of time and the achievement of performance or market performance criteria, ranging from 0% to 200%, as determined by the Compensation Committee prior to the date of the award. Vesting periods for these awards are generally three years. We review progress toward the attainment of the performance criteria each quarter during the vesting period. When it is probable the minimum performance criteria for an award will be achieved, we begin recognizing the expense equal to the proportionate share of the total fair value of the Class A stock price on the grant date. The total expense recognized over the duration of performance awards will equal the Class A stock price on the date of grant multiplied by the number of shares ultimately awarded based on the level of attainment of the performance criteria. For grants with market performance criteria, the total expense recognized over the duration of the award will equal the fair value as determined on the grant date, regardless if the market performance criteria is met.

The following table summarizes the performance-based shares at the maximum award amounts based upon the respective performance share agreements. Actual shares that will vest depend on the level of attainment of the performance-based criteria.

	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)
Nonvested, September 28, 2013	1,001,310		$	20.99
Granted	585,418		35.66
Vested	(42,282	)	16.26
Forfeited	(140,843	)	23.68
Nonvested, September 27, 2014	1,403,603		$	26.77	1.5

We recognized stock-based compensation expense related to performance shares, net of income taxes, of $3.8 million, $2.4 million and $0.2 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The related tax benefit for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $2.5 million, $1.5 million and $0.1 million, respectively. As of September 27, 2014, we had $9 million of total unrecognized compensation based upon our progress toward the attainment of criteria related to performance-based share awards that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.5 years.

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NOTE 15: PENSIONS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

At September 27, 2014, we had nine defined benefit pension plans consisting of six funded qualified plans and three unfunded non-qualified plans. In regards to our qualified plans, five are frozen and noncontributory. The benefits provided under these plans are based on a formula using years of service and either a specified benefit rate or compensation level. The non-qualified defined benefit plans are for certain contracted officers and use a formula based on years of service and final average salary. We also have other postretirement benefit plans for which substantially all of our employees may receive benefits if they satisfy applicable eligibility criteria. The postretirement healthcare plans are contributory with participants’ contributions adjusted when deemed necessary.

We have defined contribution retirement programs for various groups of employees. We recognized expenses of $53 million, $50 million and $47 million in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

We use a fiscal year end measurement date for our defined benefit plans and other postretirement plans. We recognize the effect of actuarial gains and losses into earnings immediately for other postretirement plans rather than amortizing the effect over future periods.

Other postretirement benefits include postretirement medical costs and life insurance.

Benefit Obligations and Funded Status

The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the plans’ benefit obligations, assets and funded status at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

													in millions
	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	86		$	101		$	85		$	81		$	71		$	64
Service cost	1			—			7			5			2			2
Interest cost	10			4			5			3			3			2
Plan participants’ contributions	—			—			—			—			1			1
Actuarial (gain)/loss	(37		)	(9		)	15			(2		)	(8		)	7
Benefits paid	(11		)	(10		)	(3		)	(2		)	(6		)	(5		)
Business acquisition	1,800			—			73			—			100			—
Benefit obligation at end of year	1,849			86			182			85			163			71
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	85			86			—			—			—			—
Actual return on plan assets	(36		)	3			—			—			—			—
Employer contributions	6			6			3			2			5			4
Plan participants’ contributions	—			—			—			—			1			1
Benefits paid	(11		)	(10		)	(3		)	(2		)	(6		)	(5		)
Business acquisition	1,603			—			3			—			—			—
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	1,647			85			3			—			—			—
Funded status	$	(202	)	$	(1	)	$	(179	)	$	(85	)	$	(163	)	$	(71	)

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Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:

													in millions
	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
Other current liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	(5	)	$	—		$	(7	)	$	—
Other liabilities	(202		)	(1		)	(174		)	(85		)	(156		)	(71		)
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss:
Actuarial loss	39			30			36			23			—			—
Prior service cost/(credit)	—			—			—			—			(2		)	(3		)
Net amount recognized	$	(163	)	$	29		$	(143	)	$	(62	)	$	(165	)	$	(74	)

At September 27, 2014, seven pension plans had an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets. At September 28, 2013, three pension plans had an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets. Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets are as follows:

					in millions
	Pension Benefits
	Qualified				Non-Qualified
	2014		2013		2014		2013
Projected benefit obligation	$	1,829	$	27	$	182	$	85
Accumulated benefit obligation	1,829		27		172		72
Fair value of plan assets	1,627		26		3		—

The accumulated benefit obligation for all qualified pension plans was $1,849 million and $86 million at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively.

Net Periodic Benefit Cost

Components of net periodic benefit cost for pension and postretirement benefit plans recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income are as follows:

																			in millions
	Pension Benefits															Other Postretirement
	Qualified									Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2012			2014		2013		2012		2014			2013			2012
Service cost	$	1		$	—		$	—		$	7	$	5	$	5	$	2		$	2		$	1
Interest cost	10			4			4			5		3		3		3			2			2
Expected return on plan assets	(13		)	(5		)	(6		)	—		—		—		—			—			—
Amortization of prior service cost	—			—			—			—		1		1		—			(1		)	(1		)
Recognized actuarial (gain) loss, net	2			4			3			2		3		1		(8		)	7			24
Net periodic benefit cost	$	—		$	3		$	1		$	14	$	12	$	10	$	(3	)	$	10		$	26

As of September 27, 2014, the amounts expected to be reclassified into earnings within the next 12 months related to net periodic benefit cost for the qualified and non-qualified pensions are $2 million and $4 million, respectively.

76

Assumptions

Weighted average assumptions are as follows:

	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014		2013		2012		2014		2013		2012		2014		2013		2012
Discount rate to determine net periodic benefit cost	4.37	%	4.02	%	4.53	%	5.01	%	4.23	%	4.75	%	4.41	%	3.66	%	4.09	%
Discount rate to determine benefit obligations	4.32	%	4.77	%	4.02	%	4.36	%	5.09	%	4.23	%	3.97	%	4.48	%	3.66	%
Rate of compensation increase	0.01	%	N/A		N/A		2.11	%	3.50	%	3.50	%	N/A		N/A		N/A
Expected return on plan assets	6.37	%	5.44	%	6.37	%	N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A

To determine the expected return on plan assets assumption, we first examined historical rates of return for the various asset classes within the plans. We then determined a long-term projected rate-of-return based on expected returns.

Our discount rate assumptions used to account for pension and other postretirement benefit plans reflect the rates at which the benefit obligations could be effectively settled. These were determined using a cash flow matching technique whereby the rates of a yield curve, developed from high-quality debt securities, were applied to the benefit obligations to determine the appropriate discount rate. As of September 27, 2014, all pension and other postretirement benefit plans used the RP-2014 mortality tables. At September 28, 2013, the pension plans used the 2013 IRS mortality tables while the other postretirement benefit plans used either the RP-2000 or the 2013 IRS mortality tables to align with applicable participant data.

We have six other postretirement benefit plans which are healthcare and life insurance related. Two of these plans, which benefit obligations totaled $22 million at September 27, 2014, were not impacted by healthcare cost trend rates as they consist of fixed annual payments. The remaining plans, which benefit obligations were $141 million at September 27, 2014, covering retirees who do not yet qualify for Medicare utilized an assumed healthcare cost trend rate of 7.3% and those covering retirees who do qualify for Medicare utilized an assumed healthcare cost trend of 6.5%. The healthcare cost trend rate will be grading down to an ultimate rate of 5.0% in 2021/2022. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health-care cost trend rates would have the following effects:

			in millions
	One Percentage Point Increase		One Percentage Point Decrease
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	$	17	$	13
Effect on total service and interest components	2		1

Plan Assets

The following table sets forth the actual and target asset allocation for pension plan assets:

	2014		2013		Target Asset Allocation
Cash	4.9	%	1.6	%	0.3	%
Fixed Income Securities	80.5		79.1		84.9
U.S. Stock Funds	6.0		4.3		5.4
International Stock Funds	6.2		7.3		6.3
Real Estate	2.0		3.8		2.0
Other	0.4		3.9		1.1
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

Additionally, one of our foreign subsidiary pension plans had $15 million and $14 million in plan assets held in an insurance trust at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively.

The plan trustees have established a set of investment objectives related to the assets of the domestic pension plans and regularly monitor the performance of the funds and portfolio managers. Objectives for the pension assets are (i) to provide growth of capital and income, (ii) to achieve a target weighted average annual rate of return competitive with funds with similar investment objectives and (iii) to diversify to reduce risk. The target asset allocations are based upon the funded status of the plans. As pension obligations become better funded, we will lower risk by increasing the allocation to fixed income.

77

As noted in the previous table, on an aggregate fair value basis, the plan assets are currently at approximately 81% fixed income securities and 12% equity securities. Fixed income securities can include, but are not limited to, direct bond investments, and pooled or indirect bond investments. Other investments may include, but are not limited to, international and domestic equities, real estate, commodities and private equity. Derivative instruments may also be used in concert with either fixed income or equity investments to achieve desired exposure or to hedge certain risks. Derivative instruments can include, but are not limited to, futures, options, swaps or swaptions. We believe there are no significant concentrations of risk within our plan assets as of September 27, 2014.

The following tables show the categories of pension plan assets and the level under which fair values were determined in the fair value hierarchy, which is described in Note 13: Fair Value Measurements.

	in millions
September 27, 2014	Level 1		Level 2 (a)		Level 3 (b)		Total
Cash and cash equivalents	$	79	$	—	$	—	$	79
Fixed Income Securities:
Bond and fixed income funds	—		377		—		377
Corporate bonds	—		680		—		680
Government and municipal bonds	—		253		—		253
Mortgage backed securities	—		—		7		7
Total fixed income securities	—		1,310		7		1,317
Equity Securities:
U.S. securities funds	—		84		—		84
Non-U.S. securities funds	—		101		—		101
Commodity funds	—		14		—		14
Global real estate funds	—		33		—		33
Total equity securities	—		232		—		232
Other	—		7		—		7
Insurance Contract at Contract Value	—		—		15		15
Total plan assets	$	79	$	1,549	$	22	$	1,650

	in millions
September 28, 2013	Level 1		Level 2 (a)		Level 3 (b)		Total
Cash and cash equivalents	$	1	$	—	$	—	$	1
Fixed Income Securities:
Bond and fixed income funds	—		56		—		56
Corporate bonds	—		—		—		—
Government and municipal bonds	—		—		—		—
Mortgage backed securities	—		—		—		—
Total fixed income securities	—		56		—		56
Equity Securities:
U.S. securities funds	—		3		—		3
Non-U.S. securities funds	—		5		—		5
Commodity funds	—		—		—		—
Global real estate funds	—		3		—		3
Total equity securities	—		11		—		11
Other	—		—		3		3
Insurance Contract at Contract Value	—		—		14		14
Total plan assets	$	1	$	67	$	17	$	85

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(a) We classify our investments in U.S. government, U.S. agency, fixed income funds, bond funds, corporate bonds, and other debt securities as Level 2 as fair value is generally estimated using discounted cash flow models that are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including time value and yield curve as well as other readily available relevant economic measures. Funds are valued using the net asset value (NAV) provided by the trustee, which is a practical expedient to estimating fair value. The NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying investments within the funds and is determined daily.

(b) We classify certain mortgage-backed, asset-backed and insurance contracts as Level 3 as there is limited activity or less observable inputs into valuation models, including current interest rates and estimated prepayment, default and recovery rates on the underlying portfolio or structured investment vehicle. The insurance contracts are valued using the plan’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the assets based on the best information available, such as investment manager pricing. Significant changes to assumptions or unobservable inputs in the valuation of our Level 3 instruments would not have a significant impact to our consolidated financial statements.

A reconciliation of the change in the fair value measurement of the defined benefit plans’ consolidated assets using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows:

								in millions
	Mortgage backed securities		Other			Insurance contract		Total
Balance at September 28, 2013	$	—	$	3		$	14	17
Actual return on plan assets:
Assets still held at reporting date	—		—			—		—
Assets sold during the period	—		—			—		—
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	—		—			1		1
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3	7		(3		)	—		4
Balance at September 27, 2014	$	7	$	—		$	15	$	22

Contributions

Our policy is to fund at least the minimum contribution required to meet applicable federal employee benefit and local tax laws. In our sole discretion, we may from time to time fund additional amounts. Expected contributions to pension plans for fiscal 2015 are approximately $14 million. For fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, we funded $9 million, $8 million and $8 million plans, respectively, to pension plans.

Estimated Future Benefit Payments    

The following benefit payments are expected to be paid:

					in millions
	Pension Benefits				Other Postretirement
	Qualified		Non-Qualified		Benefits
2015	$	108	$	8	$	12
2016	82		9		12
2017	85		9		12
2018	89		9		12
2019	92		10		12
2020-2024	506		54		64

The above benefit payments for other postretirement benefit plans are not expected to be offset by Medicare Part D subsidies in 2015 or thereafter.

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Multi-Employer Plans

Additionally, we participate in a multi-employer plan that provides defined benefits to certain employees covered by collective bargaining agreements. Such plans are usually administered by a board of trustees composed of the management of the participating companies and labor representatives.

The risks of participating in multiemployer plans are different from single-employer plans. Assets contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers. If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligation of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers. If we stop participating in a plan, we may be required to pay that plan an amount based on the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a withdrawal liability. Contributions to the pension funds were not in excess of 5% of the total plan contributions for plan year 2014. There are no contractually required minimum contributions to the plans as of September 27, 2014.

The net pension cost of the plan is equal to the annual contribution determined in accordance with the provisions of negotiated labor contracts. Contributions to the plan were less than $1 million in fiscal 2014. Assets contributed to such plans are not segregated or otherwise restricted to provide benefits only to our employees. The future cost of the plan is dependent on a number of factors including the funded status of the plan and the ability of the other participating companies to meet ongoing funding obligations.

Our participation in this multiemployer plan for fiscal 2014 is outlined below. The EIN/Pension Plan Number column provides the Employer Identification Number (EIN) and the three digit plan number. Unless otherwise noted, the most recent Pension Protection Act ("PPA") zone status available in 2014 and 2013 is for the plan's year beginning January 1, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The zone status is based on information that we have received from the plan and is certified by the plan's actuaries. Among other factors, plans in the red zone are generally less than 65 percent funded. The FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented column indicates plans for which a financial improvement plan (FIP) or rehabilitation plan (RP) is either pending or has been implemented. The last column lists the expiration date(s) of the collective-bargaining agreements to which the plan is subject. There have been no significant changes that affect the comparability of contributions from year to year.

In addition to regular contributions, we could be obligated to pay additional contributions (known as complete or partial withdrawal liabilities) if it has unfunded vested benefits.

		PPA Zone Status		FIP/RP Status	Contributions (in millions)	Surcharge Imposed
Pension Fund Plan Name	EIN/Pension Plan Number	2014	2013	Pending/ Implemented	2014	2014	Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement
Bakery and Confectionary Union & Industry International Pension Fund	52-6118572/001	Red	Red	Nov 2012	$1	10%	Oct 2015

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NOTE 16: COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:

				in millions
	2014			2013
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes:
Unrealized net hedging gain (loss)	$	(3	)	$	(4	)
Unrealized net gain (loss) on investments	2			(2		)
Currency translation adjustment	(99		)	(69		)
Postretirement benefits reserve adjustments	(47		)	(33		)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(147	)	$	(108	)

The before and after tax changes in the components of other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

																			in millions
	2014									2013									2012
	Before Tax			Tax			After Tax			Before Tax			Tax			After Tax			Before Tax			Tax			After Tax
Derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges:
(Gain) loss reclassified to Cost of Sales	$	10		$	(4	)	$	6		$	5		$	(2	)	$	3		$	16		$	(7	)	$	9
(Gain) loss reclassified to Other Income/Expense	—			—			—			4			(2		)	2			(4		)	2			(2		)
Unrealized gain (loss)	(8		)	3			(5		)	(31		)	12			(19		)	16			(6		)	10
Investments:
(Gain) loss reclassified to Other Income/Expense	8			(2		)	6			(1		)	—			(1		)	—			—			—
Unrealized gain (loss)	(2		)	—			(2		)	(4		)	2			(2		)	—			—			—
Currency translation:
Translation gain reclassified to Other Income/Expense	—			—			—			(19		)	(1		)	(20		)	—			—			—
Translation adjustment	(32		)	2			(30		)	(20		)	3			(17		)	2			1			3
Postretirement benefits	(23		)	9			(14		)	15			(6		)	9			(6		)	2			(4		)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	(47	)	$	8		$	(39	)	$	(51	)	$	6		$	(45	)	$	24		$	(8	)	$	16

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NOTE 17: SEGMENT REPORTING

We operate in five segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and International. We measure segment profit as operating income (loss).

During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we began reporting our International operation as a separate segment, which was previously included in our Chicken segment. Our International segment became a separate reportable segment as a result of changes to our internal financial reporting to align with previously announced executive leadership changes. All periods presented have been reclassified to reflect this change. Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and Other results were not impacted by this change.

Chicken: Chicken includes our domestic operations related to raising and processing live chickens into fresh, frozen and value-added chicken products, as well as sales from allied products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes logistics operations to move products through our domestic supply chain and the global operations of our chicken breeding stock subsidiary.

Beef: Beef includes our operations related to processing live fed cattle and fabricating dressed beef carcasses into primal and sub-primal meat cuts and case-ready products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes sales from allied products such as hides and variety meats, as well as logistics operations to move products through the supply chain.

Pork: Pork includes our operations related to processing live market hogs and fabricating pork carcasses into primal and sub-primal cuts and case-ready products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes our live swine group, related allied product processing activities and logistics operations to move products through the supply chain.

Prepared Foods: Prepared Foods includes our operations related to manufacturing and marketing frozen and refrigerated food products and logistics operations to move products through the supply chain. Products primarily include pepperoni, bacon, sausage, beef and pork pizza toppings, pizza crusts, flour and corn tortilla products, appetizers, prepared meals, ethnic foods, soups, sauces, side dishes, meat dishes, breadsticks and processed meats. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets.

On August 28, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Hillshire Brands, a manufacturer and marketer of branded, convenient foods which includes brands such as Jimmy Dean®, Ball Park®, Hillshire Farm®, State Fair®, Van's®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery and Chef Pierre® pies as well as artisanal brands Aidells®, Gallo Salame®, and Golden Island® premium jerky. Hillshire Brands' one month results from operations for fiscal 2014 are included in the Prepared Foods segment.

International: International includes our foreign operations primarily related to raising and processing live chickens into fresh, frozen and value-added chicken products in Brazil, China, India and Mexico. Products are marketed in each respective country to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains, noncommercial foodservice establishments and live markets, as well as to other international export markets.

On July 28, 2014, we announced our plan to sell our Brazil and Mexico operations, part of our International segment, to JBS for $575 million in cash. We expect to complete the sale of our Brazil operation in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. The sale of our Mexico operation is pending the necessary government approvals and is expected to close in the first half of fiscal 2015.

82

The results from Dynamic Fuels are included in Other. We allocate expenses related to corporate activities to the segments, except for acquisition and integration related fees of $59 million which are included in Other. Assets and additions to property, plant and equipment relating to corporate activities remain in Other. At September 27, 2014, we included $4.8 billion of goodwill associated with our acquisition of Hillshire Brands in Other. The allocation of goodwill to our reportable segments is pending finalization of the expected synergies and the impact of the synergies to our reporting units.

Information on segments and a reconciliation to income from continuing operations before income taxes are follows:

	in millions
	Chicken		Beef		Pork		Prepared Foods			International			Other			Intersegment Sales			Consolidated
Fiscal 2014
Sales	$	11,116	$	16,177	$	6,304	$	3,927		$	1,381		$	—		$	(1,325	)	$	37,580
Operating Income (Loss)	883		347		455		(60		)	(121		)	(74		)				1,430
Total Other (Income) Expense																			178
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			1,252
Depreciation	251		87		32		78			40			6						494
Total Assets	4,807		3,103		965		8,608			871			5,602						23,956
Additions to property, plant and equipment	307		115		36		77			46			51						632
Fiscal 2013
Sales	$	10,988	$	14,400	$	5,408	$	3,322		$	1,324		$	46		$	(1,114	)	$	34,374
Operating Income (Loss)	683		296		332		101			(37		)	—						1,375
Total Other (Income) Expense																			118
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			1,257
Depreciation	251		87		30		61			40			5						474
Total Assets	4,944		2,798		931		1,176			876			1,452						12,177
Additions to property, plant and equipment	253		105		22		87			58			33						558
Fiscal 2012
Sales	$	10,270	$	13,755	$	5,510	$	3,237		$	1,104		$	167		$	(988	)	$	33,055
Operating Income (Loss)	554		218		417		181			(70		)	(14		)				1,286
Total Other (Income) Expense																			321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			965
Depreciation	228		86		30		54			40			5						443
Total Assets	4,934		2,634		895		960			968			1,505						11,896
Additions to property, plant and equipment	354		100		32		99			97			8						690

The Chicken segment had sales of $7 million, $16 million and $6 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from transactions with other operating segments. The Pork segment had sales of $1.0 billion, $872 million and $771 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from transactions with other operating segments. The Beef segment had sales of $307 million, $226 million and $211 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from transactions with other operating segments. The aforementioned sales from intersegment transactions, which were at market prices, were included in the segment sales in the above table.

Our largest customer, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., accounted for 14.6%, 13.0% and 13.8% of consolidated sales in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. were included in the all segments. Any extended discontinuance of sales to this customer could, if not replaced, have a material impact on our operations.

83

The majority of our operations are domiciled in the United States. Approximately 96%, 96% and 95% of sales to external customers for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were sourced from the United States. Approximately $17.4 billion and $6.1 billion of long-lived assets were located in the United States at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively. Approximately $324 million and $485 million of long-lived assets were located in foreign countries, primarily Brazil, China and India, at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively.

We sell certain products in foreign markets, primarily Brazil, Canada, Central America, China, the European Union, Japan, Mexico, the Middle East, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Our export sales from the United States totaled $4.7 billion, $4.2 billion and $4.0 billion for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Substantially all of our export sales are facilitated through unaffiliated brokers, marketing associations and foreign sales staffs. Sales of products produced in a country other than the United States were less than 10% of consolidated sales for each of fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

NOTE 18: SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOWS INFORMATION

The following table summarizes cash payments for interest and income taxes:

					in millions
	2014		2013		2012
Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$	118	$	114	$	274
Income taxes, net of refunds	590		310		187

NOTE 19: TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES

We have operating leases for two wastewater facilities with an entity owned by the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust (for which Mr. John Tyson, Chairman of the Company, is a trustee), Berry Street Waste Water Treatment Plant, LP (90% of which is owned by TLP), and the sisters of Mr. Tyson. Total payments of approximately $1 million in each of fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were paid to lease the facilities.

In fiscal 2014, we purchased real estate from JHT, LLC, for $0.5 million to build a new data center. The JHT, LLC (for which Mr. John Tyson is the manager), is owned 50% by the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust and 50% by the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust.

As of September 27, 2014, the TLP, of which John Tyson and director Barbara Tyson are general partners, owned 70 million shares, or 99.985% of Class B stock and, along with the members of the Tyson family, owned 5.5 million shares of Class A stock, giving it control of approximately 70.14% of the total voting power of our outstanding voting stock. In fiscal 2013, as part of the Company's previously approved stock repurchase plan, we purchased one million shares of Class A stock from the TLP for $29.85 million or $29.85 per share. 

In fiscal 2012, we had an aircraft lease agreement with Tyson Family Aviation, LLC, of which Mr. Don Tyson (formerly our Senior Chairman), Mr. John Tyson and the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust were members. Upon Mr. Don Tyson’s death on January 6, 2011, his membership interest passed to a trust in which Mr. John Tyson is a trustee. During fiscal 2012, Tyson Family Aviation, LLC sold the aircraft to a non-related party and we entered into an aircraft lease agreement with the new owner. Total payments to Tyson Family Aviation, LLC of approximately $0.4 million were paid in fiscal 2012.

84

NOTE 20: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Commitments

We lease equipment, properties and certain farms for which total rentals approximated $161 million, $200 million and $193 million, in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Most leases have initial terms of up to seven years, some with varying renewal periods. The most significant obligations assumed under the terms of the leases are the upkeep of the facilities and payments of insurance and property taxes.

Minimum lease commitments under non-cancelable leases at September 27, 2014, were:

	in millions
2015	$	107
2016	80
2017	56
2018	39
2019	30
2020 and beyond	104
Total	$	416

We guarantee obligations of certain outside third parties, consisting primarily of leases and grower loans which are substantially collateralized by the underlying assets. Terms of the underlying debt cover periods up to 15 years, and the maximum potential amount of future payments as of September 27, 2014, was $70 million. We also maintain operating leases for various types of equipment, some of which contain residual value guarantees for the market value of the underlying leased assets at the end of the term of the lease. The remaining terms of the lease maturities cover periods over the next 13 years. The maximum potential amount of the residual value guarantees is $54 million, of which $48 million could be recoverable through various recourse provisions and an additional undeterminable recoverable amount based on the fair value of the underlying leased assets. The likelihood of material payments under these guarantees is not considered probable. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, no material liabilities for guarantees were recorded.

We have cash flow assistance programs in which certain livestock suppliers participate. Under these programs, we pay an amount for livestock equivalent to a standard cost to grow such livestock during periods of low market sales prices. The amounts of such payments that are in excess of the market sales price are recorded as receivables and accrue interest. Participating suppliers are obligated to repay these receivables balances when market sales prices exceed this standard cost, or upon termination of the agreement. Our maximum obligation associated with these programs is limited to the fair value of each participating livestock supplier’s net tangible assets. The potential maximum obligation as of September 27, 2014, was approximately $330 million. The total receivables under these programs were $4 million and $44 million at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively, and are included, net of allowance for uncollectible amounts, in Accounts Receivable in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Even though these programs are limited to the net tangible assets of the participating livestock suppliers, we also manage a portion of our credit risk associated with these programs by obtaining security interests in livestock suppliers’ assets. After analyzing residual credit risks and general market conditions, we had no allowance for these programs' estimated uncollectible receivables at September 27, 2014 and $15 million at September 28, 2013.

Additionally, we enter into future purchase commitments for various items, such as grains, livestock contracts and fixed grower fees. At September 27, 2014, these commitments totaled:

	in millions
2015	$	2,625
2016	585
2017	259
2018	271
2019	189
2020 and beyond	249
Total	$	4,178

85

Contingencies

We are involved in various claims and legal proceedings. We routinely assess the likelihood of adverse judgments or outcomes to those matters, as well as ranges of probable losses, to the extent losses are reasonably estimable. We record accruals for such matters to the extent that we conclude a loss is probable and the financial impact, should an adverse outcome occur, is reasonably estimable. Such accruals are reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, we have made appropriate and adequate accruals for these matters and believe the probability of a material loss beyond the amounts accrued to be remote; however, the ultimate liability for these matters is uncertain, and if accruals are not adequate, an adverse outcome could have a material effect on the consolidated financial condition or results of operations. Listed below are certain claims made against the Company and/or our subsidiaries for which the potential exposure is considered material to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. We believe we have substantial defenses to the claims made and intend to vigorously defend these matters.

There are nine pending lawsuits involving our beef and pork plants, in which certain present and past employees allege that we failed to compensate them for the time it takes to engage in pre- and post-shift activities, such as changing into and out of protective and sanitary clothing and walking to and from the changing area, work areas and break areas in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act and various state laws. The plaintiffs seek back wages, liquidated damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys’ fees and costs. Each case is proceeding in its jurisdiction.

• Garcia, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., D. Kansas, May 15, 2006 - After a trial involving our Garden City, Kansas beef plant, a jury verdict in favor of the plaintiffs was entered on March 17, 2011. Exclusive of pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys’ fees and costs, the jury found violations of federal and state laws for pre- and post-shift work activities and awarded damages in the amount of $503,011. Plaintiffs’ counsel filed an application for attorneys’ fees and expenses which we contested. On December 7, 2012, the court granted plaintiffs' counsel's application and awarded a total of $3,609,723. We appealed the jury’s verdict and trial court’s award to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. The appellate court affirmed the jury verdict and judgment and subsequently denied our petition for rehearing.

• Bouaphakeo (f/k/a Sharp), et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., N.D. Iowa, February 6, 2007 - A jury trial was held involving our Storm Lake, Iowa pork plant which resulted in a jury verdict in favor of the plaintiffs for violations of federal and state laws for pre- and post-shift work activities. The trial court also awarded the plaintiffs liquidated damages, resulting in total damages awarded in the amount of $5,784,758. The plaintiffs' counsel has also filed an application for attorneys' fees and expenses in the amount of $2,692,145. We appealed the jury's verdict and trial court's award to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. The appellate court affirmed the jury verdict and judgment on August 25, 2014, and we filed a petition for rehearing on September 22, 2014.

• Guyton (f/k/a Robinson), et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., d.b.a Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., S.D. Iowa, September 12, 2007 - A jury trial was held involving our Columbus Junction, Iowa pork plant, which resulted in a jury verdict in favor of Tyson on April 25, 2012. The plaintiffs have appealed to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Oral arguments were held on February 11, 2014. The appellate court affirmed the jury verdict and judgment on August 25, 2014.

• Acosta, et al. v Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., D. Nebraska, February 29, 2008 - A bench trial was held involving our Madison, Nebraska pork plant, in January 2013. In May 2013 the trial court awarded the plaintiffs $5,733,943 for unpaid overtime wages. Subsequently, the court ordered the class of plaintiffs expanded, and the plaintiffs submitted an updated calculation of $6,258,330 for unpaid overtime wages as reflected by payroll data through May 2013. On January 30, 2014, the trial court entered judgment in favor of the plaintiffs in the amount of $18,774,989, which represents a tripling of the plaintiffs’ alleged damages. The court denied our post-trial motions, and we appealed to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.

• Gomez, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., D. Nebraska, January 16, 2008 - A jury trial involving our Dakota City, Nebraska beef plant, was held, and the jury found in favor of the plaintiffs on April 3, 2013. On October 2, 2013, the trial court denied the parties’ post-trial motions and entered judgment awarding unpaid overtime wages, liquidated damages, and penalties totaling $4,960,787. We appealed the jury’s verdict and trial court’s award to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.

• Edwards, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., S.D. Iowa, March 20, 2008 - The trial court in this case, which involves our Perry and Waterloo, Iowa pork plants, decertified the state law class and granted other pre-trial motions that resulted in judgment in our favor with respect to the plaintiffs’ claims. The plaintiffs have filed a motion to modify this judgment.

• Abadeer v. Tyson Foods, Inc., and Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., M.D. Tennessee, February 6, 2009 - The trial court in the Abadeer case, which involves our Goodlettsville, Tennessee case-ready beef and pork plant, granted the plaintiffs’ motion for summary judgment in part, finding that certain pre- and post-shift activities were compensable and our non-payment for those activities was willful and not in good faith. The parties subsequently agreed to settle all claims for $7,750,000. The parties' joint motion for approval of settlement was granted.

• Abdiaziz, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., D. Kansas, September 30, 2011 - this case involves our Emporia, Kansas beef plant, and was bifurcated from the case involving our Garden City, Kansas beef plant. It is stayed pending the resolution of that matter.

86

• Murray, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., C.D. Illinois, January 2, 2008; and DeVoss v. Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a. Tyson Fresh Meats, C.D. Illinois, March 2, 2011 - these cases involve our Joslin, Illinois beef plant and are in their preliminary stages.

Our subsidiary, The Hillshire Brands Company (formerly named Sara Lee Corporation), is a party to a consolidation of cases filed by individual complainants with the Republic of the Philippines, Department of Labor and Employment and the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) from 1998 through July 1999. The complaint is filed against Aris Philippines, Inc., Sara Lee Corporation, Sara Lee Philippines, Inc., Fashion Accessories Philippines, Inc., and Attorney Cesar C. Cruz (collectively, the “respondents”). The complaint primarily alleges unfair labor practices due to the termination of manufacturing operations in the Philippines by Aris Philippines, Inc., a former subsidiary of The Hillshire Brands Company. In 2006, the arbitrator ruled against the respondents and awarded the complainants PHP3,453,664,710 (approximately US$76 million) in damages and fees. The respondents appealed this ruling and it was subsequently set aside by the NLRC in December 2006. However, in a decision dated June 4, 2014, the Supreme Court of the Philippines set aside the NLRC’s December 2006 ruling as premature. The parties have filed numerous appeals, motions for reconsideration and petitions for review in these cases as to the merits of complainants’ claims and the appropriate amount of an appeal bond to be posted by the respondents. Certain of these appeals and motions remain pending before the NLRC and Supreme Court of the Philippines. On June 23, 2014, without admitting liability, The Hillshire Brands Company filed a motion requesting that the Supreme Court of the Philippines order dismissal with prejudice of all claims against it and its predecessors-in-interest in exchange for payments allocated by the court among the complainants in an amount not to exceed PHP342,287,800 (approximately US$7 million).

87

NOTE 21: QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

				in millions, except per share data
	First Quarter			Second Quarter			Third Quarter			Fourth Quarter
2014
Sales	$	8,761		$	9,032		$	9,682		$	10,105
Gross profit	685			651			637			712
Operating income	412			361			351			306
Net income	252			210			258			136
Amounts attributable to Tyson:
Net income from continuing operations	254			213			260			137
Net income attributable to Tyson	254			213			260			137
Net income per share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic (a)	$	0.76		$	0.64		$	0.75		$	0.37
Class B Basic	$	0.68		$	0.58		$	0.68		$	0.32
Diluted (a)	$	0.72		$	0.60		$	0.73		$	0.35
Net income per share attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic (a)	$	0.76		$	0.64		$	0.75		$	0.37
Class B Basic	$	0.68		$	0.58		$	0.68		$	0.32
Diluted (a)	$	0.72		$	0.60		$	0.73		$	0.35
2013
Sales	$	8,366		$	8,383		$	8,731		$	8,894
Gross profit	539			468			682			669
Operating income	304			236			419			416
Net income	168			106			245			259
Amounts attributable to Tyson:
Net income from continuing operations	177			157			253			261
Net loss from discontinued operation	(4		)	(62		)	(4		)	—
Net income attributable to Tyson	173			95			249			261
Net income per share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	0.51		$	0.45		$	0.73		$	0.77
Class B Basic	$	0.46		$	0.40		$	0.66		$	0.70
Diluted	$	0.49		$	0.43		$	0.69		$	0.70
Net loss per share from discontinued operation attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.18	)	$	(0.01	)	$	—
Class B Basic	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.15	)	$	(0.02	)	$	—
Diluted	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.17	)	$	(0.01	)	$	—
Net income per share attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	0.50		$	0.27		$	0.72		$	0.77
Class B Basic	$	0.45		$	0.25		$	0.64		$	0.70
Diluted	$	0.48		$	0.26		$	0.68		$	0.70

(a) The sum of the quarterly earnings per share amounts will not equal the total for the year due to the effects of rounding and dilution impact as a result of issuing Class A shares and tangible equity units in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014.

88

Third quarter fiscal 2014 net income included a $29 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition fees paid to third parties, a $49 million pretax expense related to the closure of three Prepared Foods facilities and a $40 million unrecognized tax benefit gain.

Fourth quarter fiscal 2014 net income included a $42 million pretax impairment and other costs related to the sale of our Brazil operation and Mexico's undistributed earnings tax, $119 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition, integration and costs associated with our Prepared Foods improvement plan, $40 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands post-closing results, purchase price accounting adjustments and ongoing costs related to a legacy Hillshire Brands plant fire, $27 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition financing incremental interest cost and a $12 million unrecognized tax benefit gain.

Second quarter fiscal 2013 net income included a $19 million currency translation adjustment gain recognized in conjunction with the receipt of proceeds constituting the final resolution of our investment in Canada and included a $56 million non-cash charge, reported as a discontinued operation, related to the impairment of Weifang.

NOTE 22: CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TFM Parent, our wholly-owned subsidiary, has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the 2016 Notes. Additionally, TFM Parent has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the 2022 Notes until such date TFM Parent has been released of its guarantee of both (i) Tyson's $1.25 billion revolving credit facility and (ii) the 2016 Notes, at which time TFM Parent's guarantee of the 2019, 2022, 2024, 2034 and 2044 Notes is permanently released. The following financial information presents condensed consolidating financial statements, which include Tyson Foods, Inc. (TFI Parent); TFM Parent; the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Non-Guarantors) on a combined basis; the elimination entries necessary to consolidate TFI Parent, TFM Parent and the Non-Guarantors; and Tyson Foods, Inc. on a consolidated basis, and is provided as an alternative to providing separate financial statements for the guarantor.

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 27, 2014										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	579		$	21,924		$	16,926		$	(1,849	)	$	37,580
Cost of Sales	74			20,971			15,689			(1,839		)	34,895
Gross Profit	505			953			1,237			(10		)	2,685
Selling, General and Administrative	141			240			884			(10		)	1,255
Operating Income	364			713			353			—			1,430
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	63			49			13			—			125
Other, net	67			(1		)	(13		)	—			53
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(731		)	(43		)	—			774			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(601		)	5			—			774			178
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	965			708			353			(774		)	1,252
Income Tax Expense	101			227			68			—			396
Income from Continuing Operations	864			481			285			(774		)	856
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			—			—			—
Net Income	864			481			285			(774		)	856
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(8		)	—			(8		)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	864		$	481		$	293		$	(774	)	$	864
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	817		$	449		$	243		$	(692	)	$	817
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	—			—			(8		)	—			(8		)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	817		$	449		$	251		$	(692	)	$	825

89

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 28, 2013										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	431		$	19,243		$	16,120		$	(1,420	)	$	34,374
Cost of Sales	40			18,464			14,932			(1,420		)	32,016
Gross Profit	391			779			1,188			—			2,358
Selling, General and Administrative	68			201			714			—			983
Operating Income	323			578			474			—			1,375
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	36			62			40			—			138
Other, net	4			(1		)	(23		)	—			(20		)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(582		)	(40		)	—			622			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(542		)	21			17			622			118
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	865			557			457			(622		)	1,257
Income Tax Expense	87			172			150			—			409
Income from Continuing Operations	778			385			307			(622		)	848
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			(70		)	—			(70		)
Net Income	778			385			237			(622		)	778
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			—			—			—
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	778		$	385		$	237		$	(622	)	$	778
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	733		$	380		$	212		$	(592	)	$	733
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			—			—			—
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	733		$	380		$	212		$	(592	)	$	733

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 29, 2012										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	352		$	18,832		$	15,152		$	(1,281	)	$	33,055
Cost of Sales	(4		)	18,088			14,061			(1,280		)	30,865
Gross Profit	356			744			1,091			(1		)	2,190
Selling, General and Administrative	59			205			641			(1		)	904
Operating Income	297			539			450			—			1,286
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	49			143			152			—			344
Other, net	1			—			(24		)	—			(23		)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(427		)	(43		)	—			470			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(377		)	100			128			470			321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	674			439			322			(470		)	965
Income Tax Expense	91			130			130			—			351
Income from Continuing Operations	583			309			192			(470		)	614
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			(38		)	—			(38		)
Net Income	583			309			154			(470		)	576
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(7		)	—			(7		)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	583		$	309		$	161		$	(470	)	$	583
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	599		$	324		$	166		$	(497	)	$	592
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(7		)	—			(7		)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	599		$	324		$	173		$	(497	)	$	599

90

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of September 27, 2014							in millions
	TFI Parent		TFM Parent		Non- Guarantors		Eliminations			Total
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—	$	41	$	397	$	—		$	438
Accounts receivable, net	3		665		1,016		—			1,684
Inventories	—		1,272		2,002		—			3,274
Other current assets	42		78		379		(120		)	379
Assets held for sale	3		—		443		—			446
Total Current Assets	48		2,056		4,237		(120		)	6,221
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	30		932		4,168		—			5,130
Goodwill	—		881		5,825		—			6,706
Intangible Assets	—		15		5,261		—			5,276
Other Assets	204		148		326		(55		)	623
Investment in Subsidiaries	20,845		2,049		—		(22,894		)	—
Total Assets	$	21,127	$	6,081	$	19,817	$	(23,069	)	$	23,956
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current debt	$	240	$	—	$	403	$	—		$	643
Accounts payable	35		755		1,016		—			1,806
Other current liabilities	4,718		235		921		(4,667		)	1,207
Liabilities held for sale	—		—		141		—			141
Total Current Liabilities	4,993		990		2,481		(4,667		)	3,797
Long-Term Debt	7,056		2		532		(55		)	7,535
Deferred Income Taxes	21		96		2,333		—			2,450
Other Liabilities	167		125		978		—			1,270
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	8,890		4,868		13,479		(18,347		)	8,890
Noncontrolling Interests	—		—		14		—			14
Total Shareholders’ Equity	8,890		4,868		13,493		(18,347		)	8,904
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	21,127	$	6,081	$	19,817	$	(23,069	)	$	23,956

91

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of September 28, 2013							in millions
	TFI Parent		TFM Parent		Non- Guarantors		Eliminations			Total
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—	$	21	$	1,124	$	—		$	1,145
Accounts receivable, net	—		571		926		—			1,497
Inventories	—		1,039		1,778		—			2,817
Other current assets	351		88		117		(411		)	145
Total Current Assets	351		1,719		3,945		(411		)	5,604
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	32		891		3,130		—			4,053
Goodwill	—		881		1,021		—			1,902
Intangible Assets	—		21		117		—			138
Other Assets	895		162		244		(821		)	480
Investment in Subsidiaries	11,975		2,035		—		(14,010		)	—
Total Assets	$	13,253	$	5,709	$	8,457	$	(15,242	)	$	12,177
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current debt	$	457	$	132	$	251	$	(327	)	$	513
Accounts payable	27		575		757		—			1,359
Other current liabilities	4,625		200		901		(4,588		)	1,138
Total Current Liabilities	5,109		907		1,909		(4,915		)	3,010
Long-Term Debt	1,770		679		241		(795		)	1,895
Deferred Income Taxes	24		93		362		—			479
Other Liabilities	149		155		282		(26		)	560
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	6,201		3,875		5,631		(9,506		)	6,201
Noncontrolling Interests	—		—		32		—			32
Total Shareholders’ Equity	6,201		3,875		5,663		(9,506		)	6,233
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	13,253	$	5,709	$	8,457	$	(15,242	)	$	12,177

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 27, 2014										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	132		$	431		$	660		$	(45	)	$	1,178
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(1		)	(147		)	(484		)	—			(632		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			—			15			—			15
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(8,193		)	—			—			—			(8,193		)
Other, net	5			2			3			—			10
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(8,189		)	(145		)	(466		)	—			(8,800		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	5,154			—			(12		)	—			5,142
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	873			—			—			—			873
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	1,255			—			—			—			1,255
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295		)	—			—			—			(295		)
Dividends	(104		)	—			(45		)	45			(104		)
Stock options exercised	67			—			—			—			67
Other, net	(22		)	—			(1		)	—			(23		)
Net change in intercompany balances	1,129			(266		)	(863		)	—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	8,057			(266		)	(921		)	45			6,915
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			—			—			—
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	—			20			(727		)	—			(707		)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	—			21			1,124			—			1,145
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	—		$	41		$	397		$	—		$	438

92

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 28, 2013										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	294		$	337		$	696		$	(13	)	$	1,314
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(4		)	(113		)	(441		)	—			(558		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			(13		)	(5		)	—			(18		)
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	—			—			(106		)	—			(106		)
Other, net	—			3			36			—			39
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(4		)	(123		)	(516		)	—			(643		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	5			—			(28		)	—			(23		)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	—			—			—			—			—
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	—			—			—			—			—
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(614		)	—			—			—			(614		)
Dividends	(104		)	—			(13		)	13			(104		)
Stock options exercised	123			—			—			—			123
Other, net	18			—			—			—			18
Net change in intercompany balances	281			(202		)	(79		)	—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	(291		)	(202		)	(120		)	13			(600		)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			3			—			3
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(1		)	12			63			—			74
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1			9			1,061			—			1,071
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	—		$	21		$	1,124		$	—		$	1,145

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 29, 2012										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	312		$	438		$	447		$	(10	)	$	1,187
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(1		)	(104		)	(585		)	—			(690		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			(7		)	(4		)	—			(11		)
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	—			—			—			—			—
Other, net	1			5			35			—			41
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	—			(106		)	(554		)	—			(660		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	107			—			16			—			123
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	—			—			—			—			—
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	—			—			—			—			—
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(264		)	—			—			—			(264		)
Dividends	(57		)	—			(10		)	10			(57		)
Stock options exercised	34			—			—			—			34
Other, net	(8		)	—			1			—			(7		)
Net change in intercompany balances	(124		)	(324		)	448			—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	(312		)	(324		)	455			10			(171		)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			(1		)	—			(1		)
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	—			8			347			—			355
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1			1			714			—			716
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	1		$	9		$	1,061		$	—		$	1,071

93

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

Tyson Foods, Inc.

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Tyson Foods, Inc.and its subsidiariesat September 27, 2014and September 28, 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 27, 2014in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a) presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 27, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included inManagement's Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule, and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our integratedaudits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

As described in Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, management has excluded The Hillshire Brands Company from its assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of September 27, 2014 because it was acquired by the Company in a purchase business combination during August 2014. We have also excluded The Hillshire Brands Company from our audit of internal control over financial reporting. The Hillshire Brands Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary whose total assets and total revenues represent 10% and 1%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended September 27, 2014.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Fayetteville, AR

November 17, 2014

94

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

Not applicable.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure 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), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the 1934 Act)). Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO concluded that, as of September 27, 2014, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

In the quarter ended September 27, 2014, there have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the 1934 Act. Our internal control over financial reporting was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of September 27, 2014. In making this assessment, we used criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992).

Based on this evaluation under the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (1992) issued by COSO, Management concluded the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of September 27, 2014.

Management excluded The Hillshire Brands Company from our assessment of internal control over financial reporting as of September 27, 2014 because it was acquired by the Company in a purchase business combination in August 2014. The Hillshire Brands Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary whose total assets and total revenues represent 10% and 1%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended September 27, 2014.

The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, who has audited the fiscal 2014 financial statements included in this Form 10-K has also audited the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Their report appears in Part II, Item 8.

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

95

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

See information set forth under the captions “Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Company’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held January 30, 2015 (the “Proxy Statement”), which information is incorporated herein by reference. Pursuant to general instruction G(3) of Annual Report on Form 10-K, certain information concerning our executive officers is included under the caption “Executive Officers of the Company” in Part I of this Report.

We have a code of ethics as defined in Item 406 of Regulation S-K, which code applies to all of our directors and employees, including our principal executive officers, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, and persons performing similar functions. This code of ethics, titled “Tyson Foods, Inc. Code of Conduct,” is available, free of charge on our website at http://ir.tyson.com.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

See the information set forth under the captions “Executive Compensation,” “Director Compensation For Fiscal Year 2014,” “Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Report of the Compensation and Leadership Development Committee,” and “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in the Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference. However, pursuant to instructions to Item 407(e)(5) of the Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-K, the material appearing under the sub-heading “Report of the Compensation and Leadership Development Committee” shall not be deemed to be “filed” with the Commission, other than as provided in this Item 11.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

See the information included under the captions “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners” and “Security Ownership of Management” in the Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference.

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans

The following information reflects certain information about our equity compensation plans as of September 27, 2014:

	Equity Compensation Plan Information
	Number of Securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options	Weighted average exercise price of outstanding options		Number of Securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding Securities reflected in the first column)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders	13,724,409	$	21.30	55,345,262
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders	—	—		—
Total	13,724,409	$	21.30	55,345,262

(a) Shares available for future issuance as of September 27, 2014, under the Stock Incentive Plan (30,428,186), the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (17,269,468) and the Retirement Savings Plan (7,647,608)

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

See the information included under the captions “Election of Directors” and “Certain Transactions” in the Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

See the information included under the captions “Audit Fees,” “Audit-Related Fees,” “Tax Fees,” “All Other Fees,” and “Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policy” in the Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference.

96

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a) The following documents are filed as a part of this report:

Consolidated Statements of Income

for the three years ended September 27, 2014

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

for the three years ended September 27, 2014

Consolidated Balance Sheets at

September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

for the three years ended September 27, 2014

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

for the three years ended September 27, 2014

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Financial Statement Schedule - Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying

Accounts for the three years ended September 27, 2014

All other schedules are omitted because they are neither applicable nor required.

The exhibits filed with this report are listed in the Exhibit Index at the end of Item 15.

97

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit No.

2.1	Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of July 1, 2014, by and between the Company and Hillshire Brands (previously filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 2, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
2.2	Share Purchase Agreement dated November 9, 2010 by and among BBU, Inc., Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B. DE C.V. and Hillshire Brands Corporation (previously filed as Exhibit 2.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended January 1, 2011 by The Hillshire Brands Company, Commission File No. 001-03344, and incorporated herein by reference).
2.3	Master Separation Agreement by and between Sara Lee Corporation, D.E MASTER BLENDERS 1753 B.V. and DE US, Inc., dated as of June 15, 2012 (previously filed as Exhibit 2.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 15, 2012 by The Hillshire Brands Company, Commission File No. 001-03344, and incorporated herein by reference).
3.1	Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 1998, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
3.2	Fifth Amended and Restated By-laws of the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 3.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed for the period ended June 29, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.1	Indenture dated June 1, 1995 by and between the Company and The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A., as Trustee (the “Company Indenture”) (previously filed as Exhibit 4 to Registration Statement on Form S-3, filed with the Commission on December 18, 1997, Registration No. 333-42525, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.2	Form of 7.0% Note due January 15, 2028 issued under the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 27, 1997, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.3	Form of 7.0% Note due May 1, 2018 issued under the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 28, 1998, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.4	Form of 6.60% Senior Notes due April 1, 2016 issued under the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 22, 2006, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.5	Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 18, 2006, by and among the Company, Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, supplementing the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 19, 2006, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.6	Supplemental Indenture dated as of September 15, 2008, by and between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association (as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (formerly The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.)), as Trustee (including the form of 3.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013), supplementing the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 15, 2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.7	Supplemental Indenture dated as of June 13, 2012, by and between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association (as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (formerly The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.)), as Trustee, supplementing the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 13, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.8	Form of 4.50% Senior Note due 2022 (previously filed as Exhibit 4.2 and included in Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8‑K filed June 13, 2012, Commission File No. 001‑14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.9	Supplemental Indenture dated as of August 8, 2014, by and between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association (as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (formerly The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.)), as Trustee, supplementing the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 8, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.10	Form of 2.65% Senior Note due 2019 (included in Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8‑K filed August 8, 2014, Commission File No. 001‑14704, and incorporated herein by reference).

98

4.11	Supplemental Indenture dated as of August 8, 2014, by and between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association (as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (formerly The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.)), as Trustee, supplementing the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 8, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.12	Form of 3.95% Senior Note due 2024 (included in Exhibit 4.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8‑K filed August 8, 2014, Commission File No. 001‑14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.13	Supplemental Indenture dated as of August 8, 2014, by and between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association (as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (formerly The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.)), as Trustee, supplementing the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.6 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 8, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.14	Form of 4.875% Senior Note due 2034 (included in Exhibit 4.6 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8‑K filed August 8, 2014, Commission File No. 001‑14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.15	Supplemental Indenture dated as of August 8, 2014, by and between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, National Association (as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (formerly The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A.)), as Trustee, supplementing the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.8 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 8, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.16	Form of 5.15% Senior Note due 2044 (included in Exhibit 4.8 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8‑K filed August 8, 2014, Commission File No. 001‑14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.17	Purchase Contract Agreement dated as of August 5, 2014 by and between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Purchase Contract Agent (included in Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 5, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.18	Form of Unit (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 5, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.19	Form of Purchase Contract (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 5, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.20	Supplemental Indenture dated as of August 5, 2014 by and between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee, supplementing the Company Indenture (included in Exhibit 4.5 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 5, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.21	Form of Amortizing Note (previously filed as Exhibit 4.5 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed August 5, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.22	Indenture dated October 2, 1990 between Sara Lee Corporation and Continental Bank, N.A., as Trustee (the “Sara Lee Indenture”) (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 of Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement No. 33-33603 on Form S-3 by Sara Lee Corporation, predecessor in interest to The Hillshire Brands Company, filed with the Commission on October 5, 1990, Commission File No. 001-03344, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.23	Form of 2.75% Notes due 2015 issued pursuant to the Sara Lee Indenture (included in Exhibit 4.1 to Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 7, 2010 by The Hillshire Brands Company, Commission File No. 001-03344, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.24	Form of 4.10% Notes due 2020 issued pursuant to the Sara Lee Indenture (included in Exhibit 4.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 7, 2010 by The Hillshire Brands Company, Commission File No. 001-03344, and incorporated herein by reference).
4.25	Form of 6.13% Notes due 2032 issued pursuant to the Sara Lee Indenture.
10.1	Second Amended and Restated Commitment Letter entered into as of June 9, 2014, among the Company, Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase Bank (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 10, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.2	Credit Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2014, by and among the Company, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as the Administrative Agent, and certain other lenders party thereto (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 29, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).

99

10.3	364-Day Bridge Term Loan Agreement, dated as of July 15, 2014, by and among the Company, Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc., as the Administrative Agent, and certain other lenders party thereto (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 17, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.4	Term Loan Agreement, dated as of July 15, 2014, by and among the Company, Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc., as the Administrative Agent, and certain other lenders party thereto (previously filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 17, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.5	Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of May 1, 2014, by and between the Company and John Tyson (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 29, 2014, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.6	Employment Agreement, dated August 27, 2012, by and between the Company and Curt T. Calaway (previously filed as Exhibit 10.11 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.7	Employment Agreement, dated November 14, 2012, by and between the Company and Donald J. Smith (previously filed as Exhibit 10.12 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.8	Employment Agreement, dated November 14, 2012, by and between the Company and David Van Bebber (previously filed as Exhibit 10.14 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.9	Employment Agreement, dated November 14, 2012, by and between the Company and Dennis Leatherby (previously filed as Exhibit 10.15 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.10	Employment Agreement, dated November 14, 2012, by and between the Company and Kenneth J. Kimbro (previously filed as Exhibit 10.16 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.11	Employment Agreement, dated November 14, 2012, by and between the Company and Donnie D. King (previously filed as Exhibit 10.17 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.12	Employment Agreement, dated November 15, 2013, by and between the Company and Donnie D. King(previously filed as Exhibit 10.17 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.13	Employment Agreement, dated November 14, 2012, by and between the Company and Noel W. White (previously filed as Exhibit 10.18 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.14	Employment Agreement, dated November 15, 2013, by and between the Company and Noel W. White (previously filed as Exhibit 10.19 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.15	Employment Agreement, dated November 15, 2013, by and between the Company and Howell P. Carper(previously filed as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.16	Employment Agreement, dated November 12, 2013, by and between the Company and Stephen R. Stouffer(previously filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.17	Employment Agreement, dated November 14, 2012, by and between the Company and James V. Lochner (previously filed as Exhibit 10.13 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.18	Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated November 15, 2013, by and between the Company and James V. Lochner (previously filed as Exhibit 10.12 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.19	Employment Agreement, dated August 29, 2014, by and between the Company and Andrew P. Callahan.
10.20	Employment Agreement, dated August 29, 2014, by and between the Company and Sobhana (Sally) Grimes.
10.21	Employment Agreement, dated August 29, 2014, by and between the Company and Thomas P. Hayes.

100

10.22	Employment Agreement, dated August 29, 2014, by and between the Company and Mary Oleksiuk.
10.23	Form of Retention Award Letter Agreement, dated August 29, 2014, by and between the Company and Andrew Callahan, Sobhana (Sally) Grimes, Thomas Hayes and Mary Oleksiuk.
10.24	Indemnity Agreement, dated as of September 28, 2007, between the Company and John Tyson (previously filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 28, 2007, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.25	Form of Indemnity Agreement between Tyson Foods, Inc. and its directors and certain executive officers (previously filed as Exhibit 10(t) to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, Commission File No. 0-3400, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.26	Tyson Foods, Inc. Annual Incentive Compensation Plan for Senior Executives adopted February 4, 2005, and reapproved February 5, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.34 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2005, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.27	Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan, effective as of February 1, 2013 (previously filed as Exhibit 99.2 to Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed with the Commission on February 22, 2013, Registration No. 333-186797, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.28	First Amendment to the Tyson Foods, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan, effective February 1, 2013 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.26 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.29	Amended and Restated Executive Savings Plan of Tyson Foods, Inc. effective January 1, 2013 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.27 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.30	Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective February 1, 2013 (previously filed as Exhibit 99.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed with the Commission on February 22, 2013, Registration No. 333-186797, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.31	First Amendment to the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective May 1, 2013 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.29 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.32	Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement and Life Insurance Premium Plan effective November 14, 2013 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.30 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-147-4, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.33	Retirement Savings Plan of Tyson Foods, Inc. effective January 1, 2011 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.33 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.34	First Amendment to the Retirement Savings Plan of Tyson Foods, Inc., as Amended and Restated as of January 1, 2011 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.32 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.35	Amended and Restated Retirement Income Plan of IBP, inc. effective August 1, 2000, and Amendment to Freeze the Retirement Income Plan of IBP, inc. effective December 31, 2002 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.46 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.36	Form of Restricted Stock Agreement pursuant to which restricted stock awards were granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan prior to July 31, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.48 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2004, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.37	Form of Restricted Stock Agreement pursuant to which restricted stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective July 31, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.41 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2009, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.38	Form of Restricted Stock Agreement pursuant to which restricted stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective January 1, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.41 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).

101

10.39	Form of Stock Incentive Agreement with key employees and contracted employees at band level 3-9 pursuant to which restricted stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective October 26, 2012 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.38 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.40	Form of Stock Incentive Agreement with the remaining contracted employees pursuant to which restricted stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective October 26, 2012 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.39 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.41	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement pursuant to which stock option awards were granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan prior to July 31, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.49 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2004, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.42	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective July 31, 2009 through February 3, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.43 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.43	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective February 4, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.44 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.44	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with non-contracted employees pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 29, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.40 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.45	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with contracted employees at band level 1-5 pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 29, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.41 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.46	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with key employees and contracted employees at band level 6-9 pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 29, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.42 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.47	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with non-contracted employees pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 28, 2011 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.46 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.48	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with contracted employees at band level 1-5 pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 28, 2011 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.47 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.49	Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with key employees and contracted employees at band level 6-9 pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 28, 2011 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.48 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.50	Form of Stock Incentive Agreement pursuant to which stock options are granted to contracted employees under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective October 26, 2012 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.49 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.51	Form of Stock Incentive Agreement pursuant to which stock options are granted to non-contracted employees under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective October 26, 2012 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.50 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.52	Form of Performance Stock Award Agreement pursuant to which performance stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective October 4, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.44 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).

102

10.53	Form of Performance Stock Award Agreement pursuant to which performance stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective October 3, 2011 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.52 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.54	Form of Stock Incentive Agreement pursuant to which performance stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective October 26, 2012 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.53 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.55	Tyson Foods, Inc. Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees, effective October 31, 2012 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.54 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2012, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.56	Tax Sharing Agreement, dated as of June 15, 2012, by and among Sara Lee Corporation, D.E MASTER BLENDERS 1753 B.V. and DE US, Inc. (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 15, 2012 by The Hillshire Brands Company, Commission File No. 001-03344, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.57	First Amendment to the Company's Supplemental Executive Retirement and Life Insurance Premium Plan as Amended and Restated as of November 14, 2014.
12.1	Calculation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
14.1	Code of Conduct of the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 14.1 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference).
21	Subsidiaries of the Company.
23	Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP.
31.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1	Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2	Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101	The following financial information from our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 27, 2014, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Statements of Income, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iii) Consolidated Balance Sheets, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity, (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, and (vii) Financial Statement Schedule.

103

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

TYSON FOODS, INC.
By:	/s/ Dennis Leatherby	November 17, 2014
	Dennis Leatherby
	Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

104

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.

/s/ Kathleen M. Bader	Director	November 17, 2014
Kathleen M. Bader
/s/ Gaurdie E. Banister Jr.	Director	November 17, 2014
Gaurdie E. Banister Jr.
/s/ Curt T. Calaway	Senior Vice President, Controller and	November 17, 2014
Curt T. Calaway	Chief Accounting Officer
/s/ Jim Kever	Director	November 17, 2014
Jim Kever
/s/ Dennis Leatherby	Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer	November 17, 2014
Dennis Leatherby
/s/ Kevin M. McNamara	Director	November 17, 2014
Kevin M. McNamara
/s/ Brad T. Sauer	Director	November 17, 2014
Brad T. Sauer
/s/ Donnie Smith	President and Chief Executive Officer	November 17, 2014
Donnie Smith
/s/ Robert C. Thurber	Director	November 17, 2014
Robert C. Thurber
/s/ Barbara A. Tyson	Director	November 17, 2014
Barbara A. Tyson
/s/ John Tyson	Chairman of the Board of Directors	November 17, 2014
John Tyson
/s/ Albert C. Zapanta	Director	November 17, 2014
Albert C. Zapanta

105

FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE

TYSON FOODS, INC.

SCHEDULE II

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

Three Years Ended September 27, 2014

										in millions
			Additions
	Balance at Beginning of Period		Charged to Costs and Expenses		Charged to Other Accounts		(Deductions)			Balance at End of Period
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts:
2014	$	46	$	5	$	—	$	(17	)	$	34
2013	33		17		—		(4		)	46
2012	31		7		—		(5		)	33
Inventory Lower of Cost or Market Allowance:
2014	$	16	$	14	$	—	$	(23	)	$	7
2013	24		49		—		(57		)	16
2012	6		52		—		(34		)	24
Valuation Allowance on Deferred Tax Assets:
2014	$	77	$	26	$	13	$	(65	)	$	51
2013	78		8		—		(9		)	77
2012	92		16		—		(30		)	78

106

EX-4.25

Exhibit 4.25

SARA LEE CORPORATION

6 1/8% Notes due 2032

Registered No. FXR-1    Principal Amount: $500,000,000CUSIP No. 803111 AM 5

This Security is a Security in global form within the meaning of the Indenture hereinafter referred to and is registered in the name of a Depositary or a nominee of a Depositary. This global Security is exchangeable for Securities registered in the name of a person other than the Depositary or its nominee only in the limited circumstances described in the Indenture, and no transfer of this Security (other than a transfer of this Security as a whole by the Depositary to a nominee of the Depositary or by a nominee of the Depositary to the Depositary or another nominee of the Depositary) may be registered except in such limited circumstances.

Unless this Security is presented by an authorized representative of The Depository Trust Company (55 Water Street, New York, New York), a New York corporation (“DTC”), to the issuer or its agent for registration of transfer, exchange or payment, and any Security issued upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, this Security is registered in the name of Cede & Co. or such other name as requested by an authorized representative of DTC (any payment hereon is made to Cede & Co. or to such other entity as is requested by an authorized representative of DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL inasmuch as the registered owner hereof, Cede & Co., has an interest herein.

THE FOLLOWING SUMMARY OF TERMS IS SUBJECT TO THE INFORMATION SET FORTH HEREIN:

Principal Amount: $500,000,000
Original Issue Date: October 31, 2002	Stated Maturity:  November 1, 2032	This Security is a: Global Security
Specified Currency: U.S. dollars	Authorized Denominations:  U.S. $1,000 and any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof
Initial Interest Rate:  6 1/8% per annum	Interest Payment Dates:  May 1 and November 1 of each year, beginning May 1, 2003	Regular Record Dates:  April 15 and October 15 immediately preceding the respective Interest Payment Dates
Redemption Date(s):  Any time after the Original Issue Date	Redemption Price(s):  The greater of (i) 100% of the principal amount to be redeemed and (ii) as determined by the Quotation Agent (as defined herein), the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest hereon (not including any portion of those payments of interest accrued to the Redemption Date) discounted to the Redemption Date on a semi-annual basis (assuming a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months) at the Adjusted Treasury Rate (as defined herein) plus 20 basis points, plus, in each case, accrued interest hereon to the Redemption Date
Discounted Security:  □ yes ý no	Original Issue Discount Security:  □ yes ý no
Issue Price (expressed as a percentage of aggregate principal amount):  99.727%

2

SARA LEE CORPORATION

SARA LEE CORPORATION, a Maryland corporation (herein called the “Company,” which term includes any successor corporation under the Indenture referred to below), for value received, hereby promises to pay to Cede & Co., as nominee for The Depository Trust Company, or registered assigns, the principal amount stated above at Stated Maturity, and to pay interest thereon from the Original Issue Date shown above or, in the case of a Security issued upon registration of transfer or exchange, from and including the most recent Interest Payment Date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for to, but not including, the applicable Interest Payment Date or the Stated Maturity or any Redemption Date (each such Stated Maturity or Redemption Date is referred to hereinafter as a “Maturity” with respect to principal repayable on such date), as the case may be, provided that if the Original Issue Date is after a Regular Record Date and before the Interest Payment Date immediately following such Regular Record Date, interest payments will commence on the second Interest Payment Date following the Original Issue Date, at the rate per annum set forth above, until the principal hereof is paid or made available for payment. The interest so payable, and punctually paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date will, as provided in such Indenture, be paid to the Person in whose name this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on the Regular Record Date for such interest; provided, however, that interest payable at Maturity will be payable to the Person to whom principal shall be payable. Any such interest not so punctually paid or duly provided for will forthwith cease to be payable to the Holder on such Regular Record Date and shall be paid to the Person in whose name this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) is registered at the close of business on a special record date (which shall be not less than five Business Days prior to the date of payment of such defaulted interest) established by notice given by mail by or on behalf of the Company to the Holder of this Security (or one or more Predecessor Securities) not less than 15 calendar days preceding such special record date (the “Special Record Date”).

This Security is one of a duly authorized issue of securities of the Company (herein called the “Securities”), issued and to be issued in one or more series under an Indenture dated as of October 2, 1990, as supplemented from time to time (herein called the “Indenture”), among the Company and The Bank of New York, as successor to Continental Bank, N.A., as Trustee (herein called the “Trustee,” which term includes any successor trustee under the Indenture), to which Indenture and all indentures supplemental thereto reference is hereby made for a statement of the respective rights, limitations of rights, duties and immunities thereunder of the Company, the Trustee and the Holders of the Securities and of the terms upon which the Securities are, and are to be, authenticated and delivered. This Security is one of the series designated on the face hereof. The Securities of this series may be denominated in different currencies, bear different dates, mature at different times and bear interest at different rates. Subject to being increased by the Company pursuant to an Officer’s Certificate, the aggregate principal amount of the Securities of this series which may be authenticated and delivered pursuant to the Indenture (except as provided therein) is $500,000,000.00.

The Company will appoint and at all times maintain a Paying Agent (which may be the Trustee) authorized by the Company to pay the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on any Securities of this series on behalf of the Company and having an office or agency in The City of New York, New York or The City of Chicago, Illinois where Securities of this series may be presented or surrendered for payment and where notices, designations or requests in respect of payments with respect to Securities of this series may be served. The Company has initially appointed The Bank of New York as such Paying Agent, with its Corporate Trust Office currently at 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York 10286. The Company will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any change in such appointment.

3

Funds for the payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on this Security due in United States dollars on any Interest Payment Date or at Maturity will be made available to the Trustee on such date. As soon as possible thereafter, the Trustee will pay such funds to the Depositary (referred to below), and the Depositary will allocate and pay such funds to the owners of beneficial interests in this Security in accordance with its existing operating procedures.

The principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on this Security are payable by the Company in the Specified Currency set forth above.

Interest payments for this Security will include interest accrued to, but excluding, the Interest Payment Dates. Interest payments for this Security shall be computed and paid on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months unless otherwise specified.

Any payment on this Security due on any day which is not a Market Day need not be made on such day, but may be made on the next succeeding Market Day with the same force and effect as if made on such due date, and no interest shall be payable on the date of payment for the period from and after such due date.

“Business Day,” with respect to any particular location, means each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday which is not a day on which banking institutions in such location are authorized by law or regulation to close. “Market Day” means any Business Day in The City of New York.

This Security is subject to redemption at any time at the option of the Company, upon notice by first-class mail, postage prepaid, mailed not less than 30 days nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date specified in such notice, at the applicable Redemption Price specified on the face hereof, but interest installments whose maturity is prior to the Redemption Date will be payable to the Holder of this Security, or one or more Predecessor Securities, of record at the close of business on the relevant Regular or Special Record Dates, all as provided in the Indenture. The Company may elect to redeem less than the entire principal amount hereof, provided that the principal amount, if any, of this Security that remains outstanding after such redemption is an Authorized Denomination, as defined herein. In the event of any redemption in part, the Company will not be required to (i) issue, register the transfer of, or exchange any Security during a period of 15 days next preceding the day of the first mailing of the notice of redemption of Securities selected for redemption or (ii) register the transfer or exchange of any Security, or any portion thereof, called for redemption, except the unredeemed portion of any Security being redeemed in part. In the event of redemption of this Security in part only, a new Security or Securities of this series and of like tenor and for a principal amount equal to the unredeemed or unrepaid portion will be delivered to the registered Holder upon the cancellation hereof.

“Adjusted Treasury Rate” means, with respect to any Redemption Date, the rate per annum equal to the semi-annual equivalent yield to maturity of the Comparable Treasury Issue, assuming a price for the Comparable Treasury Issue (expressed as a percentage of its principal amount) equal to the Comparable Treasury Price for that Redemption Date.

“Comparable Treasury Issue” means the United States Treasury security selected by the Quotation Agent that would be utilized, at the time of selection and in accordance with customary financial practice, in pricing new issues of corporate debt securities of comparable maturity to the remaining term of this Security.

4

“Comparable Treasury Price” means, with respect to any Redemption Date, (i) the average of the Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations for the Redemption Date, after excluding the highest and lowest Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations, or (ii) if the Trustee obtains fewer than three Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations, the average of all such Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations.

“Quotation Agent” means Goldman, Sachs & Co. or another Reference Treasury Dealer appointed by the Company.

“Reference Treasury Dealer” means (i) each of Goldman, Sachs & Co. and Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, any other dealer selected by Goldman, Sachs & Co. or Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, and the respective successors of the foregoing; provided, however, that if either of the foregoing shall cease to be a primary U.S. Government securities dealer in New York City (a “Primary Treasury Dealer”), the Company shall substitute another Primary Treasury Dealer, and (ii) any other Primary Treasury Dealer selected by the Company.

“Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations” means, with respect to each Reference Treasury Dealer and any Redemption Date, the average, as determined by the Trustee, of the bid and asked prices for the Comparable Treasury Issue (expressed in each case as a percentage of its principal amount) quoted in writing to the Trustee by that Reference Treasury Dealer at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the third Business Day preceding that Redemption Date.

This Security shall not be repayable at the option of the Holder on any date prior to the Stated Maturity specified above.

If an Event of Default with respect to Securities of this series shall occur and be continuing, the principal of the Securities of this series may be declared due and payable in the manner and with the effect provided in the Indenture.

OTHER PROVISIONS:

With respect to the Securities of this series, the term “Principal Domestic Property,” as set forth in the Indenture, shall mean “any facility (together with the land on which it is erected and fixtures comprising a part thereof) used primarily for manufacturing, processing or distribution, located in the United States, owned or leased by the Issuer or a Subsidiary and having a gross book value (without deduction for depreciation reserves) in excess of $50,000,000, other than any such facility or portion thereof which, in the opinion of the Board of Directors of the Issuer, is not of material importance to the total business conducted by the Issuer and its Subsidiaries as an entirety.”

The Indenture permits, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the amendment thereof and the modification of the rights and obligations of the Company and the rights of the Holders of the Securities of each series to be affected under the Indenture at any time by the Company and the Trustee with the consent of the Holders of not less than 50% in principal amount of the Securities at the time Outstanding of each series to be affected. The Indenture also contains provisions permitting, with certain exceptions as therein provided, the Holders of not less than a majority in principal amount of the Securities of each series at the time Outstanding, on behalf of the Holders of all securities of such series, to waive compliance by the Company with certain provisions of the Indenture and certain past defaults under the Indenture and their consequences. Any such consent or waiver by the Holder of this Security shall be conclusive and binding upon such Holder and upon all future Holders of this Security and of any Security issued upon the registration of transfer hereof or in exchange herefor or in lieu hereof, whether or not notation of such consent or waiver is made upon this Security.

5

No reference herein to the Indenture and no provision of this Security or of the Indenture shall alter or impair the right of the Holder of this Security, which is absolute and unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on this Security at the times, places and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed.

The Indenture contains provisions, which apply to this Security, for defeasance of (i) the entire indebtedness of this Security and (ii) certain restrictive covenants, subject in either case to compliance by the Company with conditions set forth in the Indenture, including that in the event of defeasance pursuant to Section 10.1(A) of the Indenture, Holders of this Security shall only be able to look to the trust fund established pursuant to Section 10.1(A) for payment of principal of and premium, if any, and interest on this Security until Maturity.

As provided in the Indenture and subject to certain additional limitations set forth therein and as may be set forth above, the transfer of this Security is registrable in the Security register, upon surrender of this Security for registration of transfer at the office or agency of the Company in any place where the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on this Security are payable, duly endorsed by, or accompanied by a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Company and the Security registrar duly executed by, the Holder hereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing, and thereupon one or more new Securities of this series of like tenor, of Authorized Denominations and for the same aggregate principal amount, will be issued to the designated transferee or transferees.

The Securities of this series are issuable only in registered form without interest coupons in denominations of U.S. $1,000 and any integral multiple of U.S. $1,000 in excess thereof (an “Authorized Denomination”). The Securities of this series may be issued, in whole or in part, in the form of one or more global Securities and issued to The Depository Trust Company as depositary for the global Securities of this series (the “Depositary”) or its nominee and registered in the name of the Depositary or such nominee. As provided in the Indenture and subject to certain limitations set forth therein and as may be set forth on the face hereof, Securities of this series are exchangeable for a like aggregate principal amount of Securities of this series of like tenor and like terms of a different Authorized Denomination, as requested by the Holder surrendering the same.

No service charge shall be made for any such registration of transfer or exchange, but the Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge payable in connection therewith.

Prior to due presentation of this Security for registration of transfer, the Company, the Trustee and any agent of the Company or the Trustee may treat the Person in whose name this Security is registered as the owner hereof for all purposes, whether or not this Security is overdue, and neither the Company, the Trustee nor any such agent shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

The Indenture and the Securities endorsed thereon shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

All terms used in this Security which are defined in the Indenture shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Indenture.

Unless the certificate of authentication hereon has been executed by the Trustee referred to above, directly or through an Authenticating Agent, by manual signature of an authorized signatory, this Security shall not be entitled to any benefit under the Indenture or be valid or obligatory for any purpose.

6

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this instrument to be duly executed under its corporate seal.

Dated: ________ __, 2002    SARA LEE CORPORATION

____________________________________    By:
[SEAL]    Title:

____________________________________     By:    Title:

TRUSTEE'S CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICATION

This is one of the Securities of the series
designated in, and issued under, the Indenture
described herein.

THE BANK OF NEW YORK,     as Trustee

By: _________________________________________ Authorized Signatory

ABBREVIATIONS

The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face of this instrument, shall be construed as though they were written out in full according to applicable laws or regulations.

TEN COM - as tenants in common

TEN ENT - as tenants by the entireties

JT TEN - as joint tenants with right of survivorship and not as tenants in common

UNIF GIFT MIN ACT - ____________________ Custodian ___________________________                    (Cust)                     (Minor)

Under Uniform Gifts to Minors Act

____________________________________________                    (State)

Additional abbreviations may also be used though not in the above list.

ASSIGNMENT FORM

FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned hereby sell(s), assign(s) and transfer(s) unto

PLEASE INSERT
SOCIAL SECURITY OR OTHER
IDENTIFYING NUMBER OF ASSIGNEE

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

PLEASE PRINT OR TYPEWRITE
NAME AND ADDRESS, INCLUDING POSTAL ZIP CODE, OF ASSIGNEE ____________________________________________________________________________

the within Security and all rights thereunder, hereby irrevocably constituting and appointing

__________________________________________________________________________________

attorney to transfer said Security on the books of the Company, with full power of substitution in the premises.

DATED: __________________________ ____________________________________
NOTICE: The signature to this assignment must correspond with the name as written upon the face of the within instrument in every particular, without alteration or enlargement or any change whatsoever.

CH1 2535151v2

EX-10.19

Exhibit 10.19

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”), effective the 29th day of August, 2014 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyson Foods, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and any of its subsidiaries and affiliates (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Tyson”), and Andrew Callahan (hereinafter referred to as “you”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, Tyson is engaged in a very competitive business, where the development and retention of extensive confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information as well as customer relationships and goodwill are critical to future business success; and

WHEREAS, by virtue of your employment with Tyson, you are involved in the development of, and have access to, Tyson’s confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information, and, if such information were to get into the hands of competitors of Tyson, it could do substantial business harm to Tyson; and

WHEREAS, you will not be provided with or given access to Tyson’s customers and goodwill or Tyson’s confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information unless you execute this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, Tyson has advised you that agreement to the terms of this Agreement, and specifically the non-compete and non-solicitation sections, is an integral part of this Agreement, and you acknowledge the importance of the non-compete and non-solicitation sections, and having reviewed the Agreement as a whole, are willing to commit to the restrictions set forth herein;

NOW, THEREFORE, Tyson and you hereby mutually agree as follows:

1.Employment.

(a)Consideration. In consideration of the above and other good and valuable consideration, you are expressly being given employment, continued employment, a relationship with Tyson, certain monies, benefits, severance, stock awards, training and/or access to trade secrets and confidential information of Tyson and its customers, suppliers, vendors or affiliates to which you

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would not have access but for your relationship with Tyson in exchange for you agreeing to the terms of this Agreement.

(b)Duties. Tyson hereby agrees to employ you and you hereby accept employment with Tyson. The duties and services required to be performed by you shall be consistent with your position, as assigned by Tyson in its sole discretion from time to time, and shall be consistent with the level and responsibility of the duties and services performed by other employees in your band (“Band”). At Tyson’s sole discretion, both your position and Band are subject to change during your term of employment. You agree to devote substantially all of your working time, attention and energies to the business of Tyson. You may make and manage personal investments (provided such investments in other activities do not violate, in any material respect, the provisions of Section 6 of this Agreement), be involved in charitable and professional activities, and, with the prior written consent of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer, serve on boards of other for profit entities, provided such activities do not materially interfere with the performance of your duties hereunder. You agree that during your employment with Tyson, you will not engage in any (i) competitive outside business activities, (ii) outside business that provides goods or services to Tyson, or (iii) outside business that buys products from Tyson, other than with Tyson’s prior written approval. You will devote your best efforts to the performance of your duties and the advancement of Tyson and shall not engage in any other employment, profitable activities, or other pursuits which would cause you to disclose or utilize Confidential Information (as defined in Section 6(a)), or reflect adversely on Tyson. This obligation shall include, but is not limited to, obtaining Tyson’s consent prior to performing tasks for business associates of Tyson outside of your customary duties for Tyson, giving speeches or writing articles, blogs, or posts, about Tyson’s business, improperly using Tyson’s name or identifying your association or position with Tyson in a manner that reflects unfavorably upon Tyson. You further agree that you will not use, incorporate, or otherwise create any business entity or organization or domain name using any name confusingly similar to the name of Tyson or the name of any affiliate of Tyson or any other name under which any such entities do business.

(c)Term of Employment. Your employment under this Agreement will commence on the Effective Date above and end on the date your employment terminates pursuant to Section 3 (the “Period of Employment”).

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2.Compensation.

(a)Initial Consideration. You shall receive, in addition to all regular compensation for services as described in this Section 2 and the severance and benefits provided under Section 4 and Section 5, $115,522.00 as additional consideration for signing this Agreement and for agreeing to abide and be bound by the terms, provisions and restrictions of Section 6. You understand and acknowledge that you have been properly and timely informed of the type, amount and terms of such consideration and that you would not be entitled to such consideration, and that such consideration would not be paid, if you did not execute and agree to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement.

(b)Base Salary. For the services to be performed hereunder during the Period of Employment, Tyson shall pay you at a base salary of $582,400.00, which may be adjusted by Tyson from time to time within the range paid to other employees in your Band. Such base salary shall be paid in accordance with Tyson’s payroll practice.

(c)Performance Incentive Eligibility. You may receive performance incentive awards under Tyson’s annual and long-term incentive plans then in effect (if any), on terms and in amounts consistent with those provided to other employees in your Band, subject to the discretion of the senior management of Tyson.

(d)Stock Grants. You may receive stock awards under an equity incentive compensation plan of Tyson then in effect (if any), on terms and in amounts consistent with those provided to other employees in your Band, subject to the discretion of the senior management of Tyson.

(e)Benefit Plans, Vacation and Reimbursement Programs. You shall be entitled to participate in any benefit plans of Tyson as adopted or amended from time to time on terms and in amounts consistent with those generally applicable to other employees in your Band. You will be entitled to an annual paid vacation in accordance with Tyson’s applicable vacation policy, as in effect from time to time. Tyson will pay or reimburse you for all reasonable expenses actually incurred or paid by you in the performance of your services to Tyson, subject to and in accordance with applicable expense reimbursement and related policies and procedures as in effect from time to time.

(f)Review. Base salary, performance incentive compensation, stock grant levels, and plan participation will be subject to review annually (or from time to time at Tyson’s discretion),

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when compensation of other officers and managers of Tyson are reviewed for consideration of adjustments thereof.

3.Termination. Upon any termination of your employment for any reason, you shall immediately resign from all boards, offices and other positions with Tyson or from any board or committee of an association or industry group where you represent Tyson. The date upon which your employment terminates and the Period of Employment ends will be your “Termination Date” for all purposes of this Agreement. Your employment may be terminated under this Agreement in the following events:

(a)Death. Your employment hereunder will terminate upon your death.

(b)Disability. Your employment hereunder will terminate upon your “Disability”. For purposes of this Agreement, Disability has the same meaning as provided in the long-term disability plan or policy maintained or, if applicable, most recently maintained, by Tyson. If no long-term disability plan or policy was ever maintained on behalf of you or, if the determination of Disability relates to an incentive stock option, Disability means that condition described in Section 22(e)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), as amended from time to time. In the event of a dispute, the determination of Disability will be made by the Committee (as defined in Tyson’s equity incentive plan) and will be supported by advice of a physician competent in the area to which such Disability relates.

(c)Termination by You for Good Reason. Upon the occurrence of a “Good Reason” event, you may terminate your employment pursuant to this Agreement by providing a notice of termination for Good Reason to Tyson within no more than seven (7) days of the Good Reason event and providing Tyson thirty (30) days following receipt of such notice to cure the Good Reason event. If Tyson cures the Good Reason event within such 30 day period, you may not terminate your employment for Good Reason, but may voluntarily resign pursuant to Section 3(d) below. If Tyson fails to cure the Good Reason event within such 30 day period, your termination of employment will be effective under this Section 3(c). For purposes of the Agreement, you will be treated as having terminated for “Good Reason” if you terminate employment after having been demoted to a less senior Band than that in which you were employed when executing this Agreement or to a position not covered by a Band, which Tyson does not cure by restoring you to your former Band.

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(d)Voluntary Termination by You without Good Reason. You may terminate your employment pursuant to this Agreement at any time by not less than thirty (30) days prior written notice to Tyson, which notice period may be waived by Tyson. Upon receipt of such notice, Tyson shall have the right, at its sole discretion, to accelerate your Termination Date at any time during said notice period.

(e)Termination for Cause by Tyson. Tyson may terminate your employment hereunder for “Cause” at any time after providing a notice of termination for Cause to you. For purposes of this Agreement, you shall be treated as having been terminated for Cause if and only if you are terminated as a result of the occurrence of one or more of the following events:

(i) any willful and wrongful conduct or omission by you that injures Tyson;

(ii) any act by you of intentional misrepresentation or embezzlement, misappropriation or conversion of assets of Tyson;

(iii) you are convicted of, confess to, plead no contest to, or become the subject of proceedings that provide a reasonable basis for Tyson to believe that you have been engaged in a felony; or

(iv) your intentional or willful violation of any restrictive covenant provided for under Section 6 of this Agreement or any other agreement to which you are a party.

For purposes of this Agreement an act or failure to act shall be considered “willful” only if done or omitted to be done without your good faith reasonable belief that such act or failure to act was in the best interests of Tyson. In no event shall Tyson’s failure to notify you of the occurrence of any event constituting Cause, or to terminate you as a result of such event, be construed as a consent to the occurrence of future events, whether or not similar to the initial occurrence, or a waiver of Tyson’s right to terminate you for Cause as a result thereof.

(f)Termination by Tyson without Cause. Tyson may terminate your employment hereunder without Cause at any time upon notice to you.

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4.Compensation Following Termination of Employment. In the event that your employment hereunder is terminated in a manner as set forth in Section 3 above, you shall be entitled to the compensation and benefits provided under this Section 4.

(a)Termination Due to Death, Disability, Voluntary Termination without Good Reason or Termination for Cause by Tyson. In the event that your employment is terminated by reason of death, Disability, voluntary termination by you without Good Reason or for Cause by Tyson, Tyson shall pay the following amounts to you or your estate:

(i) Any accrued but unpaid base salary for services rendered to the Termination Date, any accrued but unpaid expenses required to be reimbursed under this Agreement, and any vacation accrued to the Termination Date (“Accrued Compensation”); and

(ii) Any benefits accrued through the date of termination to which you may be entitled pursuant to the plans, policies and arrangements, as determined and paid in accordance with the terms of such plans, policies and arrangements (“Plan Benefits”).

(b)Termination by Tyson without Cause or by you for Good Reason. In the event that your employment is terminated by Tyson for reasons other than death, Disability or Cause, or by you for Good Reason, Tyson shall pay the following amounts to you:

(i) Accrued Compensation;

(ii) Plan Benefits;

(iii) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become vested in a pro rata portion of any of your unvested restricted stock awards that are outstanding on your Termination Date provided the applicable performance criteria, if any, are met. Such pro rata portion shall be equal to the percentage of the total vesting period, measured in days, in which you remained employed by Tyson multiplied by the number of shares subject to the award. Any award subject to this subsection (iii) shall not be paid until such time as it

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would otherwise have been paid if under the terms of the award it was subject to performance criteria and will only be paid if any applicable performance criteria are met;

(iv) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become fully vested in any of your unvested stock options that are outstanding on the Termination Date; and

(v) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become entitled to a pro rata portion of any performance share awards that are outstanding on the Termination Date provided the applicable performance criteria is met. The pro rata portion of your award shall equal the percentage of the total performance period, measured in days, in which you remained employed by Tyson multiplied by the percentage of the award that you would have received had you remained employed for the entire performance period. Any award subject to this subsection (v) shall not be paid until such time as it would have otherwise been paid under the terms of the award and will only be paid if the performance criteria are met.

(vi) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), an amount equal to, and on terms equal to, the severance payments and severance benefits provided to other employees within your Band, as determined under the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees. In the event of a Change of Control (defined below) the amount you would be entitled to in the event of termination subject to this Section 4(b) will be based on the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees in place at the time immediately prior to the Change of Control.

(c)Release. For purposes of this Agreement, “Release” means that specific document which Tyson shall present to you for consideration and execution after your termination of employment, under which you agree to irrevocably and unconditionally release and forever discharge Tyson, its subsidiaries, affiliates and related parties from any and all causes of action which

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you at that time had or may have had against Tyson (excluding any claim for indemnity under this Agreement, or any claim under state workers’ compensation or unemployment laws). The Release will be provided to you as soon as practical after your Termination Date, but in any event in sufficient time so that you will have adequate time to review the Release as provided by applicable law. The Release must be signed within twenty-one (21) days of its presentation to you (or within forty-five (45) days if you are terminated as part of a group termination). The Release shall not become effective until seven (7) days after it is executed. Tyson maintains a form of Release, which it may change from time to time as it deems appropriate. The latest version of the Release shall be available for your review upon request. Subject to the payment provisions of the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees and Section 8 below, any payments subject to a Release shall commence on the first payroll period commencing on or after the date the Release becomes effective.

5.Acceleration of Stock Grants on Change in Control. Upon the occurrence of a Change in Control (defined below) the stock awards that have been granted to you pursuant to award agreements from Tyson under Section 2, or which have otherwise been previously granted to you under an award agreement from Tyson; and which awards remain outstanding at the time of the Change in Control, will be treated in accordance with the applicable award agreements. For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Change in Control” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Tyson’s equity incentive compensation plan then in effect; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not include any event as a result of which one or more of the following persons or entities possess or continues to possess, immediately after such event, over fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the Company or, if applicable, a successor entity: (a) Tyson Limited Partnership, or any successor entity; (b) individuals related to the late Donald John Tyson by blood, marriage or adoption, or the estate of any such individual (including Donald John Tyson’s); or (c) any entity (including, but not limited to, a partnership, corporation, trust or limited liability company) in which one or more of the entities, individuals or estates described in clauses (a) and (b) hereof possess over fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power or beneficial interests of such entity. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 5 shall not affect the time or form of payment under an applicable award agreement, and all awards shall be paid at the time, and in the form, provided under the terms of such award agreement. The Committee (as defined in Tyson’s equity incentive plan) shall have the sole discretion to interpret the foregoing provisions of this paragraph.

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6.Restrictive Covenants and Other Restrictions.

(a)Confidential Information. You acknowledge that during the course of your employment with Tyson, you will be provided, learn, develop and have access to Tyson’s trade secrets, confidential information and proprietary materials which may include, but are not limited to, the following: strategies, methods, books, records, and documents; technical information concerning products, formulas, production, distribution, equipment, services, and processes; procurement procedures and pricing techniques; the names of and other information concerning customers, suppliers, vendors, investors, and other business affiliates (such as contact name, service provided, pricing, type and amount of services used, credit and financial data, and/or other information relating to Tyson’s relationship with that business affiliate); pricing strategies and price curves; positions, plans, and strategies for expansion or acquisitions; budgets; customer lists; research; weather data; financial analysis, returns and reports and sales data; trading methodologies and terms; evaluations, opinions, and interpretations of information and data; marketing and merchandising techniques; prospective customers’ names and marks; grids and maps; electronic databases; models; specifications; computer programs; internal business records; contracts benefiting or obligating Tyson; bids or proposals submitted to any third party; technologies and methods; training methods and training processes; organizational structure; personnel information, including salaries of personnel; payment amounts or rates paid to consultants or other service providers; and other information, whether tangible or intangible, in any form or medium provided (collectively, “Confidential Information”) which is not generally available to the public and which has been developed, will be developed or acquired by Tyson at considerable effort and expense. Without limiting the foregoing, you acknowledge and agree that you will learn, be provided, develop and have access to certain techniques, methods or applications implemented or developed by Tyson which are not generally known to the public or within the community in which Tyson competes, and any and all such information shall be treated as Confidential Information.

During the term of this Agreement or at any time thereafter, unless otherwise specifically authorized in writing by Tyson, you hereby covenant and agree: (i) to hold Confidential Information in the strictest confidence; (ii) not to, directly or indirectly, disclose, divulge or reveal any Confidential Information to any person or entity other than as authorized by Tyson; (iii) to use such Confidential Information only within the scope of your employment with Tyson for the benefit of Tyson; and (iv) to take such protective measures as may be reasonably necessary to preserve the secrecy and interest

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of Tyson in the Confidential Information. You agree to immediately notify Tyson of any unauthorized disclosure or use of any Confidential Information of which you become aware. The confidentiality obligations herein shall not prohibit you from revealing evidence of criminal wrongdoing to legitimate law enforcement officials or Confidential Information by order of court or agency of competent jurisdiction or as otherwise required by law; however, you shall promptly inform Tyson of any such situations and shall take reasonable steps to prevent disclosure of Confidential Information until Tyson has been informed of such required disclosure and has had a reasonable opportunity first to seek a protective order.

(b)Creative Works. “Creative Works” include, but are not limited to, all original works of authorship, inventions, discoveries, designs, computer hardware and software, algorithms, programming, scripts, applets, databases, database structures, or other proprietary information, business ideas, and related improvements and devices, which are conceived, developed, or made by you, either alone or with others, in whole or in part, on or off Tyson’s premises, (i) during your employment with Tyson, (ii) with the use of the time, materials, or facilities of Tyson, (iii) relating to any product, service, or activity of Tyson of which you have knowledge, or (iv) suggested by or resulting from any work performed by you for Tyson. Creative Works do not include inventions or other works developed by you entirely on your own time without using Tyson’s equipment, supplies, facilities, or trade secret information except for those inventions or works developed during your Period of Employment that either: (a) relate at the time of conception or reduction to practice of the invention to Tyson’s business, or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development of Tyson; or (b) result from any work performed by you for Tyson. If you are or become a resident of any state during your employment that has enacted laws relating to ownership of works created without use of or reference to Tyson materials, facilities, and/or intellectual property and do not relate to Tyson’s business, this Section shall be limited solely to the extent provided by the applicable laws of such states.

To the extent any rights in the Creative Works are not already owned by Tyson, you irrevocably assign and transfer to Tyson all proprietary rights, including, but not limited to, all patent, copyright, trade secret, trademark, and publicity rights, in the Creative Works and agree that Tyson will be the sole and exclusive owner of all right, title, and interest in the Creative Works. Tyson will have the right to use all Creative Works, whether original or derivative, in any manner whatsoever and in any

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medium now known or later developed. You agree not, at any time, to assert any claim, ownership, or other interest in any of the Creative Works or Confidential Information.

Both during and after your employment, you agree to execute any documents necessary to effectuate the assignment to Tyson of the Creative Works, and will execute all papers and perform any other lawful acts reasonably requested by Tyson for the preparation, prosecution, procurement, and maintenance of any trademark, copyright, and/or patent rights in and for the Creative Works. You further agree that you will not be entitled to any compensation in addition to the salary paid to you during the development of the Creative Works. In the event Tyson is unable for any reason to secure your signature to any document Tyson reasonably requests you to execute under this Section 6, you hereby irrevocably designate and appoint Tyson and its authorized officers and agents as your agents and attorneys-in-fact to act for and in your behalf and instead of you to execute such document with the same legal force and effect as if executed by you.

(c)No Restrictions on Employment. You are being employed or continuing to be employed by Tyson with the understanding that (i) you are free to enter into employment or continued employment with Tyson, (ii) your employment with Tyson will not violate any agreement you may have with a third party (e.g., existing employment, non-compete, intellectual property ownership, and/or non-disclosure agreements) and (iii) only Tyson is entitled to the benefit of your work. If you have any agreements with a prior employer, you are required to provide such agreements to Tyson prior to executing this Agreement. Tyson has no interest in using any other person’s patents, copyrights, trade secrets, or trademarks in an unlawful manner. You should be careful not to disclose to Tyson any intellectual property or confidential information of your prior employers or anyone else or misapply proprietary rights that Tyson has no right to use and you further represent and warrant that you have either already returned or have coordinated the return of all such information to any prior employer.

(d)Removal and Return of Tyson Property. All written materials, records, data, and other documents prepared or possessed by you during your employment with Tyson are Tyson’s property. All memoranda, notes, records, files, correspondence, drawings, manuals, models, specifications, computer programs, maps, and all other documents, data, or materials of any type embodying such information, ideas, concepts, improvements, discoveries, and inventions are Tyson’s property. You agree not to remove any property of Tyson, including, but not limited to, any Confidential Information or Creative Works, from Tyson’s premises, except as authorized under Tyson’s policies

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or with the prior written approval of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer. Unless specifically authorized by Tyson in writing, you may not place Tyson Confidential Information or Creative Works on Removable Media, as defined below. On Tyson’s request, your acceptance of other employment, or the termination of your employment for any reason, you will immediately return to Tyson all Tyson property, including all Confidential Information and Creative Works and any and all documents and materials that contain, refer to, or relate in any way to any Confidential Information, as well as any other property of Tyson in your possession or control, including all electronic and telephonic equipment, credit cards, security badges, and passwords. You will permit Tyson to inspect any property provided by Tyson to you or developed by you as a result of or in connection with your employment with Tyson when you accept other employment or otherwise separate from your employment, regardless of where the property is located. For purposes of this Section, “Removable Media” means portable or removable hard disks, floppy disks, USB memory drives, zip disks, optical disks, CDs, DVDs, digital film, memory cards (e.g., Secure Digital (SD), Memory Sticks (MS), CompactFlash (CF), SmartMedia (SM), MultiMediaCard (MMC), and xD-Picture Card (xD)), magnetic tape, and all other removable data storage media.

(e)Non-Competition. You acknowledge that Tyson performs services throughout the United States and that your duties and services impact Tyson’s performance of services throughout the United States. Accordingly, you acknowledge the need for certain restrictions contained in this Agreement to be without limitation as to location or geography within the United States. You agree that during your employment with Tyson, and for a period of 12 months thereafter, you will not directly or indirectly, on behalf of yourself or in conjunction with any other person, company or entity, own (other than less than 5% ownership in a publicly traded company), manage, operate, or participate in the ownership, management, operation, or control of, or be employed by or a consultant to any person, company or entity which is in competition with Tyson, with which you would hold a position with responsibilities similar to any position you held with Tyson during the 24 months preceding your Termination Date or in which you would utilize or disclose confidential methodologies, techniques, customer lists or information of Tyson. You agree that during your employment with Tyson and for a period of 12 months thereafter you will not directly or indirectly, on behalf of you or any other person, company or entity, participate in the planning, research or development of any strategies or methodologies, similar to strategies or methodologies, utilized or developed by Tyson, excluding general industry knowledge, for which you had access to, utilized or developed during the 36 months preceding your Termination Date. You agree that nothing in this Section shall limit your confidentiality

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obligations in this Agreement. Further, you understand and agree that during your employment and the restricted time periods thereafter designated in this Agreement, while you may gather information to investigate other employment opportunities, you shall not make plans or prepare to compete, solicit or take on activities which are in violation of this Agreement. Should you leave Tyson and accept employment or a consulting position with a competitor, you are required beforehand to inform Tyson of the identity of your new employer and your responsibilities for the new employer. You are also required to show this Agreement to all new employers prior to accepting new employment and Tyson shall also be permitted to show this Agreement to all new employers as well.

(f)Non-Solicitation. You agree that during your employment with Tyson and for a period of 36 months thereafter, you will not, nor will you assist any third party to, directly or indirectly (i) raid, hire, solicit, encourage or attempt to persuade any employee or independent contractor of Tyson, or any person who was an employee or independent contractor of Tyson during the 6 months preceding the Termination Date, who possesses or had access to Confidential Information of Tyson, to leave the employ of or terminate a relationship with Tyson; (ii) interfere with the performance by any such persons of their duties for Tyson; (iii) communicate with any such persons for the purposes described in the paragraph above; or (iv) solicit, encourage or attempt to persuade any customer or vendor of Tyson during the 6 months preceding your Termination Date to terminate or modify its relationship with Tyson.

(g)Non-Disparagement. You agree that you shall not at any time engage in any form of conduct, or make any statement or representation, either oral or written, that disparages, impugns or otherwise impairs the reputation, goodwill or interests of Tyson, or any of its officers, directors, shareholders, managing members, representatives, and/or employees or agents in either the individual or representative capacities of any of the foregoing individuals (including, without limitation, the repetition or distribution of derogatory rumors, allegations, negative reports or comments). Nor shall you direct, arrange or encourage others to make any such derogatory or disparaging statements on your behalf. Nothing in this Section, however, shall prevent you from providing truthful testimony or information in any proceeding or in response to any request from any governmental agency, or judicial, arbitral or self-regulatory forum.

(h)Effect of Breach. You acknowledge and agree that, in the event of any breach by you of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, pursuant to the terms of certain benefit plans and programs, your accrued benefits thereunder may be discontinued or forfeited, in addition to any

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other rights and remedies Tyson may have at law or in equity. You acknowledge that irreparable damage would result to Tyson if the provisions of this Agreement are not specifically enforced, and that, in addition to any other legal or equitable relief available, and notwithstanding any alternative dispute resolution provisions that have been or may be agreed to between Tyson and you, Tyson shall be entitled to injunctive relief in the event of any failure to comply with the provisions of this Agreement. If you violate any of the terms of this Agreement, you will indemnify Tyson for the expenses, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred by Tyson in enforcing this Agreement.

(i)Clawback Policies. In addition to subsection (h) above, any amounts payable under this Agreement are subject to any policy, whether in existence as of the Effective Date or later adopted, established by Tyson that provides for the clawback or recovery of amounts that were paid to you under circumstances requiring clawback or recovery as set forth in such policy. Tyson will make any determinations for clawback or recover in its sole discretion and in accordance with any applicable law or regulation. Further, notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement, if within one year of the termination of your employment, Tyson becomes aware of facts that would have allowed Tyson to terminate your employment for Cause (within the meaning of Section 3), then, to the extent permitted by law:

(i) Tyson may elect to cancel any and all payments of benefits otherwise due to you, but not yet paid, under this Agreement or otherwise; and

(ii) you will refund to Tyson any amounts, plus interest, previously paid by Tyson to you in excess of your Accrued Compensation and Plan Benefits (within the meaning of Section 4).

7.General.

(a)Enforcement and Severability. You specifically acknowledge and agree that the purpose of the restrictions contained in this Agreement is to protect Tyson from unfair competition, including improper use of the Confidential Information by you, and that the restrictions and covenants contained herein are reasonable with respect to both scope and duration of application. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any court determines that any of the terms herein are unreasonable, invalid or unenforceable, the court may interpret, alter, amend or modify any or all of the terms to

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include as much of the scope, time period and intent as will render the restrictions enforceable, and then as modified, enforce the terms. Each covenant and restriction contained in this Agreement is independent of each other such covenant and restriction, and if any such covenant or restriction is held for any reason to be invalid, unenforceable and incapable of corrective modification, then the invalidity or unenforceability of such covenant or restriction shall not invalidate, affect or impair in any way the validity and enforceability of any other such covenant or restriction.

(b)Notices. All written notices, requests and other communications provided pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to have been duly given, if delivered in person or by courier, or by facsimile transmission or sent by express, registered or certified mail, postage prepaid addressed, if to you, at the most recent address on record in Tyson’s human resources information system, and if to Tyson, at its headquarters:

Tyson Foods, Inc.
Attn: Chief Human Resources Officer
2200 Don Tyson Parkway
Springdale, Arkansas 72762-6999

(c)Modification. This Agreement contains all the terms and conditions agreed upon by the parties hereto, and no other agreements, oral or otherwise, regarding the subject matter of this Agreement shall be deemed to exist or bind either of the parties hereto, except for any pre-employment confidentiality agreement that may exist between the parties or any agreement or policy specifically referenced herein. This Agreement cannot be modified except by a writing signed by both parties.

(d)Assignment. This Agreement shall be binding upon you, your heirs, executors and personal representatives and upon Tyson, its successors and assigns. You acknowledge that the services to be rendered by you are unique and personal. You may not assign, transfer or pledge your rights or delegate your duties or obligations under this Agreement, in whole or in part, without first obtaining the written consent of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer.

(e)Applicable Law. You acknowledge that this Agreement is performable at various locations throughout the United States and specifically performable wholly or partly within the State of Arkansas and consent to the validity, interpretation, performance and enforcement of this Agreement being governed by the internal laws of said State of Arkansas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

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(f)Jurisdiction and Venue of Disputes. The courts of Washington County, Arkansas shall have exclusive jurisdiction and be the venue of all disputes between Tyson and you, whether such disputes arise from this Agreement or otherwise. In addition, you expressly waive any right that you may have to sue or be sued in the county of your residence and consent to venue in Washington County, Arkansas.

(g)Funding. All payments provided under this Agreement, other than payments made pursuant to a plan which provides otherwise, shall be paid from the general funds of Tyson, and no special or separate fund shall be established, and no other segregation of assets made, to assure payment. You shall have no right, title or interest whatever in or to any investments which Tyson may make to aid Tyson in meeting its obligations hereunder. To the extent that any person acquires a right to receive payments from Tyson hereunder, such right shall be no greater than the right of an unsecured creditor of Tyson.

8.Special Tax Considerations.

(a)Tax Withholding. Tyson shall provide for the withholding of any taxes required to be withheld by federal, state and local law with respect to any payments in cash and/or other property made by or on behalf of Tyson to or for your benefit under this Agreement or otherwise.

(b)Excise Tax.    Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the total payments to be paid to you under this Agreement, along with any other payments to you by Tyson, would result in you being subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (commonly referred to as the “Golden Parachute Tax”), Tyson shall reduce the aggregate payments to the largest amount which can be paid to you without triggering the excise tax, but only if and to the extent that such reduction would result in you retaining larger aggregate after-tax payments. The determination of the excise tax and the aggregate after-tax payments to be received by you will be made by Tyson. If payments are to be reduced, the payments made latest in time will be reduced first and if payments are to be made at the same time, non-cash payments will be reduced before cash payments.

(c)Separation from Service. In the event that the termination of your employment does not constitute a “separation from service” as defined in Code Section 409A, including all regulations and other guidance issued pursuant thereto, your rights to the payments and benefits described in Section 4 will vest upon the Termination Date, but no payment to you that is subject to

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Code Section 409A will be paid until you incur a separation from service (or until six (6) months after such date if you are a “specified employee” pursuant to subsection (d) of this Section), and any amounts that would otherwise have been paid before such date will be paid instead as soon as practicable after such date.

(d)Six-Month Delay in Payment. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if you are a “specified employee” as defined and applied in Code Section 409A as of your Termination Date, then, to the extent any payment under this Agreement or any Tyson plan or policy constitutes deferred compensation (after taking into account any applicable exemptions from Code Section 409A, including those specified in subsection (f) of this Section) and to the extent required by Code Section 409A, no payments due under this Agreement or any Tyson plan or policy may be made until the earlier of: (i) the first (1st) day following the six (6) month anniversary of your Termination Date and (ii) your date of death; provided, however, that any payments delayed during the six (6) month period will be paid in the aggregate as soon as reasonably practicable following the six (6) month anniversary of your Termination Date.

(e)Expense Reimbursement. In no event will an expense be reimbursed after December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the expense was incurred. You are not permitted to receive a payment or other benefit in lieu of reimbursement under Section 2(e).

(f)Application of Exemptions. For purposes of Code Section 409A, each “payment” (as defined by Code Section 409A) made under this Agreement will be considered a “separate payment.” In addition, for purposes of Code Section 409A, each such payment will be deemed exempt from Code Section 409A to the fullest extent possible under (i) the “short-term deferral” exemption of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-1((b)(4), and (ii) with respect to any additional amounts paid no later than the second (2nd) calendar year following the calendar year containing your Termination Date, the “involuntary separation” pay exemption of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii), which are hereby incorporated by reference.

(g)Effect of Release. Any amounts that are not exempt from Code Section 409A under paragraph (f) above, and which are paid subject to your execution of a Release that provides for a consideration period and revocation period that crosses two calendar years, shall be paid on the

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first payroll date in the second calendar year that occurs on or after the expiration of the revocation period, regardless of the date the Release is signed.

(h)Interpretation and Administration of Agreement. To the maximum extent permitted by law, this Agreement will be interpreted and administered in such a manner that the payments to you are either exempt from, or comply with, the requirements of Code Section 409A.

SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement effective as of the day and year first above written.

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE COMPLETELY READ THE ABOVE, HAVE BEEN ADVISED TO CONSIDER THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY, AND HAVE BEEN FURTHER ADVISED TO REVIEW IT WITH LEGAL COUNSEL OF YOUR CHOOSING BEFORE SIGNING. YOU FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU ARE SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT VOLUNTARILY, AND WITHOUT DURESS, COERCION, OR UNDUE INFLUENCE AND THEREBY AGREE TO ALL OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

/s/ Andrew Callahan    
(Employee)

Chicago, IL    
(Location)

9/12/2014    
(Date)

Tyson Foods, Inc.

By /s/ Donnie Smith    

Title President & Chief Executive Officer

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EX-10.20

Exhibit 10.20

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”), effective the 29th day of August, 2014 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyson Foods, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and any of its subsidiaries and affiliates (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Tyson”), and Sobhana (Sally) Grimes (hereinafter referred to as “you”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, Tyson is engaged in a very competitive business, where the development and retention of extensive confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information as well as customer relationships and goodwill are critical to future business success; and

WHEREAS, by virtue of your employment with Tyson, you are involved in the development of, and have access to, Tyson’s confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information, and, if such information were to get into the hands of competitors of Tyson, it could do substantial business harm to Tyson; and

WHEREAS, you will not be provided with or given access to Tyson’s customers and goodwill or Tyson’s confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information unless you execute this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, Tyson has advised you that agreement to the terms of this Agreement, and specifically the non-compete and non-solicitation sections, is an integral part of this Agreement, and you acknowledge the importance of the non-compete and non-solicitation sections, and having reviewed the Agreement as a whole, are willing to commit to the restrictions set forth herein;

NOW, THEREFORE, Tyson and you hereby mutually agree as follows:

1.Employment.

(a)Consideration. In consideration of the above and other good and valuable consideration, you are expressly being given employment, continued employment, a relationship with Tyson, certain monies, benefits, severance, stock awards, training and/or access to trade secrets and confidential information of Tyson and its customers, suppliers, vendors or affiliates to which you

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would not have access but for your relationship with Tyson in exchange for you agreeing to the terms of this Agreement.

(b)Duties. Tyson hereby agrees to employ you and you hereby accept employment with Tyson. The duties and services required to be performed by you shall be consistent with your position, as assigned by Tyson in its sole discretion from time to time, and shall be consistent with the level and responsibility of the duties and services performed by other employees in your band (“Band”). At Tyson’s sole discretion, both your position and Band are subject to change during your term of employment. You agree to devote substantially all of your working time, attention and energies to the business of Tyson. You may make and manage personal investments (provided such investments in other activities do not violate, in any material respect, the provisions of Section 6 of this Agreement), be involved in charitable and professional activities, and, with the prior written consent of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer, serve on boards of other for profit entities, provided such activities do not materially interfere with the performance of your duties hereunder. You agree that during your employment with Tyson, you will not engage in any (i) competitive outside business activities, (ii) outside business that provides goods or services to Tyson, or (iii) outside business that buys products from Tyson, other than with Tyson’s prior written approval. You will devote your best efforts to the performance of your duties and the advancement of Tyson and shall not engage in any other employment, profitable activities, or other pursuits which would cause you to disclose or utilize Confidential Information (as defined in Section 6(a)), or reflect adversely on Tyson. This obligation shall include, but is not limited to, obtaining Tyson’s consent prior to performing tasks for business associates of Tyson outside of your customary duties for Tyson, giving speeches or writing articles, blogs, or posts, about Tyson’s business, improperly using Tyson’s name or identifying your association or position with Tyson in a manner that reflects unfavorably upon Tyson. You further agree that you will not use, incorporate, or otherwise create any business entity or organization or domain name using any name confusingly similar to the name of Tyson or the name of any affiliate of Tyson or any other name under which any such entities do business.

(c)Term of Employment. Your employment under this Agreement will commence on the Effective Date above and end on the date your employment terminates pursuant to Section 3 (the “Period of Employment”).

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2.Compensation.

(a)Initial Consideration. You shall receive, in addition to all regular compensation for services as described in this Section 2 and the severance and benefits provided under Section 4 and Section 5, $115,522.00 as additional consideration for signing this Agreement and for agreeing to abide and be bound by the terms, provisions and restrictions of Section 6. You understand and acknowledge that you have been properly and timely informed of the type, amount and terms of such consideration and that you would not be entitled to such consideration, and that such consideration would not be paid, if you did not execute and agree to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement.

(b)Base Salary. For the services to be performed hereunder during the Period of Employment, Tyson shall pay you at a base salary of $582,400.00, which may be adjusted by Tyson from time to time within the range paid to other employees in your Band. Such base salary shall be paid in accordance with Tyson’s payroll practice.

(c)Performance Incentive Eligibility. You may receive performance incentive awards under Tyson’s annual and long-term incentive plans then in effect (if any), on terms and in amounts consistent with those provided to other employees in your Band, subject to the discretion of the senior management of Tyson.

(d)Stock Grants. You may receive stock awards under an equity incentive compensation plan of Tyson then in effect (if any), on terms and in amounts consistent with those provided to other employees in your Band, subject to the discretion of the senior management of Tyson.

(e)Benefit Plans, Vacation and Reimbursement Programs. You shall be entitled to participate in any benefit plans of Tyson as adopted or amended from time to time on terms and in amounts consistent with those generally applicable to other employees in your Band. You will be entitled to an annual paid vacation in accordance with Tyson’s applicable vacation policy, as in effect from time to time. Tyson will pay or reimburse you for all reasonable expenses actually incurred or paid by you in the performance of your services to Tyson, subject to and in accordance with applicable expense reimbursement and related policies and procedures as in effect from time to time.

(f)Review. Base salary, performance incentive compensation, stock grant levels, and plan participation will be subject to review annually (or from time to time at Tyson’s discretion),

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when compensation of other officers and managers of Tyson are reviewed for consideration of adjustments thereof.

3.Termination. Upon any termination of your employment for any reason, you shall immediately resign from all boards, offices and other positions with Tyson or from any board or committee of an association or industry group where you represent Tyson. The date upon which your employment terminates and the Period of Employment ends will be your “Termination Date” for all purposes of this Agreement. Your employment may be terminated under this Agreement in the following events:

(a)Death. Your employment hereunder will terminate upon your death.

(b)Disability. Your employment hereunder will terminate upon your “Disability”. For purposes of this Agreement, Disability has the same meaning as provided in the long-term disability plan or policy maintained or, if applicable, most recently maintained, by Tyson. If no long-term disability plan or policy was ever maintained on behalf of you or, if the determination of Disability relates to an incentive stock option, Disability means that condition described in Section 22(e)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), as amended from time to time. In the event of a dispute, the determination of Disability will be made by the Committee (as defined in Tyson’s equity incentive plan) and will be supported by advice of a physician competent in the area to which such Disability relates.

(c)Termination by You for Good Reason. Upon the occurrence of a “Good Reason” event, you may terminate your employment pursuant to this Agreement by providing a notice of termination for Good Reason to Tyson within no more than seven (7) days of the Good Reason event and providing Tyson thirty (30) days following receipt of such notice to cure the Good Reason event. If Tyson cures the Good Reason event within such 30 day period, you may not terminate your employment for Good Reason, but may voluntarily resign pursuant to Section 3(d) below. If Tyson fails to cure the Good Reason event within such 30 day period, your termination of employment will be effective under this Section 3(c). For purposes of the Agreement, you will be treated as having terminated for “Good Reason” if you terminate employment after having been demoted to a less senior Band than that in which you were employed when executing this Agreement or to a position not covered by a Band, which Tyson does not cure by restoring you to your former Band.

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(d)Voluntary Termination by You without Good Reason. You may terminate your employment pursuant to this Agreement at any time by not less than thirty (30) days prior written notice to Tyson, which notice period may be waived by Tyson. Upon receipt of such notice, Tyson shall have the right, at its sole discretion, to accelerate your Termination Date at any time during said notice period.

(e)Termination for Cause by Tyson. Tyson may terminate your employment hereunder for “Cause” at any time after providing a notice of termination for Cause to you. For purposes of this Agreement, you shall be treated as having been terminated for Cause if and only if you are terminated as a result of the occurrence of one or more of the following events:

(i) any willful and wrongful conduct or omission by you that injures Tyson;

(ii) any act by you of intentional misrepresentation or embezzlement, misappropriation or conversion of assets of Tyson;

(iii) you are convicted of, confess to, plead no contest to, or become the subject of proceedings that provide a reasonable basis for Tyson to believe that you have been engaged in a felony; or

(iv) your intentional or willful violation of any restrictive covenant provided for under Section 6 of this Agreement or any other agreement to which you are a party.

For purposes of this Agreement an act or failure to act shall be considered “willful” only if done or omitted to be done without your good faith reasonable belief that such act or failure to act was in the best interests of Tyson. In no event shall Tyson’s failure to notify you of the occurrence of any event constituting Cause, or to terminate you as a result of such event, be construed as a consent to the occurrence of future events, whether or not similar to the initial occurrence, or a waiver of Tyson’s right to terminate you for Cause as a result thereof.

(f)Termination by Tyson without Cause. Tyson may terminate your employment hereunder without Cause at any time upon notice to you.

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4.Compensation Following Termination of Employment. In the event that your employment hereunder is terminated in a manner as set forth in Section 3 above, you shall be entitled to the compensation and benefits provided under this Section 4.

(a)Termination Due to Death, Disability, Voluntary Termination without Good Reason or Termination for Cause by Tyson. In the event that your employment is terminated by reason of death, Disability, voluntary termination by you without Good Reason or for Cause by Tyson, Tyson shall pay the following amounts to you or your estate:

(i) Any accrued but unpaid base salary for services rendered to the Termination Date, any accrued but unpaid expenses required to be reimbursed under this Agreement, and any vacation accrued to the Termination Date (“Accrued Compensation”); and

(ii) Any benefits accrued through the date of termination to which you may be entitled pursuant to the plans, policies and arrangements, as determined and paid in accordance with the terms of such plans, policies and arrangements (“Plan Benefits”).

(b)Termination by Tyson without Cause or by you for Good Reason. In the event that your employment is terminated by Tyson for reasons other than death, Disability or Cause, or by you for Good Reason, Tyson shall pay the following amounts to you:

(i) Accrued Compensation;

(ii) Plan Benefits;

(iii) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become vested in a pro rata portion of any of your unvested restricted stock awards that are outstanding on your Termination Date provided the applicable performance criteria, if any, are met. Such pro rata portion shall be equal to the percentage of the total vesting period, measured in days, in which you remained employed by Tyson multiplied by the number of shares subject to the award. Any award subject to this subsection (iii) shall not be paid until such time as it

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would otherwise have been paid if under the terms of the award it was subject to performance criteria and will only be paid if any applicable performance criteria are met;

(iv) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become fully vested in any of your unvested stock options that are outstanding on the Termination Date; and

(v) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become entitled to a pro rata portion of any performance share awards that are outstanding on the Termination Date provided the applicable performance criteria is met. The pro rata portion of your award shall equal the percentage of the total performance period, measured in days, in which you remained employed by Tyson multiplied by the percentage of the award that you would have received had you remained employed for the entire performance period. Any award subject to this subsection (v) shall not be paid until such time as it would have otherwise been paid under the terms of the award and will only be paid if the performance criteria are met.

(vi) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), an amount equal to, and on terms equal to, the severance payments and severance benefits provided to other employees within your Band, as determined under the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees. In the event of a Change of Control (defined below) the amount you would be entitled to in the event of termination subject to this Section 4(b) will be based on the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees in place at the time immediately prior to the Change of Control.

(c)Release. For purposes of this Agreement, “Release” means that specific document which Tyson shall present to you for consideration and execution after your termination of employment, under which you agree to irrevocably and unconditionally release and forever discharge Tyson, its subsidiaries, affiliates and related parties from any and all causes of action which

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you at that time had or may have had against Tyson (excluding any claim for indemnity under this Agreement, or any claim under state workers’ compensation or unemployment laws). The Release will be provided to you as soon as practical after your Termination Date, but in any event in sufficient time so that you will have adequate time to review the Release as provided by applicable law. The Release must be signed within twenty-one (21) days of its presentation to you (or within forty-five (45) days if you are terminated as part of a group termination). The Release shall not become effective until seven (7) days after it is executed. Tyson maintains a form of Release, which it may change from time to time as it deems appropriate. The latest version of the Release shall be available for your review upon request. Subject to the payment provisions of the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees and Section 8 below, any payments subject to a Release shall commence on the first payroll period commencing on or after the date the Release becomes effective.

5.Acceleration of Stock Grants on Change in Control. Upon the occurrence of a Change in Control (defined below) the stock awards that have been granted to you pursuant to award agreements from Tyson under Section 2, or which have otherwise been previously granted to you under an award agreement from Tyson; and which awards remain outstanding at the time of the Change in Control, will be treated in accordance with the applicable award agreements. For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Change in Control” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Tyson’s equity incentive compensation plan then in effect; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not include any event as a result of which one or more of the following persons or entities possess or continues to possess, immediately after such event, over fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the Company or, if applicable, a successor entity: (a) Tyson Limited Partnership, or any successor entity; (b) individuals related to the late Donald John Tyson by blood, marriage or adoption, or the estate of any such individual (including Donald John Tyson’s); or (c) any entity (including, but not limited to, a partnership, corporation, trust or limited liability company) in which one or more of the entities, individuals or estates described in clauses (a) and (b) hereof possess over fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power or beneficial interests of such entity. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 5 shall not affect the time or form of payment under an applicable award agreement, and all awards shall be paid at the time, and in the form, provided under the terms of such award agreement. The Committee (as defined in Tyson’s equity incentive plan) shall have the sole discretion to interpret the foregoing provisions of this paragraph.

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6.Restrictive Covenants and Other Restrictions.

(a)Confidential Information. You acknowledge that during the course of your employment with Tyson, you will be provided, learn, develop and have access to Tyson’s trade secrets, confidential information and proprietary materials which may include, but are not limited to, the following: strategies, methods, books, records, and documents; technical information concerning products, formulas, production, distribution, equipment, services, and processes; procurement procedures and pricing techniques; the names of and other information concerning customers, suppliers, vendors, investors, and other business affiliates (such as contact name, service provided, pricing, type and amount of services used, credit and financial data, and/or other information relating to Tyson’s relationship with that business affiliate); pricing strategies and price curves; positions, plans, and strategies for expansion or acquisitions; budgets; customer lists; research; weather data; financial analysis, returns and reports and sales data; trading methodologies and terms; evaluations, opinions, and interpretations of information and data; marketing and merchandising techniques; prospective customers’ names and marks; grids and maps; electronic databases; models; specifications; computer programs; internal business records; contracts benefiting or obligating Tyson; bids or proposals submitted to any third party; technologies and methods; training methods and training processes; organizational structure; personnel information, including salaries of personnel; payment amounts or rates paid to consultants or other service providers; and other information, whether tangible or intangible, in any form or medium provided (collectively, “Confidential Information”) which is not generally available to the public and which has been developed, will be developed or acquired by Tyson at considerable effort and expense. Without limiting the foregoing, you acknowledge and agree that you will learn, be provided, develop and have access to certain techniques, methods or applications implemented or developed by Tyson which are not generally known to the public or within the community in which Tyson competes, and any and all such information shall be treated as Confidential Information.

During the term of this Agreement or at any time thereafter, unless otherwise specifically authorized in writing by Tyson, you hereby covenant and agree: (i) to hold Confidential Information in the strictest confidence; (ii) not to, directly or indirectly, disclose, divulge or reveal any Confidential Information to any person or entity other than as authorized by Tyson; (iii) to use such Confidential Information only within the scope of your employment with Tyson for the benefit of Tyson; and (iv) to take such protective measures as may be reasonably necessary to preserve the secrecy and interest

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of Tyson in the Confidential Information. You agree to immediately notify Tyson of any unauthorized disclosure or use of any Confidential Information of which you become aware. The confidentiality obligations herein shall not prohibit you from revealing evidence of criminal wrongdoing to legitimate law enforcement officials or Confidential Information by order of court or agency of competent jurisdiction or as otherwise required by law; however, you shall promptly inform Tyson of any such situations and shall take reasonable steps to prevent disclosure of Confidential Information until Tyson has been informed of such required disclosure and has had a reasonable opportunity first to seek a protective order.

(b)Creative Works. “Creative Works” include, but are not limited to, all original works of authorship, inventions, discoveries, designs, computer hardware and software, algorithms, programming, scripts, applets, databases, database structures, or other proprietary information, business ideas, and related improvements and devices, which are conceived, developed, or made by you, either alone or with others, in whole or in part, on or off Tyson’s premises, (i) during your employment with Tyson, (ii) with the use of the time, materials, or facilities of Tyson, (iii) relating to any product, service, or activity of Tyson of which you have knowledge, or (iv) suggested by or resulting from any work performed by you for Tyson. Creative Works do not include inventions or other works developed by you entirely on your own time without using Tyson’s equipment, supplies, facilities, or trade secret information except for those inventions or works developed during your Period of Employment that either: (a) relate at the time of conception or reduction to practice of the invention to Tyson’s business, or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development of Tyson; or (b) result from any work performed by you for Tyson. If you are or become a resident of any state during your employment that has enacted laws relating to ownership of works created without use of or reference to Tyson materials, facilities, and/or intellectual property and do not relate to Tyson’s business, this Section shall be limited solely to the extent provided by the applicable laws of such states.

To the extent any rights in the Creative Works are not already owned by Tyson, you irrevocably assign and transfer to Tyson all proprietary rights, including, but not limited to, all patent, copyright, trade secret, trademark, and publicity rights, in the Creative Works and agree that Tyson will be the sole and exclusive owner of all right, title, and interest in the Creative Works. Tyson will have the right to use all Creative Works, whether original or derivative, in any manner whatsoever and in any

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medium now known or later developed. You agree not, at any time, to assert any claim, ownership, or other interest in any of the Creative Works or Confidential Information.

Both during and after your employment, you agree to execute any documents necessary to effectuate the assignment to Tyson of the Creative Works, and will execute all papers and perform any other lawful acts reasonably requested by Tyson for the preparation, prosecution, procurement, and maintenance of any trademark, copyright, and/or patent rights in and for the Creative Works. You further agree that you will not be entitled to any compensation in addition to the salary paid to you during the development of the Creative Works. In the event Tyson is unable for any reason to secure your signature to any document Tyson reasonably requests you to execute under this Section 6, you hereby irrevocably designate and appoint Tyson and its authorized officers and agents as your agents and attorneys-in-fact to act for and in your behalf and instead of you to execute such document with the same legal force and effect as if executed by you.

(c)No Restrictions on Employment. You are being employed or continuing to be employed by Tyson with the understanding that (i) you are free to enter into employment or continued employment with Tyson, (ii) your employment with Tyson will not violate any agreement you may have with a third party (e.g., existing employment, non-compete, intellectual property ownership, and/or non-disclosure agreements) and (iii) only Tyson is entitled to the benefit of your work. If you have any agreements with a prior employer, you are required to provide such agreements to Tyson prior to executing this Agreement. Tyson has no interest in using any other person’s patents, copyrights, trade secrets, or trademarks in an unlawful manner. You should be careful not to disclose to Tyson any intellectual property or confidential information of your prior employers or anyone else or misapply proprietary rights that Tyson has no right to use and you further represent and warrant that you have either already returned or have coordinated the return of all such information to any prior employer.

(d)Removal and Return of Tyson Property. All written materials, records, data, and other documents prepared or possessed by you during your employment with Tyson are Tyson’s property. All memoranda, notes, records, files, correspondence, drawings, manuals, models, specifications, computer programs, maps, and all other documents, data, or materials of any type embodying such information, ideas, concepts, improvements, discoveries, and inventions are Tyson’s property. You agree not to remove any property of Tyson, including, but not limited to, any Confidential Information or Creative Works, from Tyson’s premises, except as authorized under Tyson’s policies

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or with the prior written approval of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer. Unless specifically authorized by Tyson in writing, you may not place Tyson Confidential Information or Creative Works on Removable Media, as defined below. On Tyson’s request, your acceptance of other employment, or the termination of your employment for any reason, you will immediately return to Tyson all Tyson property, including all Confidential Information and Creative Works and any and all documents and materials that contain, refer to, or relate in any way to any Confidential Information, as well as any other property of Tyson in your possession or control, including all electronic and telephonic equipment, credit cards, security badges, and passwords. You will permit Tyson to inspect any property provided by Tyson to you or developed by you as a result of or in connection with your employment with Tyson when you accept other employment or otherwise separate from your employment, regardless of where the property is located. For purposes of this Section, “Removable Media” means portable or removable hard disks, floppy disks, USB memory drives, zip disks, optical disks, CDs, DVDs, digital film, memory cards (e.g., Secure Digital (SD), Memory Sticks (MS), CompactFlash (CF), SmartMedia (SM), MultiMediaCard (MMC), and xD-Picture Card (xD)), magnetic tape, and all other removable data storage media.

(e)Non-Competition. You acknowledge that Tyson performs services throughout the United States and that your duties and services impact Tyson’s performance of services throughout the United States. Accordingly, you acknowledge the need for certain restrictions contained in this Agreement to be without limitation as to location or geography within the United States. You agree that during your employment with Tyson, and for a period of 12 months thereafter, you will not directly or indirectly, on behalf of yourself or in conjunction with any other person, company or entity, own (other than less than 5% ownership in a publicly traded company), manage, operate, or participate in the ownership, management, operation, or control of, or be employed by or a consultant to any person, company or entity which is in competition with Tyson, with which you would hold a position with responsibilities similar to any position you held with Tyson during the 24 months preceding your Termination Date or in which you would utilize or disclose confidential methodologies, techniques, customer lists or information of Tyson. You agree that during your employment with Tyson and for a period of 12 months thereafter you will not directly or indirectly, on behalf of you or any other person, company or entity, participate in the planning, research or development of any strategies or methodologies, similar to strategies or methodologies, utilized or developed by Tyson, excluding general industry knowledge, for which you had access to, utilized or developed during the 36 months preceding your Termination Date. You agree that nothing in this Section shall limit your confidentiality

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obligations in this Agreement. Further, you understand and agree that during your employment and the restricted time periods thereafter designated in this Agreement, while you may gather information to investigate other employment opportunities, you shall not make plans or prepare to compete, solicit or take on activities which are in violation of this Agreement. Should you leave Tyson and accept employment or a consulting position with a competitor, you are required beforehand to inform Tyson of the identity of your new employer and your responsibilities for the new employer. You are also required to show this Agreement to all new employers prior to accepting new employment and Tyson shall also be permitted to show this Agreement to all new employers as well.

(f)Non-Solicitation. You agree that during your employment with Tyson and for a period of 36 months thereafter, you will not, nor will you assist any third party to, directly or indirectly (i) raid, hire, solicit, encourage or attempt to persuade any employee or independent contractor of Tyson, or any person who was an employee or independent contractor of Tyson during the 6 months preceding the Termination Date, who possesses or had access to Confidential Information of Tyson, to leave the employ of or terminate a relationship with Tyson; (ii) interfere with the performance by any such persons of their duties for Tyson; (iii) communicate with any such persons for the purposes described in the paragraph above; or (iv) solicit, encourage or attempt to persuade any customer or vendor of Tyson during the 6 months preceding your Termination Date to terminate or modify its relationship with Tyson.

(g)Non-Disparagement. You agree that you shall not at any time engage in any form of conduct, or make any statement or representation, either oral or written, that disparages, impugns or otherwise impairs the reputation, goodwill or interests of Tyson, or any of its officers, directors, shareholders, managing members, representatives, and/or employees or agents in either the individual or representative capacities of any of the foregoing individuals (including, without limitation, the repetition or distribution of derogatory rumors, allegations, negative reports or comments). Nor shall you direct, arrange or encourage others to make any such derogatory or disparaging statements on your behalf. Nothing in this Section, however, shall prevent you from providing truthful testimony or information in any proceeding or in response to any request from any governmental agency, or judicial, arbitral or self-regulatory forum.

(h)Effect of Breach. You acknowledge and agree that, in the event of any breach by you of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, pursuant to the terms of certain benefit plans and programs, your accrued benefits thereunder may be discontinued or forfeited, in addition to any

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other rights and remedies Tyson may have at law or in equity. You acknowledge that irreparable damage would result to Tyson if the provisions of this Agreement are not specifically enforced, and that, in addition to any other legal or equitable relief available, and notwithstanding any alternative dispute resolution provisions that have been or may be agreed to between Tyson and you, Tyson shall be entitled to injunctive relief in the event of any failure to comply with the provisions of this Agreement. If you violate any of the terms of this Agreement, you will indemnify Tyson for the expenses, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred by Tyson in enforcing this Agreement.

(i)Clawback Policies. In addition to subsection (h) above, any amounts payable under this Agreement are subject to any policy, whether in existence as of the Effective Date or later adopted, established by Tyson that provides for the clawback or recovery of amounts that were paid to you under circumstances requiring clawback or recovery as set forth in such policy. Tyson will make any determinations for clawback or recover in its sole discretion and in accordance with any applicable law or regulation. Further, notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement, if within one year of the termination of your employment, Tyson becomes aware of facts that would have allowed Tyson to terminate your employment for Cause (within the meaning of Section 3), then, to the extent permitted by law:

(i) Tyson may elect to cancel any and all payments of benefits otherwise due to you, but not yet paid, under this Agreement or otherwise; and

(ii) you will refund to Tyson any amounts, plus interest, previously paid by Tyson to you in excess of your Accrued Compensation and Plan Benefits (within the meaning of Section 4).

7.General.

(a)Enforcement and Severability. You specifically acknowledge and agree that the purpose of the restrictions contained in this Agreement is to protect Tyson from unfair competition, including improper use of the Confidential Information by you, and that the restrictions and covenants contained herein are reasonable with respect to both scope and duration of application. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any court determines that any of the terms herein are unreasonable, invalid or unenforceable, the court may interpret, alter, amend or modify any or all of the terms to

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include as much of the scope, time period and intent as will render the restrictions enforceable, and then as modified, enforce the terms. Each covenant and restriction contained in this Agreement is independent of each other such covenant and restriction, and if any such covenant or restriction is held for any reason to be invalid, unenforceable and incapable of corrective modification, then the invalidity or unenforceability of such covenant or restriction shall not invalidate, affect or impair in any way the validity and enforceability of any other such covenant or restriction.

(b)Notices. All written notices, requests and other communications provided pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to have been duly given, if delivered in person or by courier, or by facsimile transmission or sent by express, registered or certified mail, postage prepaid addressed, if to you, at the most recent address on record in Tyson’s human resources information system, and if to Tyson, at its headquarters:

Tyson Foods, Inc.
Attn: Chief Human Resources Officer
2200 Don Tyson Parkway
Springdale, Arkansas 72762-6999

(c)Modification. This Agreement contains all the terms and conditions agreed upon by the parties hereto, and no other agreements, oral or otherwise, regarding the subject matter of this Agreement shall be deemed to exist or bind either of the parties hereto, except for any pre-employment confidentiality agreement that may exist between the parties or any agreement or policy specifically referenced herein. This Agreement cannot be modified except by a writing signed by both parties.

(d)Assignment. This Agreement shall be binding upon you, your heirs, executors and personal representatives and upon Tyson, its successors and assigns. You acknowledge that the services to be rendered by you are unique and personal. You may not assign, transfer or pledge your rights or delegate your duties or obligations under this Agreement, in whole or in part, without first obtaining the written consent of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer.

(e)Applicable Law. You acknowledge that this Agreement is performable at various locations throughout the United States and specifically performable wholly or partly within the State of Arkansas and consent to the validity, interpretation, performance and enforcement of this Agreement being governed by the internal laws of said State of Arkansas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

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(f)Jurisdiction and Venue of Disputes. The courts of Washington County, Arkansas shall have exclusive jurisdiction and be the venue of all disputes between Tyson and you, whether such disputes arise from this Agreement or otherwise. In addition, you expressly waive any right that you may have to sue or be sued in the county of your residence and consent to venue in Washington County, Arkansas.

(g)Funding. All payments provided under this Agreement, other than payments made pursuant to a plan which provides otherwise, shall be paid from the general funds of Tyson, and no special or separate fund shall be established, and no other segregation of assets made, to assure payment. You shall have no right, title or interest whatever in or to any investments which Tyson may make to aid Tyson in meeting its obligations hereunder. To the extent that any person acquires a right to receive payments from Tyson hereunder, such right shall be no greater than the right of an unsecured creditor of Tyson.

8.Special Tax Considerations.

(a)Tax Withholding. Tyson shall provide for the withholding of any taxes required to be withheld by federal, state and local law with respect to any payments in cash and/or other property made by or on behalf of Tyson to or for your benefit under this Agreement or otherwise.

(b)Excise Tax.    Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the total payments to be paid to you under this Agreement, along with any other payments to you by Tyson, would result in you being subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (commonly referred to as the “Golden Parachute Tax”), Tyson shall reduce the aggregate payments to the largest amount which can be paid to you without triggering the excise tax, but only if and to the extent that such reduction would result in you retaining larger aggregate after-tax payments. The determination of the excise tax and the aggregate after-tax payments to be received by you will be made by Tyson. If payments are to be reduced, the payments made latest in time will be reduced first and if payments are to be made at the same time, non-cash payments will be reduced before cash payments.

(c)Separation from Service. In the event that the termination of your employment does not constitute a “separation from service” as defined in Code Section 409A, including all regulations and other guidance issued pursuant thereto, your rights to the payments and benefits described in Section 4 will vest upon the Termination Date, but no payment to you that is subject to

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Code Section 409A will be paid until you incur a separation from service (or until six (6) months after such date if you are a “specified employee” pursuant to subsection (d) of this Section), and any amounts that would otherwise have been paid before such date will be paid instead as soon as practicable after such date.

(d)Six-Month Delay in Payment. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if you are a “specified employee” as defined and applied in Code Section 409A as of your Termination Date, then, to the extent any payment under this Agreement or any Tyson plan or policy constitutes deferred compensation (after taking into account any applicable exemptions from Code Section 409A, including those specified in subsection (f) of this Section) and to the extent required by Code Section 409A, no payments due under this Agreement or any Tyson plan or policy may be made until the earlier of: (i) the first (1st) day following the six (6) month anniversary of your Termination Date and (ii) your date of death; provided, however, that any payments delayed during the six (6) month period will be paid in the aggregate as soon as reasonably practicable following the six (6) month anniversary of your Termination Date.

(e)Expense Reimbursement. In no event will an expense be reimbursed after December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the expense was incurred. You are not permitted to receive a payment or other benefit in lieu of reimbursement under Section 2(e).

(f)Application of Exemptions. For purposes of Code Section 409A, each “payment” (as defined by Code Section 409A) made under this Agreement will be considered a “separate payment.” In addition, for purposes of Code Section 409A, each such payment will be deemed exempt from Code Section 409A to the fullest extent possible under (i) the “short-term deferral” exemption of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-1((b)(4), and (ii) with respect to any additional amounts paid no later than the second (2nd) calendar year following the calendar year containing your Termination Date, the “involuntary separation” pay exemption of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii), which are hereby incorporated by reference.

(g)Effect of Release. Any amounts that are not exempt from Code Section 409A under paragraph (f) above, and which are paid subject to your execution of a Release that provides for a consideration period and revocation period that crosses two calendar years, shall be paid on the

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first payroll date in the second calendar year that occurs on or after the expiration of the revocation period, regardless of the date the Release is signed.

(h)Interpretation and Administration of Agreement. To the maximum extent permitted by law, this Agreement will be interpreted and administered in such a manner that the payments to you are either exempt from, or comply with, the requirements of Code Section 409A.

SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement effective as of the day and year first above written.

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE COMPLETELY READ THE ABOVE, HAVE BEEN ADVISED TO CONSIDER THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY, AND HAVE BEEN FURTHER ADVISED TO REVIEW IT WITH LEGAL COUNSEL OF YOUR CHOOSING BEFORE SIGNING. YOU FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU ARE SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT VOLUNTARILY, AND WITHOUT DURESS, COERCION, OR UNDUE INFLUENCE AND THEREBY AGREE TO ALL OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

/s/ Sally Grimes    

(Employee)

Chicago, IL    

(Location)

8/29/2014    
(Date)

Tyson Foods, Inc.

By /s/ Donnie Smith    

Title President & Chief Executive Officer

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EX-10.21

Exhibit 10.21

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”), effective the 29th day of August, 2014 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyson Foods, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and any of its subsidiaries and affiliates (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Tyson”), and Thomas Hayes (hereinafter referred to as “you”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, Tyson is engaged in a very competitive business, where the development and retention of extensive confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information as well as customer relationships and goodwill are critical to future business success; and

WHEREAS, by virtue of your employment with Tyson, you are involved in the development of, and have access to, Tyson’s confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information, and, if such information were to get into the hands of competitors of Tyson, it could do substantial business harm to Tyson; and

WHEREAS, you will not be provided with or given access to Tyson’s customers and goodwill or Tyson’s confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information unless you execute this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, Tyson has advised you that agreement to the terms of this Agreement, and specifically the non-compete and non-solicitation sections, is an integral part of this Agreement, and you acknowledge the importance of the non-compete and non-solicitation sections, and having reviewed the Agreement as a whole, are willing to commit to the restrictions set forth herein;

NOW, THEREFORE, Tyson and you hereby mutually agree as follows:

1.Employment.

(a)Consideration. In consideration of the above and other good and valuable consideration, you are expressly being given employment, continued employment, a relationship with Tyson, certain monies, benefits, severance, stock awards, training and/or access to trade secrets and confidential information of Tyson and its customers, suppliers, vendors or affiliates to which you

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would not have access but for your relationship with Tyson in exchange for you agreeing to the terms of this Agreement.

(b)Duties. Tyson hereby agrees to employ you and you hereby accept employment with Tyson. The duties and services required to be performed by you shall be consistent with your position, as assigned by Tyson in its sole discretion from time to time, and shall be consistent with the level and responsibility of the duties and services performed by other employees in your band (“Band”). At Tyson’s sole discretion, both your position and Band are subject to change during your term of employment. You agree to devote substantially all of your working time, attention and energies to the business of Tyson. You may make and manage personal investments (provided such investments in other activities do not violate, in any material respect, the provisions of Section 6 of this Agreement), be involved in charitable and professional activities, and, with the prior written consent of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer, serve on boards of other for profit entities, provided such activities do not materially interfere with the performance of your duties hereunder. You agree that during your employment with Tyson, you will not engage in any (i) competitive outside business activities, (ii) outside business that provides goods or services to Tyson, or (iii) outside business that buys products from Tyson, other than with Tyson’s prior written approval. You will devote your best efforts to the performance of your duties and the advancement of Tyson and shall not engage in any other employment, profitable activities, or other pursuits which would cause you to disclose or utilize Confidential Information (as defined in Section 6(a)), or reflect adversely on Tyson. This obligation shall include, but is not limited to, obtaining Tyson’s consent prior to performing tasks for business associates of Tyson outside of your customary duties for Tyson, giving speeches or writing articles, blogs, or posts, about Tyson’s business, improperly using Tyson’s name or identifying your association or position with Tyson in a manner that reflects unfavorably upon Tyson. You further agree that you will not use, incorporate, or otherwise create any business entity or organization or domain name using any name confusingly similar to the name of Tyson or the name of any affiliate of Tyson or any other name under which any such entities do business.

(c)Term of Employment. Your employment under this Agreement will commence on the Effective Date above and end on the date your employment terminates pursuant to Section 3 (the “Period of Employment”).

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2.Compensation.

(a)Initial Consideration. You shall receive, in addition to all regular compensation for services as described in this Section 2 and the severance and benefits provided under Section 4 and Section 5, $115,522.00 as additional consideration for signing this Agreement and for agreeing to abide and be bound by the terms, provisions and restrictions of Section 6. You understand and acknowledge that you have been properly and timely informed of the type, amount and terms of such consideration and that you would not be entitled to such consideration, and that such consideration would not be paid, if you did not execute and agree to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement.

(b)Base Salary. For the services to be performed hereunder during the Period of Employment, Tyson shall pay you at a base salary of $500,000.00, which may be adjusted by Tyson from time to time within the range paid to other employees in your Band. Such base salary shall be paid in accordance with Tyson’s payroll practice.

(c)Performance Incentive Eligibility. You may receive performance incentive awards under Tyson’s annual and long-term incentive plans then in effect (if any), on terms and in amounts consistent with those provided to other employees in your Band, subject to the discretion of the senior management of Tyson.

(d)Stock Grants. You may receive stock awards under an equity incentive compensation plan of Tyson then in effect (if any), on terms and in amounts consistent with those provided to other employees in your Band, subject to the discretion of the senior management of Tyson.

(e)Benefit Plans, Vacation and Reimbursement Programs. You shall be entitled to participate in any benefit plans of Tyson as adopted or amended from time to time on terms and in amounts consistent with those generally applicable to other employees in your Band. You will be entitled to an annual paid vacation in accordance with Tyson’s applicable vacation policy, as in effect from time to time. Tyson will pay or reimburse you for all reasonable expenses actually incurred or paid by you in the performance of your services to Tyson, subject to and in accordance with applicable expense reimbursement and related policies and procedures as in effect from time to time.

(f)Review. Base salary, performance incentive compensation, stock grant levels, and plan participation will be subject to review annually (or from time to time at Tyson’s discretion),

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when compensation of other officers and managers of Tyson are reviewed for consideration of adjustments thereof.

3.Termination. Upon any termination of your employment for any reason, you shall immediately resign from all boards, offices and other positions with Tyson or from any board or committee of an association or industry group where you represent Tyson. The date upon which your employment terminates and the Period of Employment ends will be your “Termination Date” for all purposes of this Agreement. Your employment may be terminated under this Agreement in the following events:

(a)Death. Your employment hereunder will terminate upon your death.

(b)Disability. Your employment hereunder will terminate upon your “Disability”. For purposes of this Agreement, Disability has the same meaning as provided in the long-term disability plan or policy maintained or, if applicable, most recently maintained, by Tyson. If no long-term disability plan or policy was ever maintained on behalf of you or, if the determination of Disability relates to an incentive stock option, Disability means that condition described in Section 22(e)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), as amended from time to time. In the event of a dispute, the determination of Disability will be made by the Committee (as defined in Tyson’s equity incentive plan) and will be supported by advice of a physician competent in the area to which such Disability relates.

(c)Termination by You for Good Reason. Upon the occurrence of a “Good Reason” event, you may terminate your employment pursuant to this Agreement by providing a notice of termination for Good Reason to Tyson within no more than seven (7) days of the Good Reason event and providing Tyson thirty (30) days following receipt of such notice to cure the Good Reason event. If Tyson cures the Good Reason event within such 30 day period, you may not terminate your employment for Good Reason, but may voluntarily resign pursuant to Section 3(d) below. If Tyson fails to cure the Good Reason event within such 30 day period, your termination of employment will be effective under this Section 3(c). For purposes of the Agreement, you will be treated as having terminated for “Good Reason” if you terminate employment after having been demoted to a less senior Band than that in which you were employed when executing this Agreement or to a position not covered by a Band, which Tyson does not cure by restoring you to your former Band.

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(d)Voluntary Termination by You without Good Reason. You may terminate your employment pursuant to this Agreement at any time by not less than thirty (30) days prior written notice to Tyson, which notice period may be waived by Tyson. Upon receipt of such notice, Tyson shall have the right, at its sole discretion, to accelerate your Termination Date at any time during said notice period.

(e)Termination for Cause by Tyson. Tyson may terminate your employment hereunder for “Cause” at any time after providing a notice of termination for Cause to you. For purposes of this Agreement, you shall be treated as having been terminated for Cause if and only if you are terminated as a result of the occurrence of one or more of the following events:

(i) any willful and wrongful conduct or omission by you that injures Tyson;

(ii) any act by you of intentional misrepresentation or embezzlement, misappropriation or conversion of assets of Tyson;

(iii) you are convicted of, confess to, plead no contest to, or become the subject of proceedings that provide a reasonable basis for Tyson to believe that you have been engaged in a felony; or

(iv) your intentional or willful violation of any restrictive covenant provided for under Section 6 of this Agreement or any other agreement to which you are a party.

For purposes of this Agreement an act or failure to act shall be considered “willful” only if done or omitted to be done without your good faith reasonable belief that such act or failure to act was in the best interests of Tyson. In no event shall Tyson’s failure to notify you of the occurrence of any event constituting Cause, or to terminate you as a result of such event, be construed as a consent to the occurrence of future events, whether or not similar to the initial occurrence, or a waiver of Tyson’s right to terminate you for Cause as a result thereof.

(f)Termination by Tyson without Cause. Tyson may terminate your employment hereunder without Cause at any time upon notice to you.

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4.Compensation Following Termination of Employment. In the event that your employment hereunder is terminated in a manner as set forth in Section 3 above, you shall be entitled to the compensation and benefits provided under this Section 4.

(a)Termination Due to Death, Disability, Voluntary Termination without Good Reason or Termination for Cause by Tyson. In the event that your employment is terminated by reason of death, Disability, voluntary termination by you without Good Reason or for Cause by Tyson, Tyson shall pay the following amounts to you or your estate:

(i) Any accrued but unpaid base salary for services rendered to the Termination Date, any accrued but unpaid expenses required to be reimbursed under this Agreement, and any vacation accrued to the Termination Date (“Accrued Compensation”); and

(ii) Any benefits accrued through the date of termination to which you may be entitled pursuant to the plans, policies and arrangements, as determined and paid in accordance with the terms of such plans, policies and arrangements (“Plan Benefits”).

(b)Termination by Tyson without Cause or by you for Good Reason. In the event that your employment is terminated by Tyson for reasons other than death, Disability or Cause, or by you for Good Reason, Tyson shall pay the following amounts to you:

(i) Accrued Compensation;

(ii) Plan Benefits;

(iii) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become vested in a pro rata portion of any of your unvested restricted stock awards that are outstanding on your Termination Date provided the applicable performance criteria, if any, are met. Such pro rata portion shall be equal to the percentage of the total vesting period, measured in days, in which you remained employed by Tyson multiplied by the number of shares subject to the award. Any award subject to this subsection (iii) shall not be paid until such time as it

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would otherwise have been paid if under the terms of the award it was subject to performance criteria and will only be paid if any applicable performance criteria are met;

(iv) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become fully vested in any of your unvested stock options that are outstanding on the Termination Date; and

(v) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become entitled to a pro rata portion of any performance share awards that are outstanding on the Termination Date provided the applicable performance criteria is met. The pro rata portion of your award shall equal the percentage of the total performance period, measured in days, in which you remained employed by Tyson multiplied by the percentage of the award that you would have received had you remained employed for the entire performance period. Any award subject to this subsection (v) shall not be paid until such time as it would have otherwise been paid under the terms of the award and will only be paid if the performance criteria are met.

(vi) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), an amount equal to, and on terms equal to, the severance payments and severance benefits provided to other employees within your Band, as determined under the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees. In the event of a Change of Control (defined below) the amount you would be entitled to in the event of termination subject to this Section 4(b) will be based on the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees in place at the time immediately prior to the Change of Control.

(c)Release. For purposes of this Agreement, “Release” means that specific document which Tyson shall present to you for consideration and execution after your termination of employment, under which you agree to irrevocably and unconditionally release and forever discharge Tyson, its subsidiaries, affiliates and related parties from any and all causes of action which

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you at that time had or may have had against Tyson (excluding any claim for indemnity under this Agreement, or any claim under state workers’ compensation or unemployment laws). The Release will be provided to you as soon as practical after your Termination Date, but in any event in sufficient time so that you will have adequate time to review the Release as provided by applicable law. The Release must be signed within twenty-one (21) days of its presentation to you (or within forty-five (45) days if you are terminated as part of a group termination). The Release shall not become effective until seven (7) days after it is executed. Tyson maintains a form of Release, which it may change from time to time as it deems appropriate. The latest version of the Release shall be available for your review upon request. Subject to the payment provisions of the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees and Section 8 below, any payments subject to a Release shall commence on the first payroll period commencing on or after the date the Release becomes effective.

5.Acceleration of Stock Grants on Change in Control. Upon the occurrence of a Change in Control (defined below) the stock awards that have been granted to you pursuant to award agreements from Tyson under Section 2, or which have otherwise been previously granted to you under an award agreement from Tyson; and which awards remain outstanding at the time of the Change in Control, will be treated in accordance with the applicable award agreements. For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Change in Control” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Tyson’s equity incentive compensation plan then in effect; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not include any event as a result of which one or more of the following persons or entities possess or continues to possess, immediately after such event, over fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the Company or, if applicable, a successor entity: (a) Tyson Limited Partnership, or any successor entity; (b) individuals related to the late Donald John Tyson by blood, marriage or adoption, or the estate of any such individual (including Donald John Tyson’s); or (c) any entity (including, but not limited to, a partnership, corporation, trust or limited liability company) in which one or more of the entities, individuals or estates described in clauses (a) and (b) hereof possess over fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power or beneficial interests of such entity. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 5 shall not affect the time or form of payment under an applicable award agreement, and all awards shall be paid at the time, and in the form, provided under the terms of such award agreement. The Committee (as defined in Tyson’s equity incentive plan) shall have the sole discretion to interpret the foregoing provisions of this paragraph.

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6.Restrictive Covenants and Other Restrictions.

(a)Confidential Information. You acknowledge that during the course of your employment with Tyson, you will be provided, learn, develop and have access to Tyson’s trade secrets, confidential information and proprietary materials which may include, but are not limited to, the following: strategies, methods, books, records, and documents; technical information concerning products, formulas, production, distribution, equipment, services, and processes; procurement procedures and pricing techniques; the names of and other information concerning customers, suppliers, vendors, investors, and other business affiliates (such as contact name, service provided, pricing, type and amount of services used, credit and financial data, and/or other information relating to Tyson’s relationship with that business affiliate); pricing strategies and price curves; positions, plans, and strategies for expansion or acquisitions; budgets; customer lists; research; weather data; financial analysis, returns and reports and sales data; trading methodologies and terms; evaluations, opinions, and interpretations of information and data; marketing and merchandising techniques; prospective customers’ names and marks; grids and maps; electronic databases; models; specifications; computer programs; internal business records; contracts benefiting or obligating Tyson; bids or proposals submitted to any third party; technologies and methods; training methods and training processes; organizational structure; personnel information, including salaries of personnel; payment amounts or rates paid to consultants or other service providers; and other information, whether tangible or intangible, in any form or medium provided (collectively, “Confidential Information”) which is not generally available to the public and which has been developed, will be developed or acquired by Tyson at considerable effort and expense. Without limiting the foregoing, you acknowledge and agree that you will learn, be provided, develop and have access to certain techniques, methods or applications implemented or developed by Tyson which are not generally known to the public or within the community in which Tyson competes, and any and all such information shall be treated as Confidential Information.

During the term of this Agreement or at any time thereafter, unless otherwise specifically authorized in writing by Tyson, you hereby covenant and agree: (i) to hold Confidential Information in the strictest confidence; (ii) not to, directly or indirectly, disclose, divulge or reveal any Confidential Information to any person or entity other than as authorized by Tyson; (iii) to use such Confidential Information only within the scope of your employment with Tyson for the benefit of Tyson; and (iv) to take such protective measures as may be reasonably necessary to preserve the secrecy and interest

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of Tyson in the Confidential Information. You agree to immediately notify Tyson of any unauthorized disclosure or use of any Confidential Information of which you become aware. The confidentiality obligations herein shall not prohibit you from revealing evidence of criminal wrongdoing to legitimate law enforcement officials or Confidential Information by order of court or agency of competent jurisdiction or as otherwise required by law; however, you shall promptly inform Tyson of any such situations and shall take reasonable steps to prevent disclosure of Confidential Information until Tyson has been informed of such required disclosure and has had a reasonable opportunity first to seek a protective order.

(b)Creative Works. “Creative Works” include, but are not limited to, all original works of authorship, inventions, discoveries, designs, computer hardware and software, algorithms, programming, scripts, applets, databases, database structures, or other proprietary information, business ideas, and related improvements and devices, which are conceived, developed, or made by you, either alone or with others, in whole or in part, on or off Tyson’s premises, (i) during your employment with Tyson, (ii) with the use of the time, materials, or facilities of Tyson, (iii) relating to any product, service, or activity of Tyson of which you have knowledge, or (iv) suggested by or resulting from any work performed by you for Tyson. Creative Works do not include inventions or other works developed by you entirely on your own time without using Tyson’s equipment, supplies, facilities, or trade secret information except for those inventions or works developed during your Period of Employment that either: (a) relate at the time of conception or reduction to practice of the invention to Tyson’s business, or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development of Tyson; or (b) result from any work performed by you for Tyson. If you are or become a resident of any state during your employment that has enacted laws relating to ownership of works created without use of or reference to Tyson materials, facilities, and/or intellectual property and do not relate to Tyson’s business, this Section shall be limited solely to the extent provided by the applicable laws of such states.

To the extent any rights in the Creative Works are not already owned by Tyson, you irrevocably assign and transfer to Tyson all proprietary rights, including, but not limited to, all patent, copyright, trade secret, trademark, and publicity rights, in the Creative Works and agree that Tyson will be the sole and exclusive owner of all right, title, and interest in the Creative Works. Tyson will have the right to use all Creative Works, whether original or derivative, in any manner whatsoever and in any

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medium now known or later developed. You agree not, at any time, to assert any claim, ownership, or other interest in any of the Creative Works or Confidential Information.

Both during and after your employment, you agree to execute any documents necessary to effectuate the assignment to Tyson of the Creative Works, and will execute all papers and perform any other lawful acts reasonably requested by Tyson for the preparation, prosecution, procurement, and maintenance of any trademark, copyright, and/or patent rights in and for the Creative Works. You further agree that you will not be entitled to any compensation in addition to the salary paid to you during the development of the Creative Works. In the event Tyson is unable for any reason to secure your signature to any document Tyson reasonably requests you to execute under this Section 6, you hereby irrevocably designate and appoint Tyson and its authorized officers and agents as your agents and attorneys-in-fact to act for and in your behalf and instead of you to execute such document with the same legal force and effect as if executed by you.

(c)No Restrictions on Employment. You are being employed or continuing to be employed by Tyson with the understanding that (i) you are free to enter into employment or continued employment with Tyson, (ii) your employment with Tyson will not violate any agreement you may have with a third party (e.g., existing employment, non-compete, intellectual property ownership, and/or non-disclosure agreements) and (iii) only Tyson is entitled to the benefit of your work. If you have any agreements with a prior employer, you are required to provide such agreements to Tyson prior to executing this Agreement. Tyson has no interest in using any other person’s patents, copyrights, trade secrets, or trademarks in an unlawful manner. You should be careful not to disclose to Tyson any intellectual property or confidential information of your prior employers or anyone else or misapply proprietary rights that Tyson has no right to use and you further represent and warrant that you have either already returned or have coordinated the return of all such information to any prior employer.

(d)Removal and Return of Tyson Property. All written materials, records, data, and other documents prepared or possessed by you during your employment with Tyson are Tyson’s property. All memoranda, notes, records, files, correspondence, drawings, manuals, models, specifications, computer programs, maps, and all other documents, data, or materials of any type embodying such information, ideas, concepts, improvements, discoveries, and inventions are Tyson’s property. You agree not to remove any property of Tyson, including, but not limited to, any Confidential Information or Creative Works, from Tyson’s premises, except as authorized under Tyson’s policies

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or with the prior written approval of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer. Unless specifically authorized by Tyson in writing, you may not place Tyson Confidential Information or Creative Works on Removable Media, as defined below. On Tyson’s request, your acceptance of other employment, or the termination of your employment for any reason, you will immediately return to Tyson all Tyson property, including all Confidential Information and Creative Works and any and all documents and materials that contain, refer to, or relate in any way to any Confidential Information, as well as any other property of Tyson in your possession or control, including all electronic and telephonic equipment, credit cards, security badges, and passwords. You will permit Tyson to inspect any property provided by Tyson to you or developed by you as a result of or in connection with your employment with Tyson when you accept other employment or otherwise separate from your employment, regardless of where the property is located. For purposes of this Section, “Removable Media” means portable or removable hard disks, floppy disks, USB memory drives, zip disks, optical disks, CDs, DVDs, digital film, memory cards (e.g., Secure Digital (SD), Memory Sticks (MS), CompactFlash (CF), SmartMedia (SM), MultiMediaCard (MMC), and xD-Picture Card (xD)), magnetic tape, and all other removable data storage media.

(e)Non-Competition. You acknowledge that Tyson performs services throughout the United States and that your duties and services impact Tyson’s performance of services throughout the United States. Accordingly, you acknowledge the need for certain restrictions contained in this Agreement to be without limitation as to location or geography within the United States. You agree that during your employment with Tyson, and for a period of 12 months thereafter, you will not directly or indirectly, on behalf of yourself or in conjunction with any other person, company or entity, own (other than less than 5% ownership in a publicly traded company), manage, operate, or participate in the ownership, management, operation, or control of, or be employed by or a consultant to any person, company or entity which is in competition with Tyson, with which you would hold a position with responsibilities similar to any position you held with Tyson during the 24 months preceding your Termination Date or in which you would utilize or disclose confidential methodologies, techniques, customer lists or information of Tyson. You agree that during your employment with Tyson and for a period of 12 months thereafter you will not directly or indirectly, on behalf of you or any other person, company or entity, participate in the planning, research or development of any strategies or methodologies, similar to strategies or methodologies, utilized or developed by Tyson, excluding general industry knowledge, for which you had access to, utilized or developed during the 36 months preceding your Termination Date. You agree that nothing in this Section shall limit your confidentiality

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obligations in this Agreement. Further, you understand and agree that during your employment and the restricted time periods thereafter designated in this Agreement, while you may gather information to investigate other employment opportunities, you shall not make plans or prepare to compete, solicit or take on activities which are in violation of this Agreement. Should you leave Tyson and accept employment or a consulting position with a competitor, you are required beforehand to inform Tyson of the identity of your new employer and your responsibilities for the new employer. You are also required to show this Agreement to all new employers prior to accepting new employment and Tyson shall also be permitted to show this Agreement to all new employers as well.

(f)Non-Solicitation. You agree that during your employment with Tyson and for a period of 36 months thereafter, you will not, nor will you assist any third party to, directly or indirectly (i) raid, hire, solicit, encourage or attempt to persuade any employee or independent contractor of Tyson, or any person who was an employee or independent contractor of Tyson during the 6 months preceding the Termination Date, who possesses or had access to Confidential Information of Tyson, to leave the employ of or terminate a relationship with Tyson; (ii) interfere with the performance by any such persons of their duties for Tyson; (iii) communicate with any such persons for the purposes described in the paragraph above; or (iv) solicit, encourage or attempt to persuade any customer or vendor of Tyson during the 6 months preceding your Termination Date to terminate or modify its relationship with Tyson.

(g)Non-Disparagement. You agree that you shall not at any time engage in any form of conduct, or make any statement or representation, either oral or written, that disparages, impugns or otherwise impairs the reputation, goodwill or interests of Tyson, or any of its officers, directors, shareholders, managing members, representatives, and/or employees or agents in either the individual or representative capacities of any of the foregoing individuals (including, without limitation, the repetition or distribution of derogatory rumors, allegations, negative reports or comments). Nor shall you direct, arrange or encourage others to make any such derogatory or disparaging statements on your behalf. Nothing in this Section, however, shall prevent you from providing truthful testimony or information in any proceeding or in response to any request from any governmental agency, or judicial, arbitral or self-regulatory forum.

(h)Effect of Breach. You acknowledge and agree that, in the event of any breach by you of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, pursuant to the terms of certain benefit plans and programs, your accrued benefits thereunder may be discontinued or forfeited, in addition to any

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other rights and remedies Tyson may have at law or in equity. You acknowledge that irreparable damage would result to Tyson if the provisions of this Agreement are not specifically enforced, and that, in addition to any other legal or equitable relief available, and notwithstanding any alternative dispute resolution provisions that have been or may be agreed to between Tyson and you, Tyson shall be entitled to injunctive relief in the event of any failure to comply with the provisions of this Agreement. If you violate any of the terms of this Agreement, you will indemnify Tyson for the expenses, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred by Tyson in enforcing this Agreement.

(i)Clawback Policies. In addition to subsection (h) above, any amounts payable under this Agreement are subject to any policy, whether in existence as of the Effective Date or later adopted, established by Tyson that provides for the clawback or recovery of amounts that were paid to you under circumstances requiring clawback or recovery as set forth in such policy. Tyson will make any determinations for clawback or recover in its sole discretion and in accordance with any applicable law or regulation. Further, notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement, if within one year of the termination of your employment, Tyson becomes aware of facts that would have allowed Tyson to terminate your employment for Cause (within the meaning of Section 3), then, to the extent permitted by law:

(i) Tyson may elect to cancel any and all payments of benefits otherwise due to you, but not yet paid, under this Agreement or otherwise; and

(ii) you will refund to Tyson any amounts, plus interest, previously paid by Tyson to you in excess of your Accrued Compensation and Plan Benefits (within the meaning of Section 4).

7.General.

(a)Enforcement and Severability. You specifically acknowledge and agree that the purpose of the restrictions contained in this Agreement is to protect Tyson from unfair competition, including improper use of the Confidential Information by you, and that the restrictions and covenants contained herein are reasonable with respect to both scope and duration of application. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any court determines that any of the terms herein are unreasonable, invalid or unenforceable, the court may interpret, alter, amend or modify any or all of the terms to

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include as much of the scope, time period and intent as will render the restrictions enforceable, and then as modified, enforce the terms. Each covenant and restriction contained in this Agreement is independent of each other such covenant and restriction, and if any such covenant or restriction is held for any reason to be invalid, unenforceable and incapable of corrective modification, then the invalidity or unenforceability of such covenant or restriction shall not invalidate, affect or impair in any way the validity and enforceability of any other such covenant or restriction.

(b)Notices. All written notices, requests and other communications provided pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to have been duly given, if delivered in person or by courier, or by facsimile transmission or sent by express, registered or certified mail, postage prepaid addressed, if to you, at the most recent address on record in Tyson’s human resources information system, and if to Tyson, at its headquarters:

Tyson Foods, Inc.
Attn: Chief Human Resources Officer
2200 Don Tyson Parkway
Springdale, Arkansas 72762-6999

(c)Modification. This Agreement contains all the terms and conditions agreed upon by the parties hereto, and no other agreements, oral or otherwise, regarding the subject matter of this Agreement shall be deemed to exist or bind either of the parties hereto, except for any pre-employment confidentiality agreement that may exist between the parties or any agreement or policy specifically referenced herein. This Agreement cannot be modified except by a writing signed by both parties.

(d)Assignment. This Agreement shall be binding upon you, your heirs, executors and personal representatives and upon Tyson, its successors and assigns. You acknowledge that the services to be rendered by you are unique and personal. You may not assign, transfer or pledge your rights or delegate your duties or obligations under this Agreement, in whole or in part, without first obtaining the written consent of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer.

(e)Applicable Law. You acknowledge that this Agreement is performable at various locations throughout the United States and specifically performable wholly or partly within the State of Arkansas and consent to the validity, interpretation, performance and enforcement of this Agreement being governed by the internal laws of said State of Arkansas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

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(f)Jurisdiction and Venue of Disputes. The courts of Washington County, Arkansas shall have exclusive jurisdiction and be the venue of all disputes between Tyson and you, whether such disputes arise from this Agreement or otherwise. In addition, you expressly waive any right that you may have to sue or be sued in the county of your residence and consent to venue in Washington County, Arkansas.

(g)Funding. All payments provided under this Agreement, other than payments made pursuant to a plan which provides otherwise, shall be paid from the general funds of Tyson, and no special or separate fund shall be established, and no other segregation of assets made, to assure payment. You shall have no right, title or interest whatever in or to any investments which Tyson may make to aid Tyson in meeting its obligations hereunder. To the extent that any person acquires a right to receive payments from Tyson hereunder, such right shall be no greater than the right of an unsecured creditor of Tyson.

8.Special Tax Considerations.

(a)Tax Withholding. Tyson shall provide for the withholding of any taxes required to be withheld by federal, state and local law with respect to any payments in cash and/or other property made by or on behalf of Tyson to or for your benefit under this Agreement or otherwise.

(b)Excise Tax.    Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the total payments to be paid to you under this Agreement, along with any other payments to you by Tyson, would result in you being subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (commonly referred to as the “Golden Parachute Tax”), Tyson shall reduce the aggregate payments to the largest amount which can be paid to you without triggering the excise tax, but only if and to the extent that such reduction would result in you retaining larger aggregate after-tax payments. The determination of the excise tax and the aggregate after-tax payments to be received by you will be made by Tyson. If payments are to be reduced, the payments made latest in time will be reduced first and if payments are to be made at the same time, non-cash payments will be reduced before cash payments.

(c)Separation from Service. In the event that the termination of your employment does not constitute a “separation from service” as defined in Code Section 409A, including all regulations and other guidance issued pursuant thereto, your rights to the payments and benefits described in Section 4 will vest upon the Termination Date, but no payment to you that is subject to

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Code Section 409A will be paid until you incur a separation from service (or until six (6) months after such date if you are a “specified employee” pursuant to subsection (d) of this Section), and any amounts that would otherwise have been paid before such date will be paid instead as soon as practicable after such date.

(d)Six-Month Delay in Payment. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if you are a “specified employee” as defined and applied in Code Section 409A as of your Termination Date, then, to the extent any payment under this Agreement or any Tyson plan or policy constitutes deferred compensation (after taking into account any applicable exemptions from Code Section 409A, including those specified in subsection (f) of this Section) and to the extent required by Code Section 409A, no payments due under this Agreement or any Tyson plan or policy may be made until the earlier of: (i) the first (1st) day following the six (6) month anniversary of your Termination Date and (ii) your date of death; provided, however, that any payments delayed during the six (6) month period will be paid in the aggregate as soon as reasonably practicable following the six (6) month anniversary of your Termination Date.

(e)Expense Reimbursement. In no event will an expense be reimbursed after December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the expense was incurred. You are not permitted to receive a payment or other benefit in lieu of reimbursement under Section 2(e).

(f)Application of Exemptions. For purposes of Code Section 409A, each “payment” (as defined by Code Section 409A) made under this Agreement will be considered a “separate payment.” In addition, for purposes of Code Section 409A, each such payment will be deemed exempt from Code Section 409A to the fullest extent possible under (i) the “short-term deferral” exemption of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-1((b)(4), and (ii) with respect to any additional amounts paid no later than the second (2nd) calendar year following the calendar year containing your Termination Date, the “involuntary separation” pay exemption of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii), which are hereby incorporated by reference.

(g)Effect of Release. Any amounts that are not exempt from Code Section 409A under paragraph (f) above, and which are paid subject to your execution of a Release that provides for a consideration period and revocation period that crosses two calendar years, shall be paid on the

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first payroll date in the second calendar year that occurs on or after the expiration of the revocation period, regardless of the date the Release is signed.

(h)Interpretation and Administration of Agreement. To the maximum extent permitted by law, this Agreement will be interpreted and administered in such a manner that the payments to you are either exempt from, or comply with, the requirements of Code Section 409A.

SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement effective as of the day and year first above written.

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE COMPLETELY READ THE ABOVE, HAVE BEEN ADVISED TO CONSIDER THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY, AND HAVE BEEN FURTHER ADVISED TO REVIEW IT WITH LEGAL COUNSEL OF YOUR CHOOSING BEFORE SIGNING. YOU FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU ARE SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT VOLUNTARILY, AND WITHOUT DURESS, COERCION, OR UNDUE INFLUENCE AND THEREBY AGREE TO ALL OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

/s/ Thomas Hayes    

(Employee)

Chicago, IL    

(Location)

9/9/2014    

(Date)

Tyson Foods, Inc.

By /s/ Donnie King    

Title President North American Operations and Food Service

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EX-10.22

Exhibit 10.22

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”), effective the 29th day of August, 2014 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyson Foods, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and any of its subsidiaries and affiliates (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Tyson”), and Mary Oleksiuk (hereinafter referred to as “you”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, Tyson is engaged in a very competitive business, where the development and retention of extensive confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information as well as customer relationships and goodwill are critical to future business success; and

WHEREAS, by virtue of your employment with Tyson, you are involved in the development of, and have access to, Tyson’s confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information, and, if such information were to get into the hands of competitors of Tyson, it could do substantial business harm to Tyson; and

WHEREAS, you will not be provided with or given access to Tyson’s customers and goodwill or Tyson’s confidential information, trade secrets and proprietary information unless you execute this Agreement; and

WHEREAS, Tyson has advised you that agreement to the terms of this Agreement, and specifically the non-compete and non-solicitation sections, is an integral part of this Agreement, and you acknowledge the importance of the non-compete and non-solicitation sections, and having reviewed the Agreement as a whole, are willing to commit to the restrictions set forth herein;

NOW, THEREFORE, Tyson and you hereby mutually agree as follows:

1.Employment.

(a)Consideration. In consideration of the above and other good and valuable consideration, you are expressly being given employment, continued employment, a relationship with Tyson, certain monies, benefits, severance, stock awards, training and/or access to trade secrets and confidential information of Tyson and its customers, suppliers, vendors or affiliates to which you

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would not have access but for your relationship with Tyson in exchange for you agreeing to the terms of this Agreement.

(b)Duties. Tyson hereby agrees to employ you and you hereby accept employment with Tyson. The duties and services required to be performed by you shall be consistent with your position, as assigned by Tyson in its sole discretion from time to time, and shall be consistent with the level and responsibility of the duties and services performed by other employees in your band (“Band”). At Tyson’s sole discretion, both your position and Band are subject to change during your term of employment. You agree to devote substantially all of your working time, attention and energies to the business of Tyson. You may make and manage personal investments (provided such investments in other activities do not violate, in any material respect, the provisions of Section 6 of this Agreement), be involved in charitable and professional activities, and, with the prior written consent of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer, serve on boards of other for profit entities, provided such activities do not materially interfere with the performance of your duties hereunder. You agree that during your employment with Tyson, you will not engage in any (i) competitive outside business activities, (ii) outside business that provides goods or services to Tyson, or (iii) outside business that buys products from Tyson, other than with Tyson’s prior written approval. You will devote your best efforts to the performance of your duties and the advancement of Tyson and shall not engage in any other employment, profitable activities, or other pursuits which would cause you to disclose or utilize Confidential Information (as defined in Section 6(a)), or reflect adversely on Tyson. This obligation shall include, but is not limited to, obtaining Tyson’s consent prior to performing tasks for business associates of Tyson outside of your customary duties for Tyson, giving speeches or writing articles, blogs, or posts, about Tyson’s business, improperly using Tyson’s name or identifying your association or position with Tyson in a manner that reflects unfavorably upon Tyson. You further agree that you will not use, incorporate, or otherwise create any business entity or organization or domain name using any name confusingly similar to the name of Tyson or the name of any affiliate of Tyson or any other name under which any such entities do business.

(c)Term of Employment. Your employment under this Agreement will commence on the Effective Date above and end on the date your employment terminates pursuant to Section 3 (the “Period of Employment”).

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2.Compensation.

(a)Initial Consideration. You shall receive, in addition to all regular compensation for services as described in this Section 2 and the severance and benefits provided under Section 4 and Section 5, $56,267.00 as additional consideration for signing this Agreement and for agreeing to abide and be bound by the terms, provisions and restrictions of Section 6. You understand and acknowledge that you have been properly and timely informed of the type, amount and terms of such consideration and that you would not be entitled to such consideration, and that such consideration would not be paid, if you did not execute and agree to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement.

(b)Base Salary. For the services to be performed hereunder during the Period of Employment, Tyson shall pay you at a base salary of $487,500.00, which may be adjusted by Tyson from time to time within the range paid to other employees in your Band. Such base salary shall be paid in accordance with Tyson’s payroll practice.

(c)Performance Incentive Eligibility. You may receive performance incentive awards under Tyson’s annual and long-term incentive plans then in effect (if any), on terms and in amounts consistent with those provided to other employees in your Band, subject to the discretion of the senior management of Tyson.

(d)Stock Grants. You may receive stock awards under an equity incentive compensation plan of Tyson then in effect (if any), on terms and in amounts consistent with those provided to other employees in your Band, subject to the discretion of the senior management of Tyson.

(e)Benefit Plans, Vacation and Reimbursement Programs. You shall be entitled to participate in any benefit plans of Tyson as adopted or amended from time to time on terms and in amounts consistent with those generally applicable to other employees in your Band. You will be entitled to an annual paid vacation in accordance with Tyson’s applicable vacation policy, as in effect from time to time. Tyson will pay or reimburse you for all reasonable expenses actually incurred or paid by you in the performance of your services to Tyson, subject to and in accordance with applicable expense reimbursement and related policies and procedures as in effect from time to time.

(f)Review. Base salary, performance incentive compensation, stock grant levels, and plan participation will be subject to review annually (or from time to time at Tyson’s discretion),

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when compensation of other officers and managers of Tyson are reviewed for consideration of adjustments thereof.

3.Termination. Upon any termination of your employment for any reason, you shall immediately resign from all boards, offices and other positions with Tyson or from any board or committee of an association or industry group where you represent Tyson. The date upon which your employment terminates and the Period of Employment ends will be your “Termination Date” for all purposes of this Agreement. Your employment may be terminated under this Agreement in the following events:

(a)Death. Your employment hereunder will terminate upon your death.

(b)Disability. Your employment hereunder will terminate upon your “Disability”. For purposes of this Agreement, Disability has the same meaning as provided in the long-term disability plan or policy maintained or, if applicable, most recently maintained, by Tyson. If no long-term disability plan or policy was ever maintained on behalf of you or, if the determination of Disability relates to an incentive stock option, Disability means that condition described in Section 22(e)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), as amended from time to time. In the event of a dispute, the determination of Disability will be made by the Committee (as defined in Tyson’s equity incentive plan) and will be supported by advice of a physician competent in the area to which such Disability relates.

(c)Termination by You for Good Reason. Upon the occurrence of a “Good Reason” event, you may terminate your employment pursuant to this Agreement by providing a notice of termination for Good Reason to Tyson within no more than seven (7) days of the Good Reason event and providing Tyson thirty (30) days following receipt of such notice to cure the Good Reason event. If Tyson cures the Good Reason event within such 30 day period, you may not terminate your employment for Good Reason, but may voluntarily resign pursuant to Section 3(d) below. If Tyson fails to cure the Good Reason event within such 30 day period, your termination of employment will be effective under this Section 3(c). For purposes of the Agreement, you will be treated as having terminated for “Good Reason” if you terminate employment after having been demoted to a less senior Band than that in which you were employed when executing this Agreement or to a position not covered by a Band, which Tyson does not cure by restoring you to your former Band.

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(d)Voluntary Termination by You without Good Reason. You may terminate your employment pursuant to this Agreement at any time by not less than thirty (30) days prior written notice to Tyson, which notice period may be waived by Tyson. Upon receipt of such notice, Tyson shall have the right, at its sole discretion, to accelerate your Termination Date at any time during said notice period.

(e)Termination for Cause by Tyson. Tyson may terminate your employment hereunder for “Cause” at any time after providing a notice of termination for Cause to you. For purposes of this Agreement, you shall be treated as having been terminated for Cause if and only if you are terminated as a result of the occurrence of one or more of the following events:

(i) any willful and wrongful conduct or omission by you that injures Tyson;

(ii) any act by you of intentional misrepresentation or embezzlement, misappropriation or conversion of assets of Tyson;

(iii) you are convicted of, confess to, plead no contest to, or become the subject of proceedings that provide a reasonable basis for Tyson to believe that you have been engaged in a felony; or

(iv) your intentional or willful violation of any restrictive covenant provided for under Section 6 of this Agreement or any other agreement to which you are a party.

For purposes of this Agreement an act or failure to act shall be considered “willful” only if done or omitted to be done without your good faith reasonable belief that such act or failure to act was in the best interests of Tyson. In no event shall Tyson’s failure to notify you of the occurrence of any event constituting Cause, or to terminate you as a result of such event, be construed as a consent to the occurrence of future events, whether or not similar to the initial occurrence, or a waiver of Tyson’s right to terminate you for Cause as a result thereof.

(f)Termination by Tyson without Cause. Tyson may terminate your employment hereunder without Cause at any time upon notice to you.

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4.Compensation Following Termination of Employment. In the event that your employment hereunder is terminated in a manner as set forth in Section 3 above, you shall be entitled to the compensation and benefits provided under this Section 4.

(a)Termination Due to Death, Disability, Voluntary Termination without Good Reason or Termination for Cause by Tyson. In the event that your employment is terminated by reason of death, Disability, voluntary termination by you without Good Reason or for Cause by Tyson, Tyson shall pay the following amounts to you or your estate:

(i) Any accrued but unpaid base salary for services rendered to the Termination Date, any accrued but unpaid expenses required to be reimbursed under this Agreement, and any vacation accrued to the Termination Date (“Accrued Compensation”); and

(ii) Any benefits accrued through the date of termination to which you may be entitled pursuant to the plans, policies and arrangements, as determined and paid in accordance with the terms of such plans, policies and arrangements (“Plan Benefits”).

(b)Termination by Tyson without Cause or by you for Good Reason. In the event that your employment is terminated by Tyson for reasons other than death, Disability or Cause, or by you for Good Reason, Tyson shall pay the following amounts to you:

(i) Accrued Compensation;

(ii) Plan Benefits;

(iii) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become vested in a pro rata portion of any of your unvested restricted stock awards that are outstanding on your Termination Date provided the applicable performance criteria, if any, are met. Such pro rata portion shall be equal to the percentage of the total vesting period, measured in days, in which you remained employed by Tyson multiplied by the number of shares subject to the award. Any award subject to this subsection (iii) shall not be paid until such time as it

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would otherwise have been paid if under the terms of the award it was subject to performance criteria and will only be paid if any applicable performance criteria are met;

(iv) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become fully vested in any of your unvested stock options that are outstanding on the Termination Date; and

(v) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), you will become entitled to a pro rata portion of any performance share awards that are outstanding on the Termination Date provided the applicable performance criteria is met. The pro rata portion of your award shall equal the percentage of the total performance period, measured in days, in which you remained employed by Tyson multiplied by the percentage of the award that you would have received had you remained employed for the entire performance period. Any award subject to this subsection (v) shall not be paid until such time as it would have otherwise been paid under the terms of the award and will only be paid if the performance criteria are met.

(vi) Subject to your execution of the Release (as defined below), an amount equal to, and on terms equal to, the severance payments and severance benefits provided to other employees within your Band, as determined under the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees. In the event of a Change of Control (defined below) the amount you would be entitled to in the event of termination subject to this Section 4(b) will be based on the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees in place at the time immediately prior to the Change of Control.

(c)Release. For purposes of this Agreement, “Release” means that specific document which Tyson shall present to you for consideration and execution after your termination of employment, under which you agree to irrevocably and unconditionally release and forever discharge Tyson, its subsidiaries, affiliates and related parties from any and all causes of action which

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you at that time had or may have had against Tyson (excluding any claim for indemnity under this Agreement, or any claim under state workers’ compensation or unemployment laws). The Release will be provided to you as soon as practical after your Termination Date, but in any event in sufficient time so that you will have adequate time to review the Release as provided by applicable law. The Release must be signed within twenty-one (21) days of its presentation to you (or within forty-five (45) days if you are terminated as part of a group termination). The Release shall not become effective until seven (7) days after it is executed. Tyson maintains a form of Release, which it may change from time to time as it deems appropriate. The latest version of the Release shall be available for your review upon request. Subject to the payment provisions of the Tyson Foods Severance Pay Plan for Contracted Employees and Section 8 below, any payments subject to a Release shall commence on the first payroll period commencing on or after the date the Release becomes effective.

5.Acceleration of Stock Grants on Change in Control. Upon the occurrence of a Change in Control (defined below) the stock awards that have been granted to you pursuant to award agreements from Tyson under Section 2, or which have otherwise been previously granted to you under an award agreement from Tyson; and which awards remain outstanding at the time of the Change in Control, will be treated in accordance with the applicable award agreements. For purposes of this Agreement, the term “Change in Control” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Tyson’s equity incentive compensation plan then in effect; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not include any event as a result of which one or more of the following persons or entities possess or continues to possess, immediately after such event, over fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the Company or, if applicable, a successor entity: (a) Tyson Limited Partnership, or any successor entity; (b) individuals related to the late Donald John Tyson by blood, marriage or adoption, or the estate of any such individual (including Donald John Tyson’s); or (c) any entity (including, but not limited to, a partnership, corporation, trust or limited liability company) in which one or more of the entities, individuals or estates described in clauses (a) and (b) hereof possess over fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power or beneficial interests of such entity. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 5 shall not affect the time or form of payment under an applicable award agreement, and all awards shall be paid at the time, and in the form, provided under the terms of such award agreement. The Committee (as defined in Tyson’s equity incentive plan) shall have the sole discretion to interpret the foregoing provisions of this paragraph.

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6.Restrictive Covenants and Other Restrictions.

(a)Confidential Information. You acknowledge that during the course of your employment with Tyson, you will be provided, learn, develop and have access to Tyson’s trade secrets, confidential information and proprietary materials which may include, but are not limited to, the following: strategies, methods, books, records, and documents; technical information concerning products, formulas, production, distribution, equipment, services, and processes; procurement procedures and pricing techniques; the names of and other information concerning customers, suppliers, vendors, investors, and other business affiliates (such as contact name, service provided, pricing, type and amount of services used, credit and financial data, and/or other information relating to Tyson’s relationship with that business affiliate); pricing strategies and price curves; positions, plans, and strategies for expansion or acquisitions; budgets; customer lists; research; weather data; financial analysis, returns and reports and sales data; trading methodologies and terms; evaluations, opinions, and interpretations of information and data; marketing and merchandising techniques; prospective customers’ names and marks; grids and maps; electronic databases; models; specifications; computer programs; internal business records; contracts benefiting or obligating Tyson; bids or proposals submitted to any third party; technologies and methods; training methods and training processes; organizational structure; personnel information, including salaries of personnel; payment amounts or rates paid to consultants or other service providers; and other information, whether tangible or intangible, in any form or medium provided (collectively, “Confidential Information”) which is not generally available to the public and which has been developed, will be developed or acquired by Tyson at considerable effort and expense. Without limiting the foregoing, you acknowledge and agree that you will learn, be provided, develop and have access to certain techniques, methods or applications implemented or developed by Tyson which are not generally known to the public or within the community in which Tyson competes, and any and all such information shall be treated as Confidential Information.

During the term of this Agreement or at any time thereafter, unless otherwise specifically authorized in writing by Tyson, you hereby covenant and agree: (i) to hold Confidential Information in the strictest confidence; (ii) not to, directly or indirectly, disclose, divulge or reveal any Confidential Information to any person or entity other than as authorized by Tyson; (iii) to use such Confidential Information only within the scope of your employment with Tyson for the benefit of Tyson; and (iv) to take such protective measures as may be reasonably necessary to preserve the secrecy and interest

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of Tyson in the Confidential Information. You agree to immediately notify Tyson of any unauthorized disclosure or use of any Confidential Information of which you become aware. The confidentiality obligations herein shall not prohibit you from revealing evidence of criminal wrongdoing to legitimate law enforcement officials or Confidential Information by order of court or agency of competent jurisdiction or as otherwise required by law; however, you shall promptly inform Tyson of any such situations and shall take reasonable steps to prevent disclosure of Confidential Information until Tyson has been informed of such required disclosure and has had a reasonable opportunity first to seek a protective order.

(b)Creative Works. “Creative Works” include, but are not limited to, all original works of authorship, inventions, discoveries, designs, computer hardware and software, algorithms, programming, scripts, applets, databases, database structures, or other proprietary information, business ideas, and related improvements and devices, which are conceived, developed, or made by you, either alone or with others, in whole or in part, on or off Tyson’s premises, (i) during your employment with Tyson, (ii) with the use of the time, materials, or facilities of Tyson, (iii) relating to any product, service, or activity of Tyson of which you have knowledge, or (iv) suggested by or resulting from any work performed by you for Tyson. Creative Works do not include inventions or other works developed by you entirely on your own time without using Tyson’s equipment, supplies, facilities, or trade secret information except for those inventions or works developed during your Period of Employment that either: (a) relate at the time of conception or reduction to practice of the invention to Tyson’s business, or actual or demonstrably anticipated research or development of Tyson; or (b) result from any work performed by you for Tyson. If you are or become a resident of any state during your employment that has enacted laws relating to ownership of works created without use of or reference to Tyson materials, facilities, and/or intellectual property and do not relate to Tyson’s business, this Section shall be limited solely to the extent provided by the applicable laws of such states.

To the extent any rights in the Creative Works are not already owned by Tyson, you irrevocably assign and transfer to Tyson all proprietary rights, including, but not limited to, all patent, copyright, trade secret, trademark, and publicity rights, in the Creative Works and agree that Tyson will be the sole and exclusive owner of all right, title, and interest in the Creative Works. Tyson will have the right to use all Creative Works, whether original or derivative, in any manner whatsoever and in any

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medium now known or later developed. You agree not, at any time, to assert any claim, ownership, or other interest in any of the Creative Works or Confidential Information.

Both during and after your employment, you agree to execute any documents necessary to effectuate the assignment to Tyson of the Creative Works, and will execute all papers and perform any other lawful acts reasonably requested by Tyson for the preparation, prosecution, procurement, and maintenance of any trademark, copyright, and/or patent rights in and for the Creative Works. You further agree that you will not be entitled to any compensation in addition to the salary paid to you during the development of the Creative Works. In the event Tyson is unable for any reason to secure your signature to any document Tyson reasonably requests you to execute under this Section 6, you hereby irrevocably designate and appoint Tyson and its authorized officers and agents as your agents and attorneys-in-fact to act for and in your behalf and instead of you to execute such document with the same legal force and effect as if executed by you.

(c)No Restrictions on Employment. You are being employed or continuing to be employed by Tyson with the understanding that (i) you are free to enter into employment or continued employment with Tyson, (ii) your employment with Tyson will not violate any agreement you may have with a third party (e.g., existing employment, non-compete, intellectual property ownership, and/or non-disclosure agreements) and (iii) only Tyson is entitled to the benefit of your work. If you have any agreements with a prior employer, you are required to provide such agreements to Tyson prior to executing this Agreement. Tyson has no interest in using any other person’s patents, copyrights, trade secrets, or trademarks in an unlawful manner. You should be careful not to disclose to Tyson any intellectual property or confidential information of your prior employers or anyone else or misapply proprietary rights that Tyson has no right to use and you further represent and warrant that you have either already returned or have coordinated the return of all such information to any prior employer.

(d)Removal and Return of Tyson Property. All written materials, records, data, and other documents prepared or possessed by you during your employment with Tyson are Tyson’s property. All memoranda, notes, records, files, correspondence, drawings, manuals, models, specifications, computer programs, maps, and all other documents, data, or materials of any type embodying such information, ideas, concepts, improvements, discoveries, and inventions are Tyson’s property. You agree not to remove any property of Tyson, including, but not limited to, any Confidential Information or Creative Works, from Tyson’s premises, except as authorized under Tyson’s policies

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or with the prior written approval of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer. Unless specifically authorized by Tyson in writing, you may not place Tyson Confidential Information or Creative Works on Removable Media, as defined below. On Tyson’s request, your acceptance of other employment, or the termination of your employment for any reason, you will immediately return to Tyson all Tyson property, including all Confidential Information and Creative Works and any and all documents and materials that contain, refer to, or relate in any way to any Confidential Information, as well as any other property of Tyson in your possession or control, including all electronic and telephonic equipment, credit cards, security badges, and passwords. You will permit Tyson to inspect any property provided by Tyson to you or developed by you as a result of or in connection with your employment with Tyson when you accept other employment or otherwise separate from your employment, regardless of where the property is located. For purposes of this Section, “Removable Media” means portable or removable hard disks, floppy disks, USB memory drives, zip disks, optical disks, CDs, DVDs, digital film, memory cards (e.g., Secure Digital (SD), Memory Sticks (MS), CompactFlash (CF), SmartMedia (SM), MultiMediaCard (MMC), and xD-Picture Card (xD)), magnetic tape, and all other removable data storage media.

(e)Non-Competition. You acknowledge that Tyson performs services throughout the United States and that your duties and services impact Tyson’s performance of services throughout the United States. Accordingly, you acknowledge the need for certain restrictions contained in this Agreement to be without limitation as to location or geography within the United States. You agree that during your employment with Tyson, and for a period of 12 months thereafter, you will not directly or indirectly, on behalf of yourself or in conjunction with any other person, company or entity, own (other than less than 5% ownership in a publicly traded company), manage, operate, or participate in the ownership, management, operation, or control of, or be employed by or a consultant to any person, company or entity which is in competition with Tyson, with which you would hold a position with responsibilities similar to any position you held with Tyson during the 24 months preceding your Termination Date or in which you would utilize or disclose confidential methodologies, techniques, customer lists or information of Tyson. You agree that during your employment with Tyson and for a period of 12 months thereafter you will not directly or indirectly, on behalf of you or any other person, company or entity, participate in the planning, research or development of any strategies or methodologies, similar to strategies or methodologies, utilized or developed by Tyson, excluding general industry knowledge, for which you had access to, utilized or developed during the 36 months preceding your Termination Date. You agree that nothing in this Section shall limit your confidentiality

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obligations in this Agreement. Further, you understand and agree that during your employment and the restricted time periods thereafter designated in this Agreement, while you may gather information to investigate other employment opportunities, you shall not make plans or prepare to compete, solicit or take on activities which are in violation of this Agreement. Should you leave Tyson and accept employment or a consulting position with a competitor, you are required beforehand to inform Tyson of the identity of your new employer and your responsibilities for the new employer. You are also required to show this Agreement to all new employers prior to accepting new employment and Tyson shall also be permitted to show this Agreement to all new employers as well.

(f)Non-Solicitation. You agree that during your employment with Tyson and for a period of 36 months thereafter, you will not, nor will you assist any third party to, directly or indirectly (i) raid, hire, solicit, encourage or attempt to persuade any employee or independent contractor of Tyson, or any person who was an employee or independent contractor of Tyson during the 6 months preceding the Termination Date, who possesses or had access to Confidential Information of Tyson, to leave the employ of or terminate a relationship with Tyson; (ii) interfere with the performance by any such persons of their duties for Tyson; (iii) communicate with any such persons for the purposes described in the paragraph above; or (iv) solicit, encourage or attempt to persuade any customer or vendor of Tyson during the 6 months preceding your Termination Date to terminate or modify its relationship with Tyson.

(g)Non-Disparagement. You agree that you shall not at any time engage in any form of conduct, or make any statement or representation, either oral or written, that disparages, impugns or otherwise impairs the reputation, goodwill or interests of Tyson, or any of its officers, directors, shareholders, managing members, representatives, and/or employees or agents in either the individual or representative capacities of any of the foregoing individuals (including, without limitation, the repetition or distribution of derogatory rumors, allegations, negative reports or comments). Nor shall you direct, arrange or encourage others to make any such derogatory or disparaging statements on your behalf. Nothing in this Section, however, shall prevent you from providing truthful testimony or information in any proceeding or in response to any request from any governmental agency, or judicial, arbitral or self-regulatory forum.

(h)Effect of Breach. You acknowledge and agree that, in the event of any breach by you of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, pursuant to the terms of certain benefit plans and programs, your accrued benefits thereunder may be discontinued or forfeited, in addition to any

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other rights and remedies Tyson may have at law or in equity. You acknowledge that irreparable damage would result to Tyson if the provisions of this Agreement are not specifically enforced, and that, in addition to any other legal or equitable relief available, and notwithstanding any alternative dispute resolution provisions that have been or may be agreed to between Tyson and you, Tyson shall be entitled to injunctive relief in the event of any failure to comply with the provisions of this Agreement. If you violate any of the terms of this Agreement, you will indemnify Tyson for the expenses, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred by Tyson in enforcing this Agreement.

(i)Clawback Policies. In addition to subsection (h) above, any amounts payable under this Agreement are subject to any policy, whether in existence as of the Effective Date or later adopted, established by Tyson that provides for the clawback or recovery of amounts that were paid to you under circumstances requiring clawback or recovery as set forth in such policy. Tyson will make any determinations for clawback or recover in its sole discretion and in accordance with any applicable law or regulation. Further, notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement, if within one year of the termination of your employment, Tyson becomes aware of facts that would have allowed Tyson to terminate your employment for Cause (within the meaning of Section 3), then, to the extent permitted by law:

(i) Tyson may elect to cancel any and all payments of benefits otherwise due to you, but not yet paid, under this Agreement or otherwise; and

(ii) you will refund to Tyson any amounts, plus interest, previously paid by Tyson to you in excess of your Accrued Compensation and Plan Benefits (within the meaning of Section 4).

7.General.

(a)Enforcement and Severability. You specifically acknowledge and agree that the purpose of the restrictions contained in this Agreement is to protect Tyson from unfair competition, including improper use of the Confidential Information by you, and that the restrictions and covenants contained herein are reasonable with respect to both scope and duration of application. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any court determines that any of the terms herein are unreasonable, invalid or unenforceable, the court may interpret, alter, amend or modify any or all of the terms to

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include as much of the scope, time period and intent as will render the restrictions enforceable, and then as modified, enforce the terms. Each covenant and restriction contained in this Agreement is independent of each other such covenant and restriction, and if any such covenant or restriction is held for any reason to be invalid, unenforceable and incapable of corrective modification, then the invalidity or unenforceability of such covenant or restriction shall not invalidate, affect or impair in any way the validity and enforceability of any other such covenant or restriction.

(b)Notices. All written notices, requests and other communications provided pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to have been duly given, if delivered in person or by courier, or by facsimile transmission or sent by express, registered or certified mail, postage prepaid addressed, if to you, at the most recent address on record in Tyson’s human resources information system, and if to Tyson, at its headquarters:

Tyson Foods, Inc.
Attn: Chief Human Resources Officer
2200 Don Tyson Parkway
Springdale, Arkansas 72762-6999

(c)Modification. This Agreement contains all the terms and conditions agreed upon by the parties hereto, and no other agreements, oral or otherwise, regarding the subject matter of this Agreement shall be deemed to exist or bind either of the parties hereto, except for any pre-employment confidentiality agreement that may exist between the parties or any agreement or policy specifically referenced herein. This Agreement cannot be modified except by a writing signed by both parties.

(d)Assignment. This Agreement shall be binding upon you, your heirs, executors and personal representatives and upon Tyson, its successors and assigns. You acknowledge that the services to be rendered by you are unique and personal. You may not assign, transfer or pledge your rights or delegate your duties or obligations under this Agreement, in whole or in part, without first obtaining the written consent of Tyson’s General Counsel or Chief Human Resources Officer.

(e)Applicable Law. You acknowledge that this Agreement is performable at various locations throughout the United States and specifically performable wholly or partly within the State of Arkansas and consent to the validity, interpretation, performance and enforcement of this Agreement being governed by the internal laws of said State of Arkansas, without giving effect to the conflicts of laws provisions thereof.

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(f)Jurisdiction and Venue of Disputes. The courts of Washington County, Arkansas shall have exclusive jurisdiction and be the venue of all disputes between Tyson and you, whether such disputes arise from this Agreement or otherwise. In addition, you expressly waive any right that you may have to sue or be sued in the county of your residence and consent to venue in Washington County, Arkansas.

(g)Funding. All payments provided under this Agreement, other than payments made pursuant to a plan which provides otherwise, shall be paid from the general funds of Tyson, and no special or separate fund shall be established, and no other segregation of assets made, to assure payment. You shall have no right, title or interest whatever in or to any investments which Tyson may make to aid Tyson in meeting its obligations hereunder. To the extent that any person acquires a right to receive payments from Tyson hereunder, such right shall be no greater than the right of an unsecured creditor of Tyson.

8.Special Tax Considerations.

(a)Tax Withholding. Tyson shall provide for the withholding of any taxes required to be withheld by federal, state and local law with respect to any payments in cash and/or other property made by or on behalf of Tyson to or for your benefit under this Agreement or otherwise.

(b)Excise Tax.    Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the total payments to be paid to you under this Agreement, along with any other payments to you by Tyson, would result in you being subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (commonly referred to as the “Golden Parachute Tax”), Tyson shall reduce the aggregate payments to the largest amount which can be paid to you without triggering the excise tax, but only if and to the extent that such reduction would result in you retaining larger aggregate after-tax payments. The determination of the excise tax and the aggregate after-tax payments to be received by you will be made by Tyson. If payments are to be reduced, the payments made latest in time will be reduced first and if payments are to be made at the same time, non-cash payments will be reduced before cash payments.

(c)Separation from Service. In the event that the termination of your employment does not constitute a “separation from service” as defined in Code Section 409A, including all regulations and other guidance issued pursuant thereto, your rights to the payments and benefits described in Section 4 will vest upon the Termination Date, but no payment to you that is subject to

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Code Section 409A will be paid until you incur a separation from service (or until six (6) months after such date if you are a “specified employee” pursuant to subsection (d) of this Section), and any amounts that would otherwise have been paid before such date will be paid instead as soon as practicable after such date.

(d)Six-Month Delay in Payment. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if you are a “specified employee” as defined and applied in Code Section 409A as of your Termination Date, then, to the extent any payment under this Agreement or any Tyson plan or policy constitutes deferred compensation (after taking into account any applicable exemptions from Code Section 409A, including those specified in subsection (f) of this Section) and to the extent required by Code Section 409A, no payments due under this Agreement or any Tyson plan or policy may be made until the earlier of: (i) the first (1st) day following the six (6) month anniversary of your Termination Date and (ii) your date of death; provided, however, that any payments delayed during the six (6) month period will be paid in the aggregate as soon as reasonably practicable following the six (6) month anniversary of your Termination Date.

(e)Expense Reimbursement. In no event will an expense be reimbursed after December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the expense was incurred. You are not permitted to receive a payment or other benefit in lieu of reimbursement under Section 2(e).

(f)Application of Exemptions. For purposes of Code Section 409A, each “payment” (as defined by Code Section 409A) made under this Agreement will be considered a “separate payment.” In addition, for purposes of Code Section 409A, each such payment will be deemed exempt from Code Section 409A to the fullest extent possible under (i) the “short-term deferral” exemption of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-1((b)(4), and (ii) with respect to any additional amounts paid no later than the second (2nd) calendar year following the calendar year containing your Termination Date, the “involuntary separation” pay exemption of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii), which are hereby incorporated by reference.

(g)Effect of Release. Any amounts that are not exempt from Code Section 409A under paragraph (f) above, and which are paid subject to your execution of a Release that provides for a consideration period and revocation period that crosses two calendar years, shall be paid on the

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first payroll date in the second calendar year that occurs on or after the expiration of the revocation period, regardless of the date the Release is signed.

(h)Interpretation and Administration of Agreement. To the maximum extent permitted by law, this Agreement will be interpreted and administered in such a manner that the payments to you are either exempt from, or comply with, the requirements of Code Section 409A.

SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement effective as of the day and year first above written.

YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE COMPLETELY READ THE ABOVE, HAVE BEEN ADVISED TO CONSIDER THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY, AND HAVE BEEN FURTHER ADVISED TO REVIEW IT WITH LEGAL COUNSEL OF YOUR CHOOSING BEFORE SIGNING. YOU FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU ARE SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT VOLUNTARILY, AND WITHOUT DURESS, COERCION, OR UNDUE INFLUENCE AND THEREBY AGREE TO ALL OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

/s/ Mary Oleksiuk    (Employee)

Chicago, IL    (Location)

8/29/2014    

(Date)

Tyson Foods, Inc.

By/s/ Donnie Smith

Title President & Chief Executive Officer

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EX-10.23

Exhibit 10.23

August 29, 2014

[Addressee]

Re:    Retention Award Agreement

Dear [addressee]:

As you know, Tyson Foods, Inc. (hereinafter “Tyson”) has executed a definitive agreement to purchase all of the stock of Hillshire Brands Company (the “Company”). Tyson recognizes your contributions to the success of the Company, and wishes to encourage you to remain employed with Tyson as the new company moves on to greater success. To that end, I am pleased to advise you that in addition to the offer of an Employment Agreement, you have been selected to receive a Retention Award, as described under the terms outlined below. You understand that by accepting this offer for the Retention Award, you agree to permanently forego any severance pay and benefits that may be available to you under either the Hillshire Brands Company Severance Plan for Corporate Officers (the “Plan”) upon a Qualifying Termination following a Change in Control or under the Agreement and Plan of Merger among Tyson Foods, Inc., HMB Holdings, Inc. and The Hillshire Brands Company dated as of July 1, 2014 (the “Severance Pay”).

Amount of Retention Award.

The aggregate amount of the Retention Award is equal to $.

Eligibility For Retention Award.

Your eligibility for the Retention Award begins upon your acceptance of both this letter agreement as well as your Employment Agreement. This letter agreement for the Retention Award extends for two (2) years following your acceptance (“Retention Period”).

During the Retention Period, you will continue to serve in the role described in your Employment Agreement and receive salary and benefits commensurate with your role and at least as favorable as those currently being paid by the Company, in accordance with the Employment Agreement.

Payment of the Retention Award

One-third of the Retention Award will be payable as of the date you accept this letter agreement (“Effective Date”). Another third will be on the payroll date coinciding with or next following the one-year anniversary of the Effective Date, and the final third will be payable on the payroll date coinciding with or next following the two-year anniversary of the Effective Date; provided that on any such payment date you have been in continuous employment with Tyson or an affiliate of Tyson and are an employee in good standing on that payment date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any date before all of the Retention Award has been paid, you voluntarily terminate your employment with Tyson or you are involuntarily terminated by Tyson without Cause, you will remain entitled to the payment of the remaining portions of the Retention Award at the respective payment dates set forth in the above payment schedule. Further notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any date before all of the Retention Award has been paid, you die or become Disabled, you or your estate will be entitled to receive the balance of the Retention Award on the first administratively practicable payroll date following such event. If, prior to payment of all or any portion of the Retention Award, you are involuntarily terminated for Cause, you will not be entitled to any remaining payments of the Retention Award. This Retention Award Agreement does not interfere, alter, or modify any obligations of the parties to the Employment Agreement.

For this purpose, “Cause” and “Disability” have the same meanings as set forth in your Employment Agreement.

Other Terms and Conditions

Compensation for Other Benefit Plans. While you will be eligible for the Tyson benefit programs generally available to other executives in a similar position in accordance with the terms of those programs, you understand and acknowledge that the Retention Award will not be considered compensation under any Company or Tyson retirement or welfare benefit plan or program in which you participate.

Assignment or Transfer. None of your rights, benefits, obligations or duties under this letter agreement may be assigned or transferred to any person or entity, except by will or under the laws of descent and distribution. The Company’s rights and duties under this letter agreement shall be transferred to, and shall be binding on, any corporation or other entity which succeeds to the rights and obligations of Tyson by operation of law or otherwise.

Recovery of Payments. Tyson may require any individual to return any payments under this letter agreement, or portion thereof, made by mistake of fact or law, and Tyson shall have all remedies available at law for the recovery of such amounts.

Governing Law. The rights and obligations arising under this letter agreement are governed by and interpreted, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois without regard to its or any other jurisdiction’s conflicts of laws principles. The parties submit to the jurisdiction of the state and federal courts of the State of Illinois.

Severability. If any provision of this letter agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, its invalidity or unenforceability will not affect any other provision of this letter agreement and this letter agreement will be construed and enforced as if such provision had not been included.

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Confidentiality. By accepting the terms of this letter agreement, you agree to keep the terms confidential, and agree not to disclose the terms and conditions to third parties (except your immediate family and legal or financial advisors). Any breach of confidentiality will be considered cause for termination and result in the loss of your rights under this letter agreement with respect to any unpaid amounts.

Settlement and Section 409A. The parties acknowledge that they disagree on whether Severance Pay would be due under the Plan following the closing date and, therefore, are entering into this letter agreement to settle this bona fide dispute, as well as to induce continued employment with Tyson. The parties intend this letter agreement and the payments hereunder to be the settlement of a bona fide dispute under Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (“Section 409A”), and to be exempt from Section 409A pursuant to the short term deferral exception under Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A-1(b)(4). However, if any amount paid under the letter agreement is determined to be “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A and compliance with one or more of the provisions of this letter agreement causes or results in a violation of Section 409A, then such provision will be interpreted or reformed in the manner necessary to achieve compliance with Section 409A. If such provision cannot be interpreted or reformed in a compliant manner, Tyson agrees to gross you up for the Section 409A penalty taxes that apply to you as a result.

Amendment. This letter agreement may be amended only by a written instrument which is executed by both parties.

Acknowledgement and Waiver.

You understand that this letter agreement, together with the Employment Agreement, sets forth all of the agreements and understandings between Tyson and you with respect to the subject matter herewith and they supersede and terminate all prior agreements and understandings between the Company and you with respect to the subject matter of this letter agreement, including but not limited to the Plan. By your execution below, you hereby affirm and acknowledge that you voluntarily have chosen to accept the offer of the Retention Award contained in this offer letter, and waive, and agree not to assert, any claim that the offer of an Employment Agreement and the offer of the Retention Award contained herein would qualify you for any rights or eligibility for Severance Pay.

Please indicate your agreement to the foregoing by executing this letter agreement where indicated below.

By: _____________________________

Name:

Title:

AGREED TO AND ACKNOWLEDGED ON

THIS ___ DAY OF _________, 2014.

_________________________

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EX-10.57

Exhibit 10.57

FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE

TYSON FOODS, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT

AND LIFE INSURANCE PREMIUM PLAN

(AS AMENDED AND RESTATED AS OF NOVEMBER 14, 2014)

THIS FIRST AMENDMENT is made on this ____ day of _______________, 2014, by TYSON FOODS, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”).

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Company maintains the Tyson Foods, Inc Supplemental Executive Retirement and Life Insurance Premium Plan (the “Plan”) originally effective as of March 12, 2004 and as most recently amended and restated as of November 14, 2014;

WHEREAS, the Company desires to amend the Plan to modify prospectively the annuity forms of payment opportunities available under the Plan; to modify prospectively the SERP benefit formula; to freeze the portion of the Plan providing for life insurance premium payments; and to make other clarifying revisions as provided herein; and

WHEREAS, this First Amendment shall supersede the provisions of the Plan to the extent those provisions are inconsistent with the provisions of this amendment.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Company does hereby amend the Plan, effective as of the various dates set forth below, as follows:

1.    By deleting, effective as of March 1, 2007, Section 2.21(b) in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

(b)    ‘Inactive Participant’ means a Participant who ceases to be an Active Participant, who has not become a Retired Participant and who:

(1)    had a Nonforfeitable right to his or her SERP retirement benefits before ceasing to be an Active Participant;

(2)    (i) continues to be a Contracted Officer of the Company or an Affiliate but who, as a result of a change in status, ceases to be an Eligible Contracted Officer; or (ii) ceases to be a Contracted Officer but returns to Eligible Contracted Officer under the criteria set forth in Section 3.5(b)(2); or

(3)    has his or her Active Participant status terminated solely by reason of Section 2.21(a)(4).

A Participant described in Section 2.21(b)(2) above who earns a Nonforfeitable right to his or her SERP retirement benefit while an Inactive Participant shall be eligible for retirement benefits in accordance with Section 4 from and after the date the SERP retirement benefit becomes Nonforfeitable. However, as set forth in Section 3.5, for purposes of Sections 4.2(a)(1) and 4.2(b)(1), no increase in SERP retirement benefits shall be attributed to Compensation paid or for services rendered during the period of time that such a Participant is classified as an Inactive Participant.”

2.    By adding, effective for Retired Participants commencing the payment of SERP retirement benefits on or after January 1, 2015, new Section 2.27A as follows:

“2.27A    ‘Spouse’ means a person who, at the time payment of a Retired Participant’s SERP retirement benefits are to commence, is alive and married to the Participant and has been married for at least one year to the Participant as evidenced by a valid marriage certificate. For purposes of determining whether a same-sex spouse constitutes a “Spouse” hereunder, Spouse means the individual to whom a Participant is lawfully married according to the law of the state or other jurisdiction in which such marriage occurred.”

3.    By deleting, effective as of March 12, 2004, Section 2.28 in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“2.28    ‘Vesting Service’ means:

(a)Except as otherwise provided in this Section 2.28, the total number of years and completed months of continuous service rendered by an Active Participant as an employee of the Company or an Affiliate, whether or not as a Contracted Officer.

(b)Vesting Service includes any periods of authorized leaves of absence from the Company or any Affiliate by a Participant, including but not limited to leaves required to be granted pursuant to the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 and the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, and, notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan to the contrary, any period of an authorized leave of absence while disability benefits are being paid to the Participant under a short-term or long-term disability plan then maintained by the Company or an Affiliate.

(c)    An Active Participant who ceases to be an Eligible Contracted Officer but who continues to be a Contracted Officer shall receive credit for Vesting Service while his or her status as a Contracted Officer continues.

(d)    An Active Participant who ceases to be a Contracted Officer before re-qualifying as an Active Participant shall receive credit for Vesting Service performed for his or her prior continuous period of service as an employee of the Company or an Affiliate, provided he or she returns to Eligible Contracted Officer status within five (5) years from losing his or her status as an Eligible Contracted Officer; however, such credit shall count only for purposes of determining whether his or her SERP retirement benefits are Nonforfeitable and not for purposes of determining the amount of the SERP retirement benefit under either Section 4.2(a)(2) or Section 4.2(b)(2). Such a Participant shall not earn Vesting Service during the period commencing with the date he or she ceased to be an Active

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Participant for as long as he or she thereafter was not a Contracted Officer, unless and until he or she returns to Eligible Contracted Officer status within five (5) years from losing that status.

(d)    Subject to approval by the Plan Administrator, a Participant may be granted additional years of Vesting Service for purposes of determining benefits under the Plan. Additional service granted under provisions of an individual agreement between the Company or any Affiliate and a Participant or under any severance plan or policy of the Company covering the Participant shall also be included in determining Vesting Service, but only in accordance with the specific terms of such provisions.”

4.    By deleting, effective July 1, 2014, Section 3.2 in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“3.2    Commencement of LIP Participation. An Active Participant is eligible for LIP benefits if he or she timely applies for and is issued a policy on his or her life of a type and by an insurer designated by the Plan Administrator effective as of the date of coverage indicated by such policy. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an Active Participant shall not be eligible for LIP benefits if he or she first commences, or an Inactive Participant recommences, participation in the Plan pursuant to Section 3.1 on or after July 1, 2014.”

5.    By deleting, effective July 1, 2014, Section 3.4 in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“3.4     Termination of LIP Participation. Except as provided in this Section 3.4, an Active Participant who is otherwise eligible for LIP benefits shall remain a Participant under the LIP portion of the Plan through the policy anniversary date immediately following his or her Separation from Service, unless:

(a)his or her otherwise Nonforfeitable benefits are forfeited pursuant to Section 8.5;

(b)the policy issued to the Participant, as contemplated by Section 3.2, is surrendered, modified or exchanged by the Participant or the Participant causes a diminution in the policy’s cash surrender value by withdrawing from, or borrowing against, the policy; or

(c)the Participant refuses or neglects to cooperate with the Plan Sponsor in its efforts to confirm whether any circumstances described in Section 3.4(b) exist.

When a Participant ceases to be an Active Participant but continues in the service of the Company or an Affiliate, he or she shall cease to be a Participant under the LIP portion of the Plan as of the policy anniversary date immediately following his or her change in status and shall have no rights to LIP benefits thereafter even if the Participant re-commences participation as an Active Participant.

As a condition to participation, or continued participation, in the Plan, a Participant who is otherwise eligible for LIP benefits shall be required to reimburse the Plan Sponsor for the reimbursable portion of any premium paid on the policy issued to the Participant in connection

3

with his or her participation in the Plan if the Participant experiences a Separation from Service within one (1) year of his or her original date of hire with the Company or any Affiliate.”

6.    By deleting, effective March 1, 2007, Section 3.5 in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“3.5    Inactive Participant.

(a)    For purposes of Sections 4.2(a)(1) and 4.2(b)(1), no increase in SERP retirement benefits shall be attributed to Compensation paid or for services rendered during the period of time that a Participant is classified as an Inactive Participant,. In addition, any Compensation paid or services rendered during any prior period of time when an Inactive Participant was an Active Participant shall be disregarded, except as provided below:

(1)    Eligible Contracted Officer to Ineligible Contracted Officer. An Active Participant who ceases to be an Eligible Contracted Officer but who continues to be a Contracted Officer shall receive credit for Compensation earned and Creditable Service performed for his or her prior period of time as an Eligible Contracted Officer for purposes of Sections 4.2(a)(1) and 4.2(b)(1).

(2)    Eligible Contracted Officer to Non-Officer. An Active Participant who ceases to be a Contracted Officer before re-qualifying as an Active Participant shall receive credit for Compensation earned and Creditable Service performed for his or her prior period of time as an Eligible Contracted Officer for purposes of Sections 4.2(a)(1) and 4.2(b)(1), provided he or she returns to Eligible Contracted Officer status within five (5) years from losing that status.

(b)    Special Crediting by Plan Administrator. Compensation and Creditable Service shall be recognized to the extent expressly awarded to an Inactive Participant by the Plan Administrator pursuant to Sections 2.7(c) and 2.9.

(c)    Section 9.3/9.5 Events. Notwithstanding the other limiting provisions of this Section 3.5, a Participant who has his or her Active Participant status terminated solely by reason of Section 2.21(a)(4) shall be subject to the general provisions of the Plan, as expressly modified by Section 9.3 or 9.5, as applicable.”

7.    By deleting, effective July 1, 2014, Section 4.1(c) in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“(c)    An Active Participant, or an Inactive Participant who is then a Contracted Officer and,who has become subject to a Disability prior to earning a Nonforfeitable right to benefits under either Section 4.1(a) or (b) above shall have a Nonforfeitable right to benefits under this Section 4, subject to the provisions of Sections 6.3 and 8.5, and may retire prior to Normal Retirement Ageand receive payment of a Disability Retirement Allowance under the SERP.

4

Payment of the Disability Retirement Allowance shall commence as soon as practicable following the end of the calendar year in which the Participant actually experiences a Separation from Service due to a Disability. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an Active Participant who first commences, or an Inactive Participant who recommences, participation in the Plan pursuant to Section 3.1 on or after July 1, 2014 shall not be eligible for a Disability Retirement Allowance.”

8.    By deleting, effective for Retired Participants commencing the payment of SERP retirement benefits on or after January 1, 2015, Section 4.1(e) in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“(e)    Payment of the Normal Retirement Allowance, Early Retirement Allowance or Disability Retirement Allowance, as applicable, to a Participant who is otherwise entitled to such an allowance shall commence within the first ninety (90) days of the calendar year immediately following the calendar year in which the Participant actually experiences a Separation from Service and successive payments shall be made during the same ninety (90)-day period in each subsequent calendar year for as long as the annuity form of payment in effect under Section 5 requires.”

9.    By adding, effective July 1, 2014, the following paragraph to the end of Section 4.2(a):

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Normal Retirement Allowance of a Participant whose SERP retirement benefit is calculated pursuant to this Section 4.2(a) and (A) who first commences participation in the Plan on or after July 1, 2014; or (B) who, as an Inactive Participant, recommences participation in the Plan on or after July 1, 2014 shall be determined solely by the computation under Section 4.2(a)(1).”

10.    By adding, effective July 1, 2014, the following paragraph to the end of Section 4.2(b):

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Normal Retirement Allowance of a Participant whose SERP retirement benefit is calculated pursuant to this Section 4.2(b) and (A) who first commences participation in the Plan on or after July 1, 2014; or (B) who, as an Inactive Participant, recommences participation in the Plan on or after July 1, 2014 shall be determined solely by the computation under Section 4.2(b)(1).”

11.    By deleting, effective July 1, 2014, Section 4.4 in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“4.4    Amount of Disability Retirement Allowance. The annual Disability Retirement Allowance under the SERP for Participants who have a Nonforfeitable right to such an allowance pursuant to Section 4.1(c) shall be equal to the sum of the amount described in Sections 4.2(a)(2) and 4.2(a)(3) or Sections 4.2(b)(2) and 4.2(b)(3), as applicable, without regard to whether the Participant has twenty (20) years of Vesting Service. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an Active Participant who first commences, or an Inactive Participant who recommences, participation in the Plan pursuant to Section 3.1 on or after July 1, 2014 shall not be eligible for a Disability Retirement Allowance.”

12.    By deleting, effective for Retired Participants commencing the payment of SERP retirement benefits on or after January 1, 2015, Section 5 in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

5

“SECTION 5

FORMS OF SERP PAYMENT

The normal form of SERP retirement benefits calculated under Sections 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4 shall be a single life annuity providing for an annual pension payment during the Retired Participant’s lifetime only. If a Retired Participant has a Spouse at the time payment his or her SERP retirement benefits are to commence, the Participant may elect payment in the form of a joint and fifty percent (50%) survivor annuity providing for an annual pension payment during the Retired Participant’s lifetime and an annual pension payment to the Spouse for the lifetime of the Spouse equal to fifty percent (50%) of the annual pension that was paid to the Retired Participant. If a Retired Participant does not have a Spouse at the time payment of his or her SERP retirement benefits are to commence, the form of payment shall be a single life annuity providing for an annual pension payment during the Retired Participant’s lifetime only. A Retired Participant who has a Spouse may elect payment in the form of a single life annuity. Election of the form of payment opportunity available to a Participant with a Spouse shall be made in such manner as prescribed by the Plan Administrator.

The SERP portion of the Plan pays no pre-retirement benefits and no death benefits. No person other than a Retired Participant, and, if applicable, a surviving Spouse is eligible to receive SERP retirement benefits earned by that Participant. A person who may become the Spouse of a Participant after the date SERP retirement benefits have commenced is not eligible for any SERP retirement benefits.

The value of each alternative form of payment shall have the same Actuarial Equivalent value as the value of a Participant’s SERP retirement benefits determined in accordance with Section 4.”

13.    By deleting, effective July 1, 2014, Section 6.1 in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“6.1    Amount of LIP Benefit. The LIP benefit is an annual amount payable during the period that the Participant is an eligible Active Participant pursuant to Section 3.2 and is equal to the sum of (a) the amount of the annual premium due under the policy described in Section 3.2, reduced by the portion of such annual premium payable by the Participant as and to the extent determined by the Plan Administrator, plus (b) the amount determined under Clause (a) multiplied by the tax withholding rate for supplemental wages applicable to the Participant. The face amount of the death benefit under the policy shall depend upon the type of policy designated by the Plan Administrator pursuant to Section 3.2 for the Participant. The Plan Administrator may adjust the death benefit face amount from time to time in its discretion.”

14.    By deleting, effective July 1, 2014, Section 6.3 in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“6.3    Forfeiture of SERP Retirement Benefits. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan to the contrary, if an Active Participant otherwise eligible for LIP benefits under Section 3.2 forfeits the right to the continuation of LIP benefits pursuant to either Section 3.4(b) or (c), the Participant shall also forfeit that portion of his or her SERP retirement benefits that would otherwise be payable pursuant to Sections 4.2(a)(2) and (3) or Sections 4.2(b)(2) and

6

(3), as and to the extent applicable, whether in the form of a Normal, Early or Disability Retirement Allowance.”

15.    By deleting, effective July 1, 2014, Section 9.5(b) in its entirety and by substituting therefor the following:

“(b)    LIP Benefits. Notwithstanding Section 3.4 to the contrary, each Active Participant who is otherwise eligible for a LIP benefit under Section 3.2 immediately prior to the effective date of a Change of Control shall continue to receive the LIP benefit contemplated by Section 6 until the earlier of the Participant’s attainment of age 62 or Separation from Service, regardless of any subsequent termination of the Plan.”

Except as specifically amended hereby, the Plan shall remain in full force and effect prior to this First Amendment.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this First Amendment to be executed on the day and year first above written

TYSON FOODS, INC.

By:

Title:

7

EX-12.1

EXHIBIT 12.1

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

													(dollars in millions)
	Fiscal Years
	2014			2013			2012			2011			2010
Earnings:
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity method investment earnings	$	1,241		$	1,254		$	949		$	1,066		$	1,224
Add: Fixed charges	194			219			264			305			360
Add: Amortization of capitalized interest	5			5			5			4			3
Less: Capitalized interest	(8		)	(8		)	(10		)	(9		)	(11		)
Total adjusted earnings	1,432			1,470			1,208			1,366			1,576
Fixed Charges:
Interest	122			116			150			191			240
Capitalized interest	8			8			10			9			11
Amortization of debt discount expense	10			28			39			44			46
Rentals at computed interest factor (1)	54			67			65			61			63
Total fixed charges	$	194		$	219		$	264		$	305		$	360
Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges	7.38			6.71			4.58			4.48			4.38

⁽¹⁾  Amounts represent those portions of rent expense (one-third) that are reasonable approximations of interest costs.

EX-21

Exhibit 21

Subsidiaries
ENTITY NAME	PLACE OF INCORPORATION
Tyson Foods, Inc.	Delaware (1986)
Subsidiaries 100% owned unless otherwise noted
Global Employment Services, Inc.	Delaware (1993)
National Comp Care Inc.	Delaware (1995)
Oaklawn Capital Corporation	Delaware (1995)
Southwest Products, LLC	Delaware (2013)
The Pork Group, Inc.	Delaware (1998)
TyNet Corporation	Delaware (1995)
Tyson (Shanghai) Enterprise Management Consulting Co., Ltd	China (2011)
Tyson Breeders, Inc.	Delaware (1971)
Tyson International Company, Ltd.	Bermuda (1993)
Tyson Mexican Original, Inc.	Delaware (1998)
Tyson Pet Products, Inc.	Delaware (2005)
Tyson Poultry, Inc.	Delaware (1998)
Tyson Sales and Distribution, Inc.	Delaware (1998)
Tyson Shared Services, Inc.	Delaware (1998)
WBA Analytical Laboratories, Inc.	Delaware (2008)
The Hillshire Brands Company (Subsidiary of Tyson Foods, Inc.)	Maryland (1941)
Egbert LLC	Delaware (2002)
Flavor Holdings, Inc.	Delaware (2007)
Gallo Salame, Inc.	California (1958)
Golden Island Jerky Company, Inc.	California (1995)
Healthy Frozen Food, Inc.	Delaware (2006)
Helix Merger Sub Corporation	Delaware (2014)
Helix Merger Sub LLC	Delaware (2014)
Hillshire Brands (Australia) Pty Ltd.	Australia (1999)
Sara Lee Diversified, LLC	Delaware (2008)
Sara Lee Foods, LLC	Delaware (2004)
Sara Lee Foodservice Ltd.	Ontario, Canada (1974)
Sara Lee International TM Holdings LLC	Delaware (2011)
Sara Lee TM Holdings LLC	Delaware (2011)
Sara Lee Trademark Holdings Australasia LLC	Delaware (2013)
Saramar, L.L.C.	Delaware (1998)
Tyson Chicken, Inc. (Subsidiary of Tyson Foods, Inc.)	Delaware (1997)
Hudson Midwest Foods, Inc.	Nebraska (1996)
Tyson Farms, Inc. (Subsidiary of Tyson Foods, Inc.)	North Carolina (1968)
Central Industries, Inc.	Mississippi (1964)

Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc. (Subsidiary of Tyson Foods, Inc.)	Delaware (2000)
IBP Caribbean, Inc.	Cayman Islands (1997)
IBP Redevelopment Corporation	Missouri (2000)
Madison Foods, Inc.	Delaware (1998)
PBX, inc.	Delaware (1974)
Rural Energy Systems, Inc.	Delaware (1984)
Texas Transfer, Inc.	Texas (1987)
The IBP Foods Co.	Delaware (1999)
Tyson Hog Markets, Inc.	Delaware (1972)
Tyson of Wisconsin, LLC	Delaware (1989)
Tyson Processing Services, Inc.	Delaware (1997)
Tyson Service Center Corp.	Delaware (1979)
Van’s International Foods (Subsidiary of Healthy Frozen Food, Inc.)	California (1988)
Veat, Inc.	Delaware (2000)
Bryan Foods, Inc. (Subsidiary of Sara Lee Foods, LLC)	Delaware (1989)
Southern Family Foods, L.L.C.	Delaware (1997)
Aidells Sausage Company, Inc. (Subsidiary of Flavor Holdings, Inc.)	Delaware (2007)
Flavor Corp.	Delaware (2008)
Sara Lee-Kiwi Holdings, LLC (Subsidiary of The Hillshire Brands Company)	Delaware (1984)
Sara Lee Household & Body Care Malawi Ltd.	Malawi (1999)
Sara Lee International LLC (Subsidiary of The Hillshire Brands Company)	Delaware (1977)
Conoplex Insurance Company Ltd.	Bermuda (1974)
International Affiliates & Investment LLC	Delaware (1990)
Uninex SA	Uruguay (1984)
Sara Lee Mexicana Holdings Investments LLC
(Subsidiary of Sara Lee International LLC)	Delaware (2005)
Mexican Traders SA de CV	Mexico (1998)
Tyson International Service Center, Inc. (Subsidiary of Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc.)	Delaware (1973)
Tyson International Service Center, Inc. Asia	Delaware (1985)
Tyson International Service Center, Inc. Europe	Delaware (1985)
IBP Foodservice, L.L.C.
(78% owned by Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc.; 22% owned by IBP Caribbean, Inc.)	Delaware (1997)
Foodbrands America, Inc. (Subsidiary of IBP Foodservice, LLC)	Delaware (1994)
CBFA Management Corp.	Delaware (1998)
Foodbrands Supply Chain Services, Inc.	Delaware (1992)
The Bruss Company	Illinois (1956)

Wilton Foods, Inc.	New York (1964)
Zemco Industries, Inc.	Delaware (1969)
Tyson Deli, Inc. (Subsidiary of Foodbrands America, Inc.)	Delaware (2003)
Tyson Prepared Foods, Inc.	Delaware (2003)
Tyson Refrigerated Processed Meats, Inc.
(Subsidiary of Foodbrands America, Inc.)	Delaware (2003)
Artisan Bread Co., LLC	North Carolina (2000)
DFG Foods, Inc. (Subsidiary of Foodbrands America, Inc.)	Delaware (1998)
DFG Foods, LLC	Oklahoma (1998)
New Canada Holdings, Inc.
(87.52% owned by Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc.;
12.48% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.)	Delaware (2007)
Tyson China Holding 3 Limited (Subsidiary of New Canada Holdings, Inc.)	Hong Kong (2009)
Haimen Tyson Poultry Development Co., Ltd.	China (2008)
Jiangsu Tyson Foods Co., Ltd.	China (2008)
Tyson Foods East China Development Co., Ltd.	China (2013)
Tyson International Holding Company
(Subsidiary of New Canada Holdings, Inc.)	Delaware (1994)
Oaklawn Sales Ltd.	British Virgin Islands (1995)
Tyson China Holding 2 Limited	Hong Kong (2009)
Tyson India Holdings, Ltd.	Republic of Mauritius (2008)
Tyson China Holding Limited
(Subsidiary of Tyson International Holding Company)	Hong Kong (2008)
Rizhao Tyson Feed Co., Ltd.	China (2013)
Rizhao Tyson Foods Co., Ltd.	China (2013)
Rizhao Tyson Poultry Company, Ltd.	China (2009)
Tyson International Holdings Sárl (Subsidiary of New Canada Holdings, Inc.)	Luxembourg (2003)
Tyson Global Holding Sárl (Subsidiary of Tyson International Holdings Sárl)	Luxembourg (2009)
Tyson Delaware Holdings, LLC	Delaware (2003)
Tyson Americas Holding Sárl	Luxembourg (2009)
Tyson International Holding S.C.A.
(0.1% owned by Tyson Americas Holding Sárl;
99.9% owned by Tyson Global Holding Sárl)	Luxembourg (2003)
Cobb-Vantress Brasil Ltda.	Brazil (1995)

Hybro Genetics Brasil Ltda.	Brazil (2005)
Tyson Brasil Agroindustrial Exportadora I Ltda.	Brazil (2008)
Tyson Brasil Agroindustiral Exportadora III Ltda.	Brazil (2008)
Tyson Do Brasil Alimentos Ltda.	Brazil (1975)
Tyson Europe B.V. (Subsidiary of Tyson International Holding S.C.A.)	The Netherlands (2013)
Tyson Dutch 1 B.V.	The Netherlands (2013)
Tyson Dutch 2 B.V.	The Netherlands (2013)
Tyson Dutch 3 B.V.	The Netherlands (2013)
Tyson Dutch 4 B.V.	The Netherlands (2013)
IBP Finance Company of Canada (Subsidiary of Tyson Americas Holding Sárl)	Nova Scotia, Canada (1997)
Alberta Farm Industries ULC (Subsidiary of IBP Finance Company of Canada)	Alberta, Canada (1994)
1385606 Alberta ULC	Alberta, Canada (2008)
Provemex Holdings, LLC	Delaware (2005)
Tyson Canada Finance LP	New Brunswick, Canada (2003)
Cobb Europe B.V. (Subsidiary of Alberta Farm Industries ULC)	The Netherlands (1994)
Cobb Europe Limited (Subsidiary of Alberta Farm Industries ULC)	England and Wales (1974)
Cobb France Eurl	France (1990)
JOINT VENTURES/PARTNERSHIPS
Cobb Ana Damizlik Tavukculuk Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi	Turkey (2012)
Dorada Poultry LLC	Oklahoma (2010)
Fortune G-P Farms Limited	Sri Lanka (2004)
Freshpet, Inc.	Delaware (2004)
Godrej Tyson Foods Limited	India (2008)
Hubei Tongxing Cobb Breeding Company, Ltd.	China (2013)
Nacrail, LLC	Delaware (2001)
OOO Broiler Budeshego	Russia (2004)
Shandong Tyson-Da Long Food Company Limited	China (2001)
MEXICO POULTRY OPERATIONS
Tyson Alimentos, S. de R.L de C.V.	Mexico (1992)
Tyson de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V.	Mexico (2011)
Tyson Operaciones, S. de R.L. de C.V.	Mexico (1974)
COBB-VANTRESS, INC.
Cobb-Vantress, Inc.
(Subsidiary of Tyson Foods, Inc.)	Delaware (1986)
Cobb Asia (Thailand) Limited	Thailand (2011)

Cobb Caribe, S.A. (20.39% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.)	Dominican Republic (2001)
Cobb Espanola SA (50% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.)	Spain (1969)
Cobb Heritage, LLC	Delaware (2014)
Gen Ave S.A. (13.78% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.)	Argentina (1982)
Matsusaka Farm Co., Ltd. (10% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.)	Japan (1967)
Progenitores Avicolas, C.A. (19.47% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.)	Venezuela (1967)
Reproductores Cobb S.A. (20% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.)	Argentina (1999)
Venco Research and Breeding Farm Limited (40% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.)	India (1980)
Cobb-Vantress Philippines, Inc.
(99.99% owned by Cobb-Vantress, Inc.; .01% owned by 7 individuals)	Philippines (2003)
C.V. Holdings, Inc.	Philippines (2003)

EX-23

Exhibit 23

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Forms S-8 (Nos. 333-186797, 333-115378, 333-115379 and 333-115380) of Tyson Foods, Inc. of our report dated November 17, 2014 relating to the financial statements, financial statement schedule and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, which appears in this Form 10‑K.

/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Fayetteville, AR

November 17, 2014

EX-31.1

EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATIONS

I, Donnie Smith, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Tyson Foods, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: November 17, 2014

/s/ Donnie Smith

Donnie Smith

President and Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2

EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATIONS

I, Dennis Leatherby, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Tyson Foods, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: November 17, 2014

/s/ Dennis Leatherby

Dennis Leatherby

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1

EXHIBIT 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the accompanying Annual Report of Tyson Foods, Inc. (the Company) on Form 10-K for the period ended September 27, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the Report), I, Donnie Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, to the best of my knowledge, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

/s/ Donnie Smith

Donnie Smith

President and Chief Executive Officer

November 17, 2014

EX-32.2

EXHIBIT 32.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the accompanying Annual Report of Tyson Foods, Inc. (the Company) on Form 10-K for the period ending September 27, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the Report), I, Dennis Leatherby, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, to the best of my knowledge, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and result of operations of the Company.

/s/ Dennis Leatherby

Dennis Leatherby

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

November 17, 2014

XML

Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule Of Provision For Income Taxes From Continuing Operations

Detail of the provision for income taxes from continuing operations consists of the following:

							in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Federal	$	325		$	341		$	310
State	67			38			22
Foreign	4			30			19
	$	396		$	409		$	351
Current	$	501		$	421		$	211
Deferred	(105		)	(12		)	140
	$	396		$	409		$	351

Schedule Of Reasons For Differences Between Statutory Federal Tax Rate And Effective Income Tax Rate

The reasons for the difference between the statutory federal income tax rate and our effective income tax rate from continuing operations are as follows:

	2014		2013		2012
Federal income tax rate	35.0	%	35.0	%	35.0	%
State income taxes	2.8		2.4		1.5
Unrecognized tax benefits, net	(4.7	)	(0.2	)	0.6
Domestic production deduction	(4.0	)	(3.2	)	(1.8	)
Foreign rate differences and valuation allowances	2.8		0.3		1.8
Other	(0.3	)	(1.7	)	(0.7	)
	31.6	%	32.6	%	36.4	%

Schedule Of Tax Effects Of Major Items Recorded As Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities

The tax effects of major items recorded as deferred tax assets and liabilities as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, are as follows:

									in millions
	2014					2013
	Deferred Tax					Deferred Tax
	Assets			Liabilities		Assets			Liabilities
Property, plant and equipment	$	—		$	732	$	—		$	525
Suspended taxes from conversion to accrual method	—			66		—			71
Intangible assets	—			2,031		—			29
Inventory	24			121		8			110
Accrued expenses	474			—		209			—
Net operating loss and other carryforwards	96			—		77			—
Insurance reserves	21			—		22			—
Other	80			82		60			98
	$	695		$	3,032	$	376		$	833
Valuation allowance	$	(51	)			$	(77	)
Net deferred tax liability				$	2,388				$	534

Schedule Of Activity Related To Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits

The following table summarizes the activity related to our gross unrecognized tax benefits at September 27, 2014, September 28, 2013, and September 29, 2012:

							in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Balance as of the beginning of the year	$	175		$	168		$	174
Increases related to current year tax positions	11			3			3
Increases related to prior year tax positions	17			15			5
Increases related to Hillshire Brands balances	136			—			—
Reductions related to prior year tax positions	(20		)	(6		)	(10		)
Reductions related to settlements	(1		)	(2		)	(1		)
Reductions related to expirations of statute of limitations	(46		)	(3		)	(3		)
Balance as of the end of the year	$	272		$	175		$	168

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Segment Reporting (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended																						12 Months Ended																									12 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Sep. 27, 2014 Segments	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Sep. 27, 2014 Prepared Foods [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Prepared Foods [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Prepared Foods [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 International [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 International [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 International [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Chicken [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Chicken [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Chicken [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Beef [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Beef [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Beef [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Pork [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Pork [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Pork [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 UNITED STATES	Sep. 28, 2013 UNITED STATES	Sep. 27, 2014 Other than the United States [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Other than the United States [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] UNITED STATES	Sep. 28, 2013 Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] UNITED STATES	Sep. 29, 2012 Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] UNITED STATES	Sep. 27, 2014 Export sales [Member] UNITED STATES	Sep. 28, 2013 Export sales [Member] UNITED STATES	Sep. 29, 2012 Export sales [Member] UNITED STATES	Sep. 27, 2014 Intersegment Sales [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Intersegment Sales [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Intersegment Sales [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Intersegment Sales [Member] Chicken [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Intersegment Sales [Member] Chicken [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Intersegment Sales [Member] Chicken [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Intersegment Sales [Member] Beef [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Intersegment Sales [Member] Beef [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Intersegment Sales [Member] Beef [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Intersegment Sales [Member] Pork [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Intersegment Sales [Member] Pork [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Intersegment Sales [Member] Pork [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Maximum [Member] Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Other than the United States [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Maximum [Member] Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Other than the United States [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Maximum [Member] Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Other than the United States [Member]	Jul. 28, 2014 Chicken Production Operations in Brazil and Mexico [Member] International [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Aug. 28, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member] Prepared Foods [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of segments									5
Business Acquisition, Period Results Included in Combined Entity																																																										1 month
Disposal Group, Consideration																																																							$ 575
Sales	10,105	9,682	9,032	8,761	8,894	8,731	8,383	8,366	37,580	34,374	33,055																										4,700	4,200	4,000	(1,325)	(1,114)	(988)	7	16	6	307	226	211	1,000	872	771
Concentration, Percentage																															14.60%	13.00%	13.80%	96.00%	96.00%	95.00%																10.00%	10.00%	10.00%
Long-lived assets																											17,400	6,100	324	485
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs																																																								59
Goodwill	$ 6,706				$ 1,902				$ 6,706	$ 1,902	$ 1,891	$ 92	$ 75	$ 63	$ 23	$ 39	$ 39	$ 907	$ 908	$ 909	$ 563	$ 563	$ 563	$ 317	$ 317	$ 317																														$ 4,800	$ 4,804

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Acquisitions and Dispositions Preliminary Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed at Acquisition Date (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Sep. 27, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Aug. 28, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents					$ 72
Accounts receivable					236
Inventories					421
Other current assets					344
Property, Plant and Equipment					1,306
Goodwill	6,706	1,902	1,891	4,800	4,804
Intangible Assets					5,141
Other Assets					45
Accounts payable					(347)
Other current liabilities					(324)
Long-Term Debt					(868)
Deferred Income Taxes					(2,069)
Other Liabilities					(517)
Net asset acquired					$ 8,244

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Commitments And Contingencies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule Of Minimum Lease Commitments Under Non-Cancelable Leases

Minimum lease commitments under non-cancelable leases at September 27, 2014, were:

	in millions
2015	$	107
2016	80
2017	56
2018	39
2019	30
2020 and beyond	104
Total	$	416

Schedule Of Future Purchase Commitments

At September 27, 2014, these commitments totaled:

	in millions
2015	$	2,625
2016	585
2017	259
2018	271
2019	189
2020 and beyond	249
Total	$	4,178

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Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements (Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Income) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Sales	$ 10,105	$ 9,682	$ 9,032	$ 8,761	$ 8,894	$ 8,731	$ 8,383	$ 8,366	$ 37,580	$ 34,374	$ 33,055
Cost of Sales									34,895	32,016	30,865
Gross Profit	712	637	651	685	669	682	468	539	2,685	2,358	2,190
Selling, General and Administrative									1,255	983	904
Operating Income	306	351	361	412	416	419	236	304	1,430	1,375	1,286
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net									125	138	344
Other, net									53	(20)	(23)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries									0	0	0
Total Other (Income) Expense									178	118	321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes									1,252	1,257	965
Income Tax Expense									396	409	351
Income from Continuing Operations									856	848	614
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax									0	(70)	(38)
Net Income	136	258	210	252	259	245	106	168	856	778	576
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest									(8)	0	(7)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	137	260	213	254	261	249	95	173	864	778	583
Comprehensive Income (Loss)									817	733	592
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests									(8)	0	(7)
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Tyson									825	733	599
TFI Parent [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Sales									579	431	352
Cost of Sales									74	40	(4)
Gross Profit									505	391	356
Selling, General and Administrative									141	68	59
Operating Income									364	323	297
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net									63	36	49
Other, net									67	4	1
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries									(731)	(582)	(427)
Total Other (Income) Expense									(601)	(542)	(377)
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes									965	865	674
Income Tax Expense									101	87	91
Income from Continuing Operations									864	778	583
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax									0	0	0
Net Income									864	778	583
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest									0	0	0
Net Income Attributable to Tyson									864	778	583
Comprehensive Income (Loss)									817	733	599
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests									0	0	0
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Tyson									817	733	599
TFM Parent, Guarantors [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Sales									21,924	19,243	18,832
Cost of Sales									20,971	18,464	18,088
Gross Profit									953	779	744
Selling, General and Administrative									240	201	205
Operating Income									713	578	539
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net									49	62	143
Other, net									(1)	(1)	0
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries									(43)	(40)	(43)
Total Other (Income) Expense									5	21	100
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes									708	557	439
Income Tax Expense									227	172	130
Income from Continuing Operations									481	385	309
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax									0	0	0
Net Income									481	385	309
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest									0	0	0
Net Income Attributable to Tyson									481	385	309
Comprehensive Income (Loss)									449	380	324
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests									0	0	0
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Tyson									449	380	324
Non-Guarantors [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Sales									16,926	16,120	15,152
Cost of Sales									15,689	14,932	14,061
Gross Profit									1,237	1,188	1,091
Selling, General and Administrative									884	714	641
Operating Income									353	474	450
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net									13	40	152
Other, net									(13)	(23)	(24)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries									0	0	0
Total Other (Income) Expense									0	17	128
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes									353	457	322
Income Tax Expense									68	150	130
Income from Continuing Operations									285	307	192
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax									0	(70)	(38)
Net Income									285	237	154
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest									(8)	0	(7)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson									293	237	161
Comprehensive Income (Loss)									243	212	166
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests									(8)	0	(7)
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Tyson									251	212	173
Eliminations [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Sales									(1,849)	(1,420)	(1,281)
Cost of Sales									(1,839)	(1,420)	(1,280)
Gross Profit									(10)	0	(1)
Selling, General and Administrative									(10)	0	(1)
Operating Income									0	0	0
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net									0	0	0
Other, net									0	0	0
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries									774	622	470
Total Other (Income) Expense									774	622	470
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes									(774)	(622)	(470)
Income Tax Expense									0	0	0
Income from Continuing Operations									(774)	(622)	(470)
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax									0	0	0
Net Income									(774)	(622)	(470)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest									0	0	0
Net Income Attributable to Tyson									(774)	(622)	(470)
Comprehensive Income (Loss)									(692)	(592)	(497)
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests									0	0	0
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Tyson									$ (692)	$ (592)	$ (497)

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Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended						0 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014 Classes	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Jul. 31, 2014 Convertible Debt [Member] Tangible Equity Unit, Senior Amortizing Note [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Class A [Member] votes	Sep. 28, 2013 Class A [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Class A [Member]	Jul. 31, 2014 Class A [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Tangible Equity Unit, Senior Amortizing Note [Member]	Jul. 31, 2014 Class A [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Tangible Equity Unit, Senior Amortizing Note [Member] Minimum [Member]	Jul. 31, 2014 Class A [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Tangible Equity Unit, Senior Amortizing Note [Member] Maximum [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Class B [Member] votes	Sep. 28, 2013 Class B [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Class B [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Tyson Limited Partnership [Member] Class B [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Tyson Limited Partnership And Tyson Family [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Tyson Limited Partnership And Tyson Family [Member] Class A [Member]	Jan. 30, 2014 Share Repurchase Program [Member] Class A [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Share Repurchase Program [Member] Class A [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member] Class A [Member]	Nov. 13, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member] Class A [Member]	Nov. 13, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member] Class B [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Number of classes of common stock		2
Common stock, par value						$ 0.1	$ 0.1					$ 0.1	$ 0.1
Common Stock, Vote Entitlement Per Share						1						10
Tyson Family Ownership Percentage															99.985%		1.78%
Related Party Voting Rights Percentage																70.14%
Cash Dividends, Paid Ratio To Other Class Of Stock, Maximum		90.00%
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid						$ 0.30	$ 0.3	$ 0.16				$ 0.27	$ 0.27	$ 0.144
Common Stock, Special Dividends Included in Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid							$ 0.10						$ 0.09
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared						$ 0.325	$ 0.310	$ 0.160				$ 0.294	$ 0.279	$ 0.144									$ 0.10	$ 0.09
Stock Repurchase Program, Increase (Decrease) in Authorized Shares																		25,000,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased																			32,100,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues						24,000,000	0	0														23,800,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs		$ 873,000,000	$ 0	$ 0																$ 873,000,000
TEUs issued (in units)	30,000,000
TEUs, Dividend Rate	4.75%
Net proceeds from issuance of TEUs	1,454,000,000
TEUs, stated amount per unit (in dollars per unit)	$ 50
TEUs, Equity Component	1,295,000,000
TEUs, Debt Component	205,000,000
TEUs, Debt Component, Current	65,000,000	205,000,000	0
Senior amortizing note, initial principal amount					6.83																840,000,000
Senior amortizing note, interest rate					1.50%
Senior amortizing note, quarterly principal and interest payment, first three annual quarters					0.59
Senior amortizing note, quarterly principal and interest payment, fourth annual quarter					$ 0.46
Senior amortizing note, number of shares to be issued										31,700,000	39,700,000
Senior amortizing note, conversion price									$ 47.25
Senior amortizing note, number of shares per contract if Applicable Market Value equal to or greater than conversion price									1.0582
Senior amortizing note, reference price									$ 37.80
Senior amortizing note, if applicable market value greater than reference price, number of shares equal to amount divided by Applicable Market Value									$ 50
Senior amortizing note, number of shares per contract, if Applicable Market Value is less than or equal to reference price									1.3228
Senior amortizing note, consecutive trading days for calculation of applicable market value									20 days
Senior amortizing note, incremental common shares attributable to dilutive effect of conversion, if applicable market value higher than reference price									8,000,000

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Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Amount available under credit facility	$ 1,250,000,000.00	$ 1,000,000,000.0

XML

Acquisitions and Dispositions Schedule of Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified				0 Months Ended
	Aug. 28, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Mar. 29, 2014 Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]	Aug. 28, 2014 Trademarks [Member] Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Aug. 28, 2014 Customer Relationships [Member] Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Aug. 28, 2014 Noncompete Agreements [Member] Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Aug. 28, 2014 Trademarks [Member] Hillshire Brands Company [Member]
Schedule of Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Line Items]
Fair Value, Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets							$ 4,062
Fair Value, Finite-lived Intangible Assets				532	541	6
Total identifiable intangible assets	$ 5,141	$ 27	$ 41
Life in Years				20 years		1 year
Life in Years					16 years

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Earnings Per Share (Narrative) (Details) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Number of classes of common stock	2
Cash Dividends, Paid Ratio To Other Class Of Stock, Maximum	90.00%
Class A [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Undistributed earnings (losses), ratio used to calculate allocation to class of stock	1
Class B [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Undistributed earnings (losses), ratio used to calculate allocation to class of stock	0.9
Stock-based compensation [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	4	0	4

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Categories Of Pension Plan Assets And Level Under Which Fair Values Were Determined In Fair Value Hierarchy) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	$ 1,650	$ 85
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	79	1
Total Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	1,317	56
Bond and Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	377	56
Corporate Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	680	0
Government and Municipal Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	253	0
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	7	0
Total Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	232	11
US Securities Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	84	3
Non-US Securities Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	101	5
Commodity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	14	0
Global Real Estate Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	33	3
Other [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	7	3
Insurance Contract At Contract Value [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	15	14
Level 1 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	79	1
Level 1 [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	79	1
Level 1 [Member] | Total Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Bond and Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Government and Municipal Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Total Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | US Securities Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Non-US Securities Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Commodity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Global Real Estate Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Other [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 1 [Member] | Insurance Contract At Contract Value [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 2 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	1,549	67
Level 2 [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 2 [Member] | Total Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	1,310	56
Level 2 [Member] | Bond and Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	377	56
Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	680	0
Level 2 [Member] | Government and Municipal Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	253	0
Level 2 [Member] | Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 2 [Member] | Total Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	232	11
Level 2 [Member] | US Securities Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	84	3
Level 2 [Member] | Non-US Securities Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	101	5
Level 2 [Member] | Commodity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	14	0
Level 2 [Member] | Global Real Estate Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	33	3
Level 2 [Member] | Other [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	7	0
Level 2 [Member] | Insurance Contract At Contract Value [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	22	17
Level 3 [Member] | Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Total Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	7	0
Level 3 [Member] | Bond and Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Government and Municipal Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	7	0
Level 3 [Member] | Total Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | US Securities Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Non-US Securities Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Commodity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Global Real Estate Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	0
Level 3 [Member] | Other [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	0	3
Level 3 [Member] | Insurance Contract At Contract Value [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	$ 15	$ 14

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Segment Reporting (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information, By Segment

	in millions
	Chicken		Beef		Pork		Prepared Foods			International			Other			Intersegment Sales			Consolidated
Fiscal 2014
Sales	$	11,116	$	16,177	$	6,304	$	3,927		$	1,381		$	—		$	(1,325	)	$	37,580
Operating Income (Loss)	883		347		455		(60		)	(121		)	(74		)				1,430
Total Other (Income) Expense																			178
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			1,252
Depreciation	251		87		32		78			40			6						494
Total Assets	4,807		3,103		965		8,608			871			5,602						23,956
Additions to property, plant and equipment	307		115		36		77			46			51						632
Fiscal 2013
Sales	$	10,988	$	14,400	$	5,408	$	3,322		$	1,324		$	46		$	(1,114	)	$	34,374
Operating Income (Loss)	683		296		332		101			(37		)	—						1,375
Total Other (Income) Expense																			118
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			1,257
Depreciation	251		87		30		61			40			5						474
Total Assets	4,944		2,798		931		1,176			876			1,452						12,177
Additions to property, plant and equipment	253		105		22		87			58			33						558
Fiscal 2012
Sales	$	10,270	$	13,755	$	5,510	$	3,237		$	1,104		$	167		$	(988	)	$	33,055
Operating Income (Loss)	554		218		417		181			(70		)	(14		)				1,286
Total Other (Income) Expense																			321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			965
Depreciation	228		86		30		54			40			5						443
Total Assets	4,934		2,634		895		960			968			1,505						11,896
Additions to property, plant and equipment	354		100		32		99			97			8						690

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Acquisitions and Dispositions (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. Certain estimated values for the acquisition, including goodwill, intangible assets, plant property and equipment, and deferred taxes, are not yet finalized and the preliminary purchase price allocations are subject to change as we complete our analysis of the fair value at the date of acquisition.

	in millions
Cash and cash equivalents		$	72
Accounts receivable		236
Inventories		421
Other current assets		344
Property, Plant and Equipment		1,306
Goodwill		4,804
Intangible Assets		5,141
Other Assets		45
Accounts payable		(347		)
Other current liabilities		(324		)
Long-Term Debt		(868		)
Deferred Income Taxes		(2,069		)
Other Liabilities		(517		)
Net asset acquired		$	8,244

Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table Text Block]

The fair value of identifiable intangible assets is as follows:

			in millions
Intangible Asset Category	Type	Life in Years	Fair Value
Brands & trademarks	Non-amortizable	Indefinite	$	4,062
Brands & trademarks	Amortizable	20 years	532
Customer relationships	Amortizable	Weighted average life of 16 years	541
Non-compete agreements	Amortizable	1 year	6
Total identifiable intangible assets			$	5,141

Schedule of Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table Text Block]

The fair value of identifiable intangible assets is as follows:

			in millions
Intangible Asset Category	Type	Life in Years	Fair Value
Brands & trademarks	Non-amortizable	Indefinite	$	4,062
Brands & trademarks	Amortizable	20 years	532
Customer relationships	Amortizable	Weighted average life of 16 years	541
Non-compete agreements	Amortizable	1 year	6
Total identifiable intangible assets			$	5,141

Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]

These pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations as they would have been had the acquisitions occurred on the assumed dates, nor is it necessarily an indication of future operating results.

	in millions  (unaudited)
	2014		2013
Pro forma sales	$	41,311	$	38,195
Pro forma net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	1,047		655
Pro forma net income per diluted share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	$	2.50	$	1.52

Summary of Net Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale

The following table summarizes the net assets and liabilities held for sale:

	in millions
	2014
Assets held for sale:
Accounts receivable, net	$	74
Inventories	141
Other current assets	72
Net property, plant and equipment	132
Goodwill	16
Other assets	11
Total assets held for sale	$	446
Liabilities held for sale:
Current debt	$	32
Accounts payable	61
Other current liabilities	27
Long-term debt	9
Deferred income taxes	12
Total liabilities held for sale	$	141

						in millions
	2014		2013			2012
Sales	$	—	$	108		$	223
Pretax loss	—		(68		)	(38		)
Income tax expense	—		2			—
Loss from discontinued operation, net of tax	$	—	$	(70	)	$	(38	)

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Aggregate Outstanding Notionals Related To Cash Flow Hedges) (Details) (Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], Cash Flow Hedging [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014 bu	Sep. 28, 2013 bu
Corn (in bushels)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	0	5,000,000
Soy Meal (in tons)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	2,300	96,800
Foreign Currency [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 1	$ 60

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Contingencies (Narrative) (Details)		0 Months Ended					1 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014 Tyson Fresh Meats Inc [Member] Claims	Dec. 07, 2012 Garcia Case [Member] USD ($)	Mar. 17, 2011 Garcia Case [Member] USD ($)	Sep. 22, 2014 Bouaphakeo Case [Member] USD ($)	Aug. 25, 2014 Bouaphakeo Case [Member] USD ($)	Jan. 30, 2014 Acosta Case [Member] USD ($)	May 31, 2013 Acosta Case [Member] USD ($)	Oct. 02, 2013 Gomez Case [Member] USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2014 Abadeer case [Member] USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2006 Republic of the Philippines, Department of Labor and Employment and the National Labor Relations Commission [Member] USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2006 Republic of the Philippines, Department of Labor and Employment and the National Labor Relations Commission [Member] PHP	Jun. 23, 2014 Republic of the Philippines, Department of Labor and Employment and the National Labor Relations Commission [Member] USD ($)	Jun. 23, 2014 Republic of the Philippines, Department of Labor and Employment and the National Labor Relations Commission [Member] PHP
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of cases filed	9
Loss contingency, damages awarded		$ 3,609,723	$ 503,011		$ 5,784,758	$ 18,774,989	$ 5,733,943	$ 4,960,787		$ 76,000,000	3,453,664,710
Loss contingency, damages sought				2,692,145			6,258,330
Litigation Settlement, Amount									7,750,000
Loss contingency, range of possible loss, maximum												$ 7,000,000	342,287,800

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Income Taxes (Tax Effects Of Major Items Recorded As Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Deferred Tax Assets, Property, plant and equipment	$ 0	$ 0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, plant and equipment	732	525
Deferred Tax Assets, Suspended taxes from conversion to accrual method	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Suspended taxes from conversion to accrual method	66	71
Deferred Tax Assets, Intangible assets	0	0
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible assets	2,031	29
Deferred Tax Assets, Inventory	24	8
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Inventory	121	110
Deferred Tax Assets, Accrued expenses	474	209
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Accrued expenses	0	0
Deferred Tax Assets, Net operating loss and other carryforwards	96	77
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net operating loss and other carryforwards	0	0
Deferred Tax Assets, Insurance reserves	21	22
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Insurance reserves	0	0
Deferred Tax Assets, Other	80	60
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other	82	98
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross	695	376
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross	3,032	833
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation allowance	(51)	(77)
Net deferred tax liability	$ 2,388	$ 534

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Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified							12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014 U.S. Treasury and Agency [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 U.S. Treasury and Agency [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Corporate And Asset-Backed [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Corporate And Asset-Backed [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Common Stock and Warrants [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Common Stock and Warrants [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Maximum [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cumulative Other-than-Temporary Impairment Loss					$ 2
Short Term Investment Maturity Period							12 months
Available-For-Sale Securities Debt Maturity Period							35 years
Amortized Cost Basis	25	25	65	64	1	9
Fair Value	25	25	67	65	1	4
Unrealized Gain/(Loss)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 2	$ 1	$ 0	$ (5)

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Acquisitions and Dispositions Summary of Net Assets Held for Sale (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Total assets held for sale	$ 446	$ 0
Total liabilities held for sale	141	0
International [Member] | Chicken Production Operations in Brazil and Mexico [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Accounts receivable, net	74
Inventories	141
Other current assets	72
Net property, plant and equipment	132
Goodwill	16
Other assets	11
Total assets held for sale	446
Current debt	32
Accounts payable	61
Other current liabilities	27
Long-term debt	9
Deferred income taxes	12
Total liabilities held for sale	$ 141

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Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized net hedging gain (loss)	$ (3)	$ (4)
Unrealized net gain (loss) on investments	2	(2)
Currency translation adjustment	(99)	(69)
Postretirement benefits reserve adjustments	(47)	(33)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	$ (147)	$ (108)

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Other Income And Charges (Details) (Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 30, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Components of Other Income and Expenses [Line Items]
Equity Earnings In Joint Ventures		$ 11		$ 16
Recognized currency translation adjustment gain	19		19
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net, Available-for-sale Securities		6
Foreign currency exchange gains, net		3		4
Hillshire Brands Company [Member] | Bridge Facility Commitment [Member]
Components of Other Income and Expenses [Line Items]
Expense Associated with Bridge Facility		$ 60

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Derivative [Line Items]
Maximum length of time hedged forecasted transactions, months	18 months
Maximum length of time hedged undesignated positions, months	18 months
Grain [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Cash flow hedge gain (loss) to be reclassified within twelve months	$ (4)

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Aggregate Outstanding Notionals Related To Fair Value Hedges) (Details) (Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], Fair Value Hedging [Member])	Sep. 27, 2014 lb	Sep. 28, 2013 lb
Live Cattle (in pounds)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	427,000,000	209,000,000
Lean Hogs (in pounds)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	329,000,000	384,000,000

XML

Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative assets and liabilities posted cash collateral	$ 98	$ 79
Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability and Obligation to Return Cash, Offset	(50)	(22)
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	1	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Noncurrent	92	93
Deferred Compensation Assets	233	214
Total Assets	335	318
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset and Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset	(148)	(101)
Total Liabilities	12	1
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Noncurrent	1	4
Deferred Compensation Assets	15	23
Total Assets	16	27
Total Liabilities	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	1	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Noncurrent	24	24
Deferred Compensation Assets	218	191
Total Assets	302	248
Total Liabilities	160	102
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Noncurrent	67	65
Deferred Compensation Assets	0	0
Total Assets	67	65
Total Liabilities	0	0
Commodity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Commodity Derivatives, Assets	9	8
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability and Obligation to Return Cash, Offset	(50)	(21)
Commodity Derivatives, Liabilities	10	0
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset and Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset	(148)	(101)
Commodity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Commodity Derivatives, Assets	0	0
Commodity Derivatives, Liabilities	0	0
Commodity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Commodity Derivatives, Assets	59	29
Commodity Derivatives, Liabilities	158	101
Commodity [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Commodity Derivatives, Assets	0	0
Commodity Derivatives, Liabilities	0	0
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure	0	2
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability and Obligation to Return Cash, Offset	0	(1)
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset and Right to Reclaim Cash, Offset	0	0
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts, Liabilities	2	1
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts, Liabilities	0	0
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure	0	3
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts, Liabilities	2	1
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts, Liabilities	$ 0	$ 0

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Earnings Per Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share, Basic And Diluted) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Income from continuing operations									$ 856	$ 848	$ 614
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest									(8)	0	(7)
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	137	260	213	254	261	253	157	177	864	848	621
Undistributed earnings									749	742	564
Stock options and restricted stock									5	5	4
Tangible Equity Units									1	0	0
Convertible 2013 Notes									0	7	3
Warrants									4	3	0
Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions									364	367	370
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson - Diluted	$ 0.35	$ 0.73	$ 0.60	$ 0.72	$ 0.70	$ 0.69	$ 0.43	$ 0.49	$ 2.37	$ 2.31	$ 1.68
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson - Diluted	$ 0.35	$ 0.73	$ 0.60	$ 0.72	$ 0.70	$ 0.68	$ 0.26	$ 0.48	$ 2.37	$ 2.12	$ 1.58
Class A [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Less dividends:									94	87	47
Undistributed earnings									612	606	464
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - Basic									284	282	293
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson - Basic	$ 0.37	$ 0.75	$ 0.64	$ 0.76	$ 0.77	$ 0.73	$ 0.45	$ 0.51	$ 2.48	$ 2.46	$ 1.75
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson - Basic	$ 0.37	$ 0.75	$ 0.64	$ 0.76	$ 0.77	$ 0.72	$ 0.27	$ 0.50	$ 2.48	$ 2.26	$ 1.64
Class B [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Line Items]
Less dividends:									21	19	10
Undistributed earnings									$ 137	$ 136	$ 100
Weighted average number of shares outstanding - Basic									70	70	70
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson - Basic	$ 0.32	$ 0.68	$ 0.58	$ 0.68	$ 0.70	$ 0.66	$ 0.40	$ 0.46	$ 2.26	$ 2.22	$ 1.57
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson - Basic	$ 0.32	$ 0.68	$ 0.58	$ 0.68	$ 0.70	$ 0.64	$ 0.25	$ 0.45	$ 2.26	$ 2.04	$ 1.48

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Income Taxes (Provision For Income Taxes From Continuing Operations) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal	$ 325	$ 341	$ 310
State	67	38	22
Foreign	4	30	19
Current	501	421	211
Deferred	(105)	(12)	140
Income Tax Expense	$ 396	$ 409	$ 351

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Supplemental Cash Flow Information

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOWS INFORMATION

The following table summarizes cash payments for interest and income taxes:

					in millions
	2014		2013		2012
Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$	118	$	114	$	274
Income taxes, net of refunds	590		310		187

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Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Income

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 27, 2014										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	579		$	21,924		$	16,926		$	(1,849	)	$	37,580
Cost of Sales	74			20,971			15,689			(1,839		)	34,895
Gross Profit	505			953			1,237			(10		)	2,685
Selling, General and Administrative	141			240			884			(10		)	1,255
Operating Income	364			713			353			—			1,430
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	63			49			13			—			125
Other, net	67			(1		)	(13		)	—			53
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(731		)	(43		)	—			774			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(601		)	5			—			774			178
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	965			708			353			(774		)	1,252
Income Tax Expense	101			227			68			—			396
Income from Continuing Operations	864			481			285			(774		)	856
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			—			—			—
Net Income	864			481			285			(774		)	856
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(8		)	—			(8		)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	864		$	481		$	293		$	(774	)	$	864
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	817		$	449		$	243		$	(692	)	$	817
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	—			—			(8		)	—			(8		)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	817		$	449		$	251		$	(692	)	$	825

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 28, 2013										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	431		$	19,243		$	16,120		$	(1,420	)	$	34,374
Cost of Sales	40			18,464			14,932			(1,420		)	32,016
Gross Profit	391			779			1,188			—			2,358
Selling, General and Administrative	68			201			714			—			983
Operating Income	323			578			474			—			1,375
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	36			62			40			—			138
Other, net	4			(1		)	(23		)	—			(20		)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(582		)	(40		)	—			622			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(542		)	21			17			622			118
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	865			557			457			(622		)	1,257
Income Tax Expense	87			172			150			—			409
Income from Continuing Operations	778			385			307			(622		)	848
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			(70		)	—			(70		)
Net Income	778			385			237			(622		)	778
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			—			—			—
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	778		$	385		$	237		$	(622	)	$	778
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	733		$	380		$	212		$	(592	)	$	733
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			—			—			—
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	733		$	380		$	212		$	(592	)	$	733

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 29, 2012										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	352		$	18,832		$	15,152		$	(1,281	)	$	33,055
Cost of Sales	(4		)	18,088			14,061			(1,280		)	30,865
Gross Profit	356			744			1,091			(1		)	2,190
Selling, General and Administrative	59			205			641			(1		)	904
Operating Income	297			539			450			—			1,286
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	49			143			152			—			344
Other, net	1			—			(24		)	—			(23		)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(427		)	(43		)	—			470			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(377		)	100			128			470			321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	674			439			322			(470		)	965
Income Tax Expense	91			130			130			—			351
Income from Continuing Operations	583			309			192			(470		)	614
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			(38		)	—			(38		)
Net Income	583			309			154			(470		)	576
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(7		)	—			(7		)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	583		$	309		$	161		$	(470	)	$	583
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	599		$	324		$	166		$	(497	)	$	592
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(7		)	—			(7		)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	599		$	324		$	173		$	(497	)	$	599

Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of September 27, 2014							in millions
	TFI Parent		TFM Parent		Non- Guarantors		Eliminations			Total
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—	$	41	$	397	$	—		$	438
Accounts receivable, net	3		665		1,016		—			1,684
Inventories	—		1,272		2,002		—			3,274
Other current assets	42		78		379		(120		)	379
Assets held for sale	3		—		443		—			446
Total Current Assets	48		2,056		4,237		(120		)	6,221
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	30		932		4,168		—			5,130
Goodwill	—		881		5,825		—			6,706
Intangible Assets	—		15		5,261		—			5,276
Other Assets	204		148		326		(55		)	623
Investment in Subsidiaries	20,845		2,049		—		(22,894		)	—
Total Assets	$	21,127	$	6,081	$	19,817	$	(23,069	)	$	23,956
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current debt	$	240	$	—	$	403	$	—		$	643
Accounts payable	35		755		1,016		—			1,806
Other current liabilities	4,718		235		921		(4,667		)	1,207
Liabilities held for sale	—		—		141		—			141
Total Current Liabilities	4,993		990		2,481		(4,667		)	3,797
Long-Term Debt	7,056		2		532		(55		)	7,535
Deferred Income Taxes	21		96		2,333		—			2,450
Other Liabilities	167		125		978		—			1,270
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	8,890		4,868		13,479		(18,347		)	8,890
Noncontrolling Interests	—		—		14		—			14
Total Shareholders’ Equity	8,890		4,868		13,493		(18,347		)	8,904
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	21,127	$	6,081	$	19,817	$	(23,069	)	$	23,956

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of September 28, 2013							in millions
	TFI Parent		TFM Parent		Non- Guarantors		Eliminations			Total
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—	$	21	$	1,124	$	—		$	1,145
Accounts receivable, net	—		571		926		—			1,497
Inventories	—		1,039		1,778		—			2,817
Other current assets	351		88		117		(411		)	145
Total Current Assets	351		1,719		3,945		(411		)	5,604
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	32		891		3,130		—			4,053
Goodwill	—		881		1,021		—			1,902
Intangible Assets	—		21		117		—			138
Other Assets	895		162		244		(821		)	480
Investment in Subsidiaries	11,975		2,035		—		(14,010		)	—
Total Assets	$	13,253	$	5,709	$	8,457	$	(15,242	)	$	12,177
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current debt	$	457	$	132	$	251	$	(327	)	$	513
Accounts payable	27		575		757		—			1,359
Other current liabilities	4,625		200		901		(4,588		)	1,138
Total Current Liabilities	5,109		907		1,909		(4,915		)	3,010
Long-Term Debt	1,770		679		241		(795		)	1,895
Deferred Income Taxes	24		93		362		—			479
Other Liabilities	149		155		282		(26		)	560
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	6,201		3,875		5,631		(9,506		)	6,201
Noncontrolling Interests	—		—		32		—			32
Total Shareholders’ Equity	6,201		3,875		5,663		(9,506		)	6,233
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	13,253	$	5,709	$	8,457	$	(15,242	)	$	12,177

Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Cash Flows

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 27, 2014										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	132		$	431		$	660		$	(45	)	$	1,178
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(1		)	(147		)	(484		)	—			(632		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			—			15			—			15
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(8,193		)	—			—			—			(8,193		)
Other, net	5			2			3			—			10
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(8,189		)	(145		)	(466		)	—			(8,800		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	5,154			—			(12		)	—			5,142
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	873			—			—			—			873
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	1,255			—			—			—			1,255
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295		)	—			—			—			(295		)
Dividends	(104		)	—			(45		)	45			(104		)
Stock options exercised	67			—			—			—			67
Other, net	(22		)	—			(1		)	—			(23		)
Net change in intercompany balances	1,129			(266		)	(863		)	—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	8,057			(266		)	(921		)	45			6,915
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			—			—			—
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	—			20			(727		)	—			(707		)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	—			21			1,124			—			1,145
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	—		$	41		$	397		$	—		$	438

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 28, 2013										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	294		$	337		$	696		$	(13	)	$	1,314
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(4		)	(113		)	(441		)	—			(558		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			(13		)	(5		)	—			(18		)
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	—			—			(106		)	—			(106		)
Other, net	—			3			36			—			39
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(4		)	(123		)	(516		)	—			(643		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	5			—			(28		)	—			(23		)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	—			—			—			—			—
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	—			—			—			—			—
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(614		)	—			—			—			(614		)
Dividends	(104		)	—			(13		)	13			(104		)
Stock options exercised	123			—			—			—			123
Other, net	18			—			—			—			18
Net change in intercompany balances	281			(202		)	(79		)	—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	(291		)	(202		)	(120		)	13			(600		)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			3			—			3
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(1		)	12			63			—			74
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1			9			1,061			—			1,071
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	—		$	21		$	1,124		$	—		$	1,145

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 29, 2012										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	312		$	438		$	447		$	(10	)	$	1,187
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(1		)	(104		)	(585		)	—			(690		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			(7		)	(4		)	—			(11		)
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	—			—			—			—			—
Other, net	1			5			35			—			41
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	—			(106		)	(554		)	—			(660		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	107			—			16			—			123
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	—			—			—			—			—
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	—			—			—			—			—
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(264		)	—			—			—			(264		)
Dividends	(57		)	—			(10		)	10			(57		)
Stock options exercised	34			—			—			—			34
Other, net	(8		)	—			1			—			(7		)
Net change in intercompany balances	(124		)	(324		)	448			—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	(312		)	(324		)	455			10			(171		)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			(1		)	—			(1		)
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	—			8			347			—			355
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1			1			714			—			716
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	1		$	9		$	1,061		$	—		$	1,071

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Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis

The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our financial assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis according to the valuation techniques we used to determine their fair values:

							in millions
September 27, 2014	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Netting (a)			Total
Assets:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	59	$	—	$	(50	)	$	9
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		—		—		—			—
Available for Sale Securities:
Current	—		1		—		—			1
Non-current	1		24		67		—			92
Deferred Compensation Assets	15		218		—		—			233
Total Assets	$	16	$	302	$	67	$	(50	)	$	335
Liabilities:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	158	$	—	$	(148	)	$	10
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		2		—		—			2
Total Liabilities	$	—	$	160	$	—	$	(148	)	$	12
September 28, 2013	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Netting (a)			Total
Assets:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	29	$	—	$	(21	)	$	8
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		3		—		(1		)	2
Available for Sale Securities:
Current	—		1		—		—			1
Non-current	4		24		65		—			93
Deferred Compensation Assets	23		191		—		—			214
Total Assets	$	27	$	248	$	65	$	(22	)	$	318
Liabilities:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	101	$	—	$	(101	)	$	—
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		1		—		—			1
Total Liabilities	$	—	$	102	$	—	$	(101	)	$	1

(a) Our derivative assets and liabilities are presented in our Consolidated Balance Sheets on a net basis. We net derivative assets and liabilities, including cash collateral, when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the counterparty to a derivative contract and us. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, we had posted with various counterparties $98 million and $79 million, respectively, of cash collateral related to our commodity derivatives and held no cash collateral.

Schedule Of Debt Securities Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation

The following table provides a reconciliation between the beginning and ending balance of debt securities measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the table above that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):

				in millions
	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013
Balance at beginning of year	$	65		$	86
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses):
Included in earnings	—			1
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	—			—
Purchases	25			19
Issuances	—			—
Settlements	(23		)	(41		)
Balance at end of year	$	67		$	65
Total gains (losses) for the periods included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at end of year	$	—		$	—

Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities

									in millions
	September 27, 2014						September 28, 2013
	Amortized Cost Basis		Fair Value		Unrealized Gain/(Loss)		Amortized Cost Basis		Fair Value		Unrealized Gain/(Loss)
Available for Sale Securities:
Debt Securities:
U.S. Treasury and Agency	$	25	$	25	$	—	$	25	$	25	$	—
Corporate and Asset-Backed	65		67		2		64		65		1
Equity Securities:
Common Stock and Warrants (a)	1		1		—		9		4		(5		)

(a) At September 27, 2014, the amortized cost basis for Equity Securities had been reduced by accumulated other than temporary impairment of approximately $2 million.

Schedule Of Fair Value And Carrying Value Of Debt

Fair value of our debt is principally estimated using Level 2 inputs based on quoted prices for those or similar instruments. Fair value and carrying value for our debt are as follows:

					in millions
	September 27, 2014				September 28, 2013
	Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value
Total Debt	$	8,347	$	8,178	$	2,541	$	2,408

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Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Income Tax Disclosures [Line Items]
Domestic production deduction	$ 50	$ 40	$ 17
Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits	58
General business credits		17
Foreign valuation allowance, increase in tax expense			10
Income (loss) from continuing operations, foreign	(18)	53	2
Tax credit carryforwards	25
Accumulated undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	403	351
Repatriation of foreign earnings	17
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	241	149
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued	54	63
Unrecognized tax benefits, decrease that could result during next twelve months	30
Subsidiaries earnings expected to be indefinitely reinvested outside of United States [Member]
Income Tax Disclosures [Line Items]
Accumulated undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	220
Chicken Production Operations in Brazil and Mexico [Member]
Income Tax Disclosures [Line Items]
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries, Not Permanently Reinvested	183
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Income Tax Disclosures [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	1,300
Foreign Country [Member]
Income Tax Disclosures [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	146
Operating loss carryforwards, subject to expiration	$ 50

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Reconciliation Of Changes In Plans' Benefit Obligations, Assets And Funded Status) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 85
Employer contributions	9	8	8
Ending balance	1,650	85
Funded Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	86	101
Service cost	1	0	0
Interest cost	10	4	4
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Actuarial (gain) loss	(37)	(9)
Benefits paid	(11)	(10)
Business acquisition	1,800	0
Benefit obligation at end of year	1,849	86	101
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	85	86
Actual return on plan assets	(36)	3
Employer contributions	6	6
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Benefits paid	(11)	(10)
Business acquisition	1,603	0
Ending balance	1,647	85	86
Funded status	(202)	(1)
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	85	81
Service cost	7	5	5
Interest cost	5	3	3
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Actuarial (gain) loss	15	(2)
Benefits paid	(3)	(2)
Business acquisition	73	0
Benefit obligation at end of year	182	85	81
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0	0
Actual return on plan assets	0	0
Employer contributions	3	2
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Benefits paid	(3)	(2)
Business acquisition	3	0
Ending balance	3	0	0
Funded status	(179)	(85)
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	71	64
Service cost	2	2	1
Interest cost	3	2	2
Plan participants' contributions	1	1
Actuarial (gain) loss	(8)	7
Benefits paid	(6)	(5)
Business acquisition	100	0
Benefit obligation at end of year	163	71	64
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0	0
Actual return on plan assets	0	0
Employer contributions	5	4
Plan participants' contributions	1	1
Benefits paid	(6)	(5)
Business acquisition	0	0
Ending balance	0	0	0
Funded status	$ (163)	$ (71)

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Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Debt Instruments [Abstract]

Schedule Of Major Components Of Debt

The following table reflects major components of debt as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

				in millions
	2014			2013
Revolving credit facility	$	—		$	—
Senior notes:
3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 (2013 Notes)	—			458
2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 (2015 Notes)	407			—
6.60% Senior notes due April 2016 (2016 Notes)	638			638
7.00% Notes due May 2018	120			120
2.65% Notes due August 2019 (2019 Notes)	1,000			—
4.10% Notes due September 2020 (2020 Notes)	287			—
4.50% Senior notes due June 2022 (2022 Notes)	1,000			1,000
3.95% Notes due August 2024 (2024 Notes)	1,250			—
7.00% Notes due January 2028	18			18
6.13% Notes due November 2032 (2032 Notes)	164			—
4.88% Notes due August 2034 (2034 Notes)	500			—
5.15% Notes due August 2044 (2044 Notes)	500			—
Discount on senior notes	(12		)	(6		)
Term loan facility:
3-year tranche	1,172			—
5-year tranche A	353			—
5-year tranche B	552			—
Amortizing Notes - Tangible Equity Units (see Note 8: Equity)	205			—
GO Zone tax-exempt bonds	—			100
Other	24			80
Total debt	8,178			2,408
Less current debt	643			513
Total long-term debt	$	7,535		$	1,895

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Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Other Current Liabilities) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Other Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits	$ 490	$ 419
Other	717	719
Total other current liabilities	$ 1,207	$ 1,138

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Debt (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified				0 Months Ended											1 Months Ended								1 Months Ended						0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Oct. 15, 2013 3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member]	Sep. 30, 2008 3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 6.60% Senior Notes Due April 2016 [Member]	Jun. 07, 2012 6.60% Senior Notes Due April 2016 [Member]	Jun. 06, 2012 6.60% Senior Notes Due April 2016 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2008 6.60% Senior Notes Due April 2016 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 2.65% Senior notes due August 2019 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 3.95% Notes due August 2024 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 4.88% Notes due August 2034 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 5.15% Notes due August 2044 [Member]	Jun. 30, 2012 4.50% Senior Notes Due June 2022 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 4.50% Senior Notes Due June 2022 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 4.10% Notes due September 2020 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 4.10% Notes due September 2020 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 6.13% Notes due November 2032 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 6.13% Notes due November 2032 [Member]	Oct. 31, 2008 GO Zone tax-exempt bonds [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Unsecured Debt [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Unsecured Debt [Member] 2.65% Senior notes due August 2019 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Unsecured Debt [Member] 3.95% Notes due August 2024 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Unsecured Debt [Member] 4.88% Notes due August 2034 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Unsecured Debt [Member] 5.15% Notes due August 2044 [Member]	Oct. 15, 2013 Class A [Member] 3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Class A [Member] 2008 Warrants [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Term Loan [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Term Loan [Member] 3-Year Tranche [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Term Loan [Member] 3-Year Tranche [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Term Loan [Member] 5-Year Tranche A [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Term Loan [Member] 5-Year Tranche A [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Term Loan [Member] 5-Year Tranche B [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Term Loan [Member] 5-Year Tranche B [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Standby Letters of Credit [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Bilateral Letters Of Credit [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member] 2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member] 4.10% Notes due September 2020 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member] 6.13% Notes due November 2032 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturities of debt in 2015	$ 644,000,000
Maturities of debt in 2016	885,000,000
Maturities of debt in 2017	1,059,000,000
Maturities of debt in 2018	176,000,000
Maturities of debt in 2019	1,688,000,000
Maximum borrowing capacity under credit facility	1,250,000,000	1,000,000,000
Amount available for borrowing under credit facility	1,209,000,000
Letters of credit issued amount																																						41,000,000	105,000,000
Debt instrument, face amount						458,000,000.00									1,000,000,000.00									3,250,000,000.00	1,000,000,000.00	1,250,000,000.00	500,000,000.00	500,000,000.00												840,000,000.00	400,000,000.00	278,000,000.00	152,000,000.00
Interest rate					3.25%	3.25%	6.60%			6.60%	2.65%	3.95%	4.88%	5.15%	4.50%	4.50%	2.75%	2.75%	4.10%	4.10%	6.13%	6.13%			2.65%	3.95%	4.88%	5.15%
Repayments of Long-term Debt				458,000,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities																													11.7
Stock Redeemed or Called During Period, Shares																													11.7
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Treasury Stock Reissued																														11.7
Effective interest rate								6.60%	6.85%
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount	12,000,000		6,000,000												5,000,000									7,000,000
Proceeds from Issuance of Unsecured Debt															995,000,000									3,243,000,000
Debt Issuance Cost																								27,000,000							11,000,000
Issue price percent of face value															99.458%
Payments of Debt Issuance Costs															9,000,000
Loans Payable to Bank																															2,300,000,000	1,202,000,000		546,000,000		552,000,000
Debt Instrument, Term																																3 years	3 years	5 years	5 years	5 years	5 years
Required Quarterly Principal Payment as a Percentage of Remaining Balance																																2.50%		2.50%
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	8,347,000,000		2,541,000,000																																					868,000,000
Proceeds from the sale of Gulf Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds																							$ 100,000,000

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Segment Reporting (Segment Reporting Information, By Segment) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales	$ 10,105	$ 9,682	$ 9,032	$ 8,761	$ 8,894	$ 8,731	$ 8,383	$ 8,366	$ 37,580	$ 34,374	$ 33,055
Operating Income (Loss)	306	351	361	412	416	419	236	304	1,430	1,375	1,286
Total Other (Income) Expense									178	118	321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes									1,252	1,257	965
Depreciation									494	474	443
Total Assets	23,956				12,177				23,956	12,177	11,896
Additions to property, plant and equipment									632	558	690
Operating Segments [Member] | Chicken [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									11,116	10,988	10,270
Operating Income (Loss)									883	683	554
Depreciation									251	251	228
Total Assets	4,807				4,944				4,807	4,944	4,934
Additions to property, plant and equipment									307	253	354
Operating Segments [Member] | Beef [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									16,177	14,400	13,755
Operating Income (Loss)									347	296	218
Depreciation									87	87	86
Total Assets	3,103				2,798				3,103	2,798	2,634
Additions to property, plant and equipment									115	105	100
Operating Segments [Member] | Pork [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									6,304	5,408	5,510
Operating Income (Loss)									455	332	417
Depreciation									32	30	30
Total Assets	965				931				965	931	895
Additions to property, plant and equipment									36	22	32
Operating Segments [Member] | Prepared Foods [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									3,927	3,322	3,237
Operating Income (Loss)									(60)	101	181
Depreciation									78	61	54
Total Assets	8,608				1,176				8,608	1,176	960
Additions to property, plant and equipment									77	87	99
Operating Segments [Member] | International [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									1,381	1,324	1,104
Operating Income (Loss)									(121)	(37)	(70)
Depreciation									40	40	40
Total Assets	871				876				871	876	968
Additions to property, plant and equipment									46	58	97
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									0	46	167
Operating Income (Loss)									(74)	0	(14)
Depreciation									6	5	5
Total Assets	5,602				1,452				5,602	1,452	1,505
Additions to property, plant and equipment									51	33	8
Intersegment Elimination [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									(1,325)	(1,114)	(988)
Intersegment Elimination [Member] | Chicken [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									7	16	6
Intersegment Elimination [Member] | Beef [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									307	226	211
Intersegment Elimination [Member] | Pork [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales									$ 1,000	$ 872	$ 771

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Discontinued Operation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Mar. 30, 2013 Weifang Operation [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Asset Impairment Charges	$ 107	$ 74	$ 34	$ 56

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Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]

Schedule Of Cash Payments For Interest And Income Taxes

The following table summarizes cash payments for interest and income taxes:

					in millions
	2014		2013		2012
Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$	118	$	114	$	274
Income taxes, net of refunds	590		310		187

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Changes In Accounting Principles

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]

Changes In Accounting Principles

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES

In December 2011 and February 2013, the FASB issued guidance enhancing disclosures related to offsetting of certain assets and liabilities. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. We adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. The adoption did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In April 2014, the FASB issued guidance changing the criteria for reporting discontinued operations. The guidance also modifies the related disclosure requirements. The guidance is effective on a prospective basis for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2014, and interim periods within annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted and we adopted it in the third quarter of fiscal 2014. The adoption did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

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Commitments (Future Purchase Commitments) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$ 2,625
2016	585
2017	259
2018	271
2019	189
2020 and beyond	249
Total	$ 4,178

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Property, Plant And Equipment (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 10,381	$ 9,202
Less accumulated depreciation	5,251	5,149
Net property, plant and equipment	5,130	4,053
Amount required to complete construction of buildings and equipment under construction	661
Land [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	126	100
Buildings And Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	3,501	2,945
Machinery And Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	6,144	5,504
Land Improvements And Other [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	276	417
Buildings And Equipment Under Construction [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 334	$ 236

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Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Share-based Compensation [Abstract]

Schedule Of Summary Of Stock Options

	Shares Under Option		Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
Outstanding, September 28, 2013	13,912,168		$	16.59
Exercised	(4,168,070	)	16.13
Canceled	(270,989	)	23.79
Granted	4,251,300		31.82
Outstanding, September 27, 2014	13,724,409		$	21.30	7.0	$	226
Exercisable, September 27, 2014	6,866,204		$	16.35	5.3	$	147

Schedule Of Assumptions Of Fair Value Calculation Of Each Year's Grants

Assumptions as of the grant date used in the fair value calculation of each year’s grants are outlined in the following table.

	2014		2013		2012
Expected life (in years)	6.0		6.2		6.7
Risk-free interest rate	1.3	%	0.7	%	0.9	%
Expected volatility	36.0	%	36.8	%	36.6	%
Expected dividend yield	1.0	%	1.0	%	1.0	%

Schedule Of Summary Of Restricted Stock

	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
Nonvested, September 28, 2013	1,138,699		$	16.86
Granted	423,453		31.98
Dividends	9,225		37.14
Vested	(584,360	)	17.66
Forfeited	(48,073	)	20.83
Nonvested, September 27, 2014	938,944		$	23.18	1.2	$	35

Schedule Of Summary Of Performance-Based Shares

	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)
Nonvested, September 28, 2013	1,001,310		$	20.99
Granted	585,418		35.66
Vested	(42,282	)	16.26
Forfeited	(140,843	)	23.68
Nonvested, September 27, 2014	1,403,603		$	26.77	1.5

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Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]

Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

TFM Parent, our wholly-owned subsidiary, has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the 2016 Notes. Additionally, TFM Parent has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the 2022 Notes until such date TFM Parent has been released of its guarantee of both (i) Tyson's $1.25 billion revolving credit facility and (ii) the 2016 Notes, at which time TFM Parent's guarantee of the 2019, 2022, 2024, 2034 and 2044 Notes is permanently released. The following financial information presents condensed consolidating financial statements, which include Tyson Foods, Inc. (TFI Parent); TFM Parent; the Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (Non-Guarantors) on a combined basis; the elimination entries necessary to consolidate TFI Parent, TFM Parent and the Non-Guarantors; and Tyson Foods, Inc. on a consolidated basis, and is provided as an alternative to providing separate financial statements for the guarantor.

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 27, 2014										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	579		$	21,924		$	16,926		$	(1,849	)	$	37,580
Cost of Sales	74			20,971			15,689			(1,839		)	34,895
Gross Profit	505			953			1,237			(10		)	2,685
Selling, General and Administrative	141			240			884			(10		)	1,255
Operating Income	364			713			353			—			1,430
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	63			49			13			—			125
Other, net	67			(1		)	(13		)	—			53
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(731		)	(43		)	—			774			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(601		)	5			—			774			178
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	965			708			353			(774		)	1,252
Income Tax Expense	101			227			68			—			396
Income from Continuing Operations	864			481			285			(774		)	856
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			—			—			—
Net Income	864			481			285			(774		)	856
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(8		)	—			(8		)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	864		$	481		$	293		$	(774	)	$	864
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	817		$	449		$	243		$	(692	)	$	817
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	—			—			(8		)	—			(8		)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	817		$	449		$	251		$	(692	)	$	825

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 28, 2013										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	431		$	19,243		$	16,120		$	(1,420	)	$	34,374
Cost of Sales	40			18,464			14,932			(1,420		)	32,016
Gross Profit	391			779			1,188			—			2,358
Selling, General and Administrative	68			201			714			—			983
Operating Income	323			578			474			—			1,375
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	36			62			40			—			138
Other, net	4			(1		)	(23		)	—			(20		)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(582		)	(40		)	—			622			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(542		)	21			17			622			118
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	865			557			457			(622		)	1,257
Income Tax Expense	87			172			150			—			409
Income from Continuing Operations	778			385			307			(622		)	848
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			(70		)	—			(70		)
Net Income	778			385			237			(622		)	778
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			—			—			—
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	778		$	385		$	237		$	(622	)	$	778
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	733		$	380		$	212		$	(592	)	$	733
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			—			—			—
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	733		$	380		$	212		$	(592	)	$	733

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the year ended September 29, 2012										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Sales	$	352		$	18,832		$	15,152		$	(1,281	)	$	33,055
Cost of Sales	(4		)	18,088			14,061			(1,280		)	30,865
Gross Profit	356			744			1,091			(1		)	2,190
Selling, General and Administrative	59			205			641			(1		)	904
Operating Income	297			539			450			—			1,286
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest expense, net	49			143			152			—			344
Other, net	1			—			(24		)	—			(23		)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries	(427		)	(43		)	—			470			—
Total Other (Income) Expense	(377		)	100			128			470			321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	674			439			322			(470		)	965
Income Tax Expense	91			130			130			—			351
Income from Continuing Operations	583			309			192			(470		)	614
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	—			—			(38		)	—			(38		)
Net Income	583			309			154			(470		)	576
Less: Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(7		)	—			(7		)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$	583		$	309		$	161		$	(470	)	$	583
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	599		$	324		$	166		$	(497	)	$	592
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	—			—			(7		)	—			(7		)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson	$	599		$	324		$	173		$	(497	)	$	599

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of September 27, 2014							in millions
	TFI Parent		TFM Parent		Non- Guarantors		Eliminations			Total
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—	$	41	$	397	$	—		$	438
Accounts receivable, net	3		665		1,016		—			1,684
Inventories	—		1,272		2,002		—			3,274
Other current assets	42		78		379		(120		)	379
Assets held for sale	3		—		443		—			446
Total Current Assets	48		2,056		4,237		(120		)	6,221
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	30		932		4,168		—			5,130
Goodwill	—		881		5,825		—			6,706
Intangible Assets	—		15		5,261		—			5,276
Other Assets	204		148		326		(55		)	623
Investment in Subsidiaries	20,845		2,049		—		(22,894		)	—
Total Assets	$	21,127	$	6,081	$	19,817	$	(23,069	)	$	23,956
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current debt	$	240	$	—	$	403	$	—		$	643
Accounts payable	35		755		1,016		—			1,806
Other current liabilities	4,718		235		921		(4,667		)	1,207
Liabilities held for sale	—		—		141		—			141
Total Current Liabilities	4,993		990		2,481		(4,667		)	3,797
Long-Term Debt	7,056		2		532		(55		)	7,535
Deferred Income Taxes	21		96		2,333		—			2,450
Other Liabilities	167		125		978		—			1,270
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	8,890		4,868		13,479		(18,347		)	8,890
Noncontrolling Interests	—		—		14		—			14
Total Shareholders’ Equity	8,890		4,868		13,493		(18,347		)	8,904
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	21,127	$	6,081	$	19,817	$	(23,069	)	$	23,956

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of September 28, 2013							in millions
	TFI Parent		TFM Parent		Non- Guarantors		Eliminations			Total
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	—	$	21	$	1,124	$	—		$	1,145
Accounts receivable, net	—		571		926		—			1,497
Inventories	—		1,039		1,778		—			2,817
Other current assets	351		88		117		(411		)	145
Total Current Assets	351		1,719		3,945		(411		)	5,604
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	32		891		3,130		—			4,053
Goodwill	—		881		1,021		—			1,902
Intangible Assets	—		21		117		—			138
Other Assets	895		162		244		(821		)	480
Investment in Subsidiaries	11,975		2,035		—		(14,010		)	—
Total Assets	$	13,253	$	5,709	$	8,457	$	(15,242	)	$	12,177
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current debt	$	457	$	132	$	251	$	(327	)	$	513
Accounts payable	27		575		757		—			1,359
Other current liabilities	4,625		200		901		(4,588		)	1,138
Total Current Liabilities	5,109		907		1,909		(4,915		)	3,010
Long-Term Debt	1,770		679		241		(795		)	1,895
Deferred Income Taxes	24		93		362		—			479
Other Liabilities	149		155		282		(26		)	560
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	6,201		3,875		5,631		(9,506		)	6,201
Noncontrolling Interests	—		—		32		—			32
Total Shareholders’ Equity	6,201		3,875		5,663		(9,506		)	6,233
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$	13,253	$	5,709	$	8,457	$	(15,242	)	$	12,177

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 27, 2014										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	132		$	431		$	660		$	(45	)	$	1,178
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(1		)	(147		)	(484		)	—			(632		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			—			15			—			15
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(8,193		)	—			—			—			(8,193		)
Other, net	5			2			3			—			10
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(8,189		)	(145		)	(466		)	—			(8,800		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	5,154			—			(12		)	—			5,142
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	873			—			—			—			873
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	1,255			—			—			—			1,255
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295		)	—			—			—			(295		)
Dividends	(104		)	—			(45		)	45			(104		)
Stock options exercised	67			—			—			—			67
Other, net	(22		)	—			(1		)	—			(23		)
Net change in intercompany balances	1,129			(266		)	(863		)	—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	8,057			(266		)	(921		)	45			6,915
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			—			—			—
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	—			20			(727		)	—			(707		)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	—			21			1,124			—			1,145
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	—		$	41		$	397		$	—		$	438

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 28, 2013										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	294		$	337		$	696		$	(13	)	$	1,314
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(4		)	(113		)	(441		)	—			(558		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			(13		)	(5		)	—			(18		)
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	—			—			(106		)	—			(106		)
Other, net	—			3			36			—			39
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(4		)	(123		)	(516		)	—			(643		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	5			—			(28		)	—			(23		)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	—			—			—			—			—
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	—			—			—			—			—
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(614		)	—			—			—			(614		)
Dividends	(104		)	—			(13		)	13			(104		)
Stock options exercised	123			—			—			—			123
Other, net	18			—			—			—			18
Net change in intercompany balances	281			(202		)	(79		)	—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	(291		)	(202		)	(120		)	13			(600		)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			3			—			3
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(1		)	12			63			—			74
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1			9			1,061			—			1,071
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	—		$	21		$	1,124		$	—		$	1,145

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended September 29, 2012										in millions
	TFI Parent			TFM Parent			Non- Guarantors			Eliminations			Total
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$	312		$	438		$	447		$	(10	)	$	1,187
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(1		)	(104		)	(585		)	—			(690		)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	—			(7		)	(4		)	—			(11		)
Proceeds from notes receivable	—			—			—			—			—
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	—			—			—			—			—
Other, net	1			5			35			—			41
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	—			(106		)	(554		)	—			(660		)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	107			—			16			—			123
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	—			—			—			—			—
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	—			—			—			—			—
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(264		)	—			—			—			(264		)
Dividends	(57		)	—			(10		)	10			(57		)
Stock options exercised	34			—			—			—			34
Other, net	(8		)	—			1			—			(7		)
Net change in intercompany balances	(124		)	(324		)	448			—			—
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	(312		)	(324		)	455			10			(171		)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	—			—			(1		)	—			(1		)
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	—			8			347			—			355
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1			1			714			—			716
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$	1		$	9		$	1,061		$	—		$	1,071

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Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

				in millions, except per share data
	First Quarter			Second Quarter			Third Quarter			Fourth Quarter
2014
Sales	$	8,761		$	9,032		$	9,682		$	10,105
Gross profit	685			651			637			712
Operating income	412			361			351			306
Net income	252			210			258			136
Amounts attributable to Tyson:
Net income from continuing operations	254			213			260			137
Net income attributable to Tyson	254			213			260			137
Net income per share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic (a)	$	0.76		$	0.64		$	0.75		$	0.37
Class B Basic	$	0.68		$	0.58		$	0.68		$	0.32
Diluted (a)	$	0.72		$	0.60		$	0.73		$	0.35
Net income per share attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic (a)	$	0.76		$	0.64		$	0.75		$	0.37
Class B Basic	$	0.68		$	0.58		$	0.68		$	0.32
Diluted (a)	$	0.72		$	0.60		$	0.73		$	0.35
2013
Sales	$	8,366		$	8,383		$	8,731		$	8,894
Gross profit	539			468			682			669
Operating income	304			236			419			416
Net income	168			106			245			259
Amounts attributable to Tyson:
Net income from continuing operations	177			157			253			261
Net loss from discontinued operation	(4		)	(62		)	(4		)	—
Net income attributable to Tyson	173			95			249			261
Net income per share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	0.51		$	0.45		$	0.73		$	0.77
Class B Basic	$	0.46		$	0.40		$	0.66		$	0.70
Diluted	$	0.49		$	0.43		$	0.69		$	0.70
Net loss per share from discontinued operation attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.18	)	$	(0.01	)	$	—
Class B Basic	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.15	)	$	(0.02	)	$	—
Diluted	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.17	)	$	(0.01	)	$	—
Net income per share attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	0.50		$	0.27		$	0.72		$	0.77
Class B Basic	$	0.45		$	0.25		$	0.64		$	0.70
Diluted	$	0.48		$	0.26		$	0.68		$	0.70

(a) The sum of the quarterly earnings per share amounts will not equal the total for the year due to the effects of rounding and dilution impact as a result of issuing Class A shares and tangible equity units in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014.

Third quarter fiscal 2014 net income included a $29 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition fees paid to third parties, a $49 million pretax expense related to the closure of three Prepared Foods facilities and a $40 million unrecognized tax benefit gain.

Fourth quarter fiscal 2014 net income included a $42 million pretax impairment and other costs related to the sale of our Brazil operation and Mexico's undistributed earnings tax, $119 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition, integration and costs associated with our Prepared Foods improvement plan, $40 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands post-closing results, purchase price accounting adjustments and ongoing costs related to a legacy Hillshire Brands plant fire, $27 million pretax expense related to the Hillshire Brands acquisition financing incremental interest cost and a $12 million unrecognized tax benefit gain.

Second quarter fiscal 2013 net income included a $19 million currency translation adjustment gain recognized in conjunction with the receipt of proceeds constituting the final resolution of our investment in Canada and included a $56 million non-cash charge, reported as a discontinued operation, related to the impairment of Weifang.

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost For Pension And Postretirement Benefit Plans Recognized In The Consolidated Statements Of Income) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Funded Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 1	$ 0	$ 0
Interest cost	10	4	4
Expected return on plan assets	(13)	(5)	(6)
Amortization of prior service cost	0	0	0
Recognized actuarial loss, net	2	4	3
Net periodic benefit cost	0	3	1
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	7	5	5
Interest cost	5	3	3
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost	0	1	1
Recognized actuarial loss, net	2	3	1
Net periodic benefit cost	14	12	10
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	2	2	1
Interest cost	3	2	2
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost	0	(1)	(1)
Recognized actuarial loss, net	(8)	7	24
Net periodic benefit cost	$ (3)	$ 10	$ 26

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Acquisitions and Dispositions Acquisitions Pro Forma Information (Details) (Hillshire Brands Company [Member], USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Hillshire Brands Company [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Pro forma sales	$ 41,311	$ 38,195
Pro forma net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	$ 1,047	$ 655
Pro forma net income per diluted share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson (in dollars per share)	$ 2.50	$ 1.52

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

General Discussion of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]

Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Changes In Plans' Benefit Obligations, Assets And Funded Status

The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the plans’ benefit obligations, assets and funded status at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

													in millions
	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	86		$	101		$	85		$	81		$	71		$	64
Service cost	1			—			7			5			2			2
Interest cost	10			4			5			3			3			2
Plan participants’ contributions	—			—			—			—			1			1
Actuarial (gain)/loss	(37		)	(9		)	15			(2		)	(8		)	7
Benefits paid	(11		)	(10		)	(3		)	(2		)	(6		)	(5		)
Business acquisition	1,800			—			73			—			100			—
Benefit obligation at end of year	1,849			86			182			85			163			71
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	85			86			—			—			—			—
Actual return on plan assets	(36		)	3			—			—			—			—
Employer contributions	6			6			3			2			5			4
Plan participants’ contributions	—			—			—			—			1			1
Benefits paid	(11		)	(10		)	(3		)	(2		)	(6		)	(5		)
Business acquisition	1,603			—			3			—			—			—
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	1,647			85			3			—			—			—
Funded status	$	(202	)	$	(1	)	$	(179	)	$	(85	)	$	(163	)	$	(71	)

Schedule Of Amounts Recognized In The Consolidated Balance Sheets

Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:

													in millions
	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
Other current liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	(5	)	$	—		$	(7	)	$	—
Other liabilities	(202		)	(1		)	(174		)	(85		)	(156		)	(71		)
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss:
Actuarial loss	39			30			36			23			—			—
Prior service cost/(credit)	—			—			—			—			(2		)	(3		)
Net amount recognized	$	(163	)	$	29		$	(143	)	$	(62	)	$	(165	)	$	(74	)

Schedule Of Plans With Accumulated Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets

Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets are as follows:

					in millions
	Pension Benefits
	Qualified				Non-Qualified
	2014		2013		2014		2013
Projected benefit obligation	$	1,829	$	27	$	182	$	85
Accumulated benefit obligation	1,829		27		172		72
Fair value of plan assets	1,627		26		3		—

Schedule Of Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost For Pension And Postretirement Benefit Plans Recognized In The Consolidated Statements Of Income

Components of net periodic benefit cost for pension and postretirement benefit plans recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income are as follows:

																			in millions
	Pension Benefits															Other Postretirement
	Qualified									Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2012			2014		2013		2012		2014			2013			2012
Service cost	$	1		$	—		$	—		$	7	$	5	$	5	$	2		$	2		$	1
Interest cost	10			4			4			5		3		3		3			2			2
Expected return on plan assets	(13		)	(5		)	(6		)	—		—		—		—			—			—
Amortization of prior service cost	—			—			—			—		1		1		—			(1		)	(1		)
Recognized actuarial (gain) loss, net	2			4			3			2		3		1		(8		)	7			24
Net periodic benefit cost	$	—		$	3		$	1		$	14	$	12	$	10	$	(3	)	$	10		$	26

Schedule Of Weighted Average Assumptions

Weighted average assumptions are as follows:

	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014		2013		2012		2014		2013		2012		2014		2013		2012
Discount rate to determine net periodic benefit cost	4.37	%	4.02	%	4.53	%	5.01	%	4.23	%	4.75	%	4.41	%	3.66	%	4.09	%
Discount rate to determine benefit obligations	4.32	%	4.77	%	4.02	%	4.36	%	5.09	%	4.23	%	3.97	%	4.48	%	3.66	%
Rate of compensation increase	0.01	%	N/A		N/A		2.11	%	3.50	%	3.50	%	N/A		N/A		N/A
Expected return on plan assets	6.37	%	5.44	%	6.37	%	N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A

Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates

A one-percentage-point change in assumed health-care cost trend rates would have the following effects:

			in millions
	One Percentage Point Increase		One Percentage Point Decrease
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	$	17	$	13
Effect on total service and interest components	2		1

Schedule Of Actual And Target Asset Allocation For Pension Plan Assets

The following table sets forth the actual and target asset allocation for pension plan assets:

	2014		2013		Target Asset Allocation
Cash	4.9	%	1.6	%	0.3	%
Fixed Income Securities	80.5		79.1		84.9
U.S. Stock Funds	6.0		4.3		5.4
International Stock Funds	6.2		7.3		6.3
Real Estate	2.0		3.8		2.0
Other	0.4		3.9		1.1
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

Schedule Of Categories Of Pension Plan Assets And Level Under Which Fair Values Were Determined In Fair Value Hierarchy

The following tables show the categories of pension plan assets and the level under which fair values were determined in the fair value hierarchy, which is described in Note 13: Fair Value Measurements.

	in millions
September 27, 2014	Level 1		Level 2 (a)		Level 3 (b)		Total
Cash and cash equivalents	$	79	$	—	$	—	$	79
Fixed Income Securities:
Bond and fixed income funds	—		377		—		377
Corporate bonds	—		680		—		680
Government and municipal bonds	—		253		—		253
Mortgage backed securities	—		—		7		7
Total fixed income securities	—		1,310		7		1,317
Equity Securities:
U.S. securities funds	—		84		—		84
Non-U.S. securities funds	—		101		—		101
Commodity funds	—		14		—		14
Global real estate funds	—		33		—		33
Total equity securities	—		232		—		232
Other	—		7		—		7
Insurance Contract at Contract Value	—		—		15		15
Total plan assets	$	79	$	1,549	$	22	$	1,650

	in millions
September 28, 2013	Level 1		Level 2 (a)		Level 3 (b)		Total
Cash and cash equivalents	$	1	$	—	$	—	$	1
Fixed Income Securities:
Bond and fixed income funds	—		56		—		56
Corporate bonds	—		—		—		—
Government and municipal bonds	—		—		—		—
Mortgage backed securities	—		—		—		—
Total fixed income securities	—		56		—		56
Equity Securities:
U.S. securities funds	—		3		—		3
Non-U.S. securities funds	—		5		—		5
Commodity funds	—		—		—		—
Global real estate funds	—		3		—		3
Total equity securities	—		11		—		11
Other	—		—		3		3
Insurance Contract at Contract Value	—		—		14		14
Total plan assets	$	1	$	67	$	17	$	85

(a) We classify our investments in U.S. government, U.S. agency, fixed income funds, bond funds, corporate bonds, and other debt securities as Level 2 as fair value is generally estimated using discounted cash flow models that are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including time value and yield curve as well as other readily available relevant economic measures. Funds are valued using the net asset value (NAV) provided by the trustee, which is a practical expedient to estimating fair value. The NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying investments within the funds and is determined daily.

(b) We classify certain mortgage-backed, asset-backed and insurance contracts as Level 3 as there is limited activity or less observable inputs into valuation models, including current interest rates and estimated prepayment, default and recovery rates on the underlying portfolio or structured investment vehicle. The insurance contracts are valued using the plan’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the assets based on the best information available, such as investment manager pricing. Significant changes to assumptions or unobservable inputs in the valuation of our Level 3 instruments would not have a significant impact to our consolidated financial statements.

Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Change In Fair Value Measurement Of Defined Benefit Plans' Consolidated Assets Using Significant Unobservable Inputs

A reconciliation of the change in the fair value measurement of the defined benefit plans’ consolidated assets using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows:

								in millions
	Mortgage backed securities		Other			Insurance contract		Total
Balance at September 28, 2013	$	—	$	3		$	14	17
Actual return on plan assets:
Assets still held at reporting date	—		—			—		—
Assets sold during the period	—		—			—		—
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	—		—			1		1
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3	7		(3		)	—		4
Balance at September 27, 2014	$	7	$	—		$	15	$	22

Schedule Of Estimated Future Benefit Payments Expected To Be Paid

The following benefit payments are expected to be paid:

					in millions
	Pension Benefits				Other Postretirement
	Qualified		Non-Qualified		Benefits
2015	$	108	$	8	$	12
2016	82		9		12
2017	85		9		12
2018	89		9		12
2019	92		10		12
2020-2024	506		54		64

Schedule of Multiemployer Plans

In addition to regular contributions, we could be obligated to pay additional contributions (known as complete or partial withdrawal liabilities) if it has unfunded vested benefits.

		PPA Zone Status		FIP/RP Status	Contributions (in millions)	Surcharge Imposed
Pension Fund Plan Name	EIN/Pension Plan Number	2014	2013	Pending/ Implemented	2014	2014	Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement
Bakery and Confectionary Union & Industry International Pension Fund	52-6118572/001	Red	Red	Nov 2012	$1	10%	Oct 2015

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Valuation And Qualifying Accounts

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts

FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE

TYSON FOODS, INC.

SCHEDULE II

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

Three Years Ended September 27, 2014

										in millions
			Additions
	Balance at Beginning of Period		Charged to Costs and Expenses		Charged to Other Accounts		(Deductions)			Balance at End of Period
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts:
2014	$	46	$	5	$	—	$	(17	)	$	34
2013	33		17		—		(4		)	46
2012	31		7		—		(5		)	33
Inventory Lower of Cost or Market Allowance:
2014	$	16	$	14	$	—	$	(23	)	$	7
2013	24		49		—		(57		)	16
2012	6		52		—		(34		)	24
Valuation Allowance on Deferred Tax Assets:
2014	$	77	$	26	$	13	$	(65	)	$	51
2013	78		8		—		(9		)	77
2012	92		16		—		(30		)	78

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Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Description Of Business

Description of Business: Tyson Foods, Inc. (collectively, “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”), founded in 1935 with world headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world's largest producers of chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods that include leading brands such as Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells® and State Fair®.

Consolidation

Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of all wholly-owned subsidiaries, as well as majority-owned subsidiaries over which we exercise control and, when applicable, entities for which we have a controlling financial interest or variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Fiscal Year

Fiscal Year: We utilize a 52- or 53-week accounting period ending on the Saturday closest to September 30.

Cash And Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash equivalents consist of investments in short-term, highly liquid securities having original maturities of three months or less, which are made as part of our cash management activity. The carrying values of these assets approximate their fair values. We primarily utilize a cash management system with a series of separate accounts consisting of lockbox accounts for receiving cash, concentration accounts where funds are moved to, and several zero-balance disbursement accounts for funding payroll, accounts payable, livestock procurement, grower payments, etc. As a result of our cash management system, checks issued, but not presented to the banks for payment, may result in negative book cash balances. These negative book cash balances are included in accounts payable and other current liabilities.

Accounts Receivable

Accounts Receivable: We record accounts receivable at net realizable value. This value includes an appropriate allowance for estimated uncollectible accounts to reflect any loss anticipated on the accounts receivable balances and charged to the provision for doubtful accounts. We calculate this allowance based on our history of write-offs, level of past due accounts and relationships with and economic status of our customers. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, our allowance for uncollectible accounts was $34 million and $46 million, respectively. We generally do not have collateral for our receivables, but we do periodically evaluate the credit worthiness of our customers.

Inventories

Inventories: Processed products, livestock and supplies and other are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost includes purchased raw materials, live purchase costs, growout costs (primarily feed, grower pay and catch and haul costs), labor and manufacturing and production overhead, which are related to the purchase and production of inventories.

Property, Plant And Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment: Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and generally depreciated on a straight-line method over the estimated lives for buildings and leasehold improvements of 10 to 33 years, machinery and equipment of three to 12 years and land improvements and other of three to 20 years. Major repairs and maintenance costs that significantly extend the useful life of the related assets are capitalized. Normal repairs and maintenance costs are charged to operations.

We review the carrying value of long-lived assets at each balance sheet date if indication of impairment exists. Recoverability is assessed using undiscounted cash flows based on historical results and current projections of earnings before interest and taxes. We measure impairment as the excess of carrying cost over the fair value of an asset. The fair value of an asset is measured using discounted cash flows including market participant assumptions of future operating results and discount rates.

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. Our goodwill is allocated by reporting unit and is evaluated for impairment by first performing a qualitative assessment to determine whether a quantitative goodwill test is necessary. If it is determined, based on qualitative factors, the fair value of the reporting unit may be more likely than not less than carrying amount, or if significant changes to macro-economic factors related to the reporting unit have occurred that could materially impact fair value, a quantitative goodwill impairment test would be required. Additionally, we can elect to forgo the qualitative assessment and perform the quantitative test.

The first step of the quantitative test is to identify if a potential impairment exists by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is not considered to have a potential impairment and the second step of the quantitative impairment test is not necessary. However, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step is performed to determine if goodwill is impaired and to measure the amount of impairment loss to recognize, if any. The second step compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the carrying amount of goodwill. If the implied fair value of goodwill exceeds the carrying amount, then goodwill is not considered impaired. However, if the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination (i.e., the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all the assets and liabilities, including any unrecognized intangible assets, as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was determined as the exit price a market participant would pay for the same business). We have elected to make the first day of the fourth quarter the annual impairment assessment date for goodwill and other indefinite life intangible assets.

We estimate the fair value of our reporting units using a discounted cash flow analysis, which uses significant unobservable inputs, or Level 3 inputs, as defined by the fair value hierarchy. This analysis requires us to make various judgmental estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount factors and is believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Generally, we utilize normalized operating margin assumptions based on future expectations and operating margins historically realized in the reporting units' industries. Some of the inherent estimates and assumptions used in determining fair value of the reporting units are outside the control of management, including interest rates, cost of capital, tax rates and credit ratings. While we believe we have made reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the fair value of the reporting units, it is possible a material change could occur. If our actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions used to calculate fair value, we may be required to perform the second step of the quantitative test in future years, which could result in material impairments of our goodwill.

During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, all of our material reporting units that underwent the quantitative test passed the first step of the goodwill impairment analysis and therefore, the second step was not necessary.

For our other indefinite life intangible assets, a qualitative assessment can also be performed to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicates it is more likely than not an intangible asset is impaired. Similar to goodwill, we can also elect to forgo the qualitative test for indefinite life intangible assets and perform the quantitative test. Upon performing the quantitative test, if the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

The fair value of our indefinite life intangible assets is calculated principally using relief-from-royalty and excess earnings valuation approaches and is believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Under these valuation approaches, we are required to make estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates based on budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and marketplace data.

Investments

Investments: We have investments in joint ventures and other entities. We generally use the cost method of accounting when our voting interests are less than 20 percent. We use the equity method of accounting when our voting interests are in excess of 20 percent and we do not have a controlling interest or a variable interest in which we are the primary beneficiary. Investments in joint ventures and other entities are reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Other Assets.

We also have investments in marketable debt securities. We have determined all of our marketable debt securities are available-for-sale investments. These investments are reported at fair value based on quoted market prices as of the balance sheet date, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, recorded in other comprehensive income. The amortized cost of debt securities is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such amortization is recorded in interest income. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. Realized gains and losses on the sale of debt securities and declines in value judged to be other than temporary are recorded on a net basis in other income. Interest and dividends on securities classified as available-for-sale are recorded in interest income.

Accrued Self-Insurance

Accrued Self-Insurance: We use a combination of insurance and self-insurance mechanisms in an effort to mitigate the potential liabilities for health and welfare, workers’ compensation, auto liability and general liability risks. Liabilities associated with our risks retained are estimated, in part, by considering claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other actuarial assumptions.

Defined Benefit Plans

Defined Benefit Plans: We recognize the funded status of defined pension and postretirement plans in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the benefit obligation. We measure our plan assets and liabilities at the end of our fiscal year. For a defined benefit pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for any other defined benefit postretirement plan, such as a retiree health care plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation. Any overfunded status is recognized as an asset and any underfunded status is recognized as a liability. Any transitional asset/liability, prior service cost or actuarial gain/loss that has not yet been recognized as a component of net periodic cost is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. Accumulated other comprehensive income will be adjusted as these amounts are subsequently recognized as a component of net periodic benefit costs in future periods.

Financial Instruments

Financial Instruments: We purchase certain commodities, such as grains and livestock in the course of normal operations. As part of our commodity risk management activities, we use derivative financial instruments, primarily futures and options, to reduce our exposure to various market risks related to these purchases, as well as to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Contract terms of a financial instrument qualifying as a hedge instrument closely mirror those of the hedged item, providing a high degree of risk reduction and correlation. Contracts designated and highly effective at meeting risk reduction and correlation criteria are recorded using hedge accounting. If a derivative instrument is accounted for as a hedge, changes in the fair value of the instrument will be offset either against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments through earnings or recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of an instrument’s change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings as a component of cost of sales. Instruments we hold as part of our risk management activities that do not meet the criteria for hedge accounting are marked to fair value with unrealized gains or losses reported currently in earnings. Changes in market value of derivatives used in our risk management activities relating to forward sales contracts are recorded in sales, while changes surrounding inventories on hand or anticipated purchases of inventories or supplies are recorded in cost of sales. We generally do not hedge anticipated transactions beyond 18 months.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition: We recognize revenue when title and risk of loss are transferred to customers, which is generally on delivery based on terms of sale. Revenue is recognized as the net amount estimated to be received after deducting estimated amounts for discounts, trade allowances and product terms.

Litigation Reserves

Litigation Reserves: There are a variety of legal proceedings pending or threatened against us. Accruals are recorded when it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated based on current law, progress of each case, opinions and views of legal counsel and other advisers, our experience in similar matters and intended response to the litigation. These amounts, which are not discounted and are exclusive of claims against third parties, are adjusted periodically as assessment efforts progress or additional information becomes available. We expense amounts for administering or litigating claims as incurred. Accruals for legal proceedings are included in Other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Freight Expense

Freight Expense: Freight expense associated with products shipped to customers is recognized in cost of sales.

Advertising And Promotion Expenses

Advertising and Promotion Expenses: Advertising and promotion expenses are charged to operations in the period incurred. Customer incentive and trade promotion activities are recorded as a reduction to sales based on amounts estimated as being due to customers, based primarily on historical utilization and redemption rates, while other advertising and promotional activities are recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses.

Research And Development

Research and Development: Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.

Use Of Estimates

Use of Estimates: The consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements: In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance changing the criteria for recognizing revenue. The guidance also modifies the related disclosure requirements, clarifies guidance for multiple-element arrangements and provides guidance for transactions that were not addressed fully in previous guidance. The guidance is effective for annual reporting periods and interim periods within those annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, our fiscal 2018. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

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Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Description of Business: Tyson Foods, Inc. (collectively, “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”), founded in 1935 with world headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world's largest producers of chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods that include leading brands such as Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells® and State Fair®.

Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of all wholly-owned subsidiaries, as well as majority-owned subsidiaries over which we exercise control and, when applicable, entities for which we have a controlling financial interest or variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Fiscal Year: We utilize a 52- or 53-week accounting period ending on the Saturday closest to September 30. The Company’s accounting cycle resulted in a 52-week year for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash equivalents consist of investments in short-term, highly liquid securities having original maturities of three months or less, which are made as part of our cash management activity. The carrying values of these assets approximate their fair values. We primarily utilize a cash management system with a series of separate accounts consisting of lockbox accounts for receiving cash, concentration accounts where funds are moved to, and several zero-balance disbursement accounts for funding payroll, accounts payable, livestock procurement, grower payments, etc. As a result of our cash management system, checks issued, but not presented to the banks for payment, may result in negative book cash balances. These negative book cash balances are included in accounts payable and other current liabilities. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, checks outstanding in excess of related book cash balances totaled approximately $298 million and $246 million, respectively.

Accounts Receivable: We record accounts receivable at net realizable value. This value includes an appropriate allowance for estimated uncollectible accounts to reflect any loss anticipated on the accounts receivable balances and charged to the provision for doubtful accounts. We calculate this allowance based on our history of write-offs, level of past due accounts and relationships with and economic status of our customers. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, our allowance for uncollectible accounts was $34 million and $46 million, respectively. We generally do not have collateral for our receivables, but we do periodically evaluate the credit worthiness of our customers.

Inventories: Processed products, livestock and supplies and other are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost includes purchased raw materials, live purchase costs, growout costs (primarily feed, grower pay and catch and haul costs), labor and manufacturing and production overhead, which are related to the purchase and production of inventories.

In fiscal 2014, 66% of the cost of inventories was determined by the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method as compared to 58% in 2013. The remaining cost of inventories for both years is determined by the weighted-average method.

The following table reflects the major components of inventory at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

			in millions
	2014		2013
Processed products	$	1,794	$	1,423
Livestock	1,066		1,002
Supplies and other	414		392
Total inventory	$	3,274	$	2,817

Property, Plant and Equipment: Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost and generally depreciated on a straight-line method over the estimated lives for buildings and leasehold improvements of 10 to 33 years, machinery and equipment of three to 12 years and land improvements and other of three to 20 years. Major repairs and maintenance costs that significantly extend the useful life of the related assets are capitalized. Normal repairs and maintenance costs are charged to operations.

We review the carrying value of long-lived assets at each balance sheet date if indication of impairment exists. Recoverability is assessed using undiscounted cash flows based on historical results and current projections of earnings before interest and taxes. We measure impairment as the excess of carrying cost over the fair value of an asset. The fair value of an asset is measured using discounted cash flows including market participant assumptions of future operating results and discount rates.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and not amortized, but are reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. Our goodwill is allocated by reporting unit and is evaluated for impairment by first performing a qualitative assessment to determine whether a quantitative goodwill test is necessary. If it is determined, based on qualitative factors, the fair value of the reporting unit may be more likely than not less than carrying amount, or if significant changes to macro-economic factors related to the reporting unit have occurred that could materially impact fair value, a quantitative goodwill impairment test would be required. Additionally, we can elect to forgo the qualitative assessment and perform the quantitative test.

The first step of the quantitative test is to identify if a potential impairment exists by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is not considered to have a potential impairment and the second step of the quantitative impairment test is not necessary. However, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step is performed to determine if goodwill is impaired and to measure the amount of impairment loss to recognize, if any. The second step compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the carrying amount of goodwill. If the implied fair value of goodwill exceeds the carrying amount, then goodwill is not considered impaired. However, if the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination (i.e., the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all the assets and liabilities, including any unrecognized intangible assets, as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was determined as the exit price a market participant would pay for the same business). We have elected to make the first day of the fourth quarter the annual impairment assessment date for goodwill and other indefinite life intangible assets.

We estimate the fair value of our reporting units using a discounted cash flow analysis, which uses significant unobservable inputs, or Level 3 inputs, as defined by the fair value hierarchy. This analysis requires us to make various judgmental estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount factors and is believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Generally, we utilize normalized operating margin assumptions based on future expectations and operating margins historically realized in the reporting units' industries. Some of the inherent estimates and assumptions used in determining fair value of the reporting units are outside the control of management, including interest rates, cost of capital, tax rates and credit ratings. While we believe we have made reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the fair value of the reporting units, it is possible a material change could occur. If our actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions used to calculate fair value, we may be required to perform the second step of the quantitative test in future years, which could result in material impairments of our goodwill.

During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, all of our material reporting units that underwent the quantitative test passed the first step of the goodwill impairment analysis and therefore, the second step was not necessary.

For our other indefinite life intangible assets, a qualitative assessment can also be performed to determine whether the existence of events and circumstances indicates it is more likely than not an intangible asset is impaired. Similar to goodwill, we can also elect to forgo the qualitative test for indefinite life intangible assets and perform the quantitative test. Upon performing the quantitative test, if the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

The fair value of our indefinite life intangible assets is calculated principally using relief-from-royalty and excess earnings valuation approaches and is believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Under these valuation approaches, we are required to make estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates based on budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and marketplace data.

Investments: We have investments in joint ventures and other entities. We generally use the cost method of accounting when our voting interests are less than 20 percent. We use the equity method of accounting when our voting interests are in excess of 20 percent and we do not have a controlling interest or a variable interest in which we are the primary beneficiary. Investments in joint ventures and other entities are reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Other Assets.

We also have investments in marketable debt securities. We have determined all of our marketable debt securities are available-for-sale investments. These investments are reported at fair value based on quoted market prices as of the balance sheet date, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, recorded in other comprehensive income. The amortized cost of debt securities is adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such amortization is recorded in interest income. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. Realized gains and losses on the sale of debt securities and declines in value judged to be other than temporary are recorded on a net basis in other income. Interest and dividends on securities classified as available-for-sale are recorded in interest income.

Accrued Self-Insurance: We use a combination of insurance and self-insurance mechanisms in an effort to mitigate the potential liabilities for health and welfare, workers’ compensation, auto liability and general liability risks. Liabilities associated with our risks retained are estimated, in part, by considering claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other actuarial assumptions.

Other Current Liabilities: Other current liabilities at September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, include:

	in millions
	2014		2013
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits	$	490	$	419
Other	717		719
Total other current liabilities	$	1,207	$	1,138

Defined Benefit Plans: We recognize the funded status of defined pension and postretirement plans in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the benefit obligation. We measure our plan assets and liabilities at the end of our fiscal year. For a defined benefit pension plan, the benefit obligation is the projected benefit obligation; for any other defined benefit postretirement plan, such as a retiree health care plan, the benefit obligation is the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation. Any overfunded status is recognized as an asset and any underfunded status is recognized as a liability. Any transitional asset/liability, prior service cost or actuarial gain/loss that has not yet been recognized as a component of net periodic cost is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. Accumulated other comprehensive income will be adjusted as these amounts are subsequently recognized as a component of net periodic benefit costs in future periods.

Financial Instruments: We purchase certain commodities, such as grains and livestock in the course of normal operations. As part of our commodity risk management activities, we use derivative financial instruments, primarily futures and options, to reduce our exposure to various market risks related to these purchases, as well as to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Contract terms of a financial instrument qualifying as a hedge instrument closely mirror those of the hedged item, providing a high degree of risk reduction and correlation. Contracts designated and highly effective at meeting risk reduction and correlation criteria are recorded using hedge accounting. If a derivative instrument is accounted for as a hedge, changes in the fair value of the instrument will be offset either against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments through earnings or recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of an instrument’s change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings as a component of cost of sales. Instruments we hold as part of our risk management activities that do not meet the criteria for hedge accounting are marked to fair value with unrealized gains or losses reported currently in earnings. Changes in market value of derivatives used in our risk management activities relating to forward sales contracts are recorded in sales, while changes surrounding inventories on hand or anticipated purchases of inventories or supplies are recorded in cost of sales. We generally do not hedge anticipated transactions beyond 18 months.

Revenue Recognition: We recognize revenue when title and risk of loss are transferred to customers, which is generally on delivery based on terms of sale. Revenue is recognized as the net amount estimated to be received after deducting estimated amounts for discounts, trade allowances and product terms.

Litigation Reserves: There are a variety of legal proceedings pending or threatened against us. Accruals are recorded when it is probable a liability has been incurred and the amount of the liability can be reasonably estimated based on current law, progress of each case, opinions and views of legal counsel and other advisers, our experience in similar matters and intended response to the litigation. These amounts, which are not discounted and are exclusive of claims against third parties, are adjusted periodically as assessment efforts progress or additional information becomes available. We expense amounts for administering or litigating claims as incurred. Accruals for legal proceedings are included in Other current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Freight Expense: Freight expense associated with products shipped to customers is recognized in cost of sales.

Advertising and Promotion Expenses: Advertising and promotion expenses are charged to operations in the period incurred. Customer incentive and trade promotion activities are recorded as a reduction to sales based on amounts estimated as being due to customers, based primarily on historical utilization and redemption rates, while other advertising and promotional activities are recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses. Advertising and promotion expenses for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $641 million, $555 million and $496 million, respectively.

Research and Development: Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and development costs totaled $52 million, $50 million and $43 million in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Use of Estimates: The consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements: In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance changing the criteria for recognizing revenue. The guidance also modifies the related disclosure requirements, clarifies guidance for multiple-element arrangements and provides guidance for transactions that were not addressed fully in previous guidance. The guidance is effective for annual reporting periods and interim periods within those annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, our fiscal 2018. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements.

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Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Schedule of Inventory, Current

The following table reflects the major components of inventory at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

			in millions
	2014		2013
Processed products	$	1,794	$	1,423
Livestock	1,066		1,002
Supplies and other	414		392
Total inventory	$	3,274	$	2,817

Other Current Liabilities

Other Current Liabilities: Other current liabilities at September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, include:

	in millions
	2014		2013
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits	$	490	$	419
Other	717		719
Total other current liabilities	$	1,207	$	1,138

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Aggregate Outstanding Notionals Related To Undesignated Positions) (Details) (Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014 bu	Sep. 28, 2013 bu
Corn (in bushels)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	0	69,000,000
Soy Meal (in tons)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	195,800	204,600
Soy Oil (in pounds)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	3,000,000	11,000,000
Live Cattle (in pounds)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	22,000,000	60,000,000
Lean Hogs (in pounds)
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	22,000,000	159,000,000
Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 108	$ 95

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Transactions With Related Parties (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended										12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Sep. 27, 2014 Class A [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Class A [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Class A [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Tyson Limited Partnership [Member] Class A [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Tyson Limited Partnership [Member] Class A [Member]	Sep. 11, 2013 Tyson Limited Partnership [Member] Class A [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Tyson Limited Partnership [Member] Class B [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 JHT, LLC [Domain]	Sep. 27, 2014 Tyson Limited Partnership And Tyson Family [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Tyson Limited Partnership And Tyson Family [Member] Class A [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Water Plant [Member] Tyson Limited Partnership [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Water Plant [Member] John Tyson, certain members of the Tyson family, the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust and the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust [Member] lease	Sep. 28, 2013 Water Plant [Member] John Tyson, certain members of the Tyson family, the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust and the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust [Member] lease	Sep. 29, 2012 Water Plant [Member] John Tyson, certain members of the Tyson family, the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust and the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust [Member] lease	Sep. 29, 2012 Airplane [Member] John Tyson, certain members of the Tyson family, the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust and the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Airplane [Member] John Tyson, certain members of the Tyson family, the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust and the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust [Member] lease	Sep. 27, 2014 Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust [Member] Board of Directors Chairman [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust [Member] [Member] Board of Directors Chairman [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Operating Lease, Number of Leases															2	2	2		1
Tyson Family Ownership Percentage										99.985%			1.78%	90.00%						50.00%	50.00%
Payments to Acquire Land Held-for-use											$ 0.5
Shares, Outstanding								5.5		70.0
Related Party Voting Rights Percentage												70.14%
Purchase of Tyson Class A common stock, shares				8.3	23.9	14.3	1.0
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295.00)	(614.00)	(264.00)	(295.00)	(614.00)	(264.00)	(29.85)
Share Price									$ 29.85
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction															$ 1.0	$ 1.0	$ 1.0	$ 0.4

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Earnings Per Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule Of Earnings Per Share, Basic And Diluted

The earnings and weighted average common shares used in the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:

	in millions, except per share data
	2014			2013		2012
Numerator:
Income from continuing operations	$	856		$	848	$	614
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(8		)	—		(7		)
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	864			848		621
Less dividends declared:
Class A	94			87		47
Class B	21			19		10
Undistributed earnings	$	749		$	742	$	564
Class A undistributed earnings	$	612		$	606	$	464
Class B undistributed earnings	137			136		100
Total undistributed earnings	$	749		$	742	$	564
Denominator:
Denominator for basic earnings per share:
Class A weighted average shares	284			282		293
Class B weighted average shares, and shares under if-converted method for diluted earnings per share	70			70		70
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options and restricted stock	5			5		4
Tangible Equity Units	1			—		—
Convertible 2013 Notes	—			7		3
Warrants	4			3		—
Denominator for diluted earnings per share – adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions	364			367		370
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	2.48		$	2.46	$	1.75
Class B Basic	$	2.26		$	2.22	$	1.57
Diluted	$	2.37		$	2.31	$	1.68
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	2.48		$	2.26	$	1.64
Class B Basic	$	2.26		$	2.04	$	1.48
Diluted	$	2.37		$	2.12	$	1.58

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Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Checks outstanding in excess of related book cash	$ 298	$ 246
Allowance for uncollectible accounts	34	46
Percentage of FIFO Inventory	66.00%	58.00%
Maximum length of time hedged anticipated transactions	18 months
Advertising and promotion expenses	641	555	496
Research and development costs	$ 52	$ 50	$ 43
Buildings And Leasehold Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment estimated lives	10 years
Buildings And Leasehold Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment estimated lives	33 years
Machinery And Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment estimated lives	3 years
Machinery And Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment estimated lives	12 years
Land Improvements and Other [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment estimated lives	3 years
Land Improvements and Other [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment estimated lives	20 years

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Income Taxes (Reasons For Differences Between Statutory Federal Tax Rate And Effective Income Tax Rate) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State income taxes	2.80%	2.40%	1.50%
Unrecognized tax benefits, net	(4.70%)	(0.20%)	0.60%
Domestic production deduction	(4.00%)	(3.20%)	(1.80%)
Foreign rate differences and valuation allowances	2.80%	0.30%	1.80%
Other	(0.30%)	(1.70%)	(0.70%)
Effective income tax rate	31.60%	32.60%	36.40%

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Consolidated Statements Of Income (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Sales	$ 37,580	$ 34,374	$ 33,055
Cost of Sales	34,895	32,016	30,865
Gross Profit	2,685	2,358	2,190
Operating Expenses:
Selling, General and Administrative	1,255	983	904
Operating Income	1,430	1,375	1,286
Other (Income) Expense:
Interest income	(7)	(7)	(12)
Interest expense	132	145	356
Other, net	53	(20)	(23)
Total Other (Income) Expense	178	118	321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	1,252	1,257	965
Income Tax Expense	396	409	351
Income from Continuing Operations	856	848	614
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	0	(70)	(38)
Net Income	856	778	576
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(8)	0	(7)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	864	778	583
Amounts attributable to Tyson:
Net Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson	864	848	621
Net Loss from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson	$ 0	$ (70)	$ (38)
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:
Diluted	364	367	370
Net Income per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson:
Diluted (USD per share)	$ 2.37	$ 2.31	$ 1.68
Net Loss Per Share from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson:
Diluted (USD per share)	$ 0.00	$ (0.19)	$ (0.10)
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson:
Diluted (USD per share)	$ 2.37	$ 2.12	$ 1.58
Class A [Member]
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:
Basic	284	282	293
Net Income per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson:
Basic (USD per share)	$ 2.48	$ 2.46	$ 1.75
Net Loss Per Share from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson:
Basic (USD per share)	$ 0.00	$ (0.20)	$ (0.11)
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson:
Basic (USD per share)	$ 2.48	$ 2.26	$ 1.64
Dividends Declared Per Share:
Dividends Declared (USD per share)	$ 0.325	$ 0.310	$ 0.160
Class B [Member]
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:
Basic	70	70	70
Net Income per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson:
Basic (USD per share)	$ 2.26	$ 2.22	$ 1.57
Net Loss Per Share from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson:
Basic (USD per share)	$ 0.00	$ (0.18)	$ (0.09)
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson:
Basic (USD per share)	$ 2.26	$ 2.04	$ 1.48
Dividends Declared Per Share:
Dividends Declared (USD per share)	$ 0.294	$ 0.279	$ 0.144

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Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]

Schedule Of Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:

				in millions
	2014			2013
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes:
Unrealized net hedging gain (loss)	$	(3	)	$	(4	)
Unrealized net gain (loss) on investments	2			(2		)
Currency translation adjustment	(99		)	(69		)
Postretirement benefits reserve adjustments	(47		)	(33		)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(147	)	$	(108	)

Schedule Of Components Of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The before and after tax changes in the components of other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

																			in millions
	2014									2013									2012
	Before Tax			Tax			After Tax			Before Tax			Tax			After Tax			Before Tax			Tax			After Tax
Derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges:
(Gain) loss reclassified to Cost of Sales	$	10		$	(4	)	$	6		$	5		$	(2	)	$	3		$	16		$	(7	)	$	9
(Gain) loss reclassified to Other Income/Expense	—			—			—			4			(2		)	2			(4		)	2			(2		)
Unrealized gain (loss)	(8		)	3			(5		)	(31		)	12			(19		)	16			(6		)	10
Investments:
(Gain) loss reclassified to Other Income/Expense	8			(2		)	6			(1		)	—			(1		)	—			—			—
Unrealized gain (loss)	(2		)	—			(2		)	(4		)	2			(2		)	—			—			—
Currency translation:
Translation gain reclassified to Other Income/Expense	—			—			—			(19		)	(1		)	(20		)	—			—			—
Translation adjustment	(32		)	2			(30		)	(20		)	3			(17		)	2			1			3
Postretirement benefits	(23		)	9			(14		)	15			(6		)	9			(6		)	2			(4		)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	(47	)	$	8		$	(39	)	$	(51	)	$	6		$	(45	)	$	24		$	(8	)	$	16

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Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares available for future grant	30,428,186
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Expiration period	10 years
Grant-date fair value of options granted	$ 10.83	$ 6.44	$ 6.99
Stock-based compensation expense, net of income taxes	$ 20.0	$ 14.0	$ 15.0
Related tax benefit	13.0	9.0	10.0
Options vested (in shares)	4,800,000	3,900,000	3,400,000
Grant date fair value of options vested	30	22	17
Cash received from exercise of stock options	67	123	34
Tax benefit related to stock options exercised	33	35	7
Total intrinsic value of options exercised	87	90	21
Amount realized, related to excess tax deductions	24	18	3
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock option plans	35
Total unrecognized compensation cost, time frame for recognition, weighted average number of years	1 year 5 months
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense, net of income taxes	6.0	5.0	7.0
Related tax benefit	4.0	3.0	4.0
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to share-based awards other than options	10
Total unrecognized compensation cost, time frame for recognition, weighted average number of years	1 year 2 months
Number of Shares - Vested	(584,360)	(1,400,000)	(1,200,000)
Restricted stock awards, grant date fair value of shares vested	11	20	17
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Stock-based compensation expense, net of income taxes	3.8	2.4	0.2
Related tax benefit	2.5	1.5	0.1
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to share-based awards other than options	$ 9
Total unrecognized compensation cost, time frame for recognition, weighted average number of years	1 year 6 months
Number of Shares - Vested	(42,282)
Performance Shares [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, performance criteria	0.00%
Performance Shares [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting rights, performance criteria	200.00%

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Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Cash Payments For Interest And Income Taxes) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$ 118	$ 114	$ 274
Income taxes, net of refunds	$ 590	$ 310	$ 187

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Consolidated Statements Of Shareholders' Equity (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Total USD ($)	Capital In Excess Of Par Value [Member] USD ($)	Retained Earnings [Member] USD ($)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Of Tax [Member] USD ($)	Treasury Stock [Member] USD ($)	Shareholders' Equity Attributable To Tyson [Member] USD ($)	Equity Attributable To Noncontrolling Interests [Member] USD ($)	2008 Warrants [Member] Capital In Excess Of Par Value [Member] USD ($)	2008 Warrants [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] USD ($)	3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member] Capital In Excess Of Par Value [Member] USD ($)	3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] USD ($)	Class A [Member] USD ($)	Class A [Member] 2008 Warrants [Member]	Class A [Member] 3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member]	Class B [Member] USD ($)
Balance at beginning of year, Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest at Oct. 01, 2011							$ 28
Balance at beginning of year, Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Tyson at Oct. 01, 2011		2,261	3,801	(79)	(365)							32			7
Balance at beginning of year, Common Stock shares at Oct. 01, 2011												322			70
Balance at beginning of year, Treasury Stock shares at Oct. 01, 2011					22
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of Class A common stock, shares												0
Issuance of Class A common stock		0										0
Issuance of tangible equity units		0
Convertible debt settlement										0	0
Convertible note hedge settlement										0	0
Warrant settlement								0	0
Stock-based compensation		17			60
Net income attributable to Tyson	583		583
Dividends			(57)									(47)			(10)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	16			16
Purchase of Class A common stock, shares					14.0							14.3
Purchase of Class A common stock					(264)
Convertible debt settlement, shares											0
Convertible note hedge settlement, shares											0
Warrant settlement, shares									0
Stock-based compensation, shares					(3)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests							(7)
Contributions by noncontrolling interest							9
Distributions to noncontrolling interest							0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest							0
Balance at end of year, Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest at Sep. 29, 2012							30
Balance at end of year, Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Tyson at Sep. 29, 2012		2,278	4,327	(63)	(569)	6,012						32			7
Balance at end of year, Common Stock shares at Sep. 29, 2012												322			70
Balance at end of year, Treasury Stock shares at Sep. 29, 2012					33
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of Class A common stock, shares												0
Issuance of Class A common stock		0										0
Issuance of tangible equity units		0
Convertible debt settlement										0	0
Convertible note hedge settlement										0	0
Warrant settlement								0	0
Stock-based compensation		14			162
Net income attributable to Tyson	778		778
Dividends			(106)									(87)			(19)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	(45)			(45)
Purchase of Class A common stock, shares					24.0							23.9
Purchase of Class A common stock					(614)
Convertible debt settlement, shares											0
Convertible note hedge settlement, shares											0
Warrant settlement, shares									0
Stock-based compensation, shares					(9)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests							0
Contributions by noncontrolling interest							3
Distributions to noncontrolling interest							0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest							(1)
Balance at end of year, Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest at Sep. 28, 2013	32						32
Balance at end of year, Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Tyson at Sep. 28, 2013	6,201	2,292	4,999	(108)	(1,021)	6,201						32			7
Balance at end of year, Common Stock shares at Sep. 28, 2013												322			70
Balance at end of year, Treasury Stock shares at Sep. 28, 2013	48				48
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of Class A common stock, shares												24.0
Issuance of Class A common stock		870										3
Issuance of tangible equity units		1,255
Convertible debt settlement										(248)	248
Convertible note hedge settlement										341	(341)
Warrant settlement								(289)	289
Stock-based compensation		36			110
Net income attributable to Tyson	864		864
Dividends			(115)									(94)			(21)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	(39)			(39)
Purchase of Class A common stock, shares					8.0							8.3
Purchase of Class A common stock					(295)
Convertible debt settlement, shares											(12.0)
Convertible note hedge settlement, shares											12.0
Warrant settlement, shares									(12.0)				(11.7)
Stock-based compensation, shares					(4)
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests							(8)
Contributions by noncontrolling interest							0
Distributions to noncontrolling interest							(11)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest							1
Balance at end of year, Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest at Sep. 27, 2014	14						14
Balance at end of year, Shareholders' Equity Attributable to Tyson at Sep. 27, 2014	$ 8,890	$ 4,257	$ 5,748	$ (147)	$ (1,010)	$ 8,890						$ 35			$ 7
Balance at end of year, Common Stock shares at Sep. 27, 2014												346			70
Balance at end of year, Treasury Stock shares at Sep. 27, 2014	40				40

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Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Restricted Stock) (Details) (Restricted Stock [Member], USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]
Number of Shares - Nonvested, September 28, 2013	1,138,699
Number of Shares - Granted	423,453
Number of Shares - Dividends	9,225
Number of Shares - Vested	(584,360)	(1,400,000)	(1,200,000)
Number of Shares - Forfeited	(48,073)
Number of Shares - Nonvested, September 27, 2014	938,944	1,138,699
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share - Nonvested, September 28, 2013	$ 16.86
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share - Granted	$ 31.98
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share - Dividends	$ 37.14
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share - Vested	$ 17.66
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share - Forfeited	$ 20.83
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share - Nonvested, September 27, 2014	$ 23.18	$ 16.86
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years), Nonvested, September 27, 2014	1 year 2 months
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Nonvested, September 27, 2014	$ 35

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Dispositions (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	1 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		1 Months Ended
	Jun. 28, 2014 Prepared Foods [Member] Facility Closing [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Prepared Foods [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Facilities	Sep. 27, 2014 Prepared Foods [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Facilities	Jul. 28, 2014 Chicken Production Operations in Brazil and Mexico [Member] International [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Chicken Production Operations in Brazil [Member] International [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Dynamic Fuels Deconsolidation [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Dynamic Fuels Deconsolidation [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Dynamic Fuels Deconsolidation [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Dynamic Fuels Deconsolidation [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Dynamic Fuels Deconsolidation [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Cost of Sales [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Disposal Group, Consideration				$ 575
Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage								50.00%
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses							30
Future Contingent Cash Payment							35
Disposal Group, Future Contingent Consideration, Period of production volumes						11 years 6 months
Guarantor Obligations Release of Guarantees						100
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business										3
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets									166
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Property, Plant and Equipment									142
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities									113
Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Long-term Debt									100
Asset Impairment Charges	$ 49		$ 52		$ 39
Plants Closed		3	3

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Plans With Accumulated Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Funded Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Projected benefit obligation	$ 1,829	$ 27
Accumulated benefit obligation	1,829	27
Fair value of plan assets	1,627	26
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Projected benefit obligation	182	85
Accumulated benefit obligation	172	72
Fair value of plan assets	$ 3	$ 0

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Property, Plant And Equipment (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract]

Schedule Of Property, Plant And Equipment And Accumulated Depreciation

The following table reflects major categories of property, plant and equipment and accumulated depreciation at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

	in millions
	2014		2013
Land	$	126	$	100
Building and leasehold improvements	3,501		2,945
Machinery and equipment	6,144		5,504
Land improvements and other	276		417
Buildings and equipment under construction	334		236
	10,381		9,202
Less accumulated depreciation	5,251		5,149
Net property, plant and equipment	$	5,130	$	4,053

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Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization expense on intangible assets	$ 26	$ 17	$ 16
Estimated amortization expense on intangible assets, 2015	94
Estimated amortization expense on intangible assets, 2016	85
Estimated amortization expense on intangible assets, 2017	80
Estimated amortization expense on intangible assets, 2018	79
Estimated amortization expense on intangible assets, 2019	$ 75
Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	20 years

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

General Discussion of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits

PENSIONS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

At September 27, 2014, we had nine defined benefit pension plans consisting of six funded qualified plans and three unfunded non-qualified plans. In regards to our qualified plans, five are frozen and noncontributory. The benefits provided under these plans are based on a formula using years of service and either a specified benefit rate or compensation level. The non-qualified defined benefit plans are for certain contracted officers and use a formula based on years of service and final average salary. We also have other postretirement benefit plans for which substantially all of our employees may receive benefits if they satisfy applicable eligibility criteria. The postretirement healthcare plans are contributory with participants’ contributions adjusted when deemed necessary.

We have defined contribution retirement programs for various groups of employees. We recognized expenses of $53 million, $50 million and $47 million in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

We use a fiscal year end measurement date for our defined benefit plans and other postretirement plans. We recognize the effect of actuarial gains and losses into earnings immediately for other postretirement plans rather than amortizing the effect over future periods.

Other postretirement benefits include postretirement medical costs and life insurance.

Benefit Obligations and Funded Status

The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the plans’ benefit obligations, assets and funded status at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

													in millions
	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
Change in benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	86		$	101		$	85		$	81		$	71		$	64
Service cost	1			—			7			5			2			2
Interest cost	10			4			5			3			3			2
Plan participants’ contributions	—			—			—			—			1			1
Actuarial (gain)/loss	(37		)	(9		)	15			(2		)	(8		)	7
Benefits paid	(11		)	(10		)	(3		)	(2		)	(6		)	(5		)
Business acquisition	1,800			—			73			—			100			—
Benefit obligation at end of year	1,849			86			182			85			163			71
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	85			86			—			—			—			—
Actual return on plan assets	(36		)	3			—			—			—			—
Employer contributions	6			6			3			2			5			4
Plan participants’ contributions	—			—			—			—			1			1
Benefits paid	(11		)	(10		)	(3		)	(2		)	(6		)	(5		)
Business acquisition	1,603			—			3			—			—			—
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	1,647			85			3			—			—			—
Funded status	$	(202	)	$	(1	)	$	(179	)	$	(85	)	$	(163	)	$	(71	)

Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:

													in millions
	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
Other current liabilities	$	—		$	—		$	(5	)	$	—		$	(7	)	$	—
Other liabilities	(202		)	(1		)	(174		)	(85		)	(156		)	(71		)
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss:
Actuarial loss	39			30			36			23			—			—
Prior service cost/(credit)	—			—			—			—			(2		)	(3		)
Net amount recognized	$	(163	)	$	29		$	(143	)	$	(62	)	$	(165	)	$	(74	)

At September 27, 2014, seven pension plans had an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets. At September 28, 2013, three pension plans had an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets. Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets are as follows:

					in millions
	Pension Benefits
	Qualified				Non-Qualified
	2014		2013		2014		2013
Projected benefit obligation	$	1,829	$	27	$	182	$	85
Accumulated benefit obligation	1,829		27		172		72
Fair value of plan assets	1,627		26		3		—

The accumulated benefit obligation for all qualified pension plans was $1,849 million and $86 million at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively.

Net Periodic Benefit Cost

Components of net periodic benefit cost for pension and postretirement benefit plans recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income are as follows:

																			in millions
	Pension Benefits															Other Postretirement
	Qualified									Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014			2013			2012			2014		2013		2012		2014			2013			2012
Service cost	$	1		$	—		$	—		$	7	$	5	$	5	$	2		$	2		$	1
Interest cost	10			4			4			5		3		3		3			2			2
Expected return on plan assets	(13		)	(5		)	(6		)	—		—		—		—			—			—
Amortization of prior service cost	—			—			—			—		1		1		—			(1		)	(1		)
Recognized actuarial (gain) loss, net	2			4			3			2		3		1		(8		)	7			24
Net periodic benefit cost	$	—		$	3		$	1		$	14	$	12	$	10	$	(3	)	$	10		$	26

As of September 27, 2014, the amounts expected to be reclassified into earnings within the next 12 months related to net periodic benefit cost for the qualified and non-qualified pensions are $2 million and $4 million, respectively.

Assumptions

Weighted average assumptions are as follows:

	Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement
	Qualified						Non-Qualified						Benefits
	2014		2013		2012		2014		2013		2012		2014		2013		2012
Discount rate to determine net periodic benefit cost	4.37	%	4.02	%	4.53	%	5.01	%	4.23	%	4.75	%	4.41	%	3.66	%	4.09	%
Discount rate to determine benefit obligations	4.32	%	4.77	%	4.02	%	4.36	%	5.09	%	4.23	%	3.97	%	4.48	%	3.66	%
Rate of compensation increase	0.01	%	N/A		N/A		2.11	%	3.50	%	3.50	%	N/A		N/A		N/A
Expected return on plan assets	6.37	%	5.44	%	6.37	%	N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A		N/A

To determine the expected return on plan assets assumption, we first examined historical rates of return for the various asset classes within the plans. We then determined a long-term projected rate-of-return based on expected returns.

Our discount rate assumptions used to account for pension and other postretirement benefit plans reflect the rates at which the benefit obligations could be effectively settled. These were determined using a cash flow matching technique whereby the rates of a yield curve, developed from high-quality debt securities, were applied to the benefit obligations to determine the appropriate discount rate. As of September 27, 2014, all pension and other postretirement benefit plans used the RP-2014 mortality tables. At September 28, 2013, the pension plans used the 2013 IRS mortality tables while the other postretirement benefit plans used either the RP-2000 or the 2013 IRS mortality tables to align with applicable participant data.

We have six other postretirement benefit plans which are healthcare and life insurance related. Two of these plans, which benefit obligations totaled $22 million at September 27, 2014, were not impacted by healthcare cost trend rates as they consist of fixed annual payments. The remaining plans, which benefit obligations were $141 million at September 27, 2014, covering retirees who do not yet qualify for Medicare utilized an assumed healthcare cost trend rate of 7.3% and those covering retirees who do qualify for Medicare utilized an assumed healthcare cost trend of 6.5%. The healthcare cost trend rate will be grading down to an ultimate rate of 5.0% in 2021/2022. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health-care cost trend rates would have the following effects:

			in millions
	One Percentage Point Increase		One Percentage Point Decrease
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	$	17	$	13
Effect on total service and interest components	2		1

Plan Assets

The following table sets forth the actual and target asset allocation for pension plan assets:

	2014		2013		Target Asset Allocation
Cash	4.9	%	1.6	%	0.3	%
Fixed Income Securities	80.5		79.1		84.9
U.S. Stock Funds	6.0		4.3		5.4
International Stock Funds	6.2		7.3		6.3
Real Estate	2.0		3.8		2.0
Other	0.4		3.9		1.1
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

Additionally, one of our foreign subsidiary pension plans had $15 million and $14 million in plan assets held in an insurance trust at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively.

The plan trustees have established a set of investment objectives related to the assets of the domestic pension plans and regularly monitor the performance of the funds and portfolio managers. Objectives for the pension assets are (i) to provide growth of capital and income, (ii) to achieve a target weighted average annual rate of return competitive with funds with similar investment objectives and (iii) to diversify to reduce risk. The target asset allocations are based upon the funded status of the plans. As pension obligations become better funded, we will lower risk by increasing the allocation to fixed income.

As noted in the previous table, on an aggregate fair value basis, the plan assets are currently at approximately 81% fixed income securities and 12% equity securities. Fixed income securities can include, but are not limited to, direct bond investments, and pooled or indirect bond investments. Other investments may include, but are not limited to, international and domestic equities, real estate, commodities and private equity. Derivative instruments may also be used in concert with either fixed income or equity investments to achieve desired exposure or to hedge certain risks. Derivative instruments can include, but are not limited to, futures, options, swaps or swaptions. We believe there are no significant concentrations of risk within our plan assets as of September 27, 2014.

The following tables show the categories of pension plan assets and the level under which fair values were determined in the fair value hierarchy, which is described in Note 13: Fair Value Measurements.

	in millions
September 27, 2014	Level 1		Level 2 (a)		Level 3 (b)		Total
Cash and cash equivalents	$	79	$	—	$	—	$	79
Fixed Income Securities:
Bond and fixed income funds	—		377		—		377
Corporate bonds	—		680		—		680
Government and municipal bonds	—		253		—		253
Mortgage backed securities	—		—		7		7
Total fixed income securities	—		1,310		7		1,317
Equity Securities:
U.S. securities funds	—		84		—		84
Non-U.S. securities funds	—		101		—		101
Commodity funds	—		14		—		14
Global real estate funds	—		33		—		33
Total equity securities	—		232		—		232
Other	—		7		—		7
Insurance Contract at Contract Value	—		—		15		15
Total plan assets	$	79	$	1,549	$	22	$	1,650

	in millions
September 28, 2013	Level 1		Level 2 (a)		Level 3 (b)		Total
Cash and cash equivalents	$	1	$	—	$	—	$	1
Fixed Income Securities:
Bond and fixed income funds	—		56		—		56
Corporate bonds	—		—		—		—
Government and municipal bonds	—		—		—		—
Mortgage backed securities	—		—		—		—
Total fixed income securities	—		56		—		56
Equity Securities:
U.S. securities funds	—		3		—		3
Non-U.S. securities funds	—		5		—		5
Commodity funds	—		—		—		—
Global real estate funds	—		3		—		3
Total equity securities	—		11		—		11
Other	—		—		3		3
Insurance Contract at Contract Value	—		—		14		14
Total plan assets	$	1	$	67	$	17	$	85

(a) We classify our investments in U.S. government, U.S. agency, fixed income funds, bond funds, corporate bonds, and other debt securities as Level 2 as fair value is generally estimated using discounted cash flow models that are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including time value and yield curve as well as other readily available relevant economic measures. Funds are valued using the net asset value (NAV) provided by the trustee, which is a practical expedient to estimating fair value. The NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying investments within the funds and is determined daily.

(b) We classify certain mortgage-backed, asset-backed and insurance contracts as Level 3 as there is limited activity or less observable inputs into valuation models, including current interest rates and estimated prepayment, default and recovery rates on the underlying portfolio or structured investment vehicle. The insurance contracts are valued using the plan’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the assets based on the best information available, such as investment manager pricing. Significant changes to assumptions or unobservable inputs in the valuation of our Level 3 instruments would not have a significant impact to our consolidated financial statements.

A reconciliation of the change in the fair value measurement of the defined benefit plans’ consolidated assets using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) is as follows:

								in millions
	Mortgage backed securities		Other			Insurance contract		Total
Balance at September 28, 2013	$	—	$	3		$	14	17
Actual return on plan assets:
Assets still held at reporting date	—		—			—		—
Assets sold during the period	—		—			—		—
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	—		—			1		1
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3	7		(3		)	—		4
Balance at September 27, 2014	$	7	$	—		$	15	$	22

Contributions

Our policy is to fund at least the minimum contribution required to meet applicable federal employee benefit and local tax laws. In our sole discretion, we may from time to time fund additional amounts. Expected contributions to pension plans for fiscal 2015 are approximately $14 million. For fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, we funded $9 million, $8 million and $8 million plans, respectively, to pension plans.

Estimated Future Benefit Payments    

The following benefit payments are expected to be paid:

					in millions
	Pension Benefits				Other Postretirement
	Qualified		Non-Qualified		Benefits
2015	$	108	$	8	$	12
2016	82		9		12
2017	85		9		12
2018	89		9		12
2019	92		10		12
2020-2024	506		54		64

The above benefit payments for other postretirement benefit plans are not expected to be offset by Medicare Part D subsidies in 2015 or thereafter.

Multi-Employer Plans

Additionally, we participate in a multi-employer plan that provides defined benefits to certain employees covered by collective bargaining agreements. Such plans are usually administered by a board of trustees composed of the management of the participating companies and labor representatives.

The risks of participating in multiemployer plans are different from single-employer plans. Assets contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers. If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligation of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers. If we stop participating in a plan, we may be required to pay that plan an amount based on the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a withdrawal liability. Contributions to the pension funds were not in excess of 5% of the total plan contributions for plan year 2014. There are no contractually required minimum contributions to the plans as of September 27, 2014.

The net pension cost of the plan is equal to the annual contribution determined in accordance with the provisions of negotiated labor contracts. Contributions to the plan were less than $1 million in fiscal 2014. Assets contributed to such plans are not segregated or otherwise restricted to provide benefits only to our employees. The future cost of the plan is dependent on a number of factors including the funded status of the plan and the ability of the other participating companies to meet ongoing funding obligations.

Our participation in this multiemployer plan for fiscal 2014 is outlined below. The EIN/Pension Plan Number column provides the Employer Identification Number (EIN) and the three digit plan number. Unless otherwise noted, the most recent Pension Protection Act ("PPA") zone status available in 2014 and 2013 is for the plan's year beginning January 1, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The zone status is based on information that we have received from the plan and is certified by the plan's actuaries. Among other factors, plans in the red zone are generally less than 65 percent funded. The FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented column indicates plans for which a financial improvement plan (FIP) or rehabilitation plan (RP) is either pending or has been implemented. The last column lists the expiration date(s) of the collective-bargaining agreements to which the plan is subject. There have been no significant changes that affect the comparability of contributions from year to year.

In addition to regular contributions, we could be obligated to pay additional contributions (known as complete or partial withdrawal liabilities) if it has unfunded vested benefits.

		PPA Zone Status		FIP/RP Status	Contributions (in millions)	Surcharge Imposed
Pension Fund Plan Name	EIN/Pension Plan Number	2014	2013	Pending/ Implemented	2014	2014	Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement
Bakery and Confectionary Union & Industry International Pension Fund	52-6118572/001	Red	Red	Nov 2012	$1	10%	Oct 2015

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Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule Of Goodwill Activity

The following table reflects goodwill activity for fiscal 2014 and 2013:

in millions
	Chicken			Beef			Pork		Prepared Foods			International			Unallocated		Consolidated
Balance at September 29, 2012
Goodwill	$	909		$	1,123		$	317	$	63		$	68		$	—	$	2,480
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(29		)	—		(589		)
	909			563			317		63			39			—		1,891
Fiscal 2013 Activity:
Acquisition	—			—			—		12			—			—		12
Impairment losses	—			—			—		—			—			—		—
Currency translation and other	(1		)	—			—		—			—			—		(1		)
Balance at September 28, 2013
Goodwill	908			1,123			317		75			68			—		2,491
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(29		)	—		(589		)
	$	908		$	563		$	317	$	75		$	39		$	—	$	1,902
Fiscal 2014 Activity:
Acquisition	$	—		$	—		$	—	$	18		$	5		$	4,804	$	4,827
Reclass to assets held for sale	—			—			—		—			(16		)	—		(16		)
Impairment losses	—			—			—		—			(5		)	—		(5		)
Currency translation and other	(1		)	—			—		(1		)	—			—		(2		)
Balance at September 27, 2014
Goodwill	907			1,123			317		92			57			4,804		7,300
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(34		)	—		(594		)
	$	907		$	563		$	317	$	92		$	23		$	4,804	$	6,706

Schedule Of Other Intangible Assets By Type

The following table reflects other intangible assets by type at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

in millions
	2014		2013
Amortizable intangible assets:
Brands and trademarks	$	611	$	69
Customer relationships	570		12
Patents, intellectual property and other	136		140
Non-compete agreements	6		—
Land use rights	8		8
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	$	1,331	$	229
Less accumulated amortization	133		107
Total net amortizable intangible assets	$	1,198	$	122
Brands and trademarks not subject to amortization	4,078		16
Total intangible assets	$	5,276	$	138

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Amounts Recognized In The Consolidated Balance Sheets) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Funded Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other current liabilities	$ 0	$ 0
Other liabilities	(202)	(1)
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss, Actuarial loss	39	30
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss, Prior service (cost)/credit	0	0
Net amount recognized	(163)	29
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other current liabilities	(5)	0
Other liabilities	(174)	(85)
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss, Actuarial loss	36	23
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss, Prior service (cost)/credit	0	0
Net amount recognized	(143)	(62)
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other current liabilities	(7)	0
Other liabilities	(156)	(71)
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss, Actuarial loss	0	0
Accumulated other comprehensive (income)/loss, Prior service (cost)/credit	(2)	(3)
Net amount recognized	$ (165)	$ (74)

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Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements (Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	$ 1,178	$ 1,314	$ 1,187
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(632)	(558)	(690)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	15	(18)	(11)
Proceeds from notes receivable	0	0	0
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(8,193)	(106)	0
Other, net	10	39	41
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(8,800)	(643)	(660)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	5,142	(23)	123
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	873	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	1,255	0	0
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295.00)	(614.00)	(264.00)
Dividends	(104)	(104)	(57)
Stock options exercised	67	123	34
Other, net	(23)	18	(7)
Net change in intercompany balances	0	0	0
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	6,915	(600)	(171)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	0	3	(1)
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(707)	74	355
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1,145	1,071	716
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	438	1,145	1,071
TFI Parent [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	132	294	312
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(1)	(4)	(1)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	0	0	0
Proceeds from notes receivable	0	0	0
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(8,193)	0	0
Other, net	5	0	1
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(8,189)	(4)	0
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	5,154	5	107
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	873	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	1,255	0	0
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295.00)	(614.00)	(264.00)
Dividends	(104)	(104)	(57)
Stock options exercised	67	123	34
Other, net	(22)	18	(8)
Net change in intercompany balances	1,129	281	(124)
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	8,057	(291)	(312)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	0	0	0
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	0	(1)	0
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	0	1	1
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	0	0	1
TFM Parent, Guarantors [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	431	337	438
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(147)	(113)	(104)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	0	(13)	(7)
Proceeds from notes receivable	0	0	0
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	0	0	0
Other, net	2	3	5
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(145)	(123)	(106)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	0	0	0
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	0	0	0
Dividends	0	0	0
Stock options exercised	0	0	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Net change in intercompany balances	(266)	(202)	(324)
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	(266)	(202)	(324)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	0	0	0
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	20	12	8
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	21	9	1
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	41	21	9
Non-Guarantors [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	660	696	447
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(484)	(441)	(585)
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	15	(5)	(4)
Proceeds from notes receivable	0	0	0
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	0	(106)	0
Other, net	3	36	35
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(466)	(516)	(554)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	(12)	(28)	16
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	0	0	0
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	0	0	0
Dividends	(45)	(13)	(10)
Stock options exercised	0	0	0
Other, net	(1)	0	1
Net change in intercompany balances	(863)	(79)	448
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	(921)	(120)	455
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	0	3	(1)
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(727)	63	347
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1,124	1,061	714
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	397	1,124	1,061
Eliminations [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities	(45)	(13)	(10)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	0	0	0
(Purchases of)/Proceeds from marketable securities, net	0	0	0
Proceeds from notes receivable	0	0	0
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	0	0	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	0	0	0
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net change in debt	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	0	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	0	0	0
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	0	0	0
Dividends	45	13	10
Stock options exercised	0	0	0
Other, net	0	0	0
Net change in intercompany balances	0	0	0
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	45	13	10
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	0	0	0
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	0	0	0
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	0	0	0
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

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Segment Reporting

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting

SEGMENT REPORTING

We operate in five segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and International. We measure segment profit as operating income (loss).

During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we began reporting our International operation as a separate segment, which was previously included in our Chicken segment. Our International segment became a separate reportable segment as a result of changes to our internal financial reporting to align with previously announced executive leadership changes. All periods presented have been reclassified to reflect this change. Beef, Pork, Prepared Foods and Other results were not impacted by this change.

Chicken: Chicken includes our domestic operations related to raising and processing live chickens into fresh, frozen and value-added chicken products, as well as sales from allied products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes logistics operations to move products through our domestic supply chain and the global operations of our chicken breeding stock subsidiary.

Beef: Beef includes our operations related to processing live fed cattle and fabricating dressed beef carcasses into primal and sub-primal meat cuts and case-ready products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes sales from allied products such as hides and variety meats, as well as logistics operations to move products through the supply chain.

Pork: Pork includes our operations related to processing live market hogs and fabricating pork carcasses into primal and sub-primal cuts and case-ready products. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets. This segment also includes our live swine group, related allied product processing activities and logistics operations to move products through the supply chain.

Prepared Foods: Prepared Foods includes our operations related to manufacturing and marketing frozen and refrigerated food products and logistics operations to move products through the supply chain. Products primarily include pepperoni, bacon, sausage, beef and pork pizza toppings, pizza crusts, flour and corn tortilla products, appetizers, prepared meals, ethnic foods, soups, sauces, side dishes, meat dishes, breadsticks and processed meats. Products are marketed domestically to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains and noncommercial foodservice establishments such as schools, healthcare facilities, the military and other food processors, as well as to international export markets.

On August 28, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Hillshire Brands, a manufacturer and marketer of branded, convenient foods which includes brands such as Jimmy Dean®, Ball Park®, Hillshire Farm®, State Fair®, Van's®, Sara Lee® frozen bakery and Chef Pierre® pies as well as artisanal brands Aidells®, Gallo Salame®, and Golden Island® premium jerky. Hillshire Brands' one month results from operations for fiscal 2014 are included in the Prepared Foods segment.

International: International includes our foreign operations primarily related to raising and processing live chickens into fresh, frozen and value-added chicken products in Brazil, China, India and Mexico. Products are marketed in each respective country to food retailers, foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, hotel chains, noncommercial foodservice establishments and live markets, as well as to other international export markets.

On July 28, 2014, we announced our plan to sell our Brazil and Mexico operations, part of our International segment, to JBS for $575 million in cash. We expect to complete the sale of our Brazil operation in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. The sale of our Mexico operation is pending the necessary government approvals and is expected to close in the first half of fiscal 2015.

The results from Dynamic Fuels are included in Other. We allocate expenses related to corporate activities to the segments, except for acquisition and integration related fees of $59 million which are included in Other. Assets and additions to property, plant and equipment relating to corporate activities remain in Other. At September 27, 2014, we included $4.8 billion of goodwill associated with our acquisition of Hillshire Brands in Other. The allocation of goodwill to our reportable segments is pending finalization of the expected synergies and the impact of the synergies to our reporting units.

Information on segments and a reconciliation to income from continuing operations before income taxes are follows:

	in millions
	Chicken		Beef		Pork		Prepared Foods			International			Other			Intersegment Sales			Consolidated
Fiscal 2014
Sales	$	11,116	$	16,177	$	6,304	$	3,927		$	1,381		$	—		$	(1,325	)	$	37,580
Operating Income (Loss)	883		347		455		(60		)	(121		)	(74		)				1,430
Total Other (Income) Expense																			178
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			1,252
Depreciation	251		87		32		78			40			6						494
Total Assets	4,807		3,103		965		8,608			871			5,602						23,956
Additions to property, plant and equipment	307		115		36		77			46			51						632
Fiscal 2013
Sales	$	10,988	$	14,400	$	5,408	$	3,322		$	1,324		$	46		$	(1,114	)	$	34,374
Operating Income (Loss)	683		296		332		101			(37		)	—						1,375
Total Other (Income) Expense																			118
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			1,257
Depreciation	251		87		30		61			40			5						474
Total Assets	4,944		2,798		931		1,176			876			1,452						12,177
Additions to property, plant and equipment	253		105		22		87			58			33						558
Fiscal 2012
Sales	$	10,270	$	13,755	$	5,510	$	3,237		$	1,104		$	167		$	(988	)	$	33,055
Operating Income (Loss)	554		218		417		181			(70		)	(14		)				1,286
Total Other (Income) Expense																			321
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes																			965
Depreciation	228		86		30		54			40			5						443
Total Assets	4,934		2,634		895		960			968			1,505						11,896
Additions to property, plant and equipment	354		100		32		99			97			8						690

The Chicken segment had sales of $7 million, $16 million and $6 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from transactions with other operating segments. The Pork segment had sales of $1.0 billion, $872 million and $771 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from transactions with other operating segments. The Beef segment had sales of $307 million, $226 million and $211 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from transactions with other operating segments. The aforementioned sales from intersegment transactions, which were at market prices, were included in the segment sales in the above table.

Our largest customer, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., accounted for 14.6%, 13.0% and 13.8% of consolidated sales in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. were included in the all segments. Any extended discontinuance of sales to this customer could, if not replaced, have a material impact on our operations.

The majority of our operations are domiciled in the United States. Approximately 96%, 96% and 95% of sales to external customers for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were sourced from the United States. Approximately $17.4 billion and $6.1 billion of long-lived assets were located in the United States at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively. Approximately $324 million and $485 million of long-lived assets were located in foreign countries, primarily Brazil, China and India, at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively.

We sell certain products in foreign markets, primarily Brazil, Canada, Central America, China, the European Union, Japan, Mexico, the Middle East, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Our export sales from the United States totaled $4.7 billion, $4.2 billion and $4.0 billion for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Substantially all of our export sales are facilitated through unaffiliated brokers, marketing associations and foreign sales staffs. Sales of products produced in a country other than the United States were less than 10% of consolidated sales for each of fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

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Equity (Schedule of Share Repurchases) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Dollars	$ 295.00	$ 614.00	$ 264.00
Class A [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares	8.3	23.9	14.3
Dollars	295.00	614.00	264.00
Class A [Member] | Share Repurchase Program [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares	7.1	21.1	12.5
Dollars	250.00	550.00	230.00
Class A [Member] | Open Market Repurchases [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares	1.2	2.8	1.8
Dollars	$ 45.00	$ 64.00	$ 34.00

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014 plan	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of defined benefit plans	9
Defined contribution retirement programs, expenses recognized	$ 53	$ 50	$ 47
Number of defined benefit plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets	7
Postretirement medical obligation consisting of fixed annual payments	22
Postretirement medical obligation consisting of payments determined by healthcare cost trend	141
Healthcare cost trend rate, assumed, retirees who do not yet qualify for Medicare	7.30%
Healthcare cost trend rate, assumed, retirees who do qualify for Medicare	6.50%
Healthcare cost trend rate, ultimate rate	5.00%
Defined benefit pension plan assets	1,650	85
Expected contributions to pension plans for fiscal 2014	14
Defined benefit plans funding	9	8	8
Plan asset allocations	100.00%	100.00%
Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member] | Bakery and Confectionary Union & Industry International Pension Fund [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Multiemployer plan, contributions (less than)	1
Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member] | Bakery and Confectionary Union & Industry International Pension Fund [Member] | Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Contributions, Total [Member] | Multiemployer Plans Concentration Risk [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Concentration, Percentage (less than)	5.00%
Funded Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of defined benefit plans	6
Accumulated benefit obligation	1,849	86
Amounts expected to be reclassified to earnings within next 12 months	2
Defined benefit pension plan assets	1,647	85	86
Defined benefit plans funding	6	6
Funded Qualified Pension Plan, Frozen and Noncontributory [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of defined benefit plans	5
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of defined benefit plans	3
Amounts expected to be reclassified to earnings within next 12 months	4
Defined benefit pension plan assets	3	0	0
Defined benefit plans funding	3	2
Postretirement Health Coverage [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of defined benefit plans	6
Postretirement Health Coverage, Fixed Annual Payments [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of defined benefit plans	2
Foreign Subsidiary Pension Benefit Plans [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit pension plan assets	$ 15	$ 14
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Plan asset allocations	80.50%	79.10%
Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Plan asset allocations	12.00%

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Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income	$ 856	$ 778	$ 576
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	494	474	443
Amortization	36	45	56
Deferred income taxes	(105)	(12)	140
Convertible debt discount	(92)	0	0
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	0	0	167
Impairment of assets	107	74	34
Other, net	31	26	18
Increase in accounts receivable	(93)	(126)	(69)
(Increase) decrease in inventories	(148)	15	(259)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	202	(12)	106
Increase (decrease) in income taxes payable/receivable	(133)	80	8
Increase (decrease) in interest payable	5	(1)	5
Net changes in other working capital	18	(27)	(38)
Cash Provided by Operating Activities	1,178	1,314	1,187
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(632)	(558)	(690)
Purchases of marketable securities	(18)	(135)	(58)
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities	33	117	47
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(8,193)	(106)	0
Other, net	10	39	41
Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities	(8,800)	(643)	(660)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Payments on debt	(639)	(91)	(993)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	5,576	68	1,116
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Component of Tangible Equity Units	205	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	873	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of equity component of tangible equity units	1,255	0	0
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock	(295)	(614)	(264)
Dividends	(104)	(104)	(57)
Stock options exercised	67	123	34
Other, net	(23)	18	(7)
Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities	6,915	(600)	(171)
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash	0	3	(1)
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(707)	74	355
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year	1,145	1,071	716
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period	$ 438	$ 1,145	$ 1,071

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Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Statement (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net Income	$ 856	$ 778	$ 576
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Taxes:
Derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges	1	(14)	17
Investments	4	(3)	0
Currency translation	(30)	(37)	3
Postretirement benefits	(14)	9	(4)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Taxes	(39)	(45)	16
Comprehensive Income	817	733	592
Less: Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests	(8)	0	(7)
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Tyson	$ 825	$ 733	$ 599

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Other Income And Charges

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]

Other Income And Charges

OTHER INCOME AND CHARGES

During fiscal 2014, we recorded $11 million of equity earnings in joint ventures, $3 million in net foreign currency exchange gains, $6 million of other than temporary impairment related to an available-for-sale security and $60 million of costs associated with bridge financing facilities for the Hillshire Brands acquisition, which were recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net.

During fiscal 2013, we recorded a $19 million currency translation adjustment gain recognized in conjunction with the receipt of proceeds constituting the final resolution of our investment in Canada, which was recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net.

During fiscal 2012, we recorded $16 million of equity earnings in joint ventures and $4 million in net foreign currency exchange gains, which were recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net.

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Actual And Target Asset Allocation For Pension Plan Assets) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Plan Asset Allocations	100.00%	100.00%
Target Plan Asset Allocations	100.00%
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Plan Asset Allocations	4.90%	1.60%
Target Plan Asset Allocations	0.30%
Fixed Income Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Plan Asset Allocations	80.50%	79.10%
Target Plan Asset Allocations	84.90%
Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Plan Asset Allocations	12.00%
Real Estate [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%	3.80%
Target Plan Asset Allocations	2.00%
Other [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Plan Asset Allocations	0.40%	3.90%
Target Plan Asset Allocations	1.10%
U.S. Stock Funds [Member] | Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Plan Asset Allocations	6.00%	4.30%
Target Plan Asset Allocations	5.40%
International Stock Funds [Member] | Equity Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actual Plan Asset Allocations	6.20%	7.30%
Target Plan Asset Allocations	6.30%

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Stock-Based Compensation (Assumption Of Fair Value Calculation Of Each Year's Grants) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]
Expected life (in years)	6 years	6 years 2 months	6 years 8 months
Risk-free interest rate	1.30%	0.70%	0.90%
Expected volatility	36.00%	36.80%	36.60%
Expected dividend yield	1.00%	1.00%	1.00%

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Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014 Accounts Receivable [Member] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Accounts Receivable [Member] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Chicken Production Operations in Brazil [Member] International [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Chicken Production Operations in Brazil [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] International [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Facility Closing [Member] Prepared Foods [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Facility Closing [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Prepared Foods [Member] Facilities	Sep. 27, 2014 Facility Closing [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Prepared Foods [Member] Facilities	Sep. 27, 2014 Facility Closing [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Prepared Foods [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Common Stock and Warrants [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities									$ 6
Asset Impairment Charges			39	39	49		52	52
Plants Closed						3	3
Assets Held-for-sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure			$ 144
Concentration, Percentage	18.60%	17.50%

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Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements (Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 438	$ 1,145	$ 1,071	$ 716
Accounts receivable, net	1,684	1,497
Inventories	3,274	2,817
Other current assets	379	145
Assets held for sale	446	0
Total Current Assets	6,221	5,604
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	5,130	4,053
Goodwill	6,706	1,902	1,891
Intangible Assets	5,276	138
Other Assets	623	480
Investment in Subsidiaries	0	0
Total Assets	23,956	12,177	11,896
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current debt	643	513
Accounts payable	1,806	1,359
Other current liabilities	1,207	1,138
Liabilities held for sale	141	0
Total Current Liabilities	3,797	3,010
Long-Term Debt	7,535	1,895
Deferred Income Taxes	2,450	479
Other Liabilities	1,270	560
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	8,890	6,201
Noncontrolling Interests	14	32
Total Shareholders’ Equity	8,904	6,233	6,042
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	23,956	12,177
TFI Parent [Member]
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0	1	1
Accounts receivable, net	3	0
Inventories	0	0
Other current assets	42	351
Assets held for sale	3
Total Current Assets	48	351
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	30	32
Goodwill	0	0
Intangible Assets	0	0
Other Assets	204	895
Investment in Subsidiaries	20,845	11,975
Total Assets	21,127	13,253
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current debt	240	457
Accounts payable	35	27
Other current liabilities	4,718	4,625
Liabilities held for sale	0
Total Current Liabilities	4,993	5,109
Long-Term Debt	7,056	1,770
Deferred Income Taxes	21	24
Other Liabilities	167	149
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	8,890	6,201
Noncontrolling Interests	0	0
Total Shareholders’ Equity	8,890	6,201
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	21,127	13,253
TFM Parent, Guarantors [Member]
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	41	21	9	1
Accounts receivable, net	665	571
Inventories	1,272	1,039
Other current assets	78	88
Assets held for sale	0
Total Current Assets	2,056	1,719
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	932	891
Goodwill	881	881
Intangible Assets	15	21
Other Assets	148	162
Investment in Subsidiaries	2,049	2,035
Total Assets	6,081	5,709
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current debt	0	132
Accounts payable	755	575
Other current liabilities	235	200
Liabilities held for sale	0
Total Current Liabilities	990	907
Long-Term Debt	2	679
Deferred Income Taxes	96	93
Other Liabilities	125	155
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	4,868	3,875
Noncontrolling Interests	0	0
Total Shareholders’ Equity	4,868	3,875
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	6,081	5,709
Non-Guarantors [Member]
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	397	1,124	1,061	714
Accounts receivable, net	1,016	926
Inventories	2,002	1,778
Other current assets	379	117
Assets held for sale	443
Total Current Assets	4,237	3,945
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	4,168	3,130
Goodwill	5,825	1,021
Intangible Assets	5,261	117
Other Assets	326	244
Investment in Subsidiaries	0	0
Total Assets	19,817	8,457
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current debt	403	251
Accounts payable	1,016	757
Other current liabilities	921	901
Liabilities held for sale	141
Total Current Liabilities	2,481	1,909
Long-Term Debt	532	241
Deferred Income Taxes	2,333	362
Other Liabilities	978	282
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	13,479	5,631
Noncontrolling Interests	14	32
Total Shareholders’ Equity	13,493	5,663
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	19,817	8,457
Eliminations [Member]
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0	0	0
Accounts receivable, net	0	0
Inventories	0	0
Other current assets	(120)	(411)
Assets held for sale	0
Total Current Assets	(120)	(411)
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	0	0
Goodwill	0	0
Intangible Assets	0	0
Other Assets	(55)	(821)
Investment in Subsidiaries	(22,894)	(14,010)
Total Assets	(23,069)	(15,242)
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current debt	0	(327)
Accounts payable	0	0
Other current liabilities	(4,667)	(4,588)
Liabilities held for sale	0
Total Current Liabilities	(4,667)	(4,915)
Long-Term Debt	(55)	(795)
Deferred Income Taxes	0	0
Other Liabilities	0	(26)
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	(18,347)	(9,506)
Noncontrolling Interests	0	0
Total Shareholders’ Equity	(18,347)	(9,506)
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	$ (23,069)	$ (15,242)

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Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Sales	$ 10,105	$ 9,682	$ 9,032	$ 8,761	$ 8,894	$ 8,731	$ 8,383	$ 8,366	$ 37,580	$ 34,374	$ 33,055
Gross profit	712	637	651	685	669	682	468	539	2,685	2,358	2,190
Operating Income	306	351	361	412	416	419	236	304	1,430	1,375	1,286
Net income	136	258	210	252	259	245	106	168	856	778	576
Net Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson	137	260	213	254	261	253	157	177	864	848	621
Net Loss from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson					0	(4)	(62)	(4)	0	(70)	(38)
Net Income Attributable to Tyson	$ 137	$ 260	$ 213	$ 254	$ 261	$ 249	$ 95	$ 173	$ 864	$ 778	$ 583
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson - Diluted	$ 0.35	$ 0.73	$ 0.60	$ 0.72	$ 0.70	$ 0.69	$ 0.43	$ 0.49	$ 2.37	$ 2.31	$ 1.68
Net Loss Per Share from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson - Diluted					$ 0.00	$ (0.01)	$ (0.17)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ (0.19)	$ (0.10)
Diluted (USD per share)	$ 0.35	$ 0.73	$ 0.60	$ 0.72	$ 0.70	$ 0.68	$ 0.26	$ 0.48	$ 2.37	$ 2.12	$ 1.58
Class A [Member]
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson - Basic	$ 0.37	$ 0.75	$ 0.64	$ 0.76	$ 0.77	$ 0.73	$ 0.45	$ 0.51	$ 2.48	$ 2.46	$ 1.75
Net Loss Per Share from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson - Basic					$ 0.00	$ (0.01)	$ (0.18)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ (0.20)	$ (0.11)
Basic (USD per share)	$ 0.37	$ 0.75	$ 0.64	$ 0.76	$ 0.77	$ 0.72	$ 0.27	$ 0.50	$ 2.48	$ 2.26	$ 1.64
Class B [Member]
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson - Basic	$ 0.32	$ 0.68	$ 0.58	$ 0.68	$ 0.70	$ 0.66	$ 0.40	$ 0.46	$ 2.26	$ 2.22	$ 1.57
Net Loss Per Share from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson - Basic					$ 0.00	$ (0.02)	$ (0.15)	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ (0.18)	$ (0.09)
Basic (USD per share)	$ 0.32	$ 0.68	$ 0.58	$ 0.68	$ 0.70	$ 0.64	$ 0.25	$ 0.45	$ 2.26	$ 2.04	$ 1.48

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Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Oct. 25, 2014 Class A [Member]	Mar. 29, 2014 Class A [Member]	Oct. 25, 2014 Class B [Member]	Mar. 29, 2014 Class B [Member]
Entity Registrant Name	TYSON FOODS INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000100493
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-27
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Sep. 27, 2014
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		305,656,663		70,010,805
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 11,778,761,908		$ 466,236

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Valuation And Qualifying Accounts (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	$ 46	$ 33	$ 31
Charged to Costs and Expenses	5	17	7
Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	0
(Deductions)	(17)	(4)	(5)
Balance at End of Period	34	46	33
Inventory Lower of Cost or Market Allowance [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	16	24	6
Charged to Costs and Expenses	14	49	52
Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	0
(Deductions)	(23)	(57)	(34)
Balance at End of Period	7	16	24
Valuation Allowance on Deferred Tax Assets [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	77	78	92
Charged to Costs and Expenses	26	8	16
Charged to Other Accounts	13	0	0
(Deductions)	(65)	(9)	(30)
Balance at End of Period	$ 51	$ 77	$ 78

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Earnings Per Share

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

EARNINGS PER SHARE

The earnings and weighted average common shares used in the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:

	in millions, except per share data
	2014			2013		2012
Numerator:
Income from continuing operations	$	856		$	848	$	614
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(8		)	—		(7		)
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	864			848		621
Less dividends declared:
Class A	94			87		47
Class B	21			19		10
Undistributed earnings	$	749		$	742	$	564
Class A undistributed earnings	$	612		$	606	$	464
Class B undistributed earnings	137			136		100
Total undistributed earnings	$	749		$	742	$	564
Denominator:
Denominator for basic earnings per share:
Class A weighted average shares	284			282		293
Class B weighted average shares, and shares under if-converted method for diluted earnings per share	70			70		70
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options and restricted stock	5			5		4
Tangible Equity Units	1			—		—
Convertible 2013 Notes	—			7		3
Warrants	4			3		—
Denominator for diluted earnings per share – adjusted weighted average shares and assumed conversions	364			367		370
Net Income Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	2.48		$	2.46	$	1.75
Class B Basic	$	2.26		$	2.22	$	1.57
Diluted	$	2.37		$	2.31	$	1.68
Net Income Per Share Attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	2.48		$	2.26	$	1.64
Class B Basic	$	2.26		$	2.04	$	1.48
Diluted	$	2.37		$	2.12	$	1.58

We had approximately 4 million of our stock-based compensation shares that were antidilutive for fiscal 2014, no stock-based compensation shares that were antidilutive for fiscal 2013 and approximately 4 million of our stock-based compensation shares that were antidilutive for fiscal 2012. These shares were not included in the dilutive earnings per share calculation.

We have two classes of capital stock, Class A stock and Class B stock. Cash dividends cannot be paid to holders of Class B stock unless they are simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. The per share amount of cash dividends paid to holders of Class B stock cannot exceed 90% of the cash dividends paid to holders of Class A stock.

We allocate undistributed earnings based upon a 1 to 0.9 ratio per share to Class A stock and Class B stock, respectively. We allocate undistributed earnings based on this ratio due to historical dividend patterns, voting control of Class B shareholders and contractual limitations of dividends to Class B stock.

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Pretax Impact Of Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instruments On The Consolidated Statements Of Income) (Details) (Cash Flow Hedge [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives	$ (8)	$ (31)	$ 16
Gain/(Loss) Reclassified from OCI to Earnings	(10)	(9)	(12)
Commodity Contracts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives	(7)	(29)	24
Commodity Contracts [Member] | Cost of Sales [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Reclassified from OCI to Earnings	(10)	(5)	(16)
Foreign Currency [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives	(1)	(2)	(8)
Foreign Currency [Member] | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Reclassified from OCI to Earnings	$ 0	$ (4)	$ 4

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Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Fair Value And Carrying Value Of Debt) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 8,347	$ 2,541
Total Debt, Carrying Value	$ 8,178	$ 2,408

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 438	$ 1,145
Accounts receivable, net	1,684	1,497
Inventories	3,274	2,817
Other current assets	379	145
Assets held for sale	446	0
Total Current Assets	6,221	5,604
Net Property, Plant and Equipment	5,130	4,053
Goodwill	6,706	1,902
Intangible Assets	5,276	138
Other Assets	623	480
Total Assets	23,956	12,177
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current debt	643	513
Accounts payable	1,806	1,359
Other current liabilities	1,207	1,138
Liabilities held for sale	141	0
Total Current Liabilities	3,797	3,010
Long-Term Debt	7,535	1,895
Deferred Income Taxes	2,450	479
Other Liabilities	1,270	560
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 20)
Shareholders' Equity:
Capital in excess of par value	4,257	2,292
Retained earnings	5,748	4,999
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(147)	(108)
Treasury stock, at cost - 40 million shares in 2014 and 48 million shares in 2013	(1,010)	(1,021)
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	8,890	6,201
Noncontrolling Interests	14	32
Total Shareholders’ Equity	8,904	6,233
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity	23,956	12,177
Class A [Member]
Shareholders' Equity:
Common stock ($0.10 par value):	35	32
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	35	32
Class B [Member]
Shareholders' Equity:
Common stock ($0.10 par value):	7	7
Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity	$ 7	$ 7

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Property, Plant And Equipment

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract]

Property, Plant And Equipment

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

The following table reflects major categories of property, plant and equipment and accumulated depreciation at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

	in millions
	2014		2013
Land	$	126	$	100
Building and leasehold improvements	3,501		2,945
Machinery and equipment	6,144		5,504
Land improvements and other	276		417
Buildings and equipment under construction	334		236
	10,381		9,202
Less accumulated depreciation	5,251		5,149
Net property, plant and equipment	$	5,130	$	4,053

Approximately $661 million will be required to complete buildings and equipment under construction at September 27, 2014.

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Discontinued Operation

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]

Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]

DISCONTINUED OPERATION

After conducting an assessment during fiscal 2013 of our long-term business strategy in China, we determined our Weifang operation (Weifang), which was previously part of our Chicken segment, was no longer core to the execution of our strategy given the capital investment it required to execute our future business plan. Consequently, we conducted an impairment test and recorded a $56 million impairment charge in the second quarter of fiscal 2013. We subsequently sold Weifang which resulted in reporting it as a discontinued operation. The sale was completed in July 2013 and did not result in a significant gain or loss as its carrying value approximated the sales proceeds at the time of sale. Weifang's prior periods results, including the impairment charge, have been reclassified and presented as a discontinued operation in our Consolidated Statements of Income. The following is a summary of the discontinued operation's results:

						in millions
	2014		2013			2012
Sales	$	—	$	108		$	223
Pretax loss	—		(68		)	(38		)
Income tax expense	—		2			—
Loss from discontinued operation, net of tax	$	—	$	(70	)	$	(38	)

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Comprehensive Income (Loss)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:

				in millions
	2014			2013
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes:
Unrealized net hedging gain (loss)	$	(3	)	$	(4	)
Unrealized net gain (loss) on investments	2			(2		)
Currency translation adjustment	(99		)	(69		)
Postretirement benefits reserve adjustments	(47		)	(33		)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(147	)	$	(108	)

The before and after tax changes in the components of other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

																			in millions
	2014									2013									2012
	Before Tax			Tax			After Tax			Before Tax			Tax			After Tax			Before Tax			Tax			After Tax
Derivatives accounted for as cash flow hedges:
(Gain) loss reclassified to Cost of Sales	$	10		$	(4	)	$	6		$	5		$	(2	)	$	3		$	16		$	(7	)	$	9
(Gain) loss reclassified to Other Income/Expense	—			—			—			4			(2		)	2			(4		)	2			(2		)
Unrealized gain (loss)	(8		)	3			(5		)	(31		)	12			(19		)	16			(6		)	10
Investments:
(Gain) loss reclassified to Other Income/Expense	8			(2		)	6			(1		)	—			(1		)	—			—			—
Unrealized gain (loss)	(2		)	—			(2		)	(4		)	2			(2		)	—			—			—
Currency translation:
Translation gain reclassified to Other Income/Expense	—			—			—			(19		)	(1		)	(20		)	—			—			—
Translation adjustment	(32		)	2			(30		)	(20		)	3			(17		)	2			1			3
Postretirement benefits	(23		)	9			(14		)	15			(6		)	9			(6		)	2			(4		)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$	(47	)	$	8		$	(39	)	$	(51	)	$	6		$	(45	)	$	24		$	(8	)	$	16

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Derivative Financial Instruments

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Derivative Financial Instruments

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Our business operations give rise to certain market risk exposures mostly due to changes in commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. We manage a portion of these risks through the use of derivative financial instruments, primarily futures and options, to reduce our exposure to commodity price risk, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk. Forwards on various commodities, including grains, livestock and energy, are primarily entered into to manage the price risk associated with forecasted purchases of these inputs used in our production processes. Foreign exchange forward contracts are entered into to manage the fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, primarily as a result of certain receivable and payable balances. We also periodically utilize interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risk associated with our variable-rate borrowings.

Our risk management programs are periodically reviewed by our Board of Directors’ Audit Committee. These programs are monitored by senior management and may be revised as market conditions dictate. Our current risk management programs utilize industry-standard models that take into account the implicit cost of hedging. Risks associated with our market risks and those created by derivative instruments and the fair values are strictly monitored, using Value-at-Risk and stress tests. Credit risks associated with our derivative contracts are not significant as we minimize counterparty concentrations, utilize margin accounts or letters of credit, and deal with credit-worthy counterparties. Additionally, our derivative contracts are mostly short-term in duration and we generally do not make use of credit-risk-related contingent features. No significant concentrations of credit risk existed at September 27, 2014.

We recognize all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the exception of normal purchases and normal sales expected to result in physical delivery. The accounting for changes in the fair value (i.e., gains or losses) of a derivative instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship and the type of hedging relationship. For those derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments, we designate the hedging instrument based upon the exposure being hedged (i.e., cash flow hedge or fair value hedge). We qualify, or designate, a derivative financial instrument as a hedge when contract terms closely mirror those of the hedged item, providing a high degree of risk reduction and correlation. If a derivative instrument is accounted for as a hedge, depending on the nature of the hedge, changes in the fair value of the instrument either will be offset against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments through earnings, or be recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of an instrument’s change in fair value is recognized in earnings immediately. We designate certain forward contracts as follows:

• Cash Flow Hedges – include certain commodity forward and option contracts of forecasted purchases (i.e., grains) and certain foreign exchange forward contracts.

• Fair Value Hedges – include certain commodity forward contracts of firm commitments (i.e., livestock).

Cash flow hedges

Derivative instruments, such as futures and options, are designated as hedges against changes in the amount of future cash flows related to procurement of certain commodities utilized in our production processes. We do not purchase forward and option commodity contracts in excess of our physical consumption requirements and generally do not hedge forecasted transactions beyond 18 months. The objective of these hedges is to reduce the variability of cash flows associated with the forecasted purchase of those commodities. For the derivative instruments we designate and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of OCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Gains and losses representing hedge ineffectiveness are recognized in earnings in the current period. Ineffectiveness related to our cash flow hedges was not significant during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

We had the following aggregated notional values of outstanding forward and option contracts accounted for as cash flow hedges:

		in millions, except soy meal tons
	Metric	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Corn	Bushels	—		5
Soy Meal	Tons	2,300		96,800
Foreign Currency	United States dollar	$	1	$	60

As of September 27, 2014, the net amounts expected to be reclassified into earnings within the next 12 months are pretax losses of $4 million related to grain. During fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, we did not reclassify significant pretax gains/losses into earnings as a result of the discontinuance of cash flow hedges due to the probability the original forecasted transaction would not occur by the end of the originally specified time period or within the additional period of time allowed by generally accepted accounting principles.

The following table sets forth the pretax impact of cash flow hedge derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Income:

														in millions
	Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives									Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	Gain/(Loss) Reclassified from OCI to Earnings
	2014			2013			2012				2014			2013			2012
Cash Flow Hedge – Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	(7	)	$	(29	)	$	24		Cost of Sales	$	(10	)	$	(5	)	$	(16	)
Foreign exchange contracts	(1		)	(2		)	(8		)	Other Income/Expense	—			(4		)	4
Total	$	(8	)	$	(31	)	$	16			$	(10	)	$	(9	)	$	(12	)

Fair value hedges

We designate certain futures contracts as fair value hedges of firm commitments to purchase livestock for slaughter. Our objective of these hedges is to minimize the risk of changes in fair value created by fluctuations in commodity prices associated with fixed price livestock firm commitments. We had the following aggregated notional values of outstanding forward contracts entered into to hedge firm commitments which are accounted for as a fair value hedge:

			in millions
	Metric	September 27, 2014	September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Live Cattle	Pounds	427	209
Lean Hogs	Pounds	329	384

For these derivative instruments we designate and qualify as a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative, as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk, are recognized in earnings in the same period. We include the gain or loss on the hedged items (i.e., livestock purchase firm commitments) in the same line item, Cost of Sales, as the offsetting gain or loss on the related livestock forward position.

		in millions
	Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	2014			2013			2012
Gain/(Loss) on forwards	Cost of Sales	$	(154	)	$	21		$	47
Gain/(Loss) on purchase contract	Cost of Sales	154			(21		)	(47		)

Ineffectiveness related to our fair value hedges was not significant during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012.

Undesignated positions

In addition to our designated positions, we also hold forward and option contracts for which we do not apply hedge accounting. These include certain derivative instruments related to commodities price risk, including grains, livestock, energy and foreign currency risk. We mark these positions to fair value through earnings at each reporting date. We generally do not enter into undesignated positions beyond 18 months.

The objective of our undesignated grains, livestock and energy commodity positions is to reduce the variability of cash flows associated with the forecasted purchase of certain grains, energy and livestock inputs to our production processes. We also enter into certain forward sales of boxed beef and boxed pork and forward purchases of cattle and hogs at fixed prices. The fixed price sales contracts lock in the proceeds from a future sale and the fixed cattle and hog purchases lock in the cost. However, the cost of the livestock and the related boxed beef and boxed pork market prices at the time of the sale or purchase could vary from this fixed price. As we enter into fixed forward sales of boxed beef and boxed pork and forward purchases of cattle and hogs, we also enter into the appropriate number of livestock options and futures positions to mitigate a portion of this risk. Changes in market value of the open livestock options and futures positions are marked to market and reported in earnings at each reporting date, even though the economic impact of our fixed prices being above or below the market price is only realized at the time of sale or purchase. These positions generally do not qualify for hedge treatment due to location basis differences between the commodity exchanges and the actual locations when we purchase the commodities.

We have a foreign currency cash flow hedging program to hedge portions of forecasted transactions denominated in foreign currencies, primarily with forward and option contracts, to protect against the reduction in value of forecasted foreign currency cash flows. Our undesignated foreign currency positions generally would qualify for cash flow hedge accounting. However, to reduce earnings volatility, we normally will not elect hedge accounting treatment when the position provides an offset to the underlying related transaction that impacts current earnings.

We had the following aggregate outstanding notional values related to our undesignated positions:

		in millions, except soy meal tons
	Metric	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Corn	Bushels	—		69
Soy Meal	Tons	195,800		204,600
Soy Oil	Pounds	3		11
Live Cattle	Pounds	22		60
Lean Hogs	Pounds	22		159
Foreign Currency	United States dollars	$	108	$	95

The following table sets forth the pretax impact of the undesignated derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Income:

		in millions
	Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Earnings
		2014			2013			2012
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	Sales	$	75		$	(10	)	$	(10	)
Commodity contracts	Cost of Sales	(136		)	(24		)	51
Foreign exchange contracts	Other Income/Expense	—			2			—
Total		$	(61	)	$	(32	)	$	41

The following table sets forth the fair value of all derivative instruments outstanding in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	in millions
	Fair Value
	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Derivative Assets:
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	17	$	4
Foreign exchange contracts	—		1
Total derivative assets – designated	17		5
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	42		25
Foreign exchange contracts	—		2
Total derivative assets – not designated	42		27
Total derivative assets	$	59	$	32
Derivative Liabilities:
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	78	$	29
Foreign exchange contracts	—		—
Total derivative liabilities – designated	78		29
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	80		72
Foreign exchange contracts	2		1
Total derivative liabilities – not designated	82		73
Total derivative liabilities	$	160	$	102

Our derivative assets and liabilities are presented in our Consolidated Balance Sheets on a net basis. We net derivative assets and liabilities, including cash collateral when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the counterparty to a derivative contract and us. See Note 13: Fair Value Measurements for a reconciliation to amounts reported in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Other current assets and Other current liabilities.

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Pretax Impact Of Undesignated Derivative Instruments On The Consolidated Statements Of Income) (Details) (Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Earnings	$ (61)	$ (32)	$ 41
Commodity Contracts [Member] | Sales [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Earnings	75	(10)	(10)
Commodity Contracts [Member] | Cost of Sales [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Earnings	(136)	(24)	51
Foreign Currency [Member] | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Earnings	$ 0	$ 2	$ 0

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Equity

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Equity [Abstract]

Equity

EQUITY

Capital Stock

We have two classes of capital stock, Class A stock, $0.10 par value and Class B Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class B stock). Holders of Class B stock may convert such stock into Class A stock on a share-for-share basis. Holders of Class B stock are entitled to 10 votes per share, while holders of Class A stock are entitled to one vote per share on matters submitted to shareholders for approval. As of September 27, 2014, Tyson Limited Partnership (the TLP) owned 99.985% of the outstanding shares of Class B stock and the TLP and members of the Tyson family owned, in the aggregate, 1.78% of the outstanding shares of Class A stock, giving them, collectively, control of approximately 70.14% of the total voting power of the outstanding voting stock.

The Class B stock is considered a participating security requiring the use of the two-class method for the computation of basic earnings per share. The two-class computation method for each period reflects the cash dividends paid for each class of stock, plus the amount of allocated undistributed earnings (losses) computed using the participation percentage, which reflects the dividend rights of each class of stock. Basic earnings per share were computed using the two-class method for all periods presented. The shares of Class B stock are considered to be participating convertible securities since the shares of Class B stock are convertible on a share-for-share basis into shares of Class A stock. Diluted earnings per share were computed assuming the conversion of the Class B shares into Class A shares as of the beginning of each period.

Dividends

Cash dividends cannot be paid to holders of Class B stock unless they are simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. The per share amount of the cash dividend paid to holders of Class B stock cannot exceed 90% of the cash dividend simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. We pay quarterly cash dividends to Class A and Class B shareholders. We paid Class A dividends per share of $0.30 and Class B dividends per share of $0.27 in fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively. Fiscal 2013 included a special dividend of $0.10 per share for Class A stock and $0.09 per share for Class B. We paid Class A dividends per share of $0.16 and Class B dividends per share of $0.144 in fiscal 2012. On November 13, 2014, the Board of Directors increased the quarterly dividend previously declared on July 30, 2014, to $0.10 per share on our Class A stock and $0.09 per share on our Class B stock. The increased quarterly dividend is payable on December 15, 2014, to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 1, 2014.

Share Repurchases

On January 30, 2014, our Board of Directors approved an increase of 25 million shares authorized for repurchase under our share repurchase program. As of September 27, 2014, 32.1 million shares remained available for repurchase. The share repurchase program has no fixed or scheduled termination date and the timing and extent to which we repurchase shares will depend upon, among other things, our working capital needs, market conditions, liquidity targets, our debt obligations and regulatory requirements. In addition to the share repurchase program, we purchase shares on the open market to fund certain obligations under our equity compensation plans.

A summary of cumulative share repurchases of our Class A Stock is as follows:

							in millions
	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013			September 29, 2012
	Shares	Dollars		Shares	Dollars		Shares	Dollars
Shares repurchased:
Under share repurchase program	7.1	$	250	21.1	$	550	12.5	$	230
To fund certain obligations under equity compensation plans	1.2	45		2.8	64		1.8	34
Total share repurchases	8.3	$	295	23.9	$	614	14.3	$	264

Share Issuance

In fiscal 2014, we issued 23.8 million shares of our Class A stock, to provide funding for the Hillshire Brands acquisition. Total proceeds, net of underwriting discounts and other offering related fees and expenses were $873 million.

Tangible Equity Units

In July 2014, we completed the public issuance of 30 million, 4.75% tangible equity units (TEUs). Total proceeds, net of underwriting discounts and other expenses, were $1,454 million. Each TEU, which has a stated amount of $50, is comprised of a prepaid stock purchase contract and a senior amortizing note due July 15, 2017. We allocated the proceeds from the issuance of the TEUs to equity and debt based on the relative fair values of the respective components of each TEU. The fair value of the prepaid stock purchase contracts, which was $1,295 million, is recorded in Capital in Excess of Par Value, net of issuance costs. The fair value of the senior amortizing notes, which was $205 million, is recorded in debt, of which $65 million is current. Issuance costs associated with the TEU debt was recorded as deferred financing costs in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in Other Assets and is amortized over the term of the instrument to July 15, 2017.

The aggregate values assigned upon issuance of each component of the TEU's, based on the relative fair value of the respective components of each TEU, were as follows:

				in millions, except price per TEU
	Equity Component			Debt Component			Total
Price per TEU	$	43.17		$	6.83		$	50.00
Gross Proceeds	1,295			205			1,500
Issuance cost	(40		)	(6		)	(46		)
Net proceeds	$	1,255		$	199		$	1,454

Each senior amortizing note has an initial principal amount of $6.83 and bears interest at 1.5% per annum. On each January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15, commencing on October 15, 2014, we will pay equal quarterly cash installments of $0.59 per amortizing note (except for the October 15, 2014 installment payment, which will be $0.46 per amortizing note), which cash payment in the aggregate (principal and interest) is equivalent to 4.75% per year with respect to the $50 stated amount per TEU. Each installment will constitute a payment of interest and partial repayment of principal. Unless settled earlier at the holder's or the Company's option, each purchase contract will automatically settle on July 15, 2017, subject to postponement in certain limited circumstances. We will deliver between a minimum of 31.7 million shares and a maximum of 39.7 million shares of our Class A stock, subject to adjustment, based upon the Applicable Market Value (as defined below) of our Class A stock as described below:

• If the Applicable Market Value is equal to or greater than the conversion price of $47.25 per share, we will deliver 1.0582 shares of Class A stock per purchase contract, or a minimum of 31.7 million Class A shares.

• If the Applicable Market Value is greater than the reference price of $37.80 but less than the conversion price of $47.25 per share, we will deliver a number of shares per purchase contract equal to $50, divided by the Applicable Market Value.

• If the Applicable Market Value is less than or equal to the reference price of $37.80 per share, we will deliver 1.3228 shares of Class A stock per purchase contract, or a maximum of 39.7 million Class A shares.

The "Applicable Market Value" means the average of the closing prices of our Class A stock on each of the 20 consecutive trading days beginning on, and including, the 23rd scheduled trading day immediately preceding July 15, 2017.

The TEUs have a dilutive effect on our earnings per share. The 31.7 million minimum shares to be issued are included in the calculation of Class A Basic weighted average shares. The 8 million share difference between the minimum shares and the 39.7 million maximum shares are potentially dilutive securities, and accordingly, are included in our diluted earnings per share on a pro rata basis to the extent the Applicable Market Value is higher than the reference price but is less than the conversion price.

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Discontinued Operation (Summary of Discontinued Operation's Results) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	$ 0	$ (70)	$ (38)
Weifang Operation [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Sales	0	108	223
Pretax loss	0	(68)	(38)
Income tax expense	0	(2)	0
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	$ 0	$ (70)	$ (38)

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Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Components Of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), Before Tax	$ (47)	$ (51)	$ 24
Other comprehensive income (loss), Income Tax	8	6	(8)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Taxes	(39)	(45)	16
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax	(8)	(31)	16
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Tax	3	12	(6)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax	(5)	(19)	10
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Cost of Sales [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	10	5	16
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Tax	(4)	(2)	(7)
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax	6	3	9
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	0	4	(4)
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Tax	0	(2)	2
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax	0	2	(2)
Investments [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax	(2)	(4)	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Tax	0	2	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax	(2)	(2)	0
Investments [Member] | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	8	(1)	0
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Tax	(2)	0	0
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax	6	(1)	0
Currency Translation [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, before Tax	(32)	(20)	2
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Tax	2	3	1
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax	(30)	(17)	3
Currency Translation [Member] | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax	0	(19)	0
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Tax	0	(1)	0
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax	0	(20)	0
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss), Before Tax	(23)	15	(6)
Other comprehensive income (loss), Income Tax	9	(6)	2
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Taxes	$ (14)	$ 9	$ (4)

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Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The following table reflects goodwill activity for fiscal 2014 and 2013:

in millions
	Chicken			Beef			Pork		Prepared Foods			International			Unallocated		Consolidated
Balance at September 29, 2012
Goodwill	$	909		$	1,123		$	317	$	63		$	68		$	—	$	2,480
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(29		)	—		(589		)
	909			563			317		63			39			—		1,891
Fiscal 2013 Activity:
Acquisition	—			—			—		12			—			—		12
Impairment losses	—			—			—		—			—			—		—
Currency translation and other	(1		)	—			—		—			—			—		(1		)
Balance at September 28, 2013
Goodwill	908			1,123			317		75			68			—		2,491
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(29		)	—		(589		)
	$	908		$	563		$	317	$	75		$	39		$	—	$	1,902
Fiscal 2014 Activity:
Acquisition	$	—		$	—		$	—	$	18		$	5		$	4,804	$	4,827
Reclass to assets held for sale	—			—			—		—			(16		)	—		(16		)
Impairment losses	—			—			—		—			(5		)	—		(5		)
Currency translation and other	(1		)	—			—		(1		)	—			—		(2		)
Balance at September 27, 2014
Goodwill	907			1,123			317		92			57			4,804		7,300
Accumulated impairment losses	—			(560		)	—		—			(34		)	—		(594		)
	$	907		$	563		$	317	$	92		$	23		$	4,804	$	6,706

On August 28, 2014, we acquired and consolidated Hillshire Brands. The unallocated portion of goodwill is attributable to our acquisition of Hillshire Brands. The allocation of goodwill to our reportable segments is pending finalization of the expected synergies and the impact of the synergies to our reporting units.

The following table reflects other intangible assets by type at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

in millions
	2014		2013
Amortizable intangible assets:
Brands and trademarks	$	611	$	69
Customer relationships	570		12
Patents, intellectual property and other	136		140
Non-compete agreements	6		—
Land use rights	8		8
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	$	1,331	$	229
Less accumulated amortization	133		107
Total net amortizable intangible assets	$	1,198	$	122
Brands and trademarks not subject to amortization	4,078		16
Total intangible assets	$	5,276	$	138

Beginning with the date benefits are realized, amortizable intangible assets are generally amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated period of benefit of 20 years or less. Amortization expense of $26 million, $17 million and $16 million was recognized during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We estimate amortization expense on intangible assets for the next five fiscal years subsequent to September 27, 2014, will be: 2015 - $94 million; 2016 - $85 million; 2017 - $80 million; 2018 - $79 million; 2019 - $75 million.

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Debt

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Debt Instruments [Abstract]

Debt

DEBT

The following table reflects major components of debt as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013:

				in millions
	2014			2013
Revolving credit facility	$	—		$	—
Senior notes:
3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 (2013 Notes)	—			458
2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 (2015 Notes)	407			—
6.60% Senior notes due April 2016 (2016 Notes)	638			638
7.00% Notes due May 2018	120			120
2.65% Notes due August 2019 (2019 Notes)	1,000			—
4.10% Notes due September 2020 (2020 Notes)	287			—
4.50% Senior notes due June 2022 (2022 Notes)	1,000			1,000
3.95% Notes due August 2024 (2024 Notes)	1,250			—
7.00% Notes due January 2028	18			18
6.13% Notes due November 2032 (2032 Notes)	164			—
4.88% Notes due August 2034 (2034 Notes)	500			—
5.15% Notes due August 2044 (2044 Notes)	500			—
Discount on senior notes	(12		)	(6		)
Term loan facility:
3-year tranche	1,172			—
5-year tranche A	353			—
5-year tranche B	552			—
Amortizing Notes - Tangible Equity Units (see Note 8: Equity)	205			—
GO Zone tax-exempt bonds	—			100
Other	24			80
Total debt	8,178			2,408
Less current debt	643			513
Total long-term debt	$	7,535		$	1,895

Annual maturities of debt for the five fiscal years subsequent to September 27, 2014, are: 2015 - $644 million; 2016 - $885 million; 2017 - $1,059 million; 2018 - $176 million; 2019 - $1,688 million.

Revolving Credit Facility

In September 2014, we amended our existing credit facility which, among other things, increased our line of credit from $1.0 billion to $1.25 billion. The facility supports short-term funding needs and letters of credit and will mature with the commitments thereunder terminating in September 2019. After reducing the amount available by outstanding letters of credit issued under this facility, the amount available for borrowing at September 27, 2014, was $1,209 million. At September 27, 2014, we had outstanding letters of credit issued under this facility totaling $41 million, none of which were drawn upon. We had an additional $105 million of bilateral letters of credit issued separately from the revolving credit facility, none of which were drawn upon. Our letters of credit are issued primarily in support of workers’ compensation insurance programs and derivative activities.

The revolving credit facility is unsecured and is fully guaranteed by Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc. (TFM Parent), our wholly owned subsidiary, until such date TFM Parent is released from all of its guarantees of other material indebtedness. If in the future any of our other subsidiaries shall guarantee any of our material indebtedness, such subsidiary shall also be required to guarantee the indebtedness, obligations and liabilities under this facility.

2013 Notes

In September 2008, we issued $458 million principal amount 3.25% convertible senior unsecured notes due October 15, 2013. In connection with the issuance of the 2013 Notes, we entered into separate call option and warrant transactions with respect to our Class A stock to minimize the potential economic dilution upon conversion of the 2013 Notes. The call options contractually expired upon the maturity of the 2013 Notes. The 2013 Notes matured on October 15, 2013 at which time we paid the $458 million principal value with cash on hand and settled the conversion premium by issuing 11.7 million shares of our Class A stock from available treasury shares. Simultaneously with the settlement of the conversion premium, we received 11.7 million shares of our Class A stock from the call options.

The warrants were settled on various dates in fiscal 2014 resulting in the issuance of 11.7 million shares of Class A stock.

2016 Notes

The 2016 Notes carry an interest rate at issuance of 6.60%, with an interest step up feature dependent on their credit rating. On June 7, 2012, Moody's upgraded the credit rating of these notes from "Ba1" to "Baa3." This upgrade decreased the interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 6.85% to 6.60%, effective beginning with the six-month interest payment due October 1, 2012.

On February 11, 2013, S&P upgraded the credit rating of the 2016 Notes from "BBB-" to "BBB." This upgrade did not impact the interest rate on the 2016 Notes.

2019 / 2024 / 2034 / 2044 Notes

In August 2014, we issued senior unsecured notes with an aggregate principal amount of $3,250 million, consisting of $1,000 million due August 2019, $1,250 million due August 2024, $500 million due August 2034, and $500 million due August 2044. The 2019 Notes, 2024 Notes, 2034 Notes, and 2044 Notes carry interest rates of 2.65%, 3.95%, 4.88% and 5.15%, respectively, with interest payments due semi-annually on August 15 and February 15. After the original issue discounts of $7 million, we received net proceeds of $3,243 million. In addition, we incurred offering expenses of $27 million.

2022 Notes

In June 2012, we issued $1.0 billion of senior unsecured notes, which will mature in June 2022. The 2022 Notes carry a 4.50% interest rate, with interest payments due semi-annually on June 15 and December 15. After the original issue discount of $5 million, based on an issue price of 99.458%, we received net proceeds of $995 million. In addition, we incurred offering expenses of $9 million.

Term Loan Facility

In August 2014, we borrowed under our unsecured term loan facility, which provided for total term loans in an aggregate principal amount of $2,300 million, consisting of a $1,202 million3-year tranche facility, a $546 million5-year tranche A facility, and a $552 million5-year tranche B facility. The principal of the 3-year tranche facility and the 5-year tranche A facility each amortize at 2.5% per quarter. In addition, we incurred term loan issuance costs of approximately $11 million.

2015 / 2020 / 2032 Notes

In August 2014 and in connection with our acquisition of Hillshire Brands, we assumed $840 million of Hillshire Brands' debt, which had an estimated fair value of approximately $868 million as of the acquisition date. We recorded the assumed debt at fair value. This fair value adjustment will be amortized as a reduction of interest expense in future periods. The debt assumed is mainly comprised of senior unsecured notes which consist of $400 million due September 2015, $278 million due September 2020, and $152 million due November 2032. The 2015 Notes, 2020 Notes, and the 2032 Notes carry interest rates of 2.75%, 4.10%, and 6.13%, respectively.

GO Zone Tax-Exempt Bonds

In October 2008, Dynamic Fuels received $100 million in proceeds from the sale of Gulf Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds made available by the federal government to the regions affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. As further described in Note 3: Acquisitions and Dispositions, we sold our interest in Dynamic Fuels in fiscal 2014, which resulted in the deconsolidation of its assets and liabilities, including these bonds.

Debt Covenants

Our revolving credit facility contains affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: create liens and encumbrances; incur debt; merge, dissolve, liquidate or consolidate; make acquisitions and investments; dispose of or transfer assets; change the nature of our business; engage in certain transactions with affiliates; and enter into hedging transactions, in each case, subject to certain qualifications and exceptions. In addition, we are required to maintain minimum interest expense coverage and maximum debt to capitalization ratios.

Our senior notes and term loans also contain affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: create liens; engage in certain sale/leaseback transactions; and engage in certain consolidations, mergers and sales of assets.

We were in compliance with all debt covenants at September 27, 2014.

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Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

INCOME TAXES

Detail of the provision for income taxes from continuing operations consists of the following:

							in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Federal	$	325		$	341		$	310
State	67			38			22
Foreign	4			30			19
	$	396		$	409		$	351
Current	$	501		$	421		$	211
Deferred	(105		)	(12		)	140
	$	396		$	409		$	351

The reasons for the difference between the statutory federal income tax rate and our effective income tax rate from continuing operations are as follows:

	2014		2013		2012
Federal income tax rate	35.0	%	35.0	%	35.0	%
State income taxes	2.8		2.4		1.5
Unrecognized tax benefits, net	(4.7	)	(0.2	)	0.6
Domestic production deduction	(4.0	)	(3.2	)	(1.8	)
Foreign rate differences and valuation allowances	2.8		0.3		1.8
Other	(0.3	)	(1.7	)	(0.7	)
	31.6	%	32.6	%	36.4	%

During fiscal 2014, the domestic production deduction and the decrease in unrecognized tax benefits decreased tax expense by $50 million and $58 million, respectively.

During fiscal 2013, the domestic production deduction and estimated general business credits decreased tax expense by $40 million and $17 million, respectively.

During fiscal 2012, foreign valuation allowances increased tax expense by $10 million, and the domestic production deduction decreased tax expense by $17 million.

Approximately $18 million of loss and $53 million and $2 million of income from continuing operations before income taxes for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were from operations based in countries other than the United States.

We recognize deferred income taxes for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.

The tax effects of major items recorded as deferred tax assets and liabilities as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, are as follows:

									in millions
	2014					2013
	Deferred Tax					Deferred Tax
	Assets			Liabilities		Assets			Liabilities
Property, plant and equipment	$	—		$	732	$	—		$	525
Suspended taxes from conversion to accrual method	—			66		—			71
Intangible assets	—			2,031		—			29
Inventory	24			121		8			110
Accrued expenses	474			—		209			—
Net operating loss and other carryforwards	96			—		77			—
Insurance reserves	21			—		22			—
Other	80			82		60			98
	$	695		$	3,032	$	376		$	833
Valuation allowance	$	(51	)			$	(77	)
Net deferred tax liability				$	2,388				$	534

We record deferred tax amounts in Other current assets, Other Assets, Other current liabilities and Deferred Income Taxes in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The deferred tax liability for suspended taxes from conversion to accrual method represents the 1987 change from the cash to accrual method of accounting and will be recognized by 2027.

The deferred tax liability for intangible assets increased over prior year due to the acquisition of Hillshire Brands.

At September 27, 2014, our gross state tax net operating loss carryforwards approximated $1.3 billion and expire in fiscal years 2015 through 2034. Gross foreign net operating loss carryforwards approximated $146 million, of which $50 million expire in fiscal years 2017 through 2024, and the remainder has no expiration. We also have tax credit carryforwards of approximately $25 million that expire in fiscal years 2015 through 2028.

We have accumulated undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries aggregating approximately $403 million and $351 million at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively. During fiscal 2014, the Company changed its permanent reinvestment assertion with respect to $183 million of earnings related to its poultry operations in Mexico and Brazil due to the planned sale of those operations and repatriation of the related proceeds, and as a result we recorded expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $17 million. With respect to the remaining $220 million of undistributed earnings for all other foreign subsidiaries at September 27, 2014, these earnings are expected to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States. If those earnings were distributed in the form of dividends or otherwise, we could be subject to federal income taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits), state income taxes and withholding taxes payable to the various foreign countries. It is not currently practicable to estimate the tax liability that might be payable on the repatriation of these foreign earnings.

The following table summarizes the activity related to our gross unrecognized tax benefits at September 27, 2014, September 28, 2013, and September 29, 2012:

							in millions
	2014			2013			2012
Balance as of the beginning of the year	$	175		$	168		$	174
Increases related to current year tax positions	11			3			3
Increases related to prior year tax positions	17			15			5
Increases related to Hillshire Brands balances	136			—			—
Reductions related to prior year tax positions	(20		)	(6		)	(10		)
Reductions related to settlements	(1		)	(2		)	(1		)
Reductions related to expirations of statute of limitations	(46		)	(3		)	(3		)
Balance as of the end of the year	$	272		$	175		$	168

The amount of unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, that would impact our effective tax rate was $241 million and $149 million at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively. We classify interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, before tax benefits, we had $54 million and $63 million, respectively, of accrued interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits.

As of September 27, 2014, we are subject to income tax examinations for U.S. federal income taxes for fiscal years 2011 through 2013. We are also subject to income tax examinations by major state and foreign jurisdictions for fiscal years 2005 through 2013 and 2002 through 2013, respectively. We estimate that during the next twelve months it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits could decrease by as much as $30 million primarily due to expiration of statutes in various jurisdictions.

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Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Other Intangible Assets By Type) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	$ 1,331	$ 229
Less accumulated amortization	133	107
Total net amortizable intangible assets	1,198	122
Brands and trademarks not subject to amortization	4,078	16
Total intangible assets	5,276	138
Brands and Trademarks [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	611	69
Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	570	12
Patents, Intellectual Property and Other [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	136	140
Non-compete Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	6	0
Land Use Rights [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	$ 8	$ 8

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Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Mar. 30, 2013 Weifang Operation [Member]	Mar. 30, 2013 Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Prepared Foods [Member] Facility Closing [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 International [Member] Chicken Production Operations in Brazil and Mexico [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Jun. 28, 2014 Operating Segments [Member] Prepared Foods [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Facilities	Sep. 27, 2014 Operating Segments [Member] Prepared Foods [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Facilities
Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items]
Acquisition fees paid to third parties											$ 29
Asset Impairment Charges									49				52
Plants Closed												3	3
Tax Expense Adjustment- related to tax contingencies	12	40
Asset impairment Charges and Undistributed Earnings Tax										42
Net Income, Adjustment Hillshire Brands acquisition, integration and cost associated with the Prepared Foods improvement plan	119
Net Income, Adjustment Hillshire Brands post- closing results, purchases price accounting adjustments and ongoing cost related to legacy Hillshire plant fire	40
Net income, adjustment Hillshire Brands acquisition financing incremental interest cost	27
Recognized currency translation adjustment gain							19	19
Asset Impairment Charges			$ 107	$ 74	$ 34	$ 56

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Fair Value Of All Derivative Instruments) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	$ 59	$ 32
Derivative Liabilities	160	102
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	17	5
Derivative Liabilities	78	29
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Commodity Contracts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	17	4
Derivative Liabilities	78	29
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Currency [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	0	1
Derivative Liabilities	0	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	42	27
Derivative Liabilities	82	73
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Commodity Contracts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	42	25
Derivative Liabilities	80	72
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Currency [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Assets	0	2
Derivative Liabilities	$ 2	$ 1

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Debt (Major Components Of Debt) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified																																		1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Jul. 31, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014 3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member]	Sep. 30, 2008 3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 2.75% Senior notes due September 2015 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 6.60% Senior Notes Due April 2016 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 6.60% Senior Notes Due April 2016 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2008 6.60% Senior Notes Due April 2016 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 7.00% Notes Due May 2018 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 7.00% Notes Due May 2018 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 2.65% Senior notes due August 2019 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 2.65% Senior notes due August 2019 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 4.10% Notes due September 2020 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 4.10% Notes due September 2020 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 4.10% Notes due September 2020 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 4.50% Senior Notes Due June 2022 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 4.50% Senior Notes Due June 2022 [Member]	Jun. 30, 2012 4.50% Senior Notes Due June 2022 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 3.95% Notes due August 2024 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 3.95% Notes due August 2024 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 7.00% Notes due January 2028 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 7.00% Notes due January 2028 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 6.13% Notes due November 2032 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 6.13% Notes due November 2032 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 6.13% Notes due November 2032 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 4.88% Notes due August 2034 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 4.88% Notes due August 2034 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 5.15% Notes due August 2044 [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 5.15% Notes due August 2044 [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 3-Year Tranche [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 3-Year Tranche [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 3-Year Tranche [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 5-Year Tranche A [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 5-Year Tranche A [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 5-Year Tranche A [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Aug. 31, 2014 5-Year Tranche B [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 5-Year Tranche B [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 5-Year Tranche B [Member] Term Loan [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 GO Zone tax-exempt bonds [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 GO Zone tax-exempt bonds [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility	$ 0		$ 0
Senior Notes				0	458		407		0	638	638		120	120	1,000	0	287		0	1,000	1,000		1,250	0	18	18	164		0	500	0	500	0		1,172	0		353	0		552	0
Discount on senior notes	(12)		(6)																			(5)
Amortizing Notes - Tangible Equity Units	205	65	0
GO Zone tax-exempt bonds																																											0	100
Other	24		80
Total debt	8,178		2,408
Less current debt	643		513
Total long-term debt	$ 7,535		$ 1,895
Stated interest rate				3.25%		3.25%	2.75%	2.75%		6.60%		6.60%	7.00%		2.65%		4.10%	4.10%		4.50%		4.50%	3.95%		7.00%		6.13%	6.13%		4.88%		5.15%
Debt Instrument, Term																																		3 years	3 years		5 years	5 years		5 years	5 years

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Health Care Cost Trend Rates) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
One Percentage Point Increase, Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	$ 17
One Percentage Point Decrease, Effect on postretirement benefit obligation	13
One Percentage Point Increase, Effect on total service and interest components	2
One Percentage Point Decrease, Effect on total service and interest components	$ 1

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Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Goodwill Activity) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	$ 2,491	$ 2,480
Accumulated impairment losses	(594)	(589)	(589)
Goodwill, net	6,706	1,902	1,891
Goodwill acquired	4,827	12
Reclass to assets held for sale	(16)
Impairment losses	(5)	0
Currency translation and other	(2)	(1)
Goodwill, end of period	7,300	2,491
Chicken [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	908	909
Accumulated impairment losses	0	0	0
Goodwill, net	907	908	909
Goodwill acquired	0	0
Reclass to assets held for sale	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Currency translation and other	(1)	(1)
Goodwill, end of period	907	908
Beef [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	1,123	1,123
Accumulated impairment losses	(560)	(560)	(560)
Goodwill, net	563	563	563
Goodwill acquired	0	0
Reclass to assets held for sale	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Currency translation and other	0	0
Goodwill, end of period	1,123	1,123
Pork [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	317	317
Accumulated impairment losses	0	0	0
Goodwill, net	317	317	317
Goodwill acquired	0	0
Reclass to assets held for sale	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Currency translation and other	0	0
Goodwill, end of period	317	317
Prepared Foods [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	75	63
Accumulated impairment losses	0	0	0
Goodwill, net	92	75	63
Goodwill acquired	18	12
Reclass to assets held for sale	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Currency translation and other	(1)	0
Goodwill, end of period	92	75
International [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	68	68
Accumulated impairment losses	(34)	(29)	(29)
Goodwill, net	23	39	39
Goodwill acquired	5	0
Impairment losses	(5)	0
Currency translation and other	0	0
Goodwill, end of period	57	68
Unallocated Goodwill [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning of period	0	0
Accumulated impairment losses	0	0	0
Goodwill, net	4,804	0	0
Goodwill acquired	4,804	0
Reclass to assets held for sale	0
Impairment losses	0	0
Currency translation and other	0	0
Goodwill, end of period	4,804	0
Chicken Production Operations in Brazil and Mexico [Member] | International [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Reclass to assets held for sale	$ (16)

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Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Stock Options) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Shares Under Option - Outstanding, September 28, 2013	13,912,168
Shares Under Option - Exercised	(4,168,070)
Shares Under Option - Canceled	(270,989)
Shares Under Option - Granted	4,251,300
Shares Under Option - Outstanding, September 27, 2014	13,724,409
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share - Outstanding, September 28, 2013	$ 16.59
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share - Exercised	$ 16.13
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share - Canceled	$ 23.79
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share - Granted	$ 31.82
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share - Outstanding, September 27, 2014	$ 21.30
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years) - Outstanding, September 27, 2014	7 years
Aggregate Intrinsic Value - Outstanding, September 27, 2014	$ 226
Shares Under Option - Exercisable, September 27, 2014	6,866,204
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share - Exercisable at September 27, 2014	$ 16.35
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years) - Exercisable, September 27, 2014	5 years 3 months
Aggregate Intrinsic Value - Exercisable, September 27, 2014	$ 147

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Discontinued Operation (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]

Summary of Discontinued Operation's Results

The following table summarizes the net assets and liabilities held for sale:

	in millions
	2014
Assets held for sale:
Accounts receivable, net	$	74
Inventories	141
Other current assets	72
Net property, plant and equipment	132
Goodwill	16
Other assets	11
Total assets held for sale	$	446
Liabilities held for sale:
Current debt	$	32
Accounts payable	61
Other current liabilities	27
Long-term debt	9
Deferred income taxes	12
Total liabilities held for sale	$	141

						in millions
	2014		2013			2012
Sales	$	—	$	108		$	223
Pretax loss	—		(68		)	(38		)
Income tax expense	—		2			—
Loss from discontinued operation, net of tax	$	—	$	(70	)	$	(38	)

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Business And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Inventories Of Processed Products, Livestock, And Supplies Valued At Lower Of Cost Or Market) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Processed products	$ 1,794	$ 1,423
Livestock	1,066	1,002
Supplies and other	414	392
Total inventory	$ 3,274	$ 2,817

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Stock-Based Compensation

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Share-based Compensation [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

We issue shares under our stock-based compensation plans by issuing Class A stock from treasury. The total number of shares available for future grant under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan (Incentive Plan) was 30,428,186 at September 27, 2014.

Stock Options

Shareholders approved the Incentive Plan in January 2001. The Incentive Plan is administered by the Compensation and Leadership Development Committee of the Board of Directors (Compensation Committee). The Incentive Plan includes provisions for granting incentive stock options for shares of Class A stock at a price not less than the fair value at the date of grant. Nonqualified stock options may be granted at a price equal to or more than the fair value of Class A stock on the date the option is granted. Stock options under the Incentive Plan generally become exercisable ratably over three years from the date of grant and must be exercised within 10 years from the date of grant. Our policy is to recognize compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for the entire award.

	Shares Under Option		Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
Outstanding, September 28, 2013	13,912,168		$	16.59
Exercised	(4,168,070	)	16.13
Canceled	(270,989	)	23.79
Granted	4,251,300		31.82
Outstanding, September 27, 2014	13,724,409		$	21.30	7.0	$	226
Exercisable, September 27, 2014	6,866,204		$	16.35	5.3	$	147

We generally grant stock options once a year. The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $10.83, $6.44 and $6.99, respectively. The fair value of each option grant is established on the date of grant using a binomial lattice method. We use historical volatility for a period of time comparable to the expected life of the option to determine volatility assumptions. Expected life is calculated based on the contractual term of each grant and takes into account the historical exercise and termination behavior of participants. Risk-free interest rates are based on the five-year Treasury bond rate. Assumptions as of the grant date used in the fair value calculation of each year’s grants are outlined in the following table.

	2014		2013		2012
Expected life (in years)	6.0		6.2		6.7
Risk-free interest rate	1.3	%	0.7	%	0.9	%
Expected volatility	36.0	%	36.8	%	36.6	%
Expected dividend yield	1.0	%	1.0	%	1.0	%

We recognized stock-based compensation expense related to stock options, net of income taxes, of $20 million, $14 million and $15 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The related tax benefit for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $13 million, $9 million and $10 million, respectively. We had 4.8 million, 3.9 million and 3.4 million options vest in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, with a grant date fair value of $30 million, $22 million and $17 million, respectively.

In fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, we received cash of $67 million, $123 million and $34 million, respectively, for the exercise of stock options. Shares are issued from treasury for stock option exercises. The related tax benefit realized from stock options exercised during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, was $33 million, $35 million and $7 million, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, was $87 million, $90 million and $21 million, respectively. Cash flows resulting from tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost of those options (excess tax deductions) are classified as financing cash flows. We realized $24 million, $18 million and $3 million related to excess tax deductions during fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

As of September 27, 2014, we had $35 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock option plans that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.4 years.

Restricted Stock

We issue restricted stock at the market value as of the date of grant, with restrictions expiring over periods through fiscal 2017. Unearned compensation is recognized over the vesting period for the particular grant using a straight-line method.

	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)
Nonvested, September 28, 2013	1,138,699		$	16.86
Granted	423,453		31.98
Dividends	9,225		37.14
Vested	(584,360	)	17.66
Forfeited	(48,073	)	20.83
Nonvested, September 27, 2014	938,944		$	23.18	1.2	$	35

As of September 27, 2014, we had $10 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock awards that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.2 years.

We recognized stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock, net of income taxes, of $6 million, $5 million and $7 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The related tax benefit for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $4 million, $3 million and $4 million, respectively. We had 0.6 million, 1.4 million and 1.2 million restricted stock awards vest in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, with a grant date fair value of $11 million, $20 million and $17 million, respectively.

Performance-Based Shares

We award performance-based shares of our Class A stock to certain senior executives. These awards are typically granted once a year. Performance-based shares vest based upon the passage of time and the achievement of performance or market performance criteria, ranging from 0% to 200%, as determined by the Compensation Committee prior to the date of the award. Vesting periods for these awards are generally three years. We review progress toward the attainment of the performance criteria each quarter during the vesting period. When it is probable the minimum performance criteria for an award will be achieved, we begin recognizing the expense equal to the proportionate share of the total fair value of the Class A stock price on the grant date. The total expense recognized over the duration of performance awards will equal the Class A stock price on the date of grant multiplied by the number of shares ultimately awarded based on the level of attainment of the performance criteria. For grants with market performance criteria, the total expense recognized over the duration of the award will equal the fair value as determined on the grant date, regardless if the market performance criteria is met.

The following table summarizes the performance-based shares at the maximum award amounts based upon the respective performance share agreements. Actual shares that will vest depend on the level of attainment of the performance-based criteria.

	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Grant- Date Fair Value Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)
Nonvested, September 28, 2013	1,001,310		$	20.99
Granted	585,418		35.66
Vested	(42,282	)	16.26
Forfeited	(140,843	)	23.68
Nonvested, September 27, 2014	1,403,603		$	26.77	1.5

We recognized stock-based compensation expense related to performance shares, net of income taxes, of $3.8 million, $2.4 million and $0.2 million for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The related tax benefit for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $2.5 million, $1.5 million and $0.1 million, respectively. As of September 27, 2014, we had $9 million of total unrecognized compensation based upon our progress toward the attainment of criteria related to performance-based share awards that will be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.5 years.

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Commitments (Minimum Lease Commitments Under Non-Cancelable Leases) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$ 107
2016	80
2017	56
2018	39
2019	30
2020 and beyond	104
Total	$ 416

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Transactions With Related Parties

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Related Party Transaction, Due from (to) Related Party [Abstract]

Transactions With Related Parties

TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES

We have operating leases for two wastewater facilities with an entity owned by the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust (for which Mr. John Tyson, Chairman of the Company, is a trustee), Berry Street Waste Water Treatment Plant, LP (90% of which is owned by TLP), and the sisters of Mr. Tyson. Total payments of approximately $1 million in each of fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were paid to lease the facilities.

In fiscal 2014, we purchased real estate from JHT, LLC, for $0.5 million to build a new data center. The JHT, LLC (for which Mr. John Tyson is the manager), is owned 50% by the Donald J. Tyson Revocable Trust and 50% by the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust.

As of September 27, 2014, the TLP, of which John Tyson and director Barbara Tyson are general partners, owned 70 million shares, or 99.985% of Class B stock and, along with the members of the Tyson family, owned 5.5 million shares of Class A stock, giving it control of approximately 70.14% of the total voting power of our outstanding voting stock. In fiscal 2013, as part of the Company's previously approved stock repurchase plan, we purchased one million shares of Class A stock from the TLP for $29.85 million or $29.85 per share. 

In fiscal 2012, we had an aircraft lease agreement with Tyson Family Aviation, LLC, of which Mr. Don Tyson (formerly our Senior Chairman), Mr. John Tyson and the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust were members. Upon Mr. Don Tyson’s death on January 6, 2011, his membership interest passed to a trust in which Mr. John Tyson is a trustee. During fiscal 2012, Tyson Family Aviation, LLC sold the aircraft to a non-related party and we entered into an aircraft lease agreement with the new owner. Total payments to Tyson Family Aviation, LLC of approximately $0.4 million were paid in fiscal 2012.

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Stock-Based Compensation (Summary of Performance-Based Shares) (Details) (Performance Shares [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Number of Shares - Nonvested, September 28, 2013	1,001,310
Number of Shares - Granted	585,418
Number of Shares - Vested	(42,282)
Number of Shares - Forfeited	(140,843)
Number of Shares - Nonvested, September 27, 2014	1,403,603
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share - Nonvested, September 28, 2013	$ 20.99
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share - Granted	$ 35.66
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share - Vested	$ 16.26
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per Share - Forfeited	$ 23.68
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share - Nonvested, September 27, 2014	$ 26.77
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years), Nonvested, September 27, 2014	1 year 6 months

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Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]

Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information

				in millions, except per share data
	First Quarter			Second Quarter			Third Quarter			Fourth Quarter
2014
Sales	$	8,761		$	9,032		$	9,682		$	10,105
Gross profit	685			651			637			712
Operating income	412			361			351			306
Net income	252			210			258			136
Amounts attributable to Tyson:
Net income from continuing operations	254			213			260			137
Net income attributable to Tyson	254			213			260			137
Net income per share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic (a)	$	0.76		$	0.64		$	0.75		$	0.37
Class B Basic	$	0.68		$	0.58		$	0.68		$	0.32
Diluted (a)	$	0.72		$	0.60		$	0.73		$	0.35
Net income per share attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic (a)	$	0.76		$	0.64		$	0.75		$	0.37
Class B Basic	$	0.68		$	0.58		$	0.68		$	0.32
Diluted (a)	$	0.72		$	0.60		$	0.73		$	0.35
2013
Sales	$	8,366		$	8,383		$	8,731		$	8,894
Gross profit	539			468			682			669
Operating income	304			236			419			416
Net income	168			106			245			259
Amounts attributable to Tyson:
Net income from continuing operations	177			157			253			261
Net loss from discontinued operation	(4		)	(62		)	(4		)	—
Net income attributable to Tyson	173			95			249			261
Net income per share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	0.51		$	0.45		$	0.73		$	0.77
Class B Basic	$	0.46		$	0.40		$	0.66		$	0.70
Diluted	$	0.49		$	0.43		$	0.69		$	0.70
Net loss per share from discontinued operation attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.18	)	$	(0.01	)	$	—
Class B Basic	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.15	)	$	(0.02	)	$	—
Diluted	$	(0.01	)	$	(0.17	)	$	(0.01	)	$	—
Net income per share attributable to Tyson:
Class A Basic	$	0.50		$	0.27		$	0.72		$	0.77
Class B Basic	$	0.45		$	0.25		$	0.64		$	0.70
Diluted	$	0.48		$	0.26		$	0.68		$	0.70

(a) The sum of the quarterly earnings per share amounts will not equal the total for the year due to the effects of rounding and dilution impact as a result of issuing Class A shares and tangible equity units in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014.

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Reconciliation Of Change In Fair Value Measurement Of Defined Benefit Plans' Consolidated Assets Using Significant Unobservable Inputs) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified									12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014 Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Other [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Other [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Insurance Contract [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Insurance Contract [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Level 3 [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Level 3 [Member] Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Level 3 [Member] Other [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Level 3 [Member] Insurance Contract [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 1,650	$ 85	$ 7	$ 0	$ 7	$ 3	$ 15	$ 14	$ 17	$ 0	$ 3	$ 14
Assets still held at reporting date									0	0	0	0
Assets sold during the period									0	0	0	0
Purchases, sales and settlements, net									1	0	0	1
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3									4	7	(3)	0
Ending balance	$ 1,650	$ 85	$ 7	$ 0	$ 7	$ 3	$ 15	$ 14	$ 22	$ 7	$ 0	$ 15

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Derivative [Line Items]

Schedule Of Derivative Instruments In Statement Of Financial Position, Fair Value

The following table sets forth the fair value of all derivative instruments outstanding in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	in millions
	Fair Value
	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Derivative Assets:
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	17	$	4
Foreign exchange contracts	—		1
Total derivative assets – designated	17		5
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	42		25
Foreign exchange contracts	—		2
Total derivative assets – not designated	42		27
Total derivative assets	$	59	$	32
Derivative Liabilities:
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	78	$	29
Foreign exchange contracts	—		—
Total derivative liabilities – designated	78		29
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	80		72
Foreign exchange contracts	2		1
Total derivative liabilities – not designated	82		73
Total derivative liabilities	$	160	$	102

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member]

Derivative [Line Items]

Schedule Of Notional Amount Of Derivatives

We had the following aggregated notional values of outstanding forward and option contracts accounted for as cash flow hedges:

		in millions, except soy meal tons
	Metric	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Corn	Bushels	—		5
Soy Meal	Tons	2,300		96,800
Foreign Currency	United States dollar	$	1	$	60

Schedule Of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) In Statement Of Financial Performance

The following table sets forth the pretax impact of cash flow hedge derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Income:

														in millions
	Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives									Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	Gain/(Loss) Reclassified from OCI to Earnings
	2014			2013			2012				2014			2013			2012
Cash Flow Hedge – Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	$	(7	)	$	(29	)	$	24		Cost of Sales	$	(10	)	$	(5	)	$	(16	)
Foreign exchange contracts	(1		)	(2		)	(8		)	Other Income/Expense	—			(4		)	4
Total	$	(8	)	$	(31	)	$	16			$	(10	)	$	(9	)	$	(12	)

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member]

Derivative [Line Items]

Schedule Of Notional Amount Of Derivatives

We had the following aggregated notional values of outstanding forward contracts entered into to hedge firm commitments which are accounted for as a fair value hedge:

			in millions
	Metric	September 27, 2014	September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Live Cattle	Pounds	427	209
Lean Hogs	Pounds	329	384

Schedule Of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) In Statement Of Financial Performance

		in millions
	Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	2014			2013			2012
Gain/(Loss) on forwards	Cost of Sales	$	(154	)	$	21		$	47
Gain/(Loss) on purchase contract	Cost of Sales	154			(21		)	(47		)

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Derivative [Line Items]

Schedule Of Notional Amount Of Derivatives

We had the following aggregate outstanding notional values related to our undesignated positions:

		in millions, except soy meal tons
	Metric	September 27, 2014		September 28, 2013
Commodity:
Corn	Bushels	—		69
Soy Meal	Tons	195,800		204,600
Soy Oil	Pounds	3		11
Live Cattle	Pounds	22		60
Lean Hogs	Pounds	22		159
Foreign Currency	United States dollars	$	108	$	95

Schedule Of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) In Statement Of Financial Performance

The following table sets forth the pretax impact of the undesignated derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Income:

		in millions
	Consolidated Statements of Income Classification	Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Earnings
		2014			2013			2012
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Commodity contracts	Sales	$	75		$	(10	)	$	(10	)
Commodity contracts	Cost of Sales	(136		)	(24		)	51
Foreign exchange contracts	Other Income/Expense	—			2			—
Total		$	(61	)	$	(32	)	$	41

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Multiemployer Plans) (Details) (Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member], Bakery and Confectionary Union & Industry International Pension Fund [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member] | Bakery and Confectionary Union & Industry International Pension Fund [Member]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer plan, contributions (less than)	$ 1
Surcharge Imposed	10.00%

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Treasury Stock, shares	40,000,000	48,000,000
Class A [Member]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.1	$ 0.1
Common stock, shares authorized	900,000,000	900,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	346,000,000	322,000,000
Class B [Member]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.1	$ 0.1
Common stock, shares authorized	900,000,000	900,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	70,000,000	70,000,000

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Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Debt Securities Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year	$ 65	$ 86
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in earnings	0	1
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses), Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
Purchases	25	19
Issuances	0	0
Settlements	(23)	(41)
Balance at end of year	67	65
Total gains (losses) for the periods included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at end of year	$ 0	$ 0

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Acquisitions and Dispositions

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Acquisitions and Dispositions

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS

Acquisitions

On August 28, 2014, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of The Hillshire Brands Company ("Hillshire Brands") as part of our strategic expansion initiative. The purchase price was equal to $63.00 per share for Hillshire Brands' outstanding common stock, or $8,081 million. In addition, we paid $163 million in cash for breakage costs incurred by Hillshire Brands related to a previously announced acquisition. We funded the acquisition with existing cash on hand, net proceeds from the issuance of new senior notes, Class A common stock (Class A stock), and tangible equity units as well as borrowings under a new term loan facility (refer to Note 7: Debt and Note 8: Equity). Hillshire Brands' results from operations subsequent to the acquisition closing are included in the Prepared Foods segment.

The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. Certain estimated values for the acquisition, including goodwill, intangible assets, plant property and equipment, and deferred taxes, are not yet finalized and the preliminary purchase price allocations are subject to change as we complete our analysis of the fair value at the date of acquisition.

	in millions
Cash and cash equivalents		$	72
Accounts receivable		236
Inventories		421
Other current assets		344
Property, Plant and Equipment		1,306
Goodwill		4,804
Intangible Assets		5,141
Other Assets		45
Accounts payable		(347		)
Other current liabilities		(324		)
Long-Term Debt		(868		)
Deferred Income Taxes		(2,069		)
Other Liabilities		(517		)
Net asset acquired		$	8,244

The fair value of identifiable intangible assets is as follows:

			in millions
Intangible Asset Category	Type	Life in Years	Fair Value
Brands & trademarks	Non-amortizable	Indefinite	$	4,062
Brands & trademarks	Amortizable	20 years	532
Customer relationships	Amortizable	Weighted average life of 16 years	541
Non-compete agreements	Amortizable	1 year	6
Total identifiable intangible assets			$	5,141

As a result of the acquisition, we recognized a total of $4,804 million of goodwill. The purchase price was assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values as of the date of acquisition, and any excess was allocated to goodwill, as shown in the table above. Goodwill represents the value we expect to achieve through the implementation of operational synergies and growth opportunities primarily in our Prepared Foods segment. We do not expect the final fair value of goodwill to be deductible for U.S. income tax purposes.

We used various valuation techniques to determine fair value, with the primary techniques being discounted cash flow analysis, relief-from-royalty and excess earnings valuation approaches, which use significant unobservable inputs, or Level 3 inputs, as defined by the fair value hierarchy. Under these valuation approaches, we are required to make estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates, royalty rates and discount rates based on budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and marketplace data.

The acquisition of Hillshire Brands was accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting, and consequently, the results of operations for Hillshire Brands are reported in our consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition. Hillshire Brands' one month results were insignificant to our Consolidated Statements of Income.

The following unaudited pro forma information presents the combined results of operations as if the acquisition of Hillshire Brands had occurred at the beginning of fiscal 2013. Hillshire Brands' pre-acquisition results have been added to our historical results. The pro forma results contained in the table below include adjustments for amortization of acquired intangibles, depreciation expense, interest expense related to the financing and related income taxes. Any potential cost savings or other operational efficiencies that could result from the acquisition are not included in these pro forma results.

The 2013 pro forma results include transaction related expenses incurred by Hillshire Brands prior to the acquisition of $168 million, including items such as consultant fees, accelerated stock compensation and other deal costs; transaction related expenses incurred by the Company of $115 million, including fees paid to third parties, financing costs and other deal costs; and $32 million expense related to the fair value inventory adjustment at the date of acquisition.

These pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations as they would have been had the acquisitions occurred on the assumed dates, nor is it necessarily an indication of future operating results.

	in millions  (unaudited)
	2014		2013
Pro forma sales	$	41,311	$	38,195
Pro forma net income from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	1,047		655
Pro forma net income per diluted share from continuing operations attributable to Tyson	$	2.50	$	1.52

During the second quarter of fiscal 2014 we acquired a value-added food business as part of our strategic expansion initiative, which is included in our Prepared Foods segment. The aggregate purchase price of the acquisition was $56 million, which included $12 million for Property, Plant and Equipment, $27 million allocated to Intangible Assets and $18 million allocated to Goodwill.

During fiscal 2013, we acquired two value-added food businesses as part of our strategic expansion initiative, which are included in our Prepared Foods segment. The aggregate purchase price of the acquisitions was $106 million, which included $50 million for Property, Plant and Equipment, $41 million allocated to Intangible Assets and $12 million allocated to Goodwill.

Dispositions

On July 28, 2014, we announced our plan to sell our Brazil and Mexico operations, which are included in our International segment, to JBS SA ("JBS") for $575 million in cash. As a result, we conducted an impairment test and recorded a $39 million impairment charge in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 related to our Brazil operation. We expect to complete the sale of our Brazil operation in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. We expect to realize a gain on the sale of our Mexico operation, which is pending the necessary government approvals, and expect it to close in the first half of fiscal 2015. We have reclassified the assets and liabilities related to Mexico and Brazil to assets and liabilities held for sale in our 2014 Consolidated Balance Sheet.

The following table summarizes the net assets and liabilities held for sale:

	in millions
	2014
Assets held for sale:
Accounts receivable, net	$	74
Inventories	141
Other current assets	72
Net property, plant and equipment	132
Goodwill	16
Other assets	11
Total assets held for sale	$	446
Liabilities held for sale:
Current debt	$	32
Accounts payable	61
Other current liabilities	27
Long-term debt	9
Deferred income taxes	12
Total liabilities held for sale	$	141

In June 2014, we sold our 50 percent ownership interest of Dynamic Fuels LLC (Dynamic Fuels) for $30 million cash consideration at closing and up to $35 million in future cash payments contingent on Dynamic Fuels' production volumes over a period of up to 11.5 years. Additionally as part of the terms of the sale, we were released from our guarantee of the $100 million Gulf Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds, which were issued in October 2008 to fund a portion of the plant construction costs. Dynamic Fuels previously qualified as a variable interest entity which we consolidated, as we were the primary beneficiary. As a result of the sale, we deconsolidated Dynamic Fuels and recorded a gain of approximately $3 million, which is reflected in Cost of Sales in our Consolidated Statements of Income. We will recognize the future contingent payments in income as the required volumes are produced. At September 28, 2013, Dynamic Fuels had $166 million of total assets, of which $142 million was net property, plant and equipment, and $113 million of total liabilities, of which $100 million was long-term debt.

In fiscal 2014, we recorded impairment charges of $52 million related to the planned closure of three Prepared Foods plants. The Company’s Cherokee, Iowa plant closed in September 2014, while the Company’s plants in Buffalo, New York and Santa Teresa, New Mexico are expected to cease operations during the first half of calendar 2015. The impairment charges are reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Cost of Sales. Additionally, in April 2014, Hillshire Brands announced that it will discontinue all production at its Florence, Alabama facility by December 30, 2014. The remaining closure costs are not expected to have a significant impact on the Company's financial results.

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Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Aug. 28, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Aug. 28, 2014 Hillshire Brands Company [Member]	Mar. 29, 2014 Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member] business	Sep. 28, 2013 Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member] business	Sep. 27, 2014 Prepared Foods [Member]	Sep. 28, 2013 Prepared Foods [Member]	Sep. 29, 2012 Prepared Foods [Member]	Sep. 27, 2014 Prepared Foods [Member] Hillshire Brands Company [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price per share of acquired entity's common stock (in dollars per share)				$ 63.00
Purchase price				$ 8,081
Breakage costs incurred related to a previously proposed acquisition				163
Goodwill	6,706	1,902	1,891		4,800	4,804	18	12	92	75	63
Business Acquisition, Period Results Included in Combined Entity												1 month
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Transaction Related Expenses Incurred by Acquiree Included in Pro Forma Results		168
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Transaction Related Expenses Incurred Included in Pro Forma Results		115
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Fair Value Inventory Adjustment Included in Pro Forma Results		32
Number of Businesses Acquired							1	2
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	8,193	106	0				56	106
Property, Plant and Equipment						1,306	12	50
Intangible Assets						$ 5,141	$ 27	$ 41

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Pretax Impact Of Fair Value Hedge Derivative Instruments On The Consolidated Statements of Income) (Details) (Fair Value Hedging [Member], Cost of Sales [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) on forwards	$ (154)	$ 21	$ 47
Purchase Contracts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain/(Loss) on forwards	$ 154	$ (21)	$ (47)

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Estimated Future Benefit Payments Expected To Be Paid) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Funded Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2015	$ 108
2016	82
2017	85
2018	89
2019	92
2020-2024	506
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2015	8
2016	9
2017	9
2018	9
2019	10
2020-2024	54
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2015	12
2016	12
2017	12
2018	12
2019	12
2020-2024	$ 64

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Equity (Schedule of Tangible Equity Units) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2014	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Equity [Abstract]
Price per TEU, Equity Component (in dollars per share)	$ 43.17
Price per TEU, Debt Component (in dollars per share)	$ 6.83
Price per TEU, Total (in dollars per share)	$ 50
Gross Proceeds, Equity Component	$ 1,295
Gross Proceeds, Debt Component	205	205	0	0
Gross Proceeds, Total	1,500
Issuance cost, Equity Component	(40)
Issuance cost, Debt Component	(6)
Issuance cost, Total	(46)
Net proceeds, Equity Component	1,255	1,255	0	0
Net proceeds, Debt Component	199
Net proceeds, Total	$ 1,454

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Commitments And Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments And Contingencies

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Commitments

We lease equipment, properties and certain farms for which total rentals approximated $161 million, $200 million and $193 million, in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Most leases have initial terms of up to seven years, some with varying renewal periods. The most significant obligations assumed under the terms of the leases are the upkeep of the facilities and payments of insurance and property taxes.

Minimum lease commitments under non-cancelable leases at September 27, 2014, were:

	in millions
2015	$	107
2016	80
2017	56
2018	39
2019	30
2020 and beyond	104
Total	$	416

We guarantee obligations of certain outside third parties, consisting primarily of leases and grower loans which are substantially collateralized by the underlying assets. Terms of the underlying debt cover periods up to 15 years, and the maximum potential amount of future payments as of September 27, 2014, was $70 million. We also maintain operating leases for various types of equipment, some of which contain residual value guarantees for the market value of the underlying leased assets at the end of the term of the lease. The remaining terms of the lease maturities cover periods over the next 13 years. The maximum potential amount of the residual value guarantees is $54 million, of which $48 million could be recoverable through various recourse provisions and an additional undeterminable recoverable amount based on the fair value of the underlying leased assets. The likelihood of material payments under these guarantees is not considered probable. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, no material liabilities for guarantees were recorded.

We have cash flow assistance programs in which certain livestock suppliers participate. Under these programs, we pay an amount for livestock equivalent to a standard cost to grow such livestock during periods of low market sales prices. The amounts of such payments that are in excess of the market sales price are recorded as receivables and accrue interest. Participating suppliers are obligated to repay these receivables balances when market sales prices exceed this standard cost, or upon termination of the agreement. Our maximum obligation associated with these programs is limited to the fair value of each participating livestock supplier’s net tangible assets. The potential maximum obligation as of September 27, 2014, was approximately $330 million. The total receivables under these programs were $4 million and $44 million at September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, respectively, and are included, net of allowance for uncollectible amounts, in Accounts Receivable in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Even though these programs are limited to the net tangible assets of the participating livestock suppliers, we also manage a portion of our credit risk associated with these programs by obtaining security interests in livestock suppliers’ assets. After analyzing residual credit risks and general market conditions, we had no allowance for these programs' estimated uncollectible receivables at September 27, 2014 and $15 million at September 28, 2013.

Additionally, we enter into future purchase commitments for various items, such as grains, livestock contracts and fixed grower fees. At September 27, 2014, these commitments totaled:

	in millions
2015	$	2,625
2016	585
2017	259
2018	271
2019	189
2020 and beyond	249
Total	$	4,178

Contingencies

We are involved in various claims and legal proceedings. We routinely assess the likelihood of adverse judgments or outcomes to those matters, as well as ranges of probable losses, to the extent losses are reasonably estimable. We record accruals for such matters to the extent that we conclude a loss is probable and the financial impact, should an adverse outcome occur, is reasonably estimable. Such accruals are reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, we have made appropriate and adequate accruals for these matters and believe the probability of a material loss beyond the amounts accrued to be remote; however, the ultimate liability for these matters is uncertain, and if accruals are not adequate, an adverse outcome could have a material effect on the consolidated financial condition or results of operations. Listed below are certain claims made against the Company and/or our subsidiaries for which the potential exposure is considered material to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. We believe we have substantial defenses to the claims made and intend to vigorously defend these matters.

There are nine pending lawsuits involving our beef and pork plants, in which certain present and past employees allege that we failed to compensate them for the time it takes to engage in pre- and post-shift activities, such as changing into and out of protective and sanitary clothing and walking to and from the changing area, work areas and break areas in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act and various state laws. The plaintiffs seek back wages, liquidated damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys’ fees and costs. Each case is proceeding in its jurisdiction.

• Garcia, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., D. Kansas, May 15, 2006 - After a trial involving our Garden City, Kansas beef plant, a jury verdict in favor of the plaintiffs was entered on March 17, 2011. Exclusive of pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys’ fees and costs, the jury found violations of federal and state laws for pre- and post-shift work activities and awarded damages in the amount of $503,011. Plaintiffs’ counsel filed an application for attorneys’ fees and expenses which we contested. On December 7, 2012, the court granted plaintiffs' counsel's application and awarded a total of $3,609,723. We appealed the jury’s verdict and trial court’s award to the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. The appellate court affirmed the jury verdict and judgment and subsequently denied our petition for rehearing.

• Bouaphakeo (f/k/a Sharp), et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., N.D. Iowa, February 6, 2007 - A jury trial was held involving our Storm Lake, Iowa pork plant which resulted in a jury verdict in favor of the plaintiffs for violations of federal and state laws for pre- and post-shift work activities. The trial court also awarded the plaintiffs liquidated damages, resulting in total damages awarded in the amount of $5,784,758. The plaintiffs' counsel has also filed an application for attorneys' fees and expenses in the amount of $2,692,145. We appealed the jury's verdict and trial court's award to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. The appellate court affirmed the jury verdict and judgment on August 25, 2014, and we filed a petition for rehearing on September 22, 2014.

• Guyton (f/k/a Robinson), et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., d.b.a Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., S.D. Iowa, September 12, 2007 - A jury trial was held involving our Columbus Junction, Iowa pork plant, which resulted in a jury verdict in favor of Tyson on April 25, 2012. The plaintiffs have appealed to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Oral arguments were held on February 11, 2014. The appellate court affirmed the jury verdict and judgment on August 25, 2014.

• Acosta, et al. v Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., D. Nebraska, February 29, 2008 - A bench trial was held involving our Madison, Nebraska pork plant, in January 2013. In May 2013 the trial court awarded the plaintiffs $5,733,943 for unpaid overtime wages. Subsequently, the court ordered the class of plaintiffs expanded, and the plaintiffs submitted an updated calculation of $6,258,330 for unpaid overtime wages as reflected by payroll data through May 2013. On January 30, 2014, the trial court entered judgment in favor of the plaintiffs in the amount of $18,774,989, which represents a tripling of the plaintiffs’ alleged damages. The court denied our post-trial motions, and we appealed to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.

• Gomez, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., D. Nebraska, January 16, 2008 - A jury trial involving our Dakota City, Nebraska beef plant, was held, and the jury found in favor of the plaintiffs on April 3, 2013. On October 2, 2013, the trial court denied the parties’ post-trial motions and entered judgment awarding unpaid overtime wages, liquidated damages, and penalties totaling $4,960,787. We appealed the jury’s verdict and trial court’s award to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.

• Edwards, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., S.D. Iowa, March 20, 2008 - The trial court in this case, which involves our Perry and Waterloo, Iowa pork plants, decertified the state law class and granted other pre-trial motions that resulted in judgment in our favor with respect to the plaintiffs’ claims. The plaintiffs have filed a motion to modify this judgment.

• Abadeer v. Tyson Foods, Inc., and Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., M.D. Tennessee, February 6, 2009 - The trial court in the Abadeer case, which involves our Goodlettsville, Tennessee case-ready beef and pork plant, granted the plaintiffs’ motion for summary judgment in part, finding that certain pre- and post-shift activities were compensable and our non-payment for those activities was willful and not in good faith. The parties subsequently agreed to settle all claims for $7,750,000. The parties' joint motion for approval of settlement was granted.

• Abdiaziz, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., D. Kansas, September 30, 2011 - this case involves our Emporia, Kansas beef plant, and was bifurcated from the case involving our Garden City, Kansas beef plant. It is stayed pending the resolution of that matter.

• Murray, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., C.D. Illinois, January 2, 2008; and DeVoss v. Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a. Tyson Fresh Meats, C.D. Illinois, March 2, 2011 - these cases involve our Joslin, Illinois beef plant and are in their preliminary stages.

Our subsidiary, The Hillshire Brands Company (formerly named Sara Lee Corporation), is a party to a consolidation of cases filed by individual complainants with the Republic of the Philippines, Department of Labor and Employment and the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) from 1998 through July 1999. The complaint is filed against Aris Philippines, Inc., Sara Lee Corporation, Sara Lee Philippines, Inc., Fashion Accessories Philippines, Inc., and Attorney Cesar C. Cruz (collectively, the “respondents”). The complaint primarily alleges unfair labor practices due to the termination of manufacturing operations in the Philippines by Aris Philippines, Inc., a former subsidiary of The Hillshire Brands Company. In 2006, the arbitrator ruled against the respondents and awarded the complainants PHP3,453,664,710 (approximately US$76 million) in damages and fees. The respondents appealed this ruling and it was subsequently set aside by the NLRC in December 2006. However, in a decision dated June 4, 2014, the Supreme Court of the Philippines set aside the NLRC’s December 2006 ruling as premature. The parties have filed numerous appeals, motions for reconsideration and petitions for review in these cases as to the merits of complainants’ claims and the appropriate amount of an appeal bond to be posted by the respondents. Certain of these appeals and motions remain pending before the NLRC and Supreme Court of the Philippines. On June 23, 2014, without admitting liability, The Hillshire Brands Company filed a motion requesting that the Supreme Court of the Philippines order dismissal with prejudice of all claims against it and its predecessors-in-interest in exchange for payments allocated by the court among the complainants in an amount not to exceed PHP342,287,800 (approximately US$7 million).

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Commitments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 161,000,000	$ 200,000,000	$ 193,000,000
Lease, Maximum Initial Term	7 years
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Potential maximum obligation under cash flow assistance program	330,000,000
Total receivables under cash flow assistance program	4,000,000	44,000,000
Estimated uncollectible receivables under cash flow assistance program	0	15,000,000
Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Period	15 years
Maximum potential amount	70,000,000
Residual Value Guarantees [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Maximum potential amount	54,000,000
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Remaining Lease Period	13 years
Amount recoverable through various recourse provisions	$ 48,000,000

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Income Taxes (Activity Related To Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance as of the beginning of the year	$ 175	$ 168	$ 174
Increases related to current year tax positions	11	3	3
Increases related to prior year tax positions	17	15	5
Increases related to Hillshire Brands balances	136	0	0
Reductions related to prior year tax positions	(20)	(6)	(10)
Reductions related to settlements	(1)	(2)	(1)
Reductions related to expirations of statute of limitations	(46)	(3)	(3)
Balance as of the end of the year	$ 272	$ 175	$ 168

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Equity (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Equity [Abstract]

Schedule of Share Repurchases

A summary of cumulative share repurchases of our Class A Stock is as follows:

							in millions
	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013			September 29, 2012
	Shares	Dollars		Shares	Dollars		Shares	Dollars
Shares repurchased:
Under share repurchase program	7.1	$	250	21.1	$	550	12.5	$	230
To fund certain obligations under equity compensation plans	1.2	45		2.8	64		1.8	34
Total share repurchases	8.3	$	295	23.9	$	614	14.3	$	264

Schedule of Tangible Equity Units

The aggregate values assigned upon issuance of each component of the TEU's, based on the relative fair value of the respective components of each TEU, were as follows:

				in millions, except price per TEU
	Equity Component			Debt Component			Total
Price per TEU	$	43.17		$	6.83		$	50.00
Gross Proceeds	1,295			205			1,500
Issuance cost	(40		)	(6		)	(46		)
Net proceeds	$	1,255		$	199		$	1,454

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Fair Value Measurements

12 Months Ended

Sep. 27, 2014

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The fair value hierarchy contains three levels as follows:

Level 1 — Unadjusted quoted prices available in active markets for the identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.

Level 2 — Other observable inputs available at the measurement date, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, either directly or indirectly, including:

• Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets;

• Quoted prices for identical or similar assets in non-active markets;

• Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and

• Inputs derived principally from or corroborated by other observable market data.

Level 3 — Unobservable inputs that cannot be corroborated by observable market data and reflect the use of significant management judgment. These values are generally determined using pricing models for which the assumptions utilize management’s estimates of market participant assumptions.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The fair value hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. In instances where the inputs used to measure fair value fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the fair value measurement has been determined based on the lowest level input significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Our assessment of the significance of a particular item to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, including the consideration of inputs specific to the asset or liability.

The following tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our financial assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis according to the valuation techniques we used to determine their fair values:

							in millions
September 27, 2014	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Netting (a)			Total
Assets:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	59	$	—	$	(50	)	$	9
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		—		—		—			—
Available for Sale Securities:
Current	—		1		—		—			1
Non-current	1		24		67		—			92
Deferred Compensation Assets	15		218		—		—			233
Total Assets	$	16	$	302	$	67	$	(50	)	$	335
Liabilities:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	158	$	—	$	(148	)	$	10
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		2		—		—			2
Total Liabilities	$	—	$	160	$	—	$	(148	)	$	12
September 28, 2013	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Netting (a)			Total
Assets:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	29	$	—	$	(21	)	$	8
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		3		—		(1		)	2
Available for Sale Securities:
Current	—		1		—		—			1
Non-current	4		24		65		—			93
Deferred Compensation Assets	23		191		—		—			214
Total Assets	$	27	$	248	$	65	$	(22	)	$	318
Liabilities:
Commodity Derivatives	$	—	$	101	$	—	$	(101	)	$	—
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts	—		1		—		—			1
Total Liabilities	$	—	$	102	$	—	$	(101	)	$	1

(a) Our derivative assets and liabilities are presented in our Consolidated Balance Sheets on a net basis. We net derivative assets and liabilities, including cash collateral, when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the counterparty to a derivative contract and us. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, we had posted with various counterparties $98 million and $79 million, respectively, of cash collateral related to our commodity derivatives and held no cash collateral.

The following table provides a reconciliation between the beginning and ending balance of debt securities measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the table above that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):

				in millions
	September 27, 2014			September 28, 2013
Balance at beginning of year	$	65		$	86
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses):
Included in earnings	—			1
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	—			—
Purchases	25			19
Issuances	—			—
Settlements	(23		)	(41		)
Balance at end of year	$	67		$	65
Total gains (losses) for the periods included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets and liabilities still held at end of year	$	—		$	—

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument:

Derivative Assets and Liabilities: Our commodities and foreign exchange forward contracts primarily include exchange-traded and over-the-counter contracts which are further described in Note 12: Derivative Financial Instruments. We record our commodity derivatives at fair value using quoted market prices adjusted for credit and non-performance risk and internal models that use as their basis readily observable market inputs including current and forward commodity market prices. Our foreign exchange forward contracts are recorded at fair value based on quoted prices and spot and forward currency prices adjusted for credit and non-performance risk. We classify these instruments in Level 2 when quoted market prices can be corroborated utilizing observable current and forward commodity market prices on active exchanges or observable market transactions of spot currency rates and forward currency prices.

Available for Sale Securities: Our investments in marketable debt securities are classified as available-for-sale and are reported at fair value based on pricing models and quoted market prices adjusted for credit and non-performance risk. Short-term investments with maturities of less than 12 months are included in Other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and primarily include certificates of deposit and commercial paper. All other marketable debt securities are included in Other Assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and have maturities ranging up to 35 years. We classify our investments in U.S. government, U.S. agency, certificates of deposit and commercial paper debt securities as Level 2 as fair value is generally estimated using discounted cash flow models that are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including time value and yield curve as well as other readily available relevant economic measures. We classify certain corporate, asset-backed and other debt securities as Level 3 as there is limited activity or less observable inputs into valuation models, including current interest rates and estimated prepayment, default and recovery rates on the underlying portfolio or structured investment vehicle. Significant changes to assumptions or unobservable inputs in the valuation of our Level 3 instruments would not have a significant impact to our consolidated financial statements.

									in millions
	September 27, 2014						September 28, 2013
	Amortized Cost Basis		Fair Value		Unrealized Gain/(Loss)		Amortized Cost Basis		Fair Value		Unrealized Gain/(Loss)
Available for Sale Securities:
Debt Securities:
U.S. Treasury and Agency	$	25	$	25	$	—	$	25	$	25	$	—
Corporate and Asset-Backed	65		67		2		64		65		1
Equity Securities:
Common Stock and Warrants (a)	1		1		—		9		4		(5		)

(a) At September 27, 2014, the amortized cost basis for Equity Securities had been reduced by accumulated other than temporary impairment of approximately $2 million.

Unrealized holding gains (losses), net of tax, are excluded from earnings and reported in OCI until the security is settled or sold. On a quarterly basis, we evaluate whether losses related to our available-for-sale securities are temporary in nature. Losses on equity securities are recognized in earnings if the decline in value is judged to be other than temporary. If losses related to our debt securities are determined to be other than temporary, the loss would be recognized in earnings if we intend, or more likely than not will be required, to sell the security prior to recovery. For debt securities in which we have the intent and ability to hold until maturity, losses determined to be other than temporary would remain in OCI, other than expected credit losses which are recognized in earnings. We consider many factors in determining whether a loss is temporary, including the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been below cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer and our ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery. We recognized $6 million of other than temporary impairment for the year ended September 27, 2014, which is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net. No other than temporary losses were deferred in OCI as of September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013.

Deferred Compensation Assets: We maintain non-qualified deferred compensation plans for certain executives and other highly compensated employees. Investments are generally maintained within a trust and include money market funds, mutual funds and life insurance policies. The cash surrender value of the life insurance policies is invested primarily in mutual funds. The investments are recorded at fair value based on quoted market prices and are included in Other Assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We classify the investments which have observable market prices in active markets in Level 1 as these are generally publicly-traded mutual funds. The remaining deferred compensation assets are classified in Level 2, as fair value can be corroborated based on observable market data. Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on deferred compensation are included in earnings.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

In addition to assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, we record assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Generally, assets are recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as a result of impairment charges.

In fiscal 2014, we recorded a $52 million impairment charge related to the closure of three Prepared Foods plants, which is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Cost of Sales and in the Prepared Foods segment. Our valuation of these assets was primarily based on discounted cash flow models which included unobservable Level 3 inputs.

On July 28, 2014, we announced our plan to sell our Brazil operation. As a result, we recorded a $39 million charge to impair its assets to its fair value of $144 million. The impairment charge was recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Cost of Sales and in the International segment. The fair value used to determine the impairment was based upon the contracted sales price.

Other Financial Instruments

Fair value of our debt is principally estimated using Level 2 inputs based on quoted prices for those or similar instruments. Fair value and carrying value for our debt are as follows:

					in millions
	September 27, 2014				September 28, 2013
	Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value
Total Debt	$	8,347	$	8,178	$	2,541	$	2,408

Concentrations of Credit Risk

Our financial instruments exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Our cash equivalents are in high quality securities placed with major banks and financial institutions. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to receivables are limited due to the large number of customers and their dispersion across geographic areas. We perform periodic credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and generally do not require collateral. At September 27, 2014, and September 28, 2013, 18.6% and 17.5%, respectively, of our net accounts receivable balance was due from Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. No other single customer or customer group represented greater than 10% of net accounts receivable.

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Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Weighted Average Assumptions) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Funded Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate to determine net periodic benefit cost	4.37%	4.02%	4.53%
Discount rate to determine benefit obligations	4.32%	4.77%	4.02%
Rate of compensation increase	0.01%
Expected return on plan assets	6.37%	5.44%	6.37%
Unfunded Non-Qualified Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate to determine net periodic benefit cost	5.01%	4.23%	4.75%
Discount rate to determine benefit obligations	4.36%	5.09%	4.23%
Rate of compensation increase	2.11%	3.50%	3.50%
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Discount rate to determine net periodic benefit cost	4.41%	3.66%	4.09%
Discount rate to determine benefit obligations	3.97%	4.48%	3.66%