10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

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

For the quarterly period ended July 31, 2005

OR

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

For the transition period from                     to                     

Commission file number 001-14335

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware	13-3542950
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)

One Market @ The Landmark, San Francisco, California 94105

(Address of Principal Executive Offices including Zip Code)

(415) 247-3000

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

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 is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).   Yes x    No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes ¨     No x

As of August 31, 2005, there were 199,298,433 shares of Del Monte Foods Company Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding.

Table of Contents

PART I.	FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS	3
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS	3
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME	4
	CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS	5
	NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS	6
ITEM 2.	MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS	12
ITEM 3.	QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK	21
ITEM 4.	CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES	23
PART II.	OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1.	LEGAL PROCEEDINGS	24
ITEM 2.	UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS	24
ITEM 3.	DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES	25
ITEM 4.	SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS	25
ITEM 5.	OTHER INFORMATION	25
ITEM 6.	EXHIBITS	25
SIGNATURES		26

2

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In millions, except share and per share data)

	July 31, 2005			May 1, 2005
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$	41.7		$	145.9
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance		169.8			212.6
Inventories		956.0			825.1
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		114.1			134.8
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS		1,281.6			1,318.4
Property, plant and equipment, net		795.1			807.9
Goodwill		769.2			769.1
Intangible assets, net		586.3			587.2
Other assets, net		48.5			48.0
TOTAL ASSETS	$	3,480.7		$	3,530.6
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	$	433.7		$	387.3
Short-term borrowings		1.2			1.0
Current portion of long-term debt		4.5			1.7
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES		439.4			390.0
Long-term debt		1,301.2			1,304.4
Deferred tax liabilities		251.8			250.6
Other non-current liabilities		332.9			325.0
TOTAL LIABILITIES		2,325.3			2,270.0
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock ($0.01 par value per share, shares authorized: 500,000,000; issued and outstanding: 199,290,737 at July 31, 2005 and 211,203,551 at May 1, 2005)	$	2.1		$	2.1
Additional paid-in capital		964.5			961.6
Treasury stock, at cost		(125.4	)		—
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(4.8	)		(5.9	)
Retained earnings		319.0			302.8
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY		1,155.4			1,260.6
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY	$	3,480.7		$	3,530.6

See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

3

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In millions, except per share data)

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005			August 1, 2004
Net sales	$	671.1		$	626.0
Cost of products sold		509.3			479.2
Gross profit		161.8			146.8
Selling, general and administrative expense		114.4			106.3
Operating income		47.4			40.5
Interest expense		21.2			24.6
Other expense		—			2.0
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		26.2			13.9
Provision for income taxes		9.9			5.3
Income from continuing operations		16.3			8.6
Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes		(0.2	)		(0.1	)
Income tax benefit		(0.1	)		—
Loss from discontinued operations		(0.1	)		(0.1	)
Net income	$	16.2		$	8.5
Earnings per common share
Basic:
Continuing Operations	$	0.08		$	0.04
Discontinued Operations		—			—
Total	$	0.08		$	0.04
Diluted:
Continuing Operations	$	0.08		$	0.04
Discontinued Operations		—			—
Total	$	0.08		$	0.04

See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

4

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In millions)

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005			August 1, 2004
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$	16.2		$	8.5
Loss from discontinued operations		0.1			0.1
Income from continuing operations		16.3			8.6
Adjustments to reconcile net income from continuing operations to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		23.6			22.4
Deferred taxes		(3.2	)		(2.0	)
Stock compensation expense		2.2			1.9
Other non-cash items, net		(0.1	)		2.7
Changes in operating assets and liabilities		(32.0	)		(137.7	)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES		6.8			(104.1	)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Capital expenditures		(9.4	)		(14.4	)
Net proceeds from disposal of assets		23.4			—
NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES		14.0			(14.4	)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from short-term borrowings		0.2			95.7
Payments on short-term borrowings		—			(8.0	)
Principal payments on long-term debt		(0.4	)		(1.5	)
Issuance of common stock		0.6			0.6
Purchase of treasury stock		(125.4	)		—
NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES		(125.0	)		86.8
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		0.1			0.8
NET CASH USED IN DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS		(0.1	)		(0.1	)
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS		(104.2	)		(31.0	)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD		145.9			36.3
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD	$	41.7		$	5.3

See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

5

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CONTINUED

For the three months ended July 31, 2005

(In millions, except share and per share data)

Note 1. Business and Basis of Presentation

Del Monte Foods Company and its consolidated subsidiaries (“Del Monte” or the “Company”) is one of the country’s largest producers, distributors and marketers of premium quality, branded and private label food and pet products for the U.S. retail market. The Company’s leading food brands include Del Monte, StarKist, Contadina, S&W and College Inn. In addition, the Company has pet food and pet snacks brands including 9Lives, Kibbles ‘n Bits, Pup-Peroni, Snausages, and Pounce. The majority of its products are sold nationwide in all channels serving retail markets, mass merchandisers, the U.S. military, certain export markets, the foodservice industry and food processors.

For reporting purposes, the Company’s businesses are aggregated into two reportable segments: Consumer Products and Pet Products. The Consumer Products reportable segment includes the Del Monte Brands, StarKist Seafood and Private Label Soup operating segments, which manufacture, market and sell shelf-stable products, including fruit, vegetable, tomato, broth, infant feeding, tuna and soup products. The Pet Products reportable segment includes the Pet Products operating segment, which manufactures, markets and sells dry and wet pet food and pet snacks.

The Company operates on a 52 or 53-week fiscal year ending on the Sunday closest to April 30. The results of operations for the three months ended July 31, 2005 and August 1, 2004 each reflect periods that contain 13 weeks.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Del Monte as of July 31, 2005 and for the three months ended July 31, 2005 and August 1, 2004 have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for annual financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments consisting of normal and recurring entries considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented have been included. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts in the financial statements and accompanying notes. These estimates are based on information available as of the date of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. Therefore, actual results could differ from those estimates. Furthermore, operating results for the three months ended July 31, 2005 are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the year ending April 30, 2006. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the notes to the financial statements contained in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 1, 2005 (“2005 Annual Report”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

Note 2. Stock-based Compensation

Effective at the beginning of fiscal 2004, the Company adopted the fair value recognition provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Statement No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” (“SFAS 123”) to account for its stock-based compensation. The Company elected the prospective method of transition as permitted by FASB Statement No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—Transition and Disclosure” (“SFAS 148”). Employee stock option grants and other stock-based compensation are expensed over the vesting period, based on the fair value at the time the stock-based compensation is granted. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 123, as amended by SFAS 148, the Company accounted for its stock-based compensation under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25.

6

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CONTINUED

For the three months ended July 31, 2005

(In millions, except share and per share data)

In accordance with SFAS 123 and SFAS 148, the following table presents pro forma information for the three months ended July 31, 2005 and August 1, 2004 regarding net income and earnings per share as if the Company had accounted for all of its employee stock-based compensation under the fair value method of SFAS 123:

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005		August 1, 2004
Net income, as reported	$	16.2	$	8.5
Add: Stock-based employee compensation expense included in reported net income, net of tax		1.4		1.2
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under the fair value based method for all awards, net of tax		1.7		1.5
Pro forma net income	$	15.9	$	8.2
Earnings per share:
Basic - as reported	$	0.08	$	0.04
Basic - pro forma	$	0.08	$	0.04
Diluted - as reported	$	0.08	$	0.04
Diluted - pro forma	$	0.08	$	0.04

In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”), which replaces SFAS 123. The accounting required by SFAS 123R is similar to that of SFAS 123; however, the choice between recognizing the fair value of stock options in the income statement or disclosing the pro forma income statement effect of the fair value of stock options in the notes to the financial statements allowed under SFAS 123 has been eliminated in SFAS 123R. SFAS 123R is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005, and early adoption is permitted. Management intends to use the modified prospective transition method to adopt SFAS 123R beginning in fiscal 2007 and expects that the implementation of SFAS 123R will increase the Company’s stock-based compensation expense in fiscal 2007.

Note 3. Discontinued Operations

In April 2004, the Company sold certain assets formerly included in the Pet Products reportable segment, including its rights in the IVD and Medi-Cal brands, its rights in the Techni-Cal brand in the United States and Canada, and related inventories, for $82.5 (the “2004 Asset Sale”). During a transition period after the sale, the Company is manufacturing certain products for the buyer. The Company also performed certain transition services for the buyer during agreed-upon post-closing periods. For all periods presented, the operating results, cash flows and assets related to the 2004 Asset Sale and other operating results from a related Canadian production facility have been classified as discontinued operations. On July 31, 2005, the remaining assets in discontinued operations primarily consisted of the Canadian production facility, which is being actively marketed for sale. The Company expects to complete the sale of this facility in fiscal 2006.

Net sales from discontinued operations were $7.5 and $6.1 for the three months ended July 31, 2005 and August 1, 2004, respectively.

Total assets included in assets of discontinued operations were $2.2 as of July 31, 2005 and May 1, 2005. The assets of discontinued operations consisted of property, plant and equipment in both periods.

7

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CONTINUED

For the three months ended July 31, 2005

(In millions, except share and per share data)

Note 4. Inventories

The Company’s inventories consist of the following:

	July 31, 2005		May 1, 2005
Inventories:
Finished products	$	745.9	$	619.9
Raw materials and in-process material		54.8		62.5
Packaging material and other		141.5		106.1
LIFO Reserve		13.8		36.6
TOTAL INVENTORIES	$	956.0	$	825.1

Note 5. Assets Held For Sale

Included in prepaid and other current assets are certain real properties which were classified as assets held for sale. Assets held for sale totaled $10.8 and $33.8 as of July 31, 2005 and May 1, 2005, respectively. During the three months ended July 31, 2005, the Company sold $22.8 of assets held for sale and recognized a gain of $0.5 on the sale.

Note 6. Earnings Per Share

The following tables set forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations:

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005		August 1, 2004
Basic earnings per common share:
Numerator:
Net income from continuing operations	$	16.3	$	8.6
Denominator:
Weighted average shares		207,800,806		209,814,652
Basic earnings per common share	$	0.08	$	0.04
Diluted earnings per common share:
Numerator:
Net income from continuing operations	$	16.3	$	8.6
Denominator:
Weighted average shares		207,800,806		209,814,652
Effect of dilutive securities		2,745,946		2,045,603
Weighted average shares and equivalents		210,546,752		211,860,255
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.08	$	0.04

The computation of diluted earnings per share calculates the effect of dilutive securities on weighted average shares. Dilutive securities include stock options, restricted stock units and other deferred stock compensation.

Options, performance shares and deferred stock units outstanding in the aggregate amounts of 7,484,644 and 4,642,406 were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended July 31, 2005 and August 1, 2004, respectively, because their inclusion would be antidilutive.

8

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CONTINUED

For the three months ended July 31, 2005

(In millions, except share and per share data)

Note 7. Merger-Related Employee Severance Costs

On December 20, 2002, the Company acquired various businesses from H.J. Heinz Company (“Heinz”), including Heinz’s U.S. and Canadian pet food and pet snacks, North American tuna, U.S. retail private label soup and U.S. infant feeding businesses (the “Merger”).

During the fiscal years ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004, the Company communicated to affected employees that their employment would be terminated as part of the Merger-related integration of certain business functions. Termination benefits and severance costs are expensed as part of selling, general and administrative expense.

The following table reconciles the beginning and ending accrued Merger-related termination and severance costs by reportable segment:

	Consumer Products			Pet Products			Corporate (a)			Total Company
Accrued termination and severance costs - May 1, 2005	$	1.7		$	0.2		$	1.5		$	3.4
Termination and severance costs incurred		—			—			—			—
Amounts utilized		(0.7	)		(0.1	)		(0.3	)		(1.1	)
Accrued termination and severance costs - July 31, 2005	$	1.0		$	0.1		$	1.2		$	2.3

(a) Corporate represents expenses not directly attributable to reportable segments.

Note 8. Comprehensive Income

The following table reconciles net income to comprehensive income:

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005		August 1, 2004
Net income	$	16.2	$	8.5
Other comprehensive income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments		0.3		0.6
Gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax		0.8		(0.2	)
Total other comprehensive income		1.1		0.4
Comprehensive income	$	17.3	$	8.9

9

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CONTINUED

For the three months ended July 31, 2005

(In millions, except share and per share data)

Note 9. Retirement Benefits

Defined Benefit Plans.

Del Monte sponsors three defined benefit pension plans and several unfunded defined benefit postretirement plans providing certain medical, dental and life insurance benefits to eligible retired, salaried, non-union hourly and union employees. The components of net periodic benefit cost of such plans are as follows:

	Three Months Ended
	Pension Benefits						Other Benefits
	July 31, 2005			August 1, 2004			July 31, 2005			August 1, 2004
Components of net periodic benefit cost
Service cost for benefits earned during the period	$	3.4		$	1.8		$	1.2		$	1.5
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation		5.7			5.7			2.0			2.4
Expected return on plan assets		(6.0	)		(6.1	)		—			—
Amortization of prior service cost		0.6			0.3			(1.7	)		(1.5	)
Actuarial (gain)/loss		0.2			—			—			0.3
Total benefit cost	$	3.9		$	1.7		$	1.5		$	2.7

The Company expects to make cash contributions of approximately $4 to the defined benefit pension plans during the second quarter of fiscal 2006.

Unfunded Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans.

On June 30, 2005, the Compensation and Benefits Committee of the Board of Directors approved a resolution whereby the participants, not the Company, would be required to pay the Medicare Part D premium under the Del Monte retiree health care plan effective January 1, 2006. As a result of the plan changes, the projected benefit obligation was remeasured as of the amendment date and the Company changed the discount rate used to value its unfunded postretirement plan liability from 6.0% to 5.6% to reflect the interest rate environment as of the amendment date. The effect of the plan amendment was to decrease the benefit obligation by approximately $20 and the net periodic benefit cost for fiscal 2006 by approximately $3. There was no significant effect on the accrued liability recorded in the consolidated balance sheet.

Note 10. Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Contingencies.

Except as set forth below, there have been no material developments in the legal proceedings reported in the Company’s 2005 Annual Report.

The Company was a defendant in an action brought by Kal Kan Foods, Inc., which was a subsidiary of Mars, Inc., in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on December 19, 2001. The plaintiff alleged infringement of U.S. Patent No. 6,312,746 (the “746 Patent”). Specifically, the plaintiff alleged that the technology used in the production of Pounce Purr-fections, Pounce Delectables (currently named Pounce Delecta-bites), Meaty Bones Savory Bites (currently named Snausages Scooby Snack Stuffers) and certain other pet treats infringed the 746 Patent. The plaintiff sought compensatory damages in the amount of $2.3 for alleged infringement of its patent and a permanent injunction against further sales of products made with the allegedly infringing technology. On January 25, 2005, the court granted partial summary judgment in favor of the plaintiff and ruled that the Company infringed the plaintiff’s patent. On March 2, 2005, a jury returned a verdict in favor of Mars and awarded Mars damages in the amount of $3.6. On April 21, 2005, the Court entered a permanent injunction against further sales of the pet products named in this litigation. Total fiscal 2005 net sales and net income of the products involved in this litigation were insignificant in light of the Company’s total net sales and net income. On May 3, 2005, the Court entered a final judgment which also awarded Mars prejudgment interest and reimbursement of costs in the amount of $0.6. On May 19, 2005, the Company filed a notice of appeal. On September 2, 2005, the Company resolved remaining disputes with Mars. The Company withdrew its appeal on September 6, 2005. The Company believes it has accrued adequate reserves to cover its liability in this matter.

Note 11. Segment Information

The Company has the following reportable segments:

• The Consumer Products reportable segment includes the Del Monte Brands, StarKist Seafood and Private Label Soup operating segments, which manufacture, market and sell shelf-stable products, including fruit, vegetable, tomato, broth, infant feeding, tuna and soup products.

10

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – CONTINUED

For the three months ended July 31, 2005

(In millions, except share and per share data)

• The Pet Products reportable segment includes the Pet Products operating segment, which manufactures, markets and sells dry and wet pet food and pet snacks.

The Company’s chief operating decision-maker, its Chief Executive Officer, reviews financial information presented on a consolidated basis accompanied by disaggregated information on net sales and operating income, by operating segment, for purposes of making decisions and assessing financial performance. The chief operating decision-maker reviews assets of the Company on a consolidated basis only. The accounting policies of the individual operating segments are the same as those of the Company.

The following table presents financial information about the Company’s reportable segments:

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005			August 1, 2004
Net Sales:
Consumer Products	$	476.7		$	447.0
Pet Products		194.4			179.0
Total Company	$	671.1		$	626.0
Operating Income:
Consumer Products	$	34.9		$	35.3
Pet Products		23.5			16.8
Corporate (a)		(11.0	)		(11.6	)
Total Company	$	47.4		$	40.5

(a) Corporate represents expenses not directly attributable to reportable segments.

As of July 31, 2005, the Company’s goodwill was comprised of $213.4 related to the Consumer Products reportable segment and $555.8 related to the Pet Products reportable segment. As of May 1, 2005, the Company’s goodwill was comprised of $213.4 related to the Consumer Products reportable segment and $555.7 related to the Pet Products reportable segment. Goodwill in the Pet Products reportable segment increased by $0.1 during the three months ended July 31, 2005 as a result of foreign exchange fluctuations related to goodwill associated with the Company’s Canadian retail pet operations.

Note 12. Share Repurchase

On June 29, 2005, the Company purchased 11,996,161 shares of the Company’s common stock from Goldman Sachs International (“Goldman Sachs”) in a private transaction in connection with an accelerated stock buyback (“ASB”). Excluding commission payable to Goldman Sachs, the shares were repurchased for an upfront payment of approximately $125 or $10.42 per share, subject to a price adjustment provision. The repurchased shares are being held in treasury.

In connection with the ASB, Goldman Sachs is expected to purchase an equivalent amount of shares in the open-market over time. The program is expected to be completed within sixteen months of the initial purchase from Goldman Sachs. At the end of the program, the Company will receive or pay a price adjustment generally based on the volume weighted average price of shares traded during the purchase period. Approximately half of the shares purchased by the Company in connection with the ASB are subject to a collar, a contract that sets a minimum and maximum price for purposes of calculating the price adjustment. Generally, the purchase price adjustment can be settled, at the Company’s option, in cash or in shares of its common stock. Pursuant to the agreements governing the ASB, the Company must have 25 million shares available for issuance during the term of the program.

11

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

This discussion is intended to further the reader’s understanding of the consolidated financial condition and results of operations of our company. It should be read in conjunction with the financial statements included in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q and our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 1, 2005 (the “2005 Annual Report”). These historical financial statements may not be indicative of our future performance. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

Corporate Overview

Our Business. Del Monte Foods Company and its consolidated subsidiaries (“Del Monte” or the “Company”) is one of the country’s largest producers, distributors and marketers of premium quality, branded and private label food and pet products for the U.S. retail market, with leading food brands such as Del Monte, StarKist, S&W, Contadina and College Inn, and food and snack brands for dogs and cats such as 9Lives, Kibbles ‘n Bits, Pup-Peroni, Snausages and Pounce.

Del Monte Corporation (“DMC”) is a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of Del Monte Foods Company (“DMFC”). For reporting purposes, our businesses are aggregated into two reportable segments: Consumer Products and Pet Products. The Consumer Products reportable segment includes the Del Monte Brands, StarKist Seafood and Private Label Soup operating segments, which manufacture, market and sell shelf-stable products, including fruit, vegetable, tomato, broth, infant feeding, tuna and soup products. The Pet Products reportable segment includes the Pet Products operating segment, which manufactures, markets and sells dry and wet pet food and pet snacks.

Key Performance Indicators

The following is a summary of some of our key performance indicators that we utilize to assess results of operations:

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005			August 1, 2004			Change	% Change		Volume (a)		Rate (b)
	(In millions, except percentages)
Net Sales	$	671.1		$	626.0		45.1	7.2	%	1.9	%	5.3	%
Cost of Products Sold		509.3			479.2		30.1	6.3	%	1.8	%	4.5	%
Gross Profit		161.8			146.8		15.0	10.2	%
Selling, General and Administrative Expense		114.4			106.3		8.1	7.6	%
Operating Income	$	47.4		$	40.5		6.9	17.0	%
Gross Margin		24.1	%		23.5	%
Selling, General and Administrative Expense as a % of net sales		17.0	%		17.0	%

(a) This column represents the change, as compared to the prior year period, due to volume and mix. Volume represents the change resulting from the number of units sold, exclusive of any change in price. Mix represents the change attributable to shifts in volume across products or channels.

(b) This column represents the change, as compared to the prior year period, attributable to per unit changes in net sales or cost of products sold.

Executive Overview

Our first quarter results include net sales of $671.1 million, which represent growth of 7.2% over the first quarter of fiscal 2005. Our pricing actions continued to positively drive our sales growth. Our first quarter operating income was $47.4 million, which represented an increase of $6.9 million or 17.0% over the first quarter of fiscal 2005.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2006, as in fiscal 2005, we generally continued to see inflationary cost escalation, which impacted our results of operations. While inflationary costs continued this quarter, pricing actions and our cost reduction programs covered the majority of the inflationary and other cost increases. We expect that these higher costs will continue to put pressure on our margins. We believe that certain of these costs will continue to be affected by inflationary pressures for the remainder of fiscal 2006. Additionally, we are concerned that the recent spike in oil and natural gas prices could exacerbate these pressures.

In addition, we incurred lower interest expense in the first quarter of fiscal 2006 as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2005 as a result of the refinancing completed in the fourth quarter of 2005 as well as reduced debt levels.

There was no integration expense for the three months ended July 31, 2005, and $8.6 million of integration expense for the three months ended August 1, 2004.

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During the first quarter of fiscal 2006, we purchased 11,996,161 shares of our common stock from Goldman Sachs International in a private transaction in connection with an accelerated stock buyback. See “Liquidity and Capital Resources” for a discussion of this transaction.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. On an ongoing basis, we reevaluate our estimates, including those related to trade promotions, retirement benefits, valuation of brands and goodwill, and retained-insurance liabilities. Estimates in the assumptions used in the valuation of our stock compensation expense are updated at the time of each new issuance of stock-based compensation. We base estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. For all of these estimates, we caution that future events rarely develop exactly as forecasted, and the best estimates routinely require adjustment.

Management has discussed the selection of critical accounting policies and estimates with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of DMFC and the Audit Committee has reviewed our disclosure relating to critical accounting policies and estimates in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in Note 2 to our 2005 Annual Report. The following is a summary of the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements:

Trade Promotions

Trade promotions are an important component of the sales and marketing of our products, and are critical to the support of our business. Trade promotion costs include amounts paid to encourage retailers to offer temporary price reductions for the sale of our products to consumers, to advertise our products in their circulars, to obtain favorable display positions in their stores, and to obtain shelf space. We accrue for trade promotions, primarily at the time products are sold to customers, by reducing sales and recording a corresponding accrued liability. The amount we accrue is based on an estimate of the level of performance of the trade promotion, which is dependent upon factors such as historical trends with similar promotions, expectations regarding customer and consumer participation, and sales and payment trends with similar previously offered programs. Our original estimated costs of trade promotions are reasonably likely to change in the future as a result of changes in trends with regard to customer and consumer participation, particularly for new programs and for programs related to the introduction of new products. We perform monthly and quarterly evaluations of our outstanding trade promotions; making adjustments, where appropriate, to reflect changes in our estimates. The ultimate cost of a trade promotion program is dependent on the relative success of the events and the actions and level of deductions taken by our customers for amounts they consider due to them. Final determination of the permissible trade promotion amounts due to a customer may take up to eighteen months from the product shipment date. During the three months ended July 31, 2005 and August 1, 2004, we experienced no significant adjustments to our estimates relating to trade promotions.

Retirement Benefits

We sponsor non-contributory defined benefit pension plans (“DB plans”), defined contribution plans, multi-employer plans and certain other unfunded retirement benefit plans for our eligible employees. The amount of DB plans benefits eligible retirees receive is based on their earnings and age. Retirees may also be eligible for medical, dental and life insurance benefits (“other benefits”) if they meet certain age and service requirements at retirement. Generally, other benefit costs are subject to plan maximums, such that the Company and retiree both share in the cost of these benefits.

Our Assumptions. We utilize independent third party actuaries to calculate the expense and liabilities related to the DB plans benefits and other benefits. DB plans benefits or other benefits which are expected to be paid are expensed over the employees’ expected service period. The actuaries measure our annual DB plans benefits and other benefits expense by relying on certain assumptions made by us. Such assumptions include:

• The discount rate used to determine projected benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost (DB plans benefits and other benefits);

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• The expected long-term rate of return on assets (DB plans benefits);

• The rate of increase in compensation levels (DB plans benefits); and

• Other factors including employee turnover, retirement age, mortality and health care cost trend rates.

These assumptions reflect our historical experience and our best judgment regarding future expectations. The assumptions, the plan assets and the plan obligations are used to measure our annual DB plans benefits expense and other benefits expense.

Since the DB plans benefits and other benefits liabilities are measured on a discounted basis, the discount rate is a significant assumption. The discount rate was determined based on an analysis of interest rates for high-quality, long-term corporate debt at each measurement date. The discount rate used to determine DB plans and other benefits projected benefit obligation as of the balance sheet date is the rate in effect at the measurement date. The discount rate for the DB plans was 5.75% as of May 1, 2005, the most recent measurement date. On June 30, 2005, the Compensation and Benefits Committee of the Board of Directors approved a resolution whereby the participants would be required to pay the Medicare Part D premium under the Del Monte retiree health care plan effective January 1, 2006. As a result of the plan changes, the projected benefit obligation was remeasured as of the amendment date and we changed the discount rate used to value our unfunded postretirement plan liability from 6.00% to 5.60% to reflect the interest rate environment as of the amendment date. The long-term rate of return for DB plans’ assets is based on our historical experience, our DB plans’ investment guidelines and our expectations for long-term rates of return. We assumed a long-term rate of return of 8.50% for fiscal 2006. Our DB plans’ investment guidelines are established based upon an evaluation of market conditions, tolerance for risk, and cash requirements for benefit payments.

During the three months ended July 31, 2005, we recognized DB plans benefits expense of $3.9 million and other benefits expense of $1.5 million. Our remaining fiscal 2006 DB plans benefits expense is currently estimated to be approximately $11.5 million and other benefits expense is estimated to be approximately $2.7 million. These estimates incorporate our 2005 assumptions as well as the impact of an amendment to our retiree medical and dental benefit plans, which eliminates benefits for those who are eligible for Medicare Part D, beginning in calendar year 2006. Our actual future DB plans benefits and other benefits expense amounts may vary depending upon various factors, including the accuracy of our original assumptions and future assumptions.

Valuation of Brands and Goodwill

Del Monte produces, distributes and markets products under many different brand names. Although each of our brand names has value, in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” only those that have been purchased have a carrying value on our balance sheet. During an acquisition, the purchase price is allocated to identifiable assets and liabilities, including brand names, based on estimated fair value, with any remaining purchase price recorded as goodwill.

We have evaluated our capitalized brand names and determined that some have useful lives that range from 15 to 40 years (“Amortizing Brands”) and others have indefinite useful lives (“Non-Amortizing Brands”). Non-Amortizing Brands typically have significant market share and a history of strong earnings and cash flow, which we expect to continue into the foreseeable future.

Amortizing Brands are amortized over their estimated useful lives. We review the asset groups containing Amortizing Brands (including related tangible assets) for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable in accordance with FASB Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” An asset or asset group is considered impaired if its carrying amount exceeds the undiscounted future net cash flow the asset or asset group is expected to generate. If an asset or asset group is considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. Non-Amortizing Brands and goodwill are not amortized, but are instead tested for impairment at least annually. Non-Amortizing Brands are considered impaired if the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value. Goodwill is considered impaired if the book value of the reporting unit containing the goodwill exceeds its estimated fair value. If estimated fair value is less than the book value, the asset is written down to the estimated fair value and an impairment loss is recognized.

The estimated fair value of our Non-Amortizing Brands is determined using the relief from royalty method, which is based upon the rent or royalty we would pay for the use of a brand name if we did not own it. For goodwill, the estimated fair value

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of a reporting unit is determined using the income approach, which is based on the cash flows that the unit is expected to generate over its remaining life, and the market approach, which is based on market multiples of similar businesses. Annually, we engage third-party valuation experts to assist in this process.

Considerable management judgment is necessary in estimating future cash flows, market interest rates and discount factors, including the operating and macroeconomic factors that may affect them. We use historical financial information and internal plans and projections in making such estimates.

We did not recognize any impairment charges for our Amortizing Brands, Non-Amortizing Brands or goodwill during the three months ended July 31, 2005 and August 1, 2004. While we currently believe the fair value of all of our intangible assets exceeds carrying value, materially different assumptions regarding future performance and discount rates could result in impairment losses.

Stock Compensation Expense

We believe an effective way to align the interests of certain employees with those of our stockholders is through employee stock-based incentives. We typically issue two types of employee stock-based incentives: stock options and restricted stock incentives (“Restricted Shares”).

Stock options are stock incentives in which employees benefit to the extent our stock price exceeds the strike price of the stock option before expiration. A stock option is the right to purchase a share of our common stock at a predetermined exercise price. For the stock options that we grant, the employee’s exercise price is typically equivalent to our stock price on the date of the grant. Typically, these employees vest in stock options in equal annual installments over a four or five year period and such options generally have a ten-year term until expiration.

Restricted Shares are stock incentives in which employees receive the rights to own shares of our common stock and do not require the employee to pay an exercise price. Restricted Shares include restricted stock units, performance shares and performance accelerated restricted stock units. Restricted stock units vest over a period of time. Performance shares vest at predetermined points in time if certain corporate performance goals are achieved or are forfeited if such goals are not met. Performance accelerated shares vest at a point in time, which may accelerate if certain stock performance measures are achieved.

Fair Value Method of Accounting. During fiscal years prior to 2004, we accounted for our employee stock-based incentives using the intrinsic value method. This method measures expense as the amount by which the market price of the stock exceeds the exercise price on the date of grant. Generally, we did not recognize stock option expense under this method because stock options granted had an exercise price equal to the market price of the stock on the date of the grant.

Effective at the beginning of fiscal 2004, we voluntarily adopted the fair value recognition provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Statement No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” (“SFAS 123”) to account for our stock-based compensation. We elected the prospective method of transition as described in FASB Statement No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—Transition and Disclosure” (“SFAS 148”). Under this method, all employee stock-based compensation granted post adoption is expensed over the vesting period, based on fair value at the time the stock-based compensation is granted. Stock-based compensation granted to our directors is considered employee stock-based compensation for purposes of SFAS 123.

Under the fair value method of accounting for stock-based compensation, we measure stock option expense at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model. This model estimates the fair value of the options based on a number of assumptions, such as interest rates, employee exercises, the current price and expected volatility of our common stock and expected dividends, if any. The expected life is a significant assumption as it determines the period for which the risk-free interest rate, volatility and dividend yield must be applied. The expected life is the average length of time in which we expect our employees to exercise their options. It is based on our historical experience with similar grants. The risk-free interest rate is based on the expected U.S. Treasury rate over the expected life. Expected stock volatility reflects movements in our stock price over the last several years. We have not historically paid a dividend.

Retained-Insurance Liabilities

Our business exposes us to the risk of liabilities arising out of our operations. For example, liabilities may arise out of claims of employees, customers or other third parties for personal injury or property damage occurring in the course of our operations. We manage these risks through various insurance contracts from third party insurance carriers. We, however, retain an insurance risk for the deductible portion of each claim. The deductible under our loss-sensitive worker’s compensation insurance policy is up to $0.5 million per claim. Our general and automobile insurance policy has a deductible

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of up to $0.25 million per claim. An independent, third-party actuary is engaged to estimate the ultimate costs of these retained insurance risks. Actuarial determination of our estimated retained-insurance liability is based upon the following factors:

• Losses which have been reported and incurred by us;

• Losses which we have knowledge of but have not yet been reported to us;

• Losses which we have no knowledge of but are projected based on historical information from both our Company and our industry;

• The projected costs to resolve these estimated losses; and

• We assumed a discount rate of 4.5% for the year ended May 1, 2005.

Our estimate of retained-insurance liabilities is subject to change as new events or circumstances develop which might materially impact the ultimate cost to settle these losses. During the three months ended July 31, 2005, we experienced no significant adjustments to our estimates.

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Results of Operations

The following discussion provides a summary of operating results for the three months ended July 31, 2005, compared to the results for the three months ended August 1, 2004.

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005		August 1, 2004		Change		% Change		Volume (a)		Rate (b)
	(In millions, except percentages)
Net Sales
Consumer Products	$	476.7	$	447.0	$	29.7	6.6	%	0.6	%	6.0	%
Pet Products		194.4		179.0		15.4	8.6	%	5.3	%	3.3	%
Total	$	671.1	$	626.0	$	45.1	7.2	%

(a) This column represents the change, as compared to the prior year period, due to volume and mix. Volume represents the change resulting from the number of units sold, exclusive of any change in price. Mix represents the change attributable to shifts in volume across products or channels.

(b) This column represents the change, as compared to the prior year period, attributable to per unit changes in net sales or cost of products sold.

Net sales. Net sales for the three months ended July 31, 2005 were $671.1 million, an increase of $45.1 million, or 7.2%, compared to $626.0 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004.

Net sales in our Consumer Products reportable segment were $476.7 million for the three months ended July 31, 2005, an increase of 6.6% compared to the three months ended August 1, 2004. Increased pricing drove 6.0% of net sales growth during the quarter, with pricing gains reflected throughout the reportable segment. The Del Monte Brands operating segment had sales of $303.4 million for the quarter, an increase of $10.8 million, or 3.7%, compared to the same period a year ago. We benefited from recent price increases. These increases were partially offset by volume declines resulting from price elasticity (the volume decline associated with price increases). The StarKist Seafood operating segment had sales of $135.1 million for the quarter, an increase of $11.9 million, or 9.7%, compared to the same period a year ago. This increase was due to pricing actions, increased sales volume of pouch products and increased sales of albacore products as a result of higher levels of category merchandising. The impact of such increases was partially offset by expected sales volume decreases of chunk light halves driven by our strategic decision to increase pricing and reduce overall promotional activity. We expect merchandising levels for albacore products, and accordingly, sales of albacore products, to decline in the second quarter of fiscal 2006. In addition, we expect that sales of chunk light halves will continue to decline as compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2005. The Private Label Soup operating segment had sales of $38.2 million for the quarter, an increase of $7.0 million, or 22.4%, compared to the same period a year ago. Soup sales were higher primarily due to increased volume resulting from new distribution, effective merchandising programs and reduced competitive activity.

Net sales in our Pet Products reportable segment were $194.4 million for the three months ended July 31, 2005, an increase of 8.6% compared to $179.0 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. Volume accounted for 5.3% of the increase in pet products sales. The primary volume driver was in dry dog food and pet snacks and included the impact of the recent introductions of Kibbles ‘n Bits Homestyle Beef, and Meaty Bone Denta Delicious. Lower trade spending and increased pricing also contributed to sales growth. These increases in sales were partially offset by reduced sales of 9Lives products as a result of our strategic decision to reduce inefficient merchandising and increased competitive activity.

Cost of products sold. Cost of products sold for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was $509.3 million, an increase of $30.1 million, or 6.3%, compared to $479.2 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. This increase was due to cost increases and increased sales volume. Our cost increases were primarily due to higher steel, fish, and energy, logistics and other transportation-related costs, partially offset by lower commodity, ingredient and integration costs.

Gross margin. Our gross margin percentage for the three months ended July 31, 2005 increased by 0.6 margin points, to 24.1% from 23.5% for the three months ended August 1, 2004. Price increases benefited gross margin by 3.8 margin points. This benefit was offset by a 3.2 margin point reduction related to higher steel, fish, and energy, logistics and other transportation-related costs.

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Selling, general and administrative expense. Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expense for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was $114.4 million, an increase of $8.1 million, or 7.6%, compared to SG&A of $106.3 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. Our increase in SG&A expense was primarily driven by an increase in customer delivery costs. Higher employee costs also contributed to the increase, which was partially offset by a decrease in integration expense.

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005			August 1, 2004			Change			% Change
	(In millions, except percentages)
Operating Income
Consumer Products	$	34.9		$	35.3		$	(0.4	)	(1.1	%)
Pet Products		23.5			16.8			6.7		39.9	%
Corporate (a)		(11.0	)		(11.6	)		0.6		(5.2	%)
Total	$	47.4		$	40.5		$	6.9		17.0	%

(a) Corporate represents expenses not directly attributable to reportable segments.

Operating income. Operating income for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was $47.4 million, an increase of $6.9 million, or 17.0%, compared to operating income of $40.5 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004.

Our Consumer Products reportable segment operating income declined by $0.4 million, or 1.1%, to $34.9 million for the three months ended July 31, 2005 from $35.3 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. The impact of the 6.6% increase in sales during the period was more than offset by higher inflationary costs related to steel, fish, and energy, logistics and other transportation-related costs.

Our Pet Products reportable segment operating income increased by $6.7 million, or 39.9%, to $23.5 million for the three months ended July 31, 2005 from $16.8 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. This increase was driven primarily by volume growth from both new and existing products, increased pricing and a favorable shift in mix to higher margin products, partially offset by inflationary cost increases in energy, logistics and other transportation-related costs. While new product introductions, specific customer promotional programs and inventory build related to new products contributed to the increase in the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the level of new product introductions and the impact of specific customer promotional programs is not expected to be as great in the second quarter of fiscal 2006. In addition, a significant amount of marketing and media investment in the second quarter of fiscal 2005 drove sales of 9Lives higher, which is not expected to recur in the second quarter of fiscal 2006.

Our corporate expenses declined by $0.6 million during the three months ended July 31, 2005 compared to the prior year period. This decrease resulted from a $3.8 million decrease in integration expense, partially offset by an increase in employee costs.

Overall, operating income included no integration expense for the three months ended July 31, 2005, and $8.6 million of integration expense for the three months ended August 1, 2004.

Interest expense. Interest expense for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was $21.2 million, a decrease of $3.4 million compared to interest expense of $24.6 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. This reduction was driven by lower interest rates resulting from the refinancing that occurred in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005 and lower debt levels.

Provision for Income Taxes. The effective tax rate for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was 37.8% compared to 38.1% for the three months ended August 1, 2004. The rate for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was lower than the rate for the three months ended August 1, 2004 primarily due to the tax deduction relating to income attributable to U.S. production activities as provided in The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004. This rate reduction was partially offset by an expected increase in pre-tax income for the current year and a greater portion of pre-tax income taxed in higher tax rate jurisdictions.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We have cash requirements that vary significantly based primarily on the timing of our inventory production for fruit, vegetable and tomato products. Typically inventory production relating to these products peaks during the first and second fiscal quarters. Our most significant cash needs relate to this seasonal inventory production, as well as to continuing cash

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requirements related to the production of our other products. In addition, our cash is used for the repayment, including interest and fees, of our primary debt obligations (i.e. our revolver, term loans, senior subordinated notes and, if necessary, letters of credit), expenditures for capital assets, lease payments for some of our equipment and properties, and other general business purposes. Additionally in the three months ended July 31, 2005, we used cash to purchase shares of our common stock as described below. Our primary sources of cash are funds we receive as payment for the products we produce and sell and from our revolving credit facility.

On June 29, 2005, we purchased 11,996,161 shares of our common stock from Goldman Sachs International (“Goldman Sachs”) in a private transaction in connection with an accelerated stock buyback (“ASB”). Excluding commission payable to Goldman Sachs, the shares were repurchased for an upfront payment of approximately $125 million or $10.42 per share, subject to a price adjustment provision. The repurchased shares are being held in treasury.

In connection with the ASB, Goldman Sachs is expected to purchase an equivalent amount of shares in the open-market over time. The program is expected to be completed within sixteen months of the initial purchase from Goldman Sachs. At the end of the program, we will receive or pay a price adjustment generally based on the volume weighted average price of shares traded during the purchase period. Approximately half of the shares purchased by us in connection with the ASB are subject to a collar, a contract that sets a minimum and maximum price for purposes of calculating the price adjustment. Generally, the purchase price adjustment can be settled, at our option, in cash or in shares of our common stock.

We believe that cash provided by operations and availability under our revolving credit facility will provide adequate funds for our working capital needs, planned capital expenditures and debt service obligations for at least the next 12 months.

Restrictive and Financial Covenants

Our senior credit facility and the indentures governing our senior subordinated notes contain restrictive covenants that limit our ability and the ability of our subsidiaries to take certain actions. Our senior credit facility also contains financial covenants. We believe that we are currently in compliance with all of our restrictive and financial covenants and that we were in compliance therewith as of July 31, 2005. Compliance with these covenants is monitored periodically in order to assess the likelihood of continued compliance. Our ability to continue to comply with these covenants may be affected by events beyond our control. If we are unable to comply with the covenants under the senior credit facility or either of the indentures governing our senior subordinated notes, there would be a default, which, if not waived, could result in the acceleration of a significant portion of our indebtedness.

Cash Flows

During the three months ended July 31, 2005, our cash and cash equivalents decreased by $104.2 million.

	Three Months Ended
	July 31, 2005			August 1, 2004
	(In millions)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities	$	6.8		$	(104.1	)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities		14.0			(14.4	)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities		(125.0	)		86.8

Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was $6.8 million compared to cash used in operating activities of $104.1 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. This fluctuation was primarily driven by lower inventory levels due to weather-related delays in our fruit and tomato pack. The cash requirements of the Del Monte Brands operating segment vary significantly during the year to coincide with the seasonal growing cycles of fruit, vegetables and tomatoes. The vast majority of the Del Monte Brands’ inventories are produced during the packing season, from June through October then depleted during the remaining months of the fiscal year. As a result, the vast majority of our total cash flow is generated during the second half of the fiscal year.

Investing Activities. Cash provided by investing activities for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was $14.0 million compared to cash used in investing activities of $14.4 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. Capital spending during the first three months of fiscal 2006 was $5.0 million lower than it was during the first three months of fiscal 2005. In addition, we received net proceeds of $23.4 million from the sale of certain real property during the first three months of fiscal 2006, which did not occur in the first three months of fiscal 2005.

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Financing Activities. Cash used in financing activities for the three months ended July 31, 2005 was $125.0 million compared to cash provided by financing activities of $86.8 million for the three months ended August 1, 2004. The use of cash for financing activities resulted primarily from the repurchase of approximately 12 million shares of our common stock during the three months ended July 31, 2005. Additionally, during the first three months of fiscal 2006, we borrowed a net of $0.2 million in short-term borrowings, which was $87.5 million lower than net short-term borrowings of $87.7 million during the first three months of fiscal 2005. The decrease in short-term borrowings was primarily due to weather-related delays in our fruit and tomato pack in fiscal 2006. During the three months ended July 31, 2005 and August 1, 2004, we made scheduled repayments of $0.4 million and $1.5 million, respectively, towards our Term B Loan principal.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

In connection with our ASB, we entered into certain arrangements with Goldman Sachs, including a purchase price adjustment. The purchase price adjustment is not reflected on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. For information relating to the ASB, including the purchase price adjustment, see Note 12 “Share Repurchase” of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Factors That May Affect Our Future Results

This quarterly report on Form 10-Q, including the section entitled “Item 1. Financial Statements” and this section entitled “Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”, contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs or expectations, are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on our plans, estimates and projections at the time we make the statements, and you should not place undue reliance on them. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terms.

Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. We caution you that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in or suggested by any forward-looking statement. These factors include, among others:

• general economic and business conditions;

• cost and availability of commodities, ingredients and other raw materials, including without limitation, steel, energy, fuel, grains, meat by-products, and tuna;

• logistics and other transportation-related costs;

• ability to increase prices and reduce costs;

• our debt levels and ability to service and reduce our debt;

• costs and results of efforts to improve the performance and market share of our businesses;

• reduced sales, disruptions, costs or other charges to earnings that may be generated by our strategic plan, including related disposition efforts;

• acquisitions, if any, including identification of appropriate targets and successful integration of any acquired businesses;

• effectiveness of marketing, pricing and trade promotion programs;

• changing consumer and pet preferences;

• timely launch and market acceptance of new products;

• competition, including pricing and promotional spending levels by competitors;

• product liability claims;

• weather conditions;

• crop yields;

• changes in U.S., foreign or local tax laws and effective rates;

• interest rate fluctuations;

• the loss of significant customers or a substantial reduction in orders from these customers or the bankruptcy of any such customer;

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• changes in business strategy or development plans;

• availability, terms and deployment of capital;

• dependence on co-packers, some of whom may be competitors or sole-source suppliers;

• changes in, or the failure or inability to comply with, U.S., foreign and local governmental regulations, including environmental regulations;

• litigation;

• industry trends, including changes in buying, inventory and other business practices by customers; and

• public safety and health issues.

Certain aspects of these and other factors are described in more detail in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the section entitled “Factors That May Affect Our Future Results and Stock Price” in our 2005 Annual Report. In addition to the foregoing, other economic, industry and business conditions may affect our future results, for example:

Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath could adversely affect our supply chain and results of operations. Damage to or disruption of the U.S. logistics infrastructure, including railway lines, and demand for transportation by relief agencies may adversely impact the cost, or our ability, to transport our products, which could adversely impact our sales or results of operations. Additionally, damage to, or disruptions in the operations of, refineries could exacerbate the increases in energy prices that we are already experiencing, which could adversely impact our results of operations.

All forward-looking statements in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q are qualified by these cautionary statements and are made only as of the date of this report. We undertake no obligation, other than as required by law, to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We have a risk management program which was adopted with the objective of minimizing the Company’s exposure to changes in interest rates, fluctuations in foreign currency values and commodity prices. We do not trade or use instruments with the objective of earning financial gains on interest rate fluctuations alone or use instruments where there are not underlying exposures.

During the three months July 31, 2005, we were primarily exposed to the risk of loss resulting from adverse changes in interest rates and commodity prices, which affect interest expense on our floating-rate obligations and the cost of our raw materials, respectively.

Interest Rates. Our debt primarily consists of fixed rate notes and floating rate term loans. We also use a floating rate revolving credit facility to fund seasonal working capital needs. Interest expense on our floating rate debt is typically calculated based on a fixed spread over a reference rate, such as LIBOR. Therefore, fluctuations in market interest rates will cause interest expense increases or decreases on a given amount of floating rate debt.

We manage a portion of our interest rate risk related to floating rate debt by entering into interest rate swaps in which we receive floating rate payments and make fixed rate payments. We currently have six such interest rate swaps with a combined notional amount of $300.0 million. Two interest rate swaps with a combined notional amount of $125.0 million terminated on September 30, 2004. All of our remaining interest rate swaps have been formally designated as cash flow hedges on our floating rate debt. During the three months ended July 31, 2005, the Company’s interest rate cash flow hedges had an insignificant impact to other comprehensive income (“OCI”), deferred tax liabilities and other expense. During the three months ended August 1, 2004, the Company’s interest rate cash flow hedges resulted in a $0.9 million increase to OCI, a $0.6 million decrease to deferred tax assets and a $0.2 million decrease in other expense.

During the three months ended August 1, 2004, we reduced interest expense by $0.8 million resulting from the amortization of a $6.9 million swap liability that existed prior to formal hedge designation of two interest rate swaps on December 31, 2002. The swap liability was fully amortized in conjunction with the termination of the interest rate swaps with a combined notional amount of $125.0 million on September 30, 2004, and had no impact to interest expense during the three months ended July 31, 2005.

On July 31, 2005, the fair values of our interest rate swaps were recorded as current assets of $3.4 million. On August 1, 2004, the fair values of our interest rate swaps were recorded as assets of $1.8 million and liabilities of $0.7 million in other non-current assets and liabilities, respectively.

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The table below presents our market risk associated with debt obligations and interest rate derivatives as of July 31, 2005. The fair values are based on quoted market prices. Variable interest rates disclosed represent the weighted average rates in effect on July 31, 2005.

	Maturity
	Remainder of Fiscal 2006			Fiscal 2007			Fiscal 2008			Fiscal 2009			Fiscal 2010			After Fiscal 2010			Total			Fair Value July 31, 2005
	($ in millions)
Interest Rate Risk:
Debt
Fixed Rate	$	0.2		$	0.2		$	0.2		$	0.2		$	0.2		$	705.0		$	706.0		$	755.6
Average Interest Rate		5.67	%		5.74	%		6.61	%		6.61	%		6.61	%		7.96	%		7.95	%
Variable Rate	$	1.1		$	12.8		$	24.0		$	35.3		$	46.5		$	480.0		$	599.7		$	599.7
Average Interest Rate		5.18	%		5.18	%		5.18	%		5.18	%		5.18	%		5.18	%		5.18	%
Interest Rate Swaps
Notional Amount	$	300.0		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	300.0		$	3.4
Average Rate Receivable		3.68	%		—			0.00	%		—			—			—			3.68	%
Average Rate Payable		2.51	%		—			0.00	%		—			—			—			2.51	%

Commodities Prices. Certain commodities such as corn, wheat, soybean meal and soybean oil are used in the production of our products. Generally these commodities are purchased based upon market prices that are established with the vendor as part of the purchase process. We use futures or options contracts, as deemed appropriate to reduce the effect of price fluctuations on anticipated purchases. We accounted for these commodities derivatives as either cash flow or economic hedges. For cash flow hedges, the effective portion of derivative gains and losses is recognized as part of cost of products sold and the ineffective portion is recognized as other income/expense. Changes in the value of economic hedges are recorded as other income/expense. These contracts generally have a term of less than eighteen months.

On July 31, 2005, the fair values of our commodities hedges were recorded as current assets of $2.0 million. On August 1, 2004, the fair values of our commodities hedges were recorded as a current liability of $1.3 million. During the three months ended July 31, 2005, commodities hedges increased other income by $0.2 million and reduced cost of products sold by $0.1 million. During the three months ended August 1, 2004, commodities hedges increased other expense by $1.9 million and reduced cost of products sold by $0.4 million.

During the three months ended July 31, 2005, our commodities hedges resulted in a $0.8 million increase to OCI and a $0.5 million increase to deferred tax liabilities. During the three months ended August 1, 2004, our commodities hedges resulted in a $1.1 million decrease to OCI and a $0.7 million increase to deferred tax assets.

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The table below presents our commodity derivative contracts as of July 31, 2005. The fair values included are based on quoted market prices. All of the commodity derivative contracts held on July 31, 2005 are scheduled to mature during fiscal 2006.

	Soybean Meal (Short Tons)		Soybean Oil (Pounds)		Corn (Bushels)		Hard Wheat (Bushels)		Soft Wheat (Bushels)
Futures Contracts
Contract Volumes		29,100		4,080,000		1,770,000		640,000		65,000
Weighted Average Price	$	172.06	$	0.22	$	2.34	$	3.41	$	3.35
Contract Amount ($ in Millions)	$	5.0	$	0.9	$	4.1	$	2.2	$	0.2
Fair Value ($ in Millions)	$	1.2	$	0.1	$	0.2	$	0.1	$	—
Options
Calls (Long)
Contract Volumes		20,000		—		250,000		—		—
Weighted Average Strike Price	$	12.98	$	—	$	0.14	$	—	$	—
Weighted Average Price Paid	$	30.52	$	—	$	0.32	$	—	$	—
Fair Value ($ in Millions)	$	0.4	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—
Puts (Written)
Contract Volumes		16,000		—		250,000		—		—
Weighted Average Strike Price	$	4.95	$	—	$	0.09	$	—	$	—
Weighted Average Price Received	$	6.04	$	—	$	0.11	$	—	$	—
Fair Value ($ in Millions)	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, or “Disclosure Controls,” as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. This evaluation, or “Controls Evaluation” was performed under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chairman of the Board, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (our “CEO”) and our Executive Vice President, Administration and Chief Financial Officer (our “CFO”). Disclosure Controls are controls and procedures designed to reasonably ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed under the Exchange Act, such as this quarterly report, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Disclosure Controls include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Our Disclosure Controls include some, but not all, components of our internal control over financial reporting.

Based upon the Controls Evaluation, and subject to the limitations noted in this Part II, Item 4, our CEO and CFO have concluded that as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report on Form 10-Q, our Disclosure Controls were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the Securities and Exchange Commission, and that material information relating to Del Monte and its consolidated subsidiaries is made known to management, including the CEO and CFO, particularly during the period when our periodic reports are being prepared.

Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls

Our management, including our CEO and CFO, does not expect that our Disclosure Controls or our internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system’s objectives will be met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within Del Monte have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that

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judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Controls can also be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls. The design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with associated policies or procedures. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There have not been any changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15f) and 15d-15(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

CEO and CFO Certifications

The certifications of the CEO and the CFO required by Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or the “Rule 13a-14 Certifications” are filed as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2 of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. This “Controls and Procedures” section of the quarterly report on Form 10-Q includes the information concerning the Controls Evaluation referred to in the Rule 13a-14 Certifications and this section should be read in conjunction with the Rule 13a-14 Certifications for a more complete understanding of the topics presented.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Except as set forth below, there have been no material developments in the legal proceedings reported in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended May 1, 2005.

We were a defendant in an action brought by Kal Kan Foods, Inc., which was a subsidiary of Mars, Inc., in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on December 19, 2001. The plaintiff alleged infringement of U.S. Patent No. 6,312,746 (the “746 Patent”). Specifically, the plaintiff alleged that the technology used in the production of Pounce Purr-fections, Pounce Delectables (currently named Pounce Delecta-bites), Meaty Bones Savory Bites (currently named Snausages Scooby Snack Stuffers) and certain other pet treats infringed the 746 Patent. The plaintiff sought compensatory damages in the amount of $2.3 million for alleged infringement of its patent and a permanent injunction against further sales of products made with the allegedly infringing technology. On January 25, 2005, the court granted partial summary judgment in favor of the plaintiff and ruled that we infringed the plaintiff’s patent. On March 2, 2005, a jury returned a verdict in favor of Mars and awarded Mars damages in the amount of $3.6 million. On April 21, 2005, the Court entered a permanent injunction against further sales of the pet products named in this litigation. Total fiscal 2005 net sales and net income of the products involved in this litigation were insignificant in light of our total net sales and net income. On May 3, 2005, the Court entered a final judgment which also awarded Mars prejudgment interest and reimbursement of costs in the amount of $0.6 million. On May 19, 2005, we filed a notice of appeal. On September 2, 2005, we resolved remaining disputes with Mars. We withdrew our appeal on September 6, 2005. We believe we have accrued adequate reserves to cover our liability in this matter.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

(a) NONE.

(b) NONE.

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(c) The following table provides information about purchases the Company made of shares of its common stock during the three month period ended July 31, 2005:

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securites

Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased	Average Price Paid per Share		Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Program (1)	Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Program
May 2 - 29, 2005	—		—	—		—
May 30 - June 26, 2005	—		—	—	$	125,000,000
June 27 - July 31, 2005	11,996,161	$	10.42	11,996,161		—
Total	11,996,161		10.42	11,996,161		—

(1) The Company repurchased approximately 12 million shares of its common stock pursuant to a $125 million share repurchase program publicly announced on June 23, 2005. The shares were purchased from Goldman Sachs International (“Goldman Sachs”) in a private transaction in connection with an accelerated stock buyback (ASB). Excluding commission payable to Goldman Sachs, the shares were repurchased for an upfront payment of approximately $125 million or $10.42 per share, subject to a price adjustment provision. In connection with the ASB, Goldman Sachs is expected to purchase an equivalent amount of shares in the open-market over time. The program is expected to be completed within sixteen months of the initial purchase from Goldman Sachs. At the end of the program, the Company will receive or pay a price adjustment generally based on the volume weighted average price of shares traded during the purchase period. Approximately half of the shares purchased by the Company in connection with the ASB are subject to a collar, a contract that sets a minimum and maximum price for purposes of calculating the price adjustment. Generally, the purchase price adjustment can be settled, at the Company’s option, in cash or in shares of its common stock.

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

NONE.

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

NONE.

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

(a) NONE.

(b) NONE.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

(a) Exhibits.

Exhibit Number	Description
10.1	Master Confirmation between Del Monte Foods Company and Goldman Sachs International dated June 29, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to a Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on July 1, 2005 (the “July 2005 8-K”))
10.2	Supplemental Confirmation between Del Monte Foods Company and Goldman Sachs International dated June 29, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the July 2005 8-K)
*31.1	Certification of the Chief Executive Officer filed pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
*31.2	Certification of the Chief Financial Officer filed pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
*32.1	Certification of the Chief Executive Officer furnished pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
*32.2	Certification of the Chief Financial Officer furnished pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

* filed herewith

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the 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.

DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY
By:	/S/ RICHARD G. WOLFORD
	Richard G. Wolford
	Chairman of the Board, President and
	Chief Executive Officer; Director

By:	/S/ DAVID L. MEYERS
	David L. Meyers
	Executive Vice President, Administration
	and Chief Financial Officer

Dated: September 8, 2005

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EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

Certification

I, Richard G. Wolford, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Del Monte Foods Company;

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: September 8, 2005	/s/ RICHARD G. WOLFORD
	Richard G. Wolford
	Chairman of the Board, President and
	Chief Executive Officer; Director

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

Certification

I, David L. Meyers, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Del Monte Foods Company;

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: September 8, 2005	/s/ DAVID L. MEYERS
	David L. Meyers
	Executive Vice President, Administration and
	Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

Certification

Pursuant to the requirements set forth in Rule 13a-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. 1350), the undersigned, in his capacity as the Chief Executive Officer of Del Monte Foods Company, hereby certifies that, to the best of his knowledge:

1. The quarterly report of Del Monte Foods Company on Form 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 2005, to which this certification is attached as Exhibit 32.1 (the “Periodic Report”), fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

2. The information contained in the Periodic Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Del Monte Foods Company at the end of and for the period covered by the Periodic Report.

Date: September 8, 2005

/s/ RICHARD G. WOLFORD

Richard G. Wolford

Chairman of the Board, President and

Chief Executive Officer; Director

This certification accompanies and is being “furnished” with this Periodic Report, shall not be deemed “filed” by Del Monte Foods Company (the “Company”) for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to liability under that Section and shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, whether made before or after the date of this Periodic Report, irrespective of any general incorporation language contained in such filing. A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Del Monte Foods Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

EX-32.2

Exhibit 32.2

Certification

Pursuant to the requirements set forth in Rule 13a-14(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (18 U.S.C. 1350), the undersigned, in his capacity as the Chief Financial Officer of Del Monte Foods Company, hereby certifies that, to the best of his knowledge:

1. The quarterly report of Del Monte Foods Company on Form 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 2005, to which this certification is attached as Exhibit 32.2 (the “Periodic Report”), fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

2. The information contained in the Periodic Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Del Monte Foods Company at the end of and for the period covered by the Periodic Report.

Date: September 8, 2005

/s/ DAVID L. MEYERS

David L. Meyers

Executive Vice President, Administration and

Chief Financial Officer

This certification accompanies and is being “furnished” with this Periodic Report, shall not be deemed “filed” by Del Monte Foods Company (the “Company”) for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or otherwise subject to liability under that Section and shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, whether made before or after the date of this Periodic Report, irrespective of any general incorporation language contained in such filing. A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Del Monte Foods Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.