EXHIBIT 23.1


                   CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our report
included in this registration statement and to the incorporation by reference
in this registration statement of our report dated June 5, 2001 included in
Smithfield Foods, Inc.'s Form 10-K for the year ended April 29, 2001, and to
all references to our Firm included in this registration statement.




                                              /s/ ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP


Richmond, Virginia
November 30, 2001