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Tyson Foods

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FY2011 Annual Report · Tyson Foods
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UNITED STATES 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
Washington, D.C. 20549 

FORM 10-K 

[X]   Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 
         For the fiscal year ended October 1, 2011 

[ ]     Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 
         For the transition period from ________________ to ________________ 

Commission File No. 001-14704 

TYSON FOODS, INC. 
(Exact Name of Registrant as specified in its Charter) 

Delaware 
(State or other jurisdiction of  
incorporation or organization) 

71-0225165 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) 

2200 Don Tyson Parkway, Springdale, Arkansas 
(Address of principal executive offices) 

72762-6999 
(Zip Code) 

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: 

(479) 290-4000 

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

Title of Each Class 
Class A Common Stock, Par Value $0.10 

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered 
New York Stock Exchange 

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

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

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

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every 
Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the 
preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes [X]    No [ ] 

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller 
reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of 
the Exchange Act.  
Large accelerated filer [X] 
Non-accelerated filer [ ] (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) 

Smaller reporting company [ ] 

  Accelerated filer [ ] 

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

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
On April 2, 2011, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s Class A Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class A stock), and Class B 
Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class B stock), held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $5,872,066,221 and $408,715, 
respectively. Class B stock is not publicly listed for trade on any exchange or market system. However, Class B stock is convertible 
into Class A stock on a share-for-share basis, so the market value was calculated based on the market price of Class A stock. 

On October 29, 2011, there were 299,769,152 shares of Class A stock and 70,020,855 shares of Class B stock outstanding. 

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
Portions of the registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for the registrant's Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held February 3, 2012, 
are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

PART I 

PAGE 
3 
7 
12 
12 
13 
13 

15 
17 
18 
37 
39 
82 
82 
82 

83 
83 
83 
84 
84 

84 

Business 

Item 1. 
Item 1A.  Risk Factors 
Item 1B.  Unresolved Staff Comments 
Item 2. 
Item 3. 
Item 4. 

Properties 
Legal Proceedings 
Removed and Reserved 

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 
Selected Financial Data 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 

PART II 
Item 5. 
Item 6. 
Item 7. 
Item 7A.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 
Item 8. 
Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 
Item 9. 
Item 9A.  Controls and Procedures 
Item 9B.  Other Information 

PART III 
Item 10. 
Item 11. 
Item 12. 
Item 13. 
Item 14. 

PART IV 
Item 15. 

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 
Executive Compensation 
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 
Principal Accounting Fees and Services 

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules 

2 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART I 

ITEM 1. BUSINESS 

GENERAL 
Founded in 1935, Tyson Foods, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) are one of the world’s largest 
meat protein companies and the second-largest food production company in the Fortune 500 with one of the most recognized brand 
names in the food industry. We produce, distribute and market chicken, beef, pork, prepared foods and related allied products. Our 
operations are conducted in four segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork and Prepared Foods. Some of the key factors influencing our business 
are customer demand for our products; the ability to maintain and grow relationships with customers and introduce new and 
innovative products to the marketplace; accessibility of international markets; market prices for our products; the cost of live cattle 
and hogs, raw materials, grain and feed ingredients; and operating efficiencies of our facilities. 

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

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

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

We have been exploring ways to commercialize our supply of poultry litter and animal fats. In June 2007, we announced a 50/50 joint 
venture with Syntroleum Corporation, called Dynamic Fuels LLC (Dynamic Fuels). Dynamic Fuels produces renewable synthetic 
fuels targeting the renewable diesel and jet fuel markets. Construction of production facilities was completed in late fiscal 2010, and 
initial production began in October 2010. 

FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF SEGMENTS 
We operate in four segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork and Prepared Foods. The contribution of each segment to net sales and operating 
income (loss), and the identifiable assets attributable to each segment, are set forth in Note 16: Segment Reporting of the Notes to 
Consolidated Financial Statements. 

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

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

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

3 

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

The results from Dynamic Fuels are included in Other. 

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

We operate our own feed mills to produce scientifically-formulated feeds. In fiscal 2011, corn, soybean meal and other feed 
ingredients were major production costs, representing roughly 69% of our cost of growing a live chicken. In addition to feed 
ingredients to grow the chickens, we use cooking ingredients, packaging materials and cryogenic agents. We believe our sources of 
supply for these materials are adequate for our present needs, and we do not anticipate any difficulty in acquiring these materials in the 
future. While we produce nearly all our inventory of breeder chickens and live broilers, we also purchase live, ice-packed or deboned 
chicken to meet production and sales requirements. 

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

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

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

SEASONAL DEMAND 
Demand for chicken and beef products generally increases during the spring and summer months and generally decreases during the 
winter months. Pork and prepared foods products generally experience increased demand during the winter months, primarily due to 
the holiday season, while demand decreases during the spring and summer months. 

CUSTOMERS 
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. accounted for 13.3% of our fiscal 2011 consolidated sales. Sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. were included in the 
Chicken, Beef, Pork and Prepared Foods segments. Any extended discontinuance of sales to this customer could, if not replaced, have 
a material impact on our operations. No other single customer or customer group represented more than 10% of fiscal 2011 
consolidated sales. 

4 

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

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

identifying target markets for value-added products; 
concentrating production, sales and marketing efforts to appeal to and enhance demand from those markets; and 

  ● 
  ● 
  ●  utilizing our national distribution systems and customer support services. 

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

INTERNATIONAL 
We sold products to more than 130 countries in fiscal 2011. Major sales markets include Canada, Central America, China, the 
European Union, Japan, Mexico, the Middle East, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam. 

We have the following international operations: 

  ●  Tyson de Mexico, a Mexican subsidiary, is a vertically-integrated poultry production company; 
  ●  Cobb-Vantress, a chicken breeding stock subsidiary, has business interests in Argentina, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, 

India, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Spain, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom and Venezuela; 

  ●  Tyson do Brazil, a Brazilian subsidiary, is a vertically-integrated poultry production company; 
  ●  Shandong Tyson Xinchang Foods, a Chinese subsidiary, is a vertically-integrated poultry production company; 
  ●  Tyson Dalong, a joint venture in China in which we have a majority interest, is a chicken further processing facility; 
  ● 

Jiangsu-Tyson, a Chinese poultry breeding subsidiary, is building a vertically-integrated poultry operation with production 
expected to begin in fiscal 2012; 

  ●  Godrej Tyson Foods, a joint venture in India in which we have a majority interest, is a poultry processing business; and 
  ●  Cactus Argentina, a minority interest in a vertically-integrated beef operation joint venture in Argentina; however, we do 

not consolidate the entity due to the lack of controlling interest. 

We continue to evaluate growth opportunities in foreign countries. Additional information regarding export sales, long-lived assets 
located in foreign countries and income (loss) from foreign operations is set forth in Note 16: Segment Reporting of the Notes to 
Consolidated Financial Statements. 

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 
We conduct continuous research and development activities to improve product development, to automate manual processes in our 
processing plants and growout operations, and to improve chicken breeding stock. In 2007, we opened the Discovery Center, which 
includes 19 research kitchens and a USDA-inspected pilot plant. The Discovery Center brings new market-leading retail and 
foodservice products to the customer faster and more effectively. Research and development costs totaled $42 million, $38 million and 
$33 million in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. 

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

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

5 

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

EMPLOYEES AND LABOR RELATIONS 
As of October 1, 2011, we employed approximately 115,000 employees. Approximately 97,000 employees were employed in the 
United States and 18,000 employees were in foreign countries, primarily China, Mexico and Brazil. Approximately 29,000 employees 
in the United States were subject to collective bargaining agreements with various labor unions, with approximately 40% of those 
employees included under agreements expiring in fiscal 2012. The remaining agreements expire over the next several years. 
Approximately 7,000 employees in foreign countries were subject to collective bargaining agreements. We believe our overall 
relations with our workforce are good. 

MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION 
Our principal marketing objective is to be the primary provider of chicken, beef, pork and prepared foods products for our customers 
and consumers. As such, we utilize our national distribution system and customer support services to achieve the leading market 
position for our products. On an ongoing basis, we identify distinct markets and business opportunities through continuous consumer 
and market research. In addition to supporting strong regional brands across multiple protein lines, we build the Tyson brand and 
Tyson owned brands primarily through well-defined product-specific advertising and public relations efforts focused toward key 
consumer targets with specific needs. These efforts are designed to present key Tyson products as everyday solutions to relevant 
consumer problems thereby becoming part of regular eating routines. 

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

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

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

AVAILABILITY OF SEC FILINGS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE DOCUMENTS ON INTERNET WEBSITE 
We maintain an internet website for investors at http://ir.tyson.com. On this website, we make available, free of charge, annual reports 
on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to any of those reports, as soon as 
reasonably practicable after we electronically file such reports with, or furnish to, the Securities and Exchange Commission. Also 
available on the website for investors are the Corporate Governance Principles, Audit Committee charter, Compensation Committee 
charter, Governance Committee charter, Nominating Committee charter, Code of Conduct and Whistleblower Policy. Our corporate 
governance documents are available in print, free of charge to any shareholder who requests them. 

6 

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

Certain information in this report constitutes forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited 
to, current views and estimates of our outlook for fiscal 2012, other future economic circumstances, industry conditions in domestic 
and international markets, our performance and financial results (e.g., debt levels, return on invested capital, value-added product 
growth, capital expenditures, tax rates, access to foreign markets and dividend policy). These forward-looking statements are subject 
to a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause our actual results and experiences to differ materially from anticipated results 
and expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements. We wish to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any 
forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking 
statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. 

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

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS 
These risks, which should be considered carefully with the information provided elsewhere in this report, could materially adversely 
affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we 
currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.  

Fluctuations in commodity prices and in the availability of raw materials, especially feed grains, live cattle, live swine and 
other inputs could negatively impact our earnings.  
Our results of operations and financial condition are dependent upon the cost and supply of raw materials such as feed grains, live 
cattle, live swine, energy and ingredients, as well as the selling prices for our products, many of which are determined by constantly 
changing market forces of supply and demand over which we have limited or no control. Corn, soybean meal and other feed 
ingredients are major production costs for vertically-integrated poultry processors such as us, representing roughly 69% of our cost of 
growing a live chicken in fiscal 2011. As a result, fluctuations in prices for these feed ingredients, which include competing demand 
for corn and soybean meal for use in the manufacture of renewable energy, can adversely affect our earnings. Production of feed 
ingredients is affected by, among other things, weather patterns throughout the world, the global level of supply inventories and 
demand for grains and other feed ingredients, as well as agricultural and energy policies of domestic and foreign governments. 

We have cattle under contract at feed yards owned by third parties; however, most of the cattle we process are purchased from 
independent producers. We have cattle buyers located throughout cattle producing areas who visit feed yards and buy live cattle on the 
open spot market. We also enter into various risk-sharing and procurement arrangements with producers who help secure a supply of 
livestock for daily start-up operations at our facilities. The majority of our live swine supply is obtained through procurement 
arrangements with independent producers. We also employ buyers who purchase hogs on a daily basis, generally a few days before 
the animals are required for processing. In addition, we raise live swine and sell feeder pigs to independent producers for feeding to 
processing weight and have contract growers feed a minimal amount of company-owned live swine for our own processing needs. 
Any decrease in the supply of cattle or swine on the spot market could increase the price of these raw materials and further increase 
per head cost of production due to lower capacity utilization, which could adversely affect our financial results. 

7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Market supply and demand and the prices we receive for our products may fluctuate due to competition from other food 
producers and processors. 
We face competition from other food producers and processors. Some of the factors on which we compete and which may drive 
demand for our products include: 

  ●  price; 
  ●  product safety and quality; 
  ●  brand identification; 
  ●  breadth and depth of product offerings; 
  ● 
  ● 
  ● 

availability of our products and competing products; 
customer service; and 
credit terms. 

Demand for our products also is affected by competitors’ promotional spending, the effectiveness of our advertising and marketing 
programs, and the availability or price of competing proteins. 

We attempt to obtain prices for our products that reflect, in part, the price we must pay for the raw materials that go into our products. 
If we are not able to obtain higher prices for our products when the price we pay for raw materials increases, we may be unable to 
maintain positive margins. 

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

We are subject to risks associated with our international operations, which could negatively affect our sales to customers in 
foreign countries, as well as our operations and assets in such countries. 
In fiscal 2011, we sold products to more than 130 countries. Major sales markets include Canada, Central America, China, the 
European Union, Japan, Mexico, the Middle East, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam. Our sales to customers in foreign 
countries for fiscal 2011 totaled $5.5 billion, of which $4.1 billion related to export sales from the United States. In addition, we had 
approximately $539 million of long-lived assets located in foreign countries, primarily Brazil, China, Mexico and India, at the end of 
fiscal 2011. 

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

  ● 

  ● 

  ● 

imposition of tariffs, quotas, trade barriers and other trade protection measures imposed by foreign countries regarding the 
importation of poultry, beef and pork products, in addition to import or export licensing requirements imposed by various 
foreign countries; 
closing of borders by foreign countries to the import of poultry, beef and pork products due to animal disease or other 
perceived health or safety issues; 
impact of currency exchange rate fluctuations between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies, particularly the Brazilian 
real, the British pound sterling, the Canadian dollar, the Chinese renminbi, the European euro, and the Mexican peso; 

  ●  political and economic conditions; 
  ●  difficulties and costs associated in complying with, and enforcement of remedies under, a wide variety of complex 

domestic and international laws, treaties and regulations, including, without limitation, the United States' Foreign Corrupt 
Practices Act and economic and trade sanctions enforced by the United States Department of the Treasury's Office of 
Foreign Assets Control; 

  ●  different regulatory structures and unexpected changes in regulatory environments; 
  ● 

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

  ●  potentially negative consequences from changes in tax laws; and 
  ●  distribution costs, disruptions in shipping or reduced availability of freight transportation. 

8 

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

We depend on the availability of, and good relations with, our employees. 
We have approximately 115,000 employees, approximately 36,000 of whom are covered by collective bargaining agreements or are 
members of labor unions. Our operations depend on the availability and relative costs of labor and maintaining good relations with 
employees and the labor unions. If we fail to maintain good relations with our employees or with the labor unions, we may experience 
labor strikes or work stoppages, which could adversely affect our financial results. 

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

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

Our operations are subject to general risks of litigation. 
We are involved on an on-going basis in litigation arising in the ordinary course of business or otherwise. Trends in litigation may 
include class actions involving consumers, shareholders, employees or injured persons, and claims relating to commercial, labor, 
employment, antitrust, securities or environmental matters. Litigation trends and the outcome of litigation cannot be predicted with 
certainty and adverse litigation trends and outcomes could adversely affect our financial results. 

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

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

  ● 
  ●  our credit rating could restrict or impede our ability to access capital markets at desired interest rates and increase our 

borrowing costs; 
it may reduce our flexibility to respond to changing business and economic conditions or to take advantage of business 
opportunities that may arise; 
a portion of our cash flow from operations must be dedicated to interest payments on our indebtedness and is not available 
for other purposes; and 
it may restrict our ability to pay dividends. 

  ● 

  ● 

  ● 

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

Our 10.50% Senior notes due March 2014 also contain affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or 
restrict our ability to: incur additional debt and issue preferred stock; make certain investments and restricted payments; create liens; 
create restrictions on distributions from subsidiaries; engage in specified sales of assets and subsidiary stock; enter into transactions 
with affiliates; enter new lines of business; engage in consolidation, mergers and acquisitions; and engage in certain sale/leaseback 
transactions. 

9 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
An impairment in the carrying value of goodwill could negatively impact our consolidated results of operations and net worth. 
Goodwill is initially recorded at fair value and is not amortized, but is reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if 
impairment indicators are present. In assessing the carrying value of goodwill, we make estimates and assumptions about sales, 
operating margins, growth rates and discount rates based on budgets, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash 
flows and marketplace data. There are inherent uncertainties related to these factors and management’s judgment in applying these 
factors. Goodwill valuations have been calculated using an income approach based on the present value of future cash flows of each 
reporting unit and are believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Under the income 
approach, we are required to make various judgmental assumptions about appropriate discount rates. Disruptions in global credit and 
other financial markets and deterioration of economic conditions, could, among other things, cause us to increase the discount rate 
used in the goodwill valuations. We could be required to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill prior to the annual assessment if we 
experience disruptions to the business, unexpected significant declines in operating results, divestiture of a significant component of 
our business or sustained market capitalization declines. These types of events and the resulting analyses could result in goodwill 
impairment charges in the future, which could be substantial. As of October 1, 2011, we had $1.9 billion of goodwill, which 
represented approximately 17.1% of total assets. 

Domestic and international government regulations could impose material costs. 
Our operations are subject to extensive federal, state and foreign laws and regulations by authorities that oversee food safety standards 
and processing, packaging, storage, distribution, advertising, labeling and export of our products. Our facilities for processing chicken, 
beef, pork, prepared foods and milling feed and for housing live chickens and swine are subject to a variety of international, federal, 
state and local laws relating to the protection of the environment, including provisions relating to the discharge of materials into the 
environment, and to the health and safety of our employees. Our chicken, beef and pork processing facilities are participants in the 
HACCP program and are subject to the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002. In addition, 
our products are subject to inspection prior to distribution, primarily by the USDA and the FDA. Also, our livestock procurement and 
poultry growout activities are regulated by the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, which is part of USDA's 
Marketing and Regulatory Programs. Loss of or failure to obtain necessary permits and registrations could delay or prevent us from 
meeting current product demand, introducing new products, building new facilities or acquiring new businesses and could adversely 
affect operating results. Additionally, we are routinely subject to new or modified laws, regulations and accounting standards. If we 
are found to be out of compliance with applicable laws and regulations in these or other areas, we could be subject to civil remedies, 
including fines, injunctions, recalls or asset seizures, as well as potential criminal sanctions, any of which could have an adverse effect 
on our financial results. 

A material acquisition, joint venture or other significant initiative could affect our operations and financial condition. 
We periodically evaluate potential acquisitions, joint ventures and other initiatives (collectively, “transactions”), and we may seek to 
expand our business through the acquisition of companies, processing plants, technologies, products and services, which could include 
material transactions. A material transaction may involve a number of risks, including: 

failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction; 

  ● 
  ●  difficulty integrating acquired businesses, technologies, operations and personnel with our existing business; 
  ●  diversion of management attention in connection with negotiating transactions and integrating the businesses acquired; 
  ● 
  ● 

exposure to unforeseen or undisclosed liabilities of acquired companies; and 
the need to obtain additional debt or equity financing for any transaction. 

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

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

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

10 

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

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

  ● 

  ● 

future; 
cause our lenders to depart from prior credit industry practice and make more difficult or expensive the granting of any 
amendment of, or waivers under, our credit agreement to the extent we may seek them in the future; 
impair the financial condition of some of our customers and suppliers thereby increasing customer bad debts or non-
performance by suppliers; 

  ●  negatively impact global demand for protein products, which could result in a reduction of sales, operating income and 

cash flows; 

  ●  decrease the value of our investments in equity and debt securities, including our marketable debt securities, company-

owned life insurance and pension and other postretirement plan assets; 

  ●  negatively impact our commodity purchasing activities if we are required to record losses related to derivative financial 

instruments; or 
impair the financial viability of our insurers. 

  ● 

Changes in consumer preference could negatively impact our business. 
The food industry in general is subject to changing consumer trends, demands and preferences. Trends within the food industry 
change often, and failure to identify and react to changes in these trends could lead to, among other things, reduced demand and price 
reductions for our products, and could have an adverse effect on our financial results. 

The loss of one or more of our largest customers could negatively impact our business. 
Our business could suffer significant setbacks in sales and operating income if our customers’ plans and/or markets change 
significantly or if we lost one or more of our largest customers, including, for example, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., which accounted for 
13.3% of our sales in fiscal 2011. Many of our agreements with our customers are short-term, primarily due to the nature of our 
products, industry practice and the fluctuation in demand and price for our products. 

The consolidation of customers could negatively impact our business. 
Our customers, such as supermarkets, warehouse clubs and food distributors, have consolidated in recent years, and consolidation is 
expected to continue throughout the United States and in other major markets. These consolidations have produced large, 
sophisticated customers with increased buying power who are more capable of operating with reduced inventories, opposing price 
increases, and demanding lower pricing, increased promotional programs and specifically tailored products. These customers also may 
use shelf space currently used for our products for their own private label products. Because of these trends, our volume growth could 
slow or we may need to lower prices or increase promotional spending for our products, any of which would adversely affect our 
financial results. 

Extreme factors or forces beyond our control could negatively impact our business. 
Natural disasters, fire, bioterrorism, pandemic or extreme weather, including droughts, floods, excessive cold or heat, hurricanes or 
other storms, could impair the health or growth of livestock or interfere with our operations due to power outages, fuel shortages, 
damage to our production and processing facilities or disruption of transportation channels, among other things. Any of these factors, 
as well as disruptions in our information systems, could have an adverse effect on our financial results. 

Our renewable energy ventures and other initiatives might not be successful. 
We have been exploring ways to convert animal fats and other by-products from our operations into value-added products. For 
example, in fiscal 2007, we announced the formation of Dynamic Fuels, a joint venture with Syntroleum Corporation. We will 
continue to explore other ways to commercialize opportunities outside our core business, such as renewable energy and other 
technologically-advanced platforms. These initiatives might not be as financially successful as we initially announced or might expect 
due to factors that include, but are not limited to, possible discontinuance of tax credits, competing energy prices, failure to operate at 
the volumes anticipated, abilities of our joint venture partners and our limited experience in some of these new areas. 

Tyson Limited Partnership can exercise significant control. 
As of October 1, 2011, Tyson Limited Partnership (the TLP) owns 99.97% of the outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock, $0.10 
par value (Class B stock) and the TLP and members of the Tyson family own, in the aggregate, 2.45% of the outstanding shares of 
Class A Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class A stock), giving them, collectively, control of approximately 70.74% of the total 
voting power of the outstanding voting stock. At this time, the TLP does not have a managing general partner, and, as such, the 
management rights of the managing general partner may be exercised by a majority of the percentage interests of the general partners. 
As of October 1, 2011, Mr. John Tyson, Chairman of the Board of Directors, has 33.33% of the general partner percentage interests, 
and Ms. Barbara Tyson, a director of the Company, has 11.115% general partner percentage interests (the remaining general 
partnership interests are held by the Tyson Partnership Interest Trust (44.44%) and Harry C. Erwin, III (11.115%)). As a result of 
these holdings, positions and directorships, the partners in the TLP have the ability to exert substantial influence or actual control over 
our management and affairs and over substantially all matters requiring action by our stockholders, including amendments to our 
restated certificate of incorporation and by-laws, the election and removal of directors, any proposed merger, consolidation or sale of 

11 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
all or substantially all of our assets and other corporate transactions. This concentration of ownership may also delay or prevent a 
change in control otherwise favored by our other stockholders and could depress our stock price. Additionally, as a result of the Tyson 
family’s significant ownership of our outstanding voting stock, we rely on the “controlled company” exemption from certain corporate 
governance requirements of the New York Stock Exchange. 

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS 
None 

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES 
We have production and distribution operations in the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, 
Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South 
Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin. We also have sales offices throughout the United States. 
Additionally, we, either directly or through our subsidiaries, have sales offices, facilities or participate in joint venture operations in 
Argentina, Brazil, China, the Dominican Republic, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Peru, the Philippines, 
Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Venezuela. 

Chicken Segment: 

Processing plants 
Rendering plants 
Blending mills 
Feed mills 
Broiler hatcheries 
Breeder houses 
Broiler farm houses 

Beef Segment Production Facilities 
Pork Segment Production Facilities 
Prepared Foods Segment Processing Plants 

Distribution Centers 
Cold Storage Facilities 

Chicken Processing Plants 
Beef Production Facilities 
Pork Production Facilities 
Prepared Foods Processing Plants 

Number of Facilities 

Owned 

Leased 

60 
15 
2 
41 
62 
508 
809 
12 
9 
22 

11 
65 

1 
- 
- 
2 
10 
783 
926 
- 
- 
1 

5 
12 

Total 

61 
15 
2 
43 
72 
1,291 
1,735 
12 
9 
23 

16 
77 

Capacity(1) 
per week at 
October 1, 2011 
46 million head 
175,000 head 
448,000 head 
45 million pounds 

Fiscal 2011 
Average Capacity 
Utilization 
92% 
81% 
89% 
85% 

(1)  Capacity based on a five day week for Chicken and Prepared Foods, while Beef and Pork are based on a six day week. 

Chicken: Chicken processing plants include various phases of slaughtering, dressing, cutting, packaging, deboning and further-
processing. We also have 17 pet food operations, which are part of the Chicken processing plants. The blending mills, feed mills and 
broiler hatcheries have sufficient capacity to meet the needs of the chicken growout operations. 

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

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

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

Our Dynamic Fuels joint venture produces renewable synthetic fuels targeting the renewable diesel and jet fuel markets. Construction 
of production facilities was completed in late fiscal 2010, and initial production began in October 2010. Dynamic Fuels operates one 
plant with designed annual capacity of 75 million gallons. 

12 

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

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 
Refer to the description of certain legal proceedings pending against us under Part II, Item 8, Notes to Consolidated Financial 
Statements, Note 19: Commitments and Contingencies, which discussion is incorporated herein by reference. Listed below are certain 
additional legal proceedings involving the Company and/or its subsidiaries. 

On October 23, 2001, a putative class action lawsuit styled R. Lynn Thompson, et al. vs. Tyson Foods, Inc. was filed in the District 
Court for Mayes County, Oklahoma by three property owners on behalf of all owners of lakefront property on Grand Lake O’ the 
Cherokees. Simmons Foods, Inc. and Peterson Farms, Inc. also are defendants. The plaintiffs allege the defendants’ operations 
diminished the water quality in the lake thereby interfering with the plaintiffs’ use and enjoyment of their properties. The plaintiffs 
sought injunctive relief and an unspecified amount of compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorneys’ fees and costs. While the 
District Court certified a class, on October 4, 2005, the Court of Civil Appeals of the State of Oklahoma reversed, holding the 
plaintiffs’ claims were not suitable for disposition as a class action. This decision was upheld by the Oklahoma Supreme Court and the 
case was remanded to the District Court with instructions that the matter proceed only on behalf of the three named plaintiffs. 
Plaintiffs seek injunctive relief, restitution and compensatory and punitive damages in an unspecified amount in excess of $10,000. 
We and the other defendants have denied liability and asserted various defenses. The defendants have requested a trial date, but the 
court has not yet scheduled the matter for trial. 

Since 2003, nine lawsuits have been brought against us and several other poultry companies by approximately 150 plaintiffs in 
Washington County, Arkansas Circuit Court (Green v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al., Bible v. Tyson Foods, Inc., Beal v. Tyson Foods, Inc., 
et al., McWhorter v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al., McConnell v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al., Carroll v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al., Belew v. 
Tyson Foods, Inc., et al., Gonzalez v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al., and Rasco v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al.) alleging that the land 
application of poultry litter caused arsenic and pathogenic mold and fungi contamination of the air, soil and water in and around 
Prairie Grove, Arkansas and seeking recovery for several types of personal injuries, including several forms of cancer. On August 2, 
2006, the Court granted summary judgment in favor of Tyson and the other poultry company defendants in the first case to go to trial, 
which the plaintiffs appealed, and the trial court stayed the remaining eight lawsuits pending the appeal. On May 8, 2008, the 
Arkansas Supreme Court reversed the summary judgment and remanded for a new trial. The remanded trial was held and the jury 
returned a verdict in our favor. The plaintiffs appealed this verdict to the Arkansas Supreme Court, which affirmed the verdict and 
denied the plaintiffs' petition for rehearing. The trial court has scheduled the second trial for October 22, 2012. 

In 2010 our Mexican subsidiary, Tyson de Mexico (TdM), provided the National Water Commission (CONAGUA), an agency of the 
Mexican government’s Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources, with information on TdM’s water usage for 2008 and 
2009 at certain water wells that are part of TdM’s poultry production operations. In February 2011, the regional CONAGUA office 
informed TdM that it was the regional CONAGUA office’s opinion that TdM’s permits for water usage from certain wells lapsed 
between the period of January 1, 2009 through May 5, 2009, and it estimated TdM owed approximately 6.5 million pesos 
(approximately $560,000) for water usage during this period. TdM has had ongoing discussions with the regional CONAGUA office 
on this matter and is awaiting the regional office’s final determination. 

In late 2010, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 began a Clean Air Act investigation of the company 
related to operation and maintenance of ammonia refrigeration equipment at multiple facilities. The EPA subsequently referred the 
matter, which involves allegations of potential non-compliance with the Clean Air Act’s Risk Management Plan requirements at 15 
Tyson facilities in Kansas, Missouri, Iowa and Nebraska, to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ). The EPA and DOJ have 
indicated they will seek monetary penalties (but the EPA and DOJ have not yet indicated an amount) and injunctive relief requiring 
equipment and infrastructure changes at several facilities. 

Other Matters: We currently have approximately 115,000 employees and, at any time, have various employment practices matters 
outstanding. In the aggregate, these matters are significant to the Company, and we devote significant resources to managing 
employment issues. Additionally, we are subject to other lawsuits, investigations and claims (some of which involve substantial 
amounts) arising out of the conduct of our business. While the ultimate results of these matters cannot be determined, they are not 
expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations or financial position. 

ITEM 4. REMOVED AND RESERVED 
Not applicable. 

13 

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

Name 
Craig J. Hart 
Kenneth J. Kimbro 
Donnie King 
Dennis Leatherby 
James V. Lochner 
Donnie Smith 
John Tyson 
David L. Van Bebber 
Noel White 

Title 
Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer 
Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer 
Senior Group Vice President, Poultry and Prepared Foods 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 
Chief Operating Officer 
President and Chief Executive Officer 
Chairman of the Board of Directors 
Executive Vice President and General Counsel 
Senior Group Vice President, Fresh Meats 

Age 
55 
58 
49 
51 
59 
52 
58 
55 
53 

Year Elected 
Executive Officer 
2004 
2009 
2009 
1994 
2005 
2008 
     2011(1) 
2008 
2009 

(1) Mr. Tyson was first elected an executive officer in 1989. In 2007, the Company's Board determined that the Chairman of the Board 
would no longer be considered an executive officer. On November 17, 2011, as part of its annual determination of executive officers, 
the Board designated Mr. Tyson in his capacity as Chairman of the Board as an executive officer. 

Craig J. Hart was appointed Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer in 2004. Mr. Hart was initially employed 
by IBP, inc. in 1978. 

Kenneth J. Kimbro was appointed Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer in 2007, after serving as Senior Vice 
President, Human Resources since 2001. Mr. Kimbro was initially employed by IBP, inc. in 1995. 

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

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

James V. Lochner was appointed Chief Operating Officer in November 2009, after serving as Senior Group Vice President, Fresh 
Meats since 2007, Senior Group Vice President, Fresh Meats and Margin Optimization since 2006 and Senior Group Vice President, 
Margin Optimization, Purchasing and Logistics since 2005. Mr. Lochner was initially employed by IBP, inc. in 1983. 

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

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

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

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

14 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART II 

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER 
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES 
We have issued and outstanding two classes of capital stock, Class A stock and Class B stock. Holders of Class B stock may convert 
such stock into Class A stock on a share-for-share basis. Holders of Class B stock are entitled to 10 votes per share while holders of 
Class A stock are entitled to one vote per share on matters submitted to shareholders for approval. As of October 29, 2011, there were 
approximately 29,000 holders of record of our Class A stock and 9 holders of record of our Class B stock, excluding holders in the 
security position listings held by nominees. 

DIVIDENDS 
Cash dividends cannot be paid to holders of Class B stock unless they are simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. The per 
share amount of the cash dividend paid to holders of Class B stock cannot exceed 90% of the cash dividend simultaneously paid to 
holders of Class A stock. We have paid uninterrupted quarterly dividends on common stock each year since 1977 and expect to 
continue our cash dividend policy during fiscal 2012. In both fiscal 2011 and 2010, the annual dividend rate for Class A stock was 
$0.16 per share and the annual dividend rate for Class B stock was $0.144 per share. 

MARKET INFORMATION 
Our Class A stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “TSN.” No public trading market currently exists for 
our Class B stock. The high and low closing sales prices of our Class A stock for each quarter of fiscal 2011 and 2010 are represented 
in the table below. 

First Quarter 
Second Quarter 
Third Quarter 
Fourth Quarter 

Fiscal 2011 
High 
$17.74 
19.82 
19.92 
19.24 

Low 
$14.84 
16.25 
17.12 
15.68 

Fiscal 2010 
High 
$13.19 
19.50 
20.40 
18.06 

Low 
$12.02 
12.24 
16.25 
15.22 

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES 
The table below provides information regarding our purchases of Class A stock during the periods indicated.  

Period 
July 3 to July 30, 2011 
July 31 to Sept. 3, 2011 
Sept. 4 to Oct. 1, 2011 
Total 

Total 
Number of 
Shares 
Purchased 
191,102 
2,919,607 
2,524,152 
5,634,861 

Average 
Price Paid 
per Share 
$18.98 
16.97 
17.16 
$17.12 

Total Number of Shares 
Purchased as Part of 
Publicly Announced 
Plans or Programs 
- 
2,807,479 
2,469,800 
(3)  5,277,279 

Maximum Number of 
Shares that May Yet Be 
Purchased Under the Plans 
or Programs (1) 
18,071,095 
15,263,616 
12,793,816 
12,793,816 

(2) 

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

On February 7, 2003, we announced our Board of Directors approved a plan to repurchase up to 25 million shares of Class A 
common stock from time to time in open market or privately negotiated transactions. The plan has no fixed or scheduled 
termination date. On May 11, 2011, the Board of Directors reactivated the program, effective immediately, to repurchase up 
to the remaining 22.5 million shares of the Company’s Class A common stock. 
We purchased 357,582 shares during the period that were not made pursuant to our previously announced stock repurchase 
plan, but were purchased to fund certain Company obligations under our equity compensation plans. These transactions 
included 325,835 shares purchased in open market transactions and 31,747 shares withheld to cover required tax 
withholdings on the vesting of restricted stock. 
We purchased 5,277,279 shares during the period pursuant to our previously announced stock repurchase plan of 
approximately 25 million shares. 

15 

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

COMPARISON OF 5 YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN 
Among Tyson Foods, Inc., the S&P 500 Index 
and a Peer Group 

$140 

$120 

$100 

$80 

$60 

$40 

$20 

$0 
9/30/06 

9/29/07 

9/27/08 

10/3/09 

10/2/10 

10/1/11 

Tyson Foods, Inc. 

S&P 500 

Peer Group 

Tyson Foods, Inc. 
S&P 500 Index 
Peer Group 

Years Ending 

Base Period 
9/30/06 
100 
100 
100 

9/29/07 
113.35 
116.44 
106.89 

9/27/08 
81.41 
90.85 
106.09 

10/3/09 
80.40 
84.58 
96.68 

10/2/10 
107.22 
93.17 
114.50 

10/1/11 
115.51 
94.24 
126.61 

The total cumulative return on investment (change in the year-end stock price plus reinvested dividends), which is based on the stock 
price or composite index at the end of fiscal 2006, is presented for each of the periods for the Company, the S&P 500 Index and a peer 
group. The peer group includes: Campbell Soup Company, ConAgra Foods, Inc., General Mills, Inc., H.J. Heinz Co., Hershey Foods 
Corp., Hormel Foods Corp., Kellogg Co., McCormick & Co., Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation, Sara Lee Corp. and Smithfield Foods, Inc. 
The graph compares the performance of the Company with that of the S&P 500 Index and peer group, with the investment weighted 
on market capitalization. 

16 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA 

FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY 

Summary of Operations 
Sales 
Goodwill impairment 
Operating income (loss) 
Net interest expense 
Income (loss) from continuing operations 
Loss from discontinued operation 
Net income (loss) 
Net income (loss) attributable to Tyson 
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Tyson: 

Income (loss) from continuing operations 
Loss from discontinued operation 
Net income (loss) 
Dividends per share: 

Class A 
Class B 

Balance Sheet Data 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Total assets 
Total debt 
Shareholders' equity 
Other Key Financial Measures 
Depreciation and amortization 
Capital expenditures 
Return on invested capital 
Effective tax rate 
Total debt to capitalization 
Book value per share 
Closing stock price high 
Closing stock price low 

2011 

$32,266 
- 
1,285 
231 
733 
- 
733 
750 

1.97 
- 
1.97 

0.160 
0.144 

$716 
11,071 
2,182 
5,685 

$506 
643 
18.5% 
31.8% 
27.7% 
$15.38 
19.92 
14.84 

in millions, except per share and ratio data 
2007 
2010 

2008 

2009 

$28,430 
29 
1,556 
333 
765 
- 
765 
780 

2.06 
- 
2.06 

0.160 
0.144 

$978 
10,752 
2,536 
5,201 

$497 
550 
22.8% 
36.4% 
32.8% 
$13.78 
20.40 
12.02 

$26,704 
560 
(215) 
310 
(550) 
(1) 
(551) 
(547) 

$26,862 
- 
331 
206 
86 
- 
86 
86 

$25,729 
- 
613 
224 
268 
- 
268 
268 

(1.47) 
- 
(1.47) 

0.160 
0.144 

$1,004 
10,595 
3,477 
4,431 

$513 
368 
(3.0)% 
(1.5)% 
44.0% 
$11.77 
13.88 
4.40 

0.24 
- 
0.24 

0.75 
- 
0.75 

0.160 
0.144 

0.160 
0.144 

$250 
10,850 
2,804 
5,099 

$493 
425 
4.4% 
44.6% 
35.5% 
$13.51 
19.44 
12.14 

$42 
10,227 
2,779 
4,735 

$514 
285 
7.7% 
34.6% 
37.0% 
$13.32 
24.08 
14.20 

Notes to Five-Year Financial Summary 
a. 

b. 

c. 
d. 

Fiscal 2011 included an $11 million non-operating gain related to the sale of interest in an equity method investment and a $21 million reduction to income tax 
expense related to a reversal of reserves for foreign uncertain tax positions. 
Fiscal 2010 included $61 million of interest expense related to losses on notes repurchased/redeemed during fiscal 2010, a $29 million non-tax deductible 
charge related to a full goodwill impairment related to an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit and a $12 million non-operating charge related to the 
partial impairment of an equity method investment. Additionally, fiscal 2010 included insurance proceeds received of $38 million related to Hurricane Katrina. 
Fiscal 2009 was a 53-week year, while the other years presented were 52-week years. 
Fiscal 2009 included a $560 million non-tax deductible charge related to Beef segment goodwill impairment and a $15 million pretax charge related to closing 
a prepared foods plant. 
Fiscal 2008 included $76 million of pretax charges related to: restructuring a beef operation; closing a poultry plant; asset impairments for packaging 
equipment, intangible assets, unimproved real property and software; flood damage; and severance charges. Additionally, fiscal 2008 included an $18 million 
non-operating gain related to the sale of an investment. 
f. 
Fiscal 2007 included tax expense of $17 million related to a fixed asset tax cost correction, primarily related to a fixed asset system conversion in 1999. 
g.  Return on invested capital is calculated by dividing operating income (loss) by the sum of the average of beginning and ending total debt and shareholders’ 

e. 

h. 
i. 

equity less cash and cash equivalents. 
For the total debt to capitalization calculation, capitalization is defined as total debt plus total shareholders’ equity. 
In March 2009, we completed the sale of the beef processing, cattle feed yard and fertilizer assets of three of our Alberta, Canada subsidiaries (collectively, 
Lakeside). Lakeside was reported as a discontinued operation for all periods presented. 

17 

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

DESCRIPTION OF THE COMPANY 
We are one of the world’s largest meat protein companies and the second-largest food production company in the Fortune 500 with 
one of the most recognized brand names in the food industry. We produce, distribute and market chicken, beef, pork, prepared foods 
and related allied products. Our operations are conducted in four segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork and Prepared Foods. Some of the key 
factors influencing our business are customer demand for our products; the ability to maintain and grow relationships with customers 
and introduce new and innovative products to the marketplace; accessibility of international markets; market prices for our products; 
the cost of live cattle and hogs, raw materials, grain and feed ingredients; and operating efficiencies of our facilities. 

OVERVIEW 

●  General – As a result of improved internal performance, strong exports and favorable market conditions in our Beef 
and Pork segments, our operating results remained strong in fiscal 2011 despite a $3.7 billion increase in input costs. 
The following are a few of the key drivers: 
●  We continued to focus on maximizing our margins through margin management and operational efficiency 

improvements. Margin management improvements occurred in the areas of mix, export sales, price optimization 
and value-added products initiatives. The operational efficiencies occurred in the areas of yields, cost reduction, 
labor management and logistics cost optimization. 

●  Strong demand and exports in the Beef and Pork segments created a favorable pricing environment. While our 

Chicken segment remained profitable in fiscal 2011, we were challenged by $675 million in increased grain and 
other feed ingredients costs, as well as excess industry supplies, which made it difficult to pass along the 
increased input costs. As a result of balancing our supply with customer demand, we cut production after 
customer demand fell short of expectations. Recent USDA data indicates decreased egg sets, broiler chick 
placements and slaughter pounds. However, the impact of these production cuts, and the associated impact on 
market prices, did not begin to materialize until late fourth quarter and into fiscal 2012. 

●  With an operating margin of 4.0% in fiscal 2011, we have achieved operating margins of 4.0% or better in 

consecutive years for the first time since the acquisition of IBP, inc. in 2001. The following is a summary of operating 
margins by segment: 
●  Chicken – 1.5% 
●  Beef – 3.5% 
●  Pork – 10.3% 
●  Prepared Foods – 3.6% 

●  Debt and Liquidity – During fiscal 2011, we generated $1.0 billion of operating cash flows. Total debt declined $350 
million in fiscal 2011 to $2.2 billion, the lowest level since the acquisition of IBP, inc. Additionally, we repurchased, 
as part of our previously announced share repurchase program, 9.7 million shares of our stock for $170 million in 
fiscal 2011. At October 1, 2011, we had $1.6 billion of liquidity, which includes the availability under our credit 
facility and $716 million of cash and cash equivalents. 

●  Our accounting cycle resulted in a 52-week year for both fiscal 2011 and 2010 and a 53-week year for fiscal 2009. 

18 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to Tyson 
Net income (loss) attributable to Tyson – per diluted share 

2011 
$750 
1.97 

in millions, except per share data 
2009 
$(547) 
(1.47) 

2010 
$780 
2.06 

2011 – Net income included the following items: 

  ●  $11 million gain related to a sale of interests in an equity method investment; and 
  ●  $21 million reduction to income tax expense related to a reversal of reserves for foreign uncertain tax positions. 

2010 – Net income included the following items: 

  ●  $61 million in charges related to losses on notes repurchased during fiscal 2010; 
  ●  $29 million non-cash, non-tax deductible charge related to a full goodwill impairment in an immaterial Chicken segment 

reporting unit; 

  ●  $12 million non-cash, non-tax deductible charge related to the impairment of an equity method investment; and 
  ●  $38 million gain from insurance proceeds. 
2009 – Net loss included the following items: 

  ●  $560 million non-cash, non-tax deductible charge related to a goodwill impairment in our Beef segment; and 
  ●  $15 million charge related to the closing of our Ponca City, Oklahoma, processed meats plant. 

FISCAL 2012 OUTLOOK 
USDA data indicates overall domestic protein (chicken, beef, pork and turkey) production is expected to decrease in fiscal 2012. 
Because exports are likely to remain strong, we forecast total domestic availability of protein to be down 2-3% compared to fiscal 
2011, which should continue to support improved pricing. The following is a summary of the fiscal 2012 outlook for each of our 
segments, as well as an outlook on sales, capital expenditures, net interest expense, debt and liquidity and share repurchases: 

●  Chicken – For fiscal 2012, we expect industry production will decrease approximately 4% from fiscal 2011, which should 
gradually improve market pricing conditions. Current futures prices indicate higher grain costs in fiscal 2012 compared to 
fiscal 2011. We expect to offset the increased grain costs with operational, pricing and mix improvements. Our Chicken 
segment is currently profitable and we expect it to strengthen throughout the year. 

●  Beef – We expect to see a gradual reduction in fed cattle supplies of 1-2% in fiscal 2012 as well as exports to remain strong as 
compared to fiscal 2011. Despite reduced domestic availability, we expect adequate supplies in the regions we operate our 
plants. Although current weak industry fundamentals are challenging our Beef business, we expect it to be profitable in the first 
quarter.  We anticipate the fundamentals will strengthen throughout the year and our Beef segment will be in our normalized 
range for fiscal 2012.   

●  Pork – We expect hog supplies in fiscal 2012 to be comparable to fiscal 2011 and to be adequate in the regions in which we 
operate. Additionally, we expect pork exports to remain strong in fiscal 2012. Based on these factors, we expect strong 
fundamentals in our Pork business to continue in fiscal 2012. 

●  Prepared Foods – We expect operational improvements and increased pricing to offset an anticipated increase in raw material 
costs. Because many of our sales contracts are formula based or shorter-term in nature, we are typically able to offset rising 
input costs through increased pricing. However, there is a lag time for price increases to take effect. We expect improved 
Prepared Foods profitability for fiscal 2012 primarily due to improvements in our lunchmeats business. 

●  Sales – We expect 2012 sales to exceed $34 billion mostly resulting from price increases related to decreases in domestic 

availability of protein and rising raw material costs. 

●  Capital Expenditures – Our preliminary capital expenditures plan for fiscal 2012 is approximately $800-$850 million. We will 
continue to make significant investments in our production facilities for high return operational efficiencies, other profit 
improvement projects and development of our foreign operations. 

●  Net Interest Expense – We expect fiscal 2012 net interest expense will be approximately $185 million, down $46 million 

compared to fiscal 2011. 

●  Debt and Liquidity – We do not have any significant maturities of debt coming due over the next two fiscal years and will 

continue to use our available cash to repurchase notes when available at attractive rates. We plan to maintain total liquidity in 
excess of $1.2 billion. 

●  Share Repurchases – We expect to continue repurchasing shares under our previously announced share repurchase plan. In 
fiscal 2011, we repurchased 9.7 million shares for approximately $170 million. As of October 1, 2011, 12.8 million shares 
remain authorized for repurchases. The timing and extent to which we repurchase shares will depend upon, among other things, 
market conditions, liquidity targets, our debt obligations and regulatory requirements. 

19 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SUMMARY OF RESULTS – CONTINUING OPERATIONS 

Sales 

Sales 
Change in sales volume 
Change in average sales price 
Sales growth  

2011 vs. 2010 – 

2011 
$32,266 
1.7% 
11.8% 
13.5% 

2010 
$28,430 
(0.6)% 
7.1% 
6.5% 

in millions 
2009 
$26,704 

  ●  Average Sales Price – The increase in sales was largely due to an increase in average sales prices, which accounted for 

an increase of approximately $3.4 billion. While all segments had an increase in average sales prices mostly due to price 
increases associated with rising raw material costs, the majority of the increase was driven by the Beef and Pork 
segments. 

  ●  Sales Volume – Sales were positively impacted by an increase in sales volume, which accounted for an increase of $484 
million. This was primarily due to increases in the Chicken and Pork segments, partially offset by decreases in the Beef 
and Prepared Foods segments. 

2010 vs. 2009 – 

  ●  Average Sales Price – The increase in sales was largely due to an increase in average sales prices, which accounted for 

an increase of approximately $1.9 billion. While all segments had an increase in average sales prices, the majority of the 
increase was driven by the Beef and Pork segments. 

  ●  Sales Volume – Sales were negatively impacted by a decrease in sales volume, which accounted for a decrease of $150 
million. This was primarily due to an extra week in fiscal 2009 and the decrease in Pork segment sales volume, partially 
offset by an increase from a fiscal 2009 acquisition in the Chicken segment. 

Cost of Sales 

Cost of sales 
Gross profit 
Cost of sales as a percentage of sales 

2011 
$30,067 
$2,199 
93.2% 

2010 
$25,916 
$2,514 
91.2% 

in millions 
2009 
$25,501 
$1,203 
95.5% 

  2011 vs. 2010 – 
  ●  Cost of sales increased by approximately $4.1 billion. Higher input cost per pound increased cost of sales by 

approximately $3.7 billion, while higher sales volume increased cost of sales $445 million. 

  ●  The $3.7 billion impact of higher input costs per pound was primarily driven by: 
  ●  Increase in average live cattle and hog costs of approximately $2.4 billion. 
  ●  Increase in grain and feed ingredients of $675 million and increase in other growout operating costs of $74 million in 
our Chicken segment, which were partially offset by approximately $200 million of operational improvements. 

  ●  Increase in raw material costs of $273 million in our Prepared Foods segment. 

  ●  The $0.4 billion impact of higher sales volumes was primarily driven by: 

  ●  Increases in sales volume in our Chicken and Pork segments partially offset by decreases in our Beef and Prepared 

Foods segments. 

  ●  Increase of $145 million of costs of sales associated with Dynamic Fuels, which commenced production activities in 

fiscal 2011. 

  2010 vs. 2009 – 
  ●  Cost of sales increased $415 million. Higher cost per pound increased cost of sales by $558 million, partially offset by 

lower sales volume which decreased cost of sales by $143 million. 

  ●  Increase in average live cattle and hog costs of approximately $1.0 billion. 
  ●  Increase due to net losses of $78 million in fiscal 2010, as compared to net gains of $191 million in fiscal 2009, from 
our commodity risk management activities related to forward futures contracts for live cattle and hogs, and excludes 
the impact from related physical purchase transactions which impact current and future period operating results. 

  ●  Increase in raw material costs of approximately $218 million in our Prepared Foods segment. 
  ●  Increase in incentive-based compensation of approximately $97 million. 
  ●  Decrease due to net losses of $6 million in fiscal 2010, as compared to net losses of $257 million in fiscal 2009, from 

our commodity risk management activities related to grain and energy purchases, and excludes the impact from related 
physical purchase transactions which impact current and future period operating results. 

  ●  Decrease in grain costs in the Chicken segment of approximately $158 million. 
  ●  Decrease in the Chicken segment costs resulting from operational improvements. 

20 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, General and Administrative 

Selling, general and administrative 
As a percentage of sales 

2011 
$914 
2.8% 

2010 
$929 
3.3% 

in millions 
2009 
$841 
3.1% 

  2011 vs. 2010 – 
  ●  Decrease of $13 million related to incentive-based compensation. 
  2010 vs. 2009 – 
  ●  Increase of $118 million related to incentive-based compensation. 
  ●  Reductions include decreases resulting from one less week in fiscal 2010 compared to fiscal 2009, as well as a $16 million 

reduction in professional fees, advertising and sales promotions. 

Goodwill Impairment 

2011 
$0 

2010 
$29 

in millions 
2009 
$560 

We perform our annual goodwill impairment test on the first day of the fourth quarter. We estimate the fair value of our reporting 
units using a discounted cash flow analysis. As further discussed in Critical Accounting Estimates, this analysis requires us to 
make various judgmental estimates and assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount factors. 

2010 – Includes the full impairment of an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit. 
2009 – Includes the partial impairment of our Beef segment reporting unit. 

Other Charges 

2011 
$0 

2010 
$0 

in millions 
2009 
$17 

2009 – Included $15 million charge related to closing our Ponca City, Oklahoma, processed meats plant. 

Interest Income 

2011 
$11 

2010 
$14 

in millions 
2009 
$17 

  2011/2010/2009 – Declines in interest income are primarily due to declines in cash balances and interest rates. The declines in 
cash balances are primarily due to repurchases, retirement and redemption of senior notes, repurchases of Class A common 
stock under the reactivated share repurchase program and additions to property, plant and equipment. 

21 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Expense 

Cash interest expense 
Losses on notes repurchased 
Non-cash interest expense 

Total Interest Expense 

2011 
$195 
7 
40 
$242 

2010 
$245 
61 
41 
$347 

in millions 
2009 
$270 
3 
54 
$327 

  2011 vs. 2010 –  
  ●  Cash interest expense included interest expense related to the coupon rates for senior notes and commitment/letter of 

credit fees incurred on our revolving credit facilities. The decrease is due primarily to lower average weekly indebtedness 
of approximately 15%. 

  ●  Losses on notes repurchased during fiscal 2011 and 2010 included the amount paid exceeding the carrying value of the 

notes repurchased, which primarily included the repurchases of the 8.25% Notes due October 2011 (2011 Notes) and the 
6.85% Senior notes due April 2016 (2016 Notes). 

  ●  Non-cash interest expense primarily included interest related to the amortization of debt issuance costs and 

discounts/premiums on note issuances. This included debt issuance costs incurred on our revolving credit facility, the 
10.50% Senior Notes due 2014 (2014 Notes) issued in March 2009, as well as the accretion of the debt discount on the 
3.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 (2013 Notes) and 2014 Notes.  

  2010 vs. 2009 –  
  ●  Cash interest expense included interest expense related to the coupon rates for senior notes and commitment/letter of 

credit fees incurred on our revolving credit facilities. The decrease is due to lower average weekly indebtedness of 
approximately 11%, partially offset by an increase in the overall average borrowing rates. 

  ●  Losses on notes repurchased during fiscal 2010 included the amount paid exceeding the carrying value of the notes 

repurchased, which primarily included the repurchases of the 2011 Notes and the 2016 Notes. 

  ●  Non-cash interest expense primarily included interest related to the amortization of debt issuance costs and 

discounts/premiums on note issuances. This included debt issuance costs incurred on our revolving credit facility, the 
2014 Notes, as well as the accretion of the debt discount on the 2013 Notes and 2014 Notes. Fiscal 2009 also includes 
expenses related to amendment fees paid in December 2008 on our then existing credit agreements.  

Other (Income) Expense, net 

2011 
$(20) 

2010 
$20 

in millions 
2009 
$18 

  2011 – Included $11 million gain related to a sale of interests in an equity method investment. 
  2010 – Included $12 million charge related to the impairment of an equity method investment. 
  2009 – Included $24 million in foreign currency exchange loss. 

22 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Effective Tax Rate 

2011 
31.8% 

2010 
36.4% 

2009 
(1.5)% 

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

  2011 – 
  ●  Domestic production activity deduction reduced the rate 2.3%. 
  ●  Net decrease in unrecognized tax benefits reduced the rate 1.7%. 
  ●  State income taxes increased the rate 1.6%. 
  ●  General business credits decreased the rate 0.9% 
  2010 – 
  ●  Domestic production activity deduction reduced the rate 2.0%. 
  ●  Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits reduced the rate 1.4%. 
  ●  Decrease in state valuation allowances reduced the rate 1.0%. 
  ●  State income taxes increased the rate 3.4%. 
  2009 – 
  ● 
  ● 
  ●  General business credits increased the rate 2.2%. 
  ●  Tax planning in foreign jurisdictions increased the rate 1.7%. 

Impairment of goodwill, which is not deductible for income tax purposes, reduced the rate 36.1%. 
Increase in foreign valuation allowances reduced the rate 3.8%. 

SEGMENT RESULTS 
We operate in four segments: Chicken, Beef, Pork and Prepared Foods. The following table is a summary of sales and operating 
income (loss), which is how we measure segment income (loss). Segment results exclude the results of our discontinued operation, 
Lakeside. 

Chicken 
Beef 
Pork 
Prepared Foods 
Other 
Intersegment Sales 
Total 

2011 
$11,017 
13,549 
5,460 
3,215 
127 
(1,102) 
$32,266 

Sales 

2010 
$10,062 
11,707 
4,552 
2,999 
0 
(890) 
$28,430 

Operating Income (Loss) 

in millions 

2009 
$9,660 
10,937 
3,875 
2,836 
0 
(604) 
$26,704 

2011 
$164 
468 
560 
117 
(24) 
0 
$1,285 

2010 
$519 
542 
381 
124 
(10) 
0 
$1,556 

2009 
$(157) 
(346) 
160 
133 
(5) 
0 
$(215) 

23 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Chicken Segment Results 

Sales 
Sales Volume Change 
Average Sales Price Change 

2011 
$11,017 

2010 
$10,062 

Operating Income (Loss) 
Operating Margin 

$164 
1.5% 

$519 
5.2% 

Change 2011 
vs. 2010 
$955 
4.6% 
4.7% 

$(355) 

in millions 
Change 2010 
vs. 2009 
$402 
2.0% 
2.1% 

$676 

2009 
$9,660 

$(157) 
(1.6)% 

  2010 – Operating income included a $38 million gain from insurance proceeds and a $29 million non-cash, non-tax deductible 

charge related to a full goodwill impairment of an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit. 

  2011 vs. 2010 – 
  ●  Sales Volume – A 2.1% increase in slaughter pounds that mostly occurred in the first three quarters of fiscal 2011 and a 
reduction of volumes in ending inventory in fiscal 2011 as compared to fiscal 2010, primarily drove the 4.6% increase in 
sales volume for fiscal 2011.  

  ●  Average Sales Price – The increase in average sales prices is primarily due to mix changes and price increases associated 

with increased input costs. 

  ●  Operating Income –  

●  Grain, Feed Ingredients and Growout Costs – Operating results were negatively impacted in fiscal 2011 by an 

increase in grain and feed ingredients costs of $675 million and an increase in other growout operating costs of $74 
million. 

●  Operational Improvements – Operating results were positively impacted by approximately $200 million of 

operational improvements, primarily attributed to improvements in yield, mix and processing optimization.  These 
operational improvements were partially offset by an increase in operating costs, mostly from cooking ingredients and 
employee related costs. 

●  Derivative Activities – Operating results included the following amounts for commodity risk management activities 

related to grain and energy purchases. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical purchase transactions, 
which impact current and future period operating results. 

Income/(Loss) – in millions 
2011 
2010  
 Improvement in operating results 

$41  
(6)  
$47 

  2010 vs. 2009 – 
  ●  Sales Volume – The increase in sales volume for fiscal 2010 was due to sales volume related to a fiscal 2009 acquisition, 

partially offset by a decrease due to the extra week in fiscal 2009. 

  ●  Average Sales Price – The increase in average sales prices is primarily due to sales mix changes associated with the 

reduced sales volume of lower price per pound rendered products. 

  ●  Operating Income (Loss) –  

●  Operational Improvements – Operating results were positively impacted by operational improvements, which 

included: yield, mix and live production performance improvements; additional processing flexibility; and reduced 
interplant product movement. 

●  Derivative Activities – Operating results included the following amounts for commodity risk management activities 

related to grain and energy purchases. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical purchase transactions, 
which impact current and future period operating results. 

Income/(Loss) – in millions 
2010  
2009  
 Improvement in operating results 

$(6)  
(257)  
$251  

●  Grain Costs – Operating results were positively impacted in fiscal 2010 by a decrease in grain costs of $158 million. 
●  Operating results included an increase in incentive-based compensation. 

24 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beef Segment Results 

Sales 
Sales Volume Change 
Average Sales Price Change 

2011 
$13,549 

2010 
$11,707 

Operating Income (Loss) 
Operating Margin 

$468 
3.5% 

$542 
4.6% 

Change 2011 
vs. 2010 
$1,842 
(1.0)% 
16.9% 

$(74) 

in millions 
Change 2010 
vs. 2009 
$770 
(1.9)% 
9.1% 

$888 

2009 
$10,937 

$(346) 
(3.2)% 

  2009 – Operating loss included a $560 million non-cash charge related to the partial impairment of goodwill. 

  2011 vs. 2010 – 
  ●  Sales and Operating Income – 

●  Average sales price increased due to price increases associated with increased livestock costs. We have maintained 

strong operating income by maximizing our revenues relative to the rising live cattle markets, partially attributable to 
strong export sales. This was offset by an increase in operating costs, primarily attributable to employee related costs. 

●  Derivative Activities – Operating results included the following amounts for commodity risk management activities 
related to forward futures contracts for live cattle. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical sale and 
purchase transactions, which impact current and future period operating results. 

Income/(Loss) – in millions 
2011  
2010  
Decline in operating results 

$(41) 
(15) 
$(26) 

  2010 vs. 2009 – 
  ●  Sales and Operating Income (Loss) – 

●  We increased our operating margins by maximizing our revenues relative to the rising live cattle markets, as well as 
improved our operating costs. In addition, we had an improvement in our export sales. Operating results included an 
increase in incentive-based compensation. 

●  Derivative Activities – Operating results included the following amounts for commodity risk management activities 
related to forward futures contracts for live cattle. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical sale and 
purchase transactions, which impact current and future period operating results. 

Income/(Loss) – in millions 
2010  
2009  
Decline in operating results 

$(15) 
102 
$(117) 

25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pork Segment Results 

Sales 
Sales Volume Change 
Average Sales Price Change 

2011 
$5,460 

2010 
$4,552 

Operating Income  
Operating Margin 

$560 
10.3% 

$381 
8.4% 

  2011 vs. 2010 – 
  ●  Sales and Operating Income –  

Change 2011 
vs. 2010 
$908 
4.1% 
15.2% 

$179 

in millions 
Change 2010 
vs. 2009 
$677 
(3.3)% 
21.4% 

$221 

2009 
$3,875 

$160 
4.1% 

●  Average sales price increased due to price increases associated with increased livestock costs. We have maintained 
strong operating income by maximizing our revenues relative to the rising live hog markets, partially attributable to 
strong export sales and operational and mix performance. 

●  Derivative Activities – Operating results included the following amounts for commodity risk management activities 
related to forward futures contracts for live hogs. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical sale and 
purchase transactions, which impact current and future period operating results. 

Income/(Loss) – in millions 
2011  
2010 
Improvement in operating results 

$(32) 
(36) 
$4 

  2010 vs. 2009 – 
  ●  Sales and Operating Income –  

●  We increased our operating margins by maximizing our revenues relative to the rising live hog markets. In addition, 
we had an improvement in our export sales. Operating results included an increase in incentive-based compensation. 
●  Derivative Activities – Operating results included the following amounts for commodity risk management activities 
related to forward futures contracts for live hogs. These amounts exclude the impact from related physical sale and 
purchase transactions, which impact current and future period operating results. 

Income/(Loss) – in millions 
2010  
2009 
Decline in operating results 

$(36) 
55 
$(91)  

26 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prepared Foods Segment Results 

Sales 
Sales Volume Change 
Average Sales Price Change 

2011 
$3,215 

2010 
$2,999 

Operating Income  
Operating Margin 

$117 
3.6% 

$124 
4.1% 

Change 2011 
vs. 2010 
$216 
(2.2)% 
9.6% 

$(7) 

in millions 
Change 2010 
vs. 2009 
$163 
0.3% 
5.5% 

$(9) 

2009 
$2,836 

$133 
4.7% 

  2009 – Operating income included a $15 million charge related to closing our Ponca City, Oklahoma, processed meats plant. 

  2011 vs. 2010 – 
  ●  Sales and Operating Income – Despite the increase in average sales prices, operating income remained flat, excluding $8 

million in insurance proceeds in fiscal 2010 related to flood damage at our Jefferson, Wisconsin plant. The increase in 
average sales prices were offset by lower volumes, increased raw material costs of $273 million and increased operational 
costs of $50 million, primarily attributable to employee related costs and plant variances mostly due to lower volumes.  

  2010 vs. 2009 – 
  ●  Sales and Operating Income – Despite the increase in average sales prices and sales volume, operating income declined 
in fiscal 2010 as compared to fiscal 2009 due to an increase in raw material costs. However, we made several operational 
improvements in late fiscal 2009 that allow us to run our plants more efficiently. Operating results included an increase in 
incentive-based compensation. 

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

Cash Flows from Operating Activities 

Net income (loss) 
Non-cash items in net income (loss): 
Depreciation and amortization 
Deferred income taxes 
Impairment of goodwill 
Impairment of assets 
Other, net 

Net changes in working capital 
Net cash provided by operating activities 

2011 
$733 

506 
86 
0 
18 
49 
(346) 
$1,046 

2010 
$765 

497 
18 
29 
36 
76 
11 
$1,432 

in millions 
2009 
$(551) 

513 
(33) 
560 
32 
72 
367 
$960 

Cash flows associated with changes in working capital: 
  ●  2011 – Decreased due to the increase in inventory and accounts receivable balances, partially offset by the increase in 
accounts payable. The higher inventory and accounts receivable balances were driven by significant increases in input 
costs and price increases associated with the increased input costs. 

  ●  2010 – Increased due to the increase in accrued salaries, wages and benefits and accounts payable balances, almost entirely 

offset by the increase in inventory and accounts receivable balances. The increase in accrued salaries, wages and benefits 
is primarily due to the accruals for incentive-based compensation. 

  ●  2009 – Increased primarily due to a reduction in inventory and accounts receivable balances, partially offset by a reduction 

in accounts payable. The lower inventory balance was primarily due to the reduction of inventory volumes, as well as a 
decrease in raw material costs. 

27 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash Flows from Investing Activities 

Additions to property, plant and equipment 
Proceeds from sale (purchases) of marketable securities, net 
Proceeds from notes receivable 
Proceeds from sale of discontinued operation 
Change in restricted cash to be used for investing activities 
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired 
Other, net 
Net cash used for investing activities 

2011 
$(643) 
(80) 
51 
0 
0 
0 
28 
$(644) 

2010 
$(550) 
(4) 
0 
0 
43 
0 
11 
$(500) 

in millions 
2009 
$(368) 
19 
0 
75 
(43) 
(93) 
(17) 
$(427) 

  ●  Additions to property, plant and equipment include acquiring new equipment and upgrading our facilities to maintain 

competitive standing and position us for future opportunities. In fiscal 2011, our capital spending was primarily for 
production efficiencies in our operations and for ongoing development of foreign operations. In fiscal 2010, our capital 
spending was primarily related to production efficiencies in our operations, construction of Dynamic Fuels’ facility and 
development of our foreign operations. In fiscal 2009, our capital spending was for improvements made in our prepared 
foods operations to increase efficiencies, construction of Dynamic Fuels’ facility and development of our foreign 
operations.  
●  Capital spending for fiscal 2012 is expected to be approximately $800-$850 million, and includes spending on our 
operations for production and labor efficiencies, yield improvements and sales channel flexibility, as well as 
expansion of our foreign operations. 

  ●  Purchases of marketable securities included funding for our deferred compensation plans. 
  ●  Proceeds from notes receivable totaling $51 million in fiscal 2011 related to the collection of notes receivable received in 

conjunction with the sale of a business operation in fiscal 2009. 

  ●  Change in restricted cash – In fiscal 2009, Dynamic Fuels received $100 million in proceeds from the sale of Gulf 

Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds made available by the federal government to the regions affected by Hurricanes 
Katrina and Rita in 2005. The cash received from these bonds was restricted and could only be used towards the 
construction of the Dynamic Fuels’ facility. 

  ●  Acquisitions – In fiscal 2009, we acquired three vertically integrated poultry companies in southern Brazil. The aggregate 
purchase price was $67 million. In addition, we had $15 million of contingent purchase price based on production 
volumes. The joint ventures in China called Shandong Tyson Xinchang Foods received the necessary government 
approvals during fiscal 2009. The aggregate purchase price for our 60% equity interest was $21 million, which excludes 
$93 million of cash transferred to the joint venture for future capital needs. 

28 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash Flows from Financing Activities 

Net borrowings (payments) on revolving credit facilities 
Payments on debt 
Net proceeds from borrowings 
Debt issuance costs 
Purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest 
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock 
Dividends 
Change in restricted cash to be used for financing activities 
Other, net 
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities 

2011 
$0 
(500) 
115 
(9) 
(66) 
(207) 
(59) 
0 
68 
$(658) 

2010 
$0 
(1,034) 
0 
0 
0 
(48) 
(59) 
140 
42 
$(959) 

in millions 
2009 
$15 
(380) 
852 
(59) 
0 
(19) 
(60) 
(140) 
6 
$215 

  ●  Net borrowings (payments) on revolving credit facilities primarily include activity related to the accounts receivable 

securitization facility. With the entry into a new revolving credit facility and issuance of the 2014 Notes in March 2009, we 
repaid all outstanding borrowings under our accounts receivable securitization facility and terminated the facility. 

  ●  Payments on debt include – 

●   2011 – $315 million of 2011 Notes; $63 million of 2016 Notes; $2 million of 7.0% Notes due May 2018; and $103 

million related to borrowings at our foreign operations. 

●   2010 – $524 million of 2011 Notes; $222 million of 2016 Notes; $140 million of 7.95% Notes due February 2010 

(2010 Notes) (using the restricted cash held in a blocked cash collateral account for the retirement of these notes); $52 
million of 7.0% Notes due May 2018; and $61 million related to the premiums on notes repurchased during the year. 

●  2009 – $161 million of 2011 Notes; $94 million of 2010 Notes (using the restricted cash held in a blocked cash 

collateral account for the repurchase of these notes); and $38 million of 2016 Notes. 

  ●  Net proceeds from borrowings include – 

●  In fiscal 2011, our foreign operations received proceeds of $106 million from borrowings. Total debt related to our 
foreign operations was $98 million at October 1, 2011 ($58 million current, $40 million long-term). Additionally, 
Dynamic Fuels received $9 million in proceeds from short term notes in fiscal 2011. 

●  In fiscal 2009, we issued $810 million of 2014 Notes. After the original issue discount of $59 million, based on an 

issue price of 92.756% of face value, we received net proceeds of $751 million. We used the net proceeds towards the 
repayment of our borrowings under our accounts receivable securitization facility and for other general corporate 
purposes. 

●  In fiscal 2009, Dynamic Fuels received $100 million in proceeds from the sale of Gulf Opportunity Zone tax-exempt 

bonds made available by the Federal government to the regions affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. These 
floating rate bonds are due October 1, 2033. 

  ●  In conjunction with the entry into our credit facility and the issuance of the 2014 Notes during fiscal 2009, we paid $48 

million for debt issuance costs. 

  ●  In fiscal 2011, the minority interest partner in our 60%-owned Shandong Tyson Xinchang Foods joint ventures in China 

exercised put options requiring us to purchase its entire 40% equity interest. The transaction closed in fiscal 2011 for cash 
consideration totaling $66 million. 

  ●  In fiscal 2011, we announced our Board of Directors reactivated a share repurchase program, which had no activity since 
fiscal 2005, to repurchase up to the remaining available 22.5 million shares of Class A common stock under the program. 
The share repurchase program has no fixed or scheduled termination date. During fiscal 2011, we repurchased 9.7 million 
shares for approximately $170 million under this plan. As of October 1, 2011, 12.8 million shares remain authorized for 
repurchase. The timing and extent to which we repurchase shares will depend upon, among other things, market 
conditions, liquidity targets, limitations under our debt obligations and regulatory requirements. In addition to the share 
repurchase program, we purchase shares on the open market to fund certain obligations under our equity compensation 
plans. These repurchases totaled $37 million, $48 million and $19 million in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. 

29 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liquidity 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Revolving credit facility 
Total liquidity 

Commitments 
Expiration Date 

Facility 
Amount 

Outstanding Letters of 
Credit under Revolving 
Credit Facility (no draw 
downs) 

Amount 
Borrowed 

February 2016 

$1,000 

$158 

$0 

in millions 

Amount 
Available 
$716 
$842 
$1,558 

●  The revolving credit facility supports our short-term funding needs and letters of credit. Letters of credit are issued 
primarily in support of workers’ compensation insurance programs, derivative activities and Dynamic Fuels’ Gulf 
Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds. 

●  Our 2013 Notes may be converted early during any fiscal quarter in the event our Class A stock trades at or above $21.96 
for at least 20 trading days during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the last trading day of the preceding 
fiscal quarter. In this event, the note holders may require us to pay outstanding principal in cash, which totaled $458 
million at October 1, 2011. Any conversion premium would be paid in shares of Class A stock. The conditions for early 
conversion were not met in our fourth fiscal quarter of fiscal 2011, and thus, the notes may not be converted in our first 
quarter of fiscal 2012. Should the conditions for early conversion be satisfied in future quarters, and should the holders 
exercise their early conversion option, we would use current cash on hand and cash flow from operations for principal 
payments. 

●  We do not have any significant maturities of debt coming due over the next two fiscal years. 
●  Our current ratio was 2.01 to 1 and 1.81 to 1 at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, respectively. 

Capital Resources 

Credit Facility 
Cash flows from operating activities and current cash on hand are our primary source of liquidity for funding debt service, capital 
expenditures, dividends and share repurchases. We also have a revolving credit facility, with a committed maximum capacity of $1.0 
billion, to provide additional liquidity for working capital needs, letters of credit and a source of financing for growth opportunities. 
As of October 1, 2011, we had outstanding letters of credit totaling $158 million, none of which were drawn upon, which left $842 
million available for borrowing. Our revolving credit facility is funded by a syndicate of 38 banks, with commitments ranging from $3 
million to $90 million per bank. The syndicate includes bank holding companies that are required to be adequately capitalized under 
federal bank regulatory agency requirements.  

Capitalization 
To monitor our credit ratings and our capacity for long-term financing, we consider various qualitative and quantitative factors. We 
monitor the ratio of our debt to our total capitalization as support for our long-term financing decisions. At October 1, 2011 and 
October 2, 2010, the ratio of our debt-to-total capitalization was 27.7% and 32.8%, respectively. For the purpose of this calculation, 
debt is defined as the sum of current and long-term debt. Total capitalization is defined as debt plus Total Shareholders’ Equity. Our 
ratio of debt to our total capitalization decreased in fiscal 2011 primarily resulting from reduced debt balances and increased retained 
earnings associated with strong earnings in fiscal 2011. 

Credit Ratings 
2016 Notes 
On September 4, 2008, Standard & Poor’s (S&P) downgraded the credit rating from “BBB-” to “BB.” This downgrade increased the 
interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 6.85% to 7.35%, effective beginning with the six-month interest payment due October 1, 2008. 

On November 13, 2008, Moody’s Investors Services, Inc. (Moody’s) downgraded the credit rating from “Ba1” to “Ba3.” This 
downgrade increased the interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 7.35% to 7.85%, effective beginning with the six-month interest 
payment due April 1, 2009. 

On August 19, 2010, S&P upgraded the credit rating from “BB” to “BB+.” On September 2, 2010, Moody’s upgraded the credit rating 
from “Ba3” to “Ba2.” These upgrades decreased the interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 7.85% to 7.35%, effective beginning with 
the six-month interest payment due October 1, 2010. 

On February 24, 2011, S&P upgraded the credit rating of these notes from “BB+” to “BBB-.” On March 29, 2011, Moody’s upgraded 
our credit rating from “Ba2” to “Ba1”. These upgrades decreased the interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 7.35% to 6.85%, effective 
beginning with the six-month interest payment due April 1, 2011. 

A further one-notch upgrade by Moody’s would decrease the interest rates on the 2016 Notes by 0.25%, while a one-notch downgrade 
by either ratings agency would increase the interest rates on the 2016 Notes by 0.25%. 

30 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving Credit Facility 
S&P’s corporate credit rating for Tyson Foods, Inc. is “BBB-.” Moody’s corporate credit rating for Tyson Foods, Inc. is “Ba1.” If 
Moody’s were to upgrade our credit rating to “Baa2” or higher while our S&P credit rating remained at “BBB-”, or S&P were to 
upgrade our credit rating to “BBB” or higher while Moody’s upgraded our credit rating to “Baa3” or higher, our letter of credit fees 
would decrease by 0.25% and fees paid on the unused portion of the facility would decrease by 0.075%. 

If S&P were to downgrade our corporate credit rating to “BB+” or Moody’s were to downgrade our corporate credit rating to “Ba2”, 
our letter of credit fees would increase by 0.25% and fees paid on the unused portion of the facility would increase by 0.025%. 

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

Our 2014 Notes also contain affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: incur 
additional debt and issue preferred stock; make certain investments and restricted payments; create liens; create restrictions on 
distributions from subsidiaries; engage in specified sales of assets and subsidiary stock; enter into transactions with affiliates; enter 
new lines of business; engage in consolidation, mergers and acquisitions; and engage in certain sale/leaseback transactions. 

We were in compliance with all debt covenants at October 1, 2011. 

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS 
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements material to our financial position or results of operations. The off-balance sheet 
arrangements we have are guarantees of debt of outside third parties, including a lease and grower loans, and residual value guarantees 
covering certain operating leases for various types of equipment. See Note 19: Commitments and Contingencies of the Notes to 
Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion. 

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS 
The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of October 1, 2011: 

Debt and capital lease obligations: 

Principal payments (1) 
Interest payments (2) 
Guarantees (3) 

Operating lease obligations (4) 
Purchase obligations (5) 
Capital expenditures (6) 
Other long-term liabilities (7) 
Total contractual commitments 

Payments Due by Period 

2012 

2013-2014 

2015-2016 

$70 
165 
26 
95 
886 
412 
12 
$1,666 

$1,296 
272 
61 
102 
81 
15 
5 
$1,832 

$650 
116 
22 
31 
31 
0 
4 
$854 

in millions 

Total 

$2,258 
599 
126 
282 
1,059 
427 
50 
$4,801 

2017 and 
thereafter 

$242 
46 
17 
54 
61 
0 
29 
$449 

(1) 
(2) 

In the event of a default on payment, acceleration of the principal payments could occur. 
Interest payments include interest on all outstanding debt. Payments are estimated for variable rate and variable term debt based on 
effective rates at October 1, 2011, and expected payment dates. 

(3)  Amounts include guarantees of debt of outside third parties, which consist of a lease and grower loans, all of which are substantially 

collateralized by the underlying assets, as well as residual value guarantees covering certain operating leases for various types of 
equipment. The amounts included are the maximum potential amount of future payments. 

(4)  Amounts include minimum lease payments under lease agreements. 
(5)  Amounts include agreements to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding and specify all significant terms, 

including: fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased; fixed, minimum or variable price provisions; and the approximate timing of the 
transaction. The purchase obligations amount included items, such as future purchase commitments for grains, livestock contracts and 
fixed grower fees that provide terms that meet the above criteria. We have excluded future purchase commitments for contracts that do 
not meet these criteria. Purchase orders have not been included in the table, as a purchase order is an authorization to purchase and may 
not be considered an enforceable and legally binding contract. Contracts for goods or services that contain termination clauses without 
penalty have also been excluded. 

(6)  Amounts include estimated amounts to complete buildings and equipment under construction as of October 1, 2011. 
(7)  Amounts include items that meet the definition of a purchase obligation and are recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

31 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In addition to the amounts shown above in the table, we have unrecognized tax benefits of $174 million and related interest and 
penalties of $58 million at October 1, 2011, recorded as liabilities. During fiscal 2012, tax audit resolutions could potentially reduce 
these amounts by approximately $10 million, either because tax positions are sustained on audit or because we agree to their 
disallowance. 

The maximum contractual obligation associated with our cash flow assistance programs at October 1, 2011, based on the estimated 
fair values of the livestock supplier’s net tangible assets on that date, aggregated to approximately $220 million, or approximately 
$192 million remaining maximum commitment after netting the cash flow assistance related receivables. 

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

32 

 
 
 
 
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES 
The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions 
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated 
financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from 
those estimates. The following is a summary of certain accounting estimates we consider critical. 

Description 

Judgments and Uncertainties 

Effect if Actual Results Differ From 
Assumptions 

Contingent liabilities 
We are subject to lawsuits, 
investigations and other claims related 
to wage and hour/labor, environmental, 
product, taxing authorities and other 
matters, and are required to assess the 
likelihood of any adverse judgments or 
outcomes to these matters, as well as 
potential ranges of probable losses. 

A determination of the amount of 
reserves and disclosures required, if 
any, for these contingencies are made 
after considerable analysis of each 
individual issue. We accrue for 
contingent liabilities when an 
assessment of the risk of loss is 
probable and can be reasonably 
estimated. We disclose contingent 
liabilities when the risk of loss is 
reasonably possible or probable. 

Marketing and advertising costs 
We incur advertising, retailer incentive 
and consumer incentive costs to 
promote products through marketing 
programs. These programs include 
cooperative advertising, volume 
discounts, in-store display incentives, 
coupons and other programs.  

Marketing and advertising costs are 
charged in the period incurred. We 
accrue costs based on the estimated 
performance, historical utilization and 
redemption of each program. 

Cash consideration given to customers 
is considered a reduction in the price of 
our products, thus recorded as a 
reduction to sales. The remainder of 
marketing and advertising costs is 
recorded as a selling, general and 
administrative expense. 

  Our contingent liabilities contain 
uncertainties because the eventual 
outcome will result from future events, 
and determination of current reserves 
requires estimates and judgments 
related to future changes in facts and 
circumstances, differing interpretations 
of the law and assessments of the 
amount of damages, and the 
effectiveness of strategies or other 
factors beyond our control. 

  We have not made any material 

changes in the accounting methodology 
used to establish our contingent 
liabilities during the past three fiscal 
years. 

We do not believe there is a reasonable 
likelihood there will be a material 
change in the estimates or assumptions 
used to calculate our contingent 
liabilities. However, if actual results are 
not consistent with our estimates or 
assumptions, we may be exposed to 
gains or losses that could be material. 

  Recognition of the costs related to these 
programs contains uncertainties due to 
judgment required in estimating the 
potential performance and redemption 
of each program. 

  We have not made any material 

changes in the accounting methodology 
used to establish our marketing 
accruals during the past three fiscal 
years. 

These estimates are based on many 
factors, including experience of similar 
promotional programs. 

We do not believe there is a reasonable 
likelihood there will be a material 
change in the estimates or assumptions 
used to calculate our marketing 
accruals. However, if actual results are 
not consistent with our estimates or 
assumptions, we may be exposed to 
gains or losses that could be material. 

A 10% change in our marketing 
accruals at October 1, 2011, would 
impact pretax earnings by 
approximately $15 million. 

33 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Description 

Judgments and Uncertainties 

Effect if Actual Results Differ From 
Assumptions 

Accrued self insurance 
We are self insured for certain losses 
related to health and welfare, workers’ 
compensation, auto liability and general 
liability claims. 

We use an independent third-party 
actuary to assist in determining our self-
insurance liability. We and the actuary 
consider a number of factors when 
estimating our self-insurance liability, 
including claims experience, 
demographic factors, severity factors 
and other actuarial assumptions. 

We periodically review our estimates 
and assumptions with our third-party 
actuary to assist us in determining the 
adequacy of our self-insurance liability. 
Our policy is to maintain an accrual 
within the central to high point of the 
actuarial range. 

Impairment of long-lived assets 
Long-lived assets are evaluated for 
impairment whenever events or changes 
in circumstances indicate the carrying 
value may not be recoverable. 
Examples include a significant adverse 
change in the extent or manner in which 
we use a long-lived asset or a change in 
its physical condition. 

When evaluating long-lived assets for 
impairment, we compare the carrying 
value of the asset to the asset’s 
estimated undiscounted future cash 
flows. An impairment is indicated if the 
estimated future cash flows are less 
than the carrying value of the asset. The 
impairment is the excess of the carrying 
value over the fair value of the long-
lived asset. 

We recorded impairment charges 
related to long-lived assets of $15 
million, $19 million and $25 million, 
respectively, in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 
2009. 

  Our self-insurance liability contains 
uncertainties due to assumptions 
required and judgment used. 

Costs to settle our obligations, 
including legal and healthcare costs, 
could increase or decrease causing 
estimates of our self-insurance liability 
to change. 

Incident rates, including frequency and 
severity, could increase or decrease 
causing estimates in our self-insurance 
liability to change. 

  Our impairment analysis contains 
uncertainties due to judgment in 
assumptions and estimates surrounding 
undiscounted future cash flows of the 
long-lived asset, including forecasting 
useful lives of assets and selecting the 
discount rate that reflects the risk 
inherent in future cash flows to 
determine fair value. 

  We have not made any material 

changes in the accounting methodology 
used to establish our self-insurance 
liability during the past three fiscal 
years. 

We do not believe there is a reasonable 
likelihood there will be a material 
change in the estimates or assumptions 
used to calculate our self-insurance 
liability. However, if actual results are 
not consistent with our estimates or 
assumptions, we may be exposed to 
gains or losses that could be material. 

A 10% increase in the actuarial 
estimate at October 1, 2011, would not 
result in a material change in the 
amount we recorded for our self-
insurance liability. A 10% decrease in 
the actuarial estimate at October 1, 
2011, would result in a decrease in the 
amount we recorded for our self-
insurance liability of approximately 
$23 million. 

  We have not made any material 

changes in the accounting methodology 
used to evaluate the impairment of 
long-lived assets during the last three 
fiscal years. 

We do not believe there is a reasonable 
likelihood there will be a material 
change in the estimates or assumptions 
used to calculate impairments of long-
lived assets. However, if actual results 
are not consistent with our estimates 
and assumptions used to calculate 
estimated future cash flows, we may be 
exposed to impairment losses that 
could be material. Additionally, we 
continue to evaluate our future 
international business strategies, which 
may expose us to future impairment 
losses. 

34 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Description 

Judgments and Uncertainties 

Effect if Actual Results Differ From 
Assumptions 

Income taxes 
We estimate total income tax expense 
based on statutory tax rates and tax 
planning opportunities available to us in 
various jurisdictions in which we earn 
income. 

Federal income tax includes an estimate 
for taxes on earnings of foreign 
subsidiaries expected to be remitted to 
the United States and be taxable, but 
not for earnings considered indefinitely 
invested in the foreign subsidiary. 

Deferred income taxes are recognized 
for the future tax effects of temporary 
differences between financial and 
income tax reporting using tax rates in 
effect for the years in which the 
differences are expected to reverse. 

Valuation allowances are recorded 
when it is likely a tax benefit will not 
be realized for a deferred tax asset. 

We record unrecognized tax benefit 
liabilities for known or anticipated tax 
issues based on our analysis of whether, 
and the extent to which, additional 
taxes will be due. 

  Changes in tax laws and rates could 

affect recorded deferred tax assets and 
liabilities in the future. 

Changes in projected future earnings 
could affect the recorded valuation 
allowances in the future. 

Our calculations related to income 
taxes contain uncertainties due to 
judgment used to calculate tax 
liabilities in the application of complex 
tax regulations across the tax 
jurisdictions where we operate. 

Our analysis of unrecognized tax 
benefits contains uncertainties based on 
judgment used to apply the more likely 
than not recognition and measurement 
thresholds. 

  We do not believe there is a reasonable 
likelihood there will be a material 
change in the tax related balances or 
valuation allowances. However, due to 
the complexity of some of these 
uncertainties, the ultimate resolution 
may result in a payment that is 
materially different from the current 
estimate of the tax liabilities. 

To the extent we prevail in matters for 
which unrecognized tax benefit 
liabilities have been established, or are 
required to pay amounts in excess of 
our recorded unrecognized tax benefit 
liabilities, our effective tax rate in a 
given financial statement period could 
be materially affected. An unfavorable 
tax settlement would require use of our 
cash and generally result in an increase 
in our effective tax rate in the period of 
resolution. A favorable tax settlement 
would generally be recognized as a 
reduction in our effective tax rate in the 
period of resolution. 

Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets 

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

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

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

For other indefinite life intangible assets, if the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is 
recognized in an amount equal to that excess. 

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

35 

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

We include assumptions about sales, operating margins and growth rates which consider our budgets, business plans and economic 
projections, and are believed to reflect market participant views which would exist in an exit transaction. Assumptions are also made 
for varying perpetual growth rates for periods beyond the long-term business plan period. Generally, we utilize normalized operating 
margin assumptions based on future expectations and operating margins historically realized in the reporting units’ industries. For the 
fiscal 2011 impairment test of material reporting units, only our Domestic Chicken reporting unit utilized operating margins in future 
years in excess of the operating margin realized in the most recent year.  

Our Domestic Chicken reporting unit had goodwill at October 1, 2011, totaling $900 million or 95% of our Chicken segment’s 
goodwill. We assumed operating margins in future years would return to our normalized range of 5.0% to 7.0%, as we believe this is 
consistent with market participant views in an exit transaction. Had we assumed future operating margins consistent with those 
realized in the current fiscal year, we would have failed the first step of the annual impairment test, which would have required the 
second step to be performed and may have resulted in a material goodwill impairment loss. The current year Domestic Chicken 
reporting unit results were not indicative of future market participant expectations in an exit transaction. In assessing the appropriate 
operating margins to be utilized in estimating the fair value of the Domestic Chicken segment, we considered many factors, including 
the following: 

(cid:2)  The Domestic Chicken segment has realized significant operational improvements, including yield, mix, live production, 

processing flexibility, and interplant product movements, over the past three years as compared to both historical results and 
the industry. 

(cid:2)  The operational improvements were offset in the current year due to historically high grain and feed ingredient costs coupled 

with excess supplies, which made it difficult to pass along the increased input costs. 

(cid:2)  Recent USDA data indicates eggs sets, broiler chick placements and slaughter pounds are down significantly, which are all 
strong indicators that supply relative to demand should return to more normalized levels by the end of fiscal 2012, allowing 
financial results to return to normalized ranges. 

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

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

Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions: We have not made any material changes in the accounting methodology used to 
evaluate impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets during the last three years. 

The discount rate used in our annual goodwill impairment test increased to an average of 8.8% in fiscal 2011 from 8.4% in fiscal 
2010. There were no significant changes in the other key estimates and assumptions. 

Other than the Beef reporting unit in 2009, no material reporting units failed the first step of the annual goodwill impairment analysis 
in fiscal 2011, 2010 or 2009 and therefore, the second step was not necessary. In fiscal 2009, we recorded a $560 million partial 
impairment of our Beef reporting unit’s goodwill, which was driven by an increase in our discount rate used in the 2009 annual 
goodwill impairment analysis as a result of disruptions in global credit and other financial markets and deterioration of economic 
conditions. In fiscal 2010, we recorded a $29 million full impairment of an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit’s goodwill. 

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

36 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If the Domestic Chicken reporting unit experienced a 15% or more decline in fair value at July 1, 2011, it would have caused the 
carrying value of the reporting unit to be in excess of fair value, which would have required the second step to be performed.  
Additionally, valuing the Domestic Chicken reporting unit utilizing projected operating margins averaging less than 4.0%, or a 0.9% 
increase in the discount rate used in fiscal 2011, would have caused the carrying value of the Domestic Chicken reporting unit to be in 
excess of fair value, which would have required the second step to be performed. The second step may have resulted in a material 
goodwill impairment loss. All other material reporting units’ estimated fair value exceeded their carrying value by more than 20%. 
Consequently, we do not consider any of our other material reporting units at significant risk of failing the first step of the annual 
goodwill impairment test. 

Our fiscal 2011 other indefinite life intangible asset impairment analysis did not result in a material impairment charge. A hypothetical 
20% decrease in the fair value of intangible assets would not result in a material impairment. 

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK 

MARKET RISK 

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

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

Commodities Risk: We purchase certain commodities, such as grains and livestock, in the course of normal operations. As part of our 
commodity risk management activities, we use derivative financial instruments, primarily futures and options, to reduce the effect of 
changing prices and as a mechanism to procure the underlying commodity. However, as the commodities underlying our derivative 
financial instruments can experience significant price fluctuations, any requirement to mark-to-market the positions that have not been 
designated or do not qualify as hedges could result in volatility in our results of operations. Contract terms of a hedge instrument 
closely mirror those of the hedged item providing a high degree of risk reduction and correlation. Contracts designated and highly 
effective at meeting this risk reduction and correlation criteria are recorded using hedge accounting. The following table presents a 
sensitivity analysis resulting from a hypothetical change of 10% in market prices as of October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, on the 
fair value of open positions. The fair value of such positions is a summation of the fair values calculated for each commodity by 
valuing each net position at quoted futures prices. The market risk exposure analysis includes hedge and non-hedge derivative 
financial instruments. 

Effect of 10% change in fair value 

Livestock: 
Cattle 
Hogs 

Grain 

in millions 
2010 

$39 
42 

10 

2011 

$34 
57 

11 

37 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest Rate Risk: At October 1, 2011, we had variable rate debt of $211 million with a weighted average interest rate of 4.1%. A 
hypothetical 10% increase in interest rates effective at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, would have a minimal effect on interest 
expense. 

Additionally, changes in interest rates impact the fair value of our fixed-rate debt. At October 1, 2011, we had fixed-rate debt of $2.0 
billion with a weighted average interest rate of 9.2%. Market risk for fixed-rate debt is estimated as the potential increase in fair value, 
resulting from a hypothetical 10% decrease in interest rates. A hypothetical 10% decrease in interest rates would have increased the 
fair value of our fixed-rate debt by approximately $5 million at October 1, 2011, and $9 million at October 2, 2010. The fair values of 
our debt were estimated based on quoted market prices and/or published interest rates. 

Foreign Currency Risk: We have foreign exchange gain/loss exposure from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates 
primarily as a result of certain receivable and payable balances. The primary currency exchanges we have exposure to are the 
Brazilian real, the British pound sterling, the Canadian dollar, the Chinese renminbi, the European euro, and the Mexican peso. We 
periodically enter into foreign exchange forward and option contracts to hedge some portion of our foreign currency exposure. A 
hypothetical 10% change in foreign exchange rates effective at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, related to the foreign exchange 
forward and option contracts would have an $18 million and $17 million impact, respectively, on pretax income. In the future, we may 
enter into more foreign exchange forward and option contracts as a result of our international growth strategy. 

Concentrations of Credit Risk: Our financial instruments exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash 
equivalents and trade receivables. Our cash equivalents are in high quality securities placed with major banks and financial 
institutions. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to receivables are limited due to our large number of customers and their 
dispersion across geographic areas. We perform periodic credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and generally do not 
require collateral. At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, 16.5% and 15.3%, respectively, of our net accounts receivable balance 
was due from Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. No other single customer or customer group represented greater than 10% of net accounts 
receivable. 

38 

 
 
 
 
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA 

TYSON FOODS, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME 

Sales 
Cost of Sales 
Gross Profit 
Operating Expenses: 

Selling, general and administrative 
Goodwill impairment 
Other charges 

Operating Income (Loss) 
Other (Income) Expense: 

Interest income 
Interest expense 
Other, net 

Total Other (Income) Expense 

Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes  
Income Tax Expense  
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 
Loss from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax 
Net Income (Loss) 
Less:  Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson 

Weighted Average Shares Outstanding: 

Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

Net Income (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations Attributable to Tyson: 

Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

Net Income (Loss) Per Share from Discontinued Operation Attributable to Tyson: 

Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

Net Income (Loss) per Share Attributable to Tyson: 

Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

See accompanying notes. 

Three years ended October 1, 2011 
in millions, except per share data 

2011 
$32,266 
30,067 
2,199 

2010 
$28,430 
25,916 
2,514 

2009 
$26,704 
25,501 
1,203 

914 
0 
0 
1,285 

(11) 
242 
(20) 
211 

1,074 
341 
733 
0 
733 
(17) 
$750 

303 
70 
380 

$2.04 
$1.84 
$1.97 

$0.00 
$0.00 
$0.00 

$2.04 
$1.84 
$1.97 

929 
29 
0 
1,556 

(14) 
347 
20 
353 

1,203 
438 
765 
0 
765 
(15) 
$780 

303 
70 
379 

$2.13 
$1.91 
$2.06 

$0.00 
$0.00 
$0.00 

$2.13 
$1.91 
$2.06 

841 
560 
17 
(215) 

(17) 
327 
18 
328 

(543) 
7 
(550) 
(1) 
(551) 
(4) 
$(547) 

302 
70 
372 

$(1.49) 
$(1.35) 
$(1.47) 

$0.00 
$0.00 
$0.00 

$(1.49) 
$(1.35) 
$(1.47) 

39 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TYSON FOODS, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 

October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010 
in millions, except share and per share data 

2011 

2010 

Assets 
Current Assets: 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable, net 
Inventories 
Other current assets 

Total Current Assets 
Net Property, Plant and Equipment 
Goodwill 
Intangible Assets 
Other Assets 
Total Assets 

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity 
Current Liabilities: 
Current debt 
Accounts payable 
Other current liabilities 

Total Current Liabilities 
Long-Term Debt 
Deferred Income Taxes 
Other Liabilities 
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest 
Shareholders’ Equity: 

Common stock ($0.10 par value): 

Class A-authorized 900 million shares: 

issued 322 million shares in both 2011 and 2010 
Convertible Class B-authorized 900 million shares: 
issued 70 million shares in both 2011 and 2010 

Capital in excess of par value 
Retained earnings 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 
Treasury stock, at cost –  

22 million shares in 2011 and 15 million shares in 2010 

Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity 
Noncontrolling Interest 
Total Shareholders’ Equity 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity 
See accompanying notes. 

$716 
1,321 
2,587 
156 
4,780 
3,823 
1,892 
149 
427 
$11,071 

$70 
1,264 
1,040 
2,374 
2,112 
424 
476 
0 

32 

7 
2,261 
3,801 
(79) 

(365) 
5,657 
28 
5,685 
$11,071 

$978 
1,198 
2,274 
168 
4,618 
3,674 
1,893 
166 
401 
$10,752 

$401 
1,110 
1,034 
2,545 
2,135 
321 
486 
64 

32 

7 
2,243 
3,113 
0 

(229) 
5,166 
35 
5,201 
$10,752 

40 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TYSON FOODS, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 

Three years ended October 1, 2011 
in millions 

October 1, 2011 
Shares 

Amount 

October 2, 2010 
Shares 

Amount 

October 3, 2009 
Shares 

Amount 

Common Stock at beginning and end of year: 

Class A 
Class B 

Capital in Excess of Par Value: 

Balance at beginning of year 
Stock-based compensation 

Balance at end of year 

Retained Earnings: 

Balance at beginning of year 

Net income (loss) attributable to Tyson 
Dividends paid 
Redeemable noncontrolling interest accretion 

Balance at end of year 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax: 

Balance at beginning of year 

Hedge accounting 
Investment accounting 
Currency translation adjustments 
Net change in postretirement liabilities 

Balance at end of year 

Treasury Stock: 

Balance at beginning of year 

Purchase of Tyson Class A common stock 
Stock-based compensation 

Balance at end of year 

Total Shareholders’ Equity Attributable to Tyson 

Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests 

Balance at beginning of year 

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (1) 
Contributions by (distributions to) noncontrolling interest 
Net foreign currency translation adjustment and other 

Total Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests 

322 
70 

15 
11 
(4) 
22 

$32 
7 

2,243 
18 
2,261 

3,113 
750 
(59) 
(3) 
3,801 

0 
(17) 
(8) 
(41) 
(13) 
(79) 

(229) 
(206) 
70 
(365) 

$5,657 

$35 
(13) 
8 
(2) 
$28 

322 
70 

16 
3 
(4) 
15 

$32 
7 

2,236 
7 
2,243 

2,399 
780 
(59) 
(7) 
3,113 

(34) 
12 
0 
27 
(5) 
0 

(242) 
(48) 
61 
(229) 

$5,166 

$33 
(6) 
10 
(2) 
$35 

Total Shareholders’ Equity 

$5,685 

$5,201 

Comprehensive Income (Loss): 

Net income (loss) 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 

Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) 
Less:  Comprehensive Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) attributable to Tyson 

See accompanying notes. 

$733 
(79) 
654 
(13) 
$667 

$765 
34 
799 
(6) 
$805 

322 
70 

15 
2 
(1) 
16 

$32 
7 

2,217 
19 
2,236 

3,006 
(547) 
(60) 
0 
2,399 

41 
6 
10 
(81) 
(10) 
(34) 

(233) 
(19) 
10 
(242) 

$4,398 

$29 
(4) 
9 
(1) 
$33 

$4,431 

$(551) 
(75) 
(626) 
(4) 
$(622) 

(1) Excludes net income (loss) related to redeemable noncontrolling interest of $(4) million, $(9) million and $0, for fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. 

41 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TYSON FOODS, INC. 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS 

Three years ended October 1, 2011 
in millions 

Cash Flows From Operating Activities: 

Net income (loss) 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activities: 

Depreciation 
Amortization 
Deferred income taxes 
Impairment of goodwill 
Impairment of assets 
Other, net 
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable 
(Increase) decrease in inventories 
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable 
Increase (decrease) in income taxes payable/receivable 
Increase (decrease) in interest payable 
Net change in other current assets and liabilities 

Cash Provided by Operating Activities 
Cash Flows From Investing Activities: 

Additions to property, plant and equipment 
Purchases of marketable securities 
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities 
Proceeds from notes receivable 
Proceeds from sale of discontinued operation 
Change in restricted cash to be used for investing activities 
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired 
Other, net 

Cash Used for Investing Activities 
Cash Flows From Financing Activities: 

Net borrowings (payments) on revolving credit facilities 
Payments of debt 
Net proceeds from borrowings 
Debt issuance costs 
Purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest 
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock 
Dividends 
Change in restricted cash to be used for financing activities 
Other, net 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities 
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash 
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year 
See accompanying notes. 

2011 

$733 

433 
73 
86 
0 
18 
49 
(114) 
(299) 
152 
(73) 
19 
(31) 
1,046 

(643) 
(146) 
66 
51 
0 
0 
0 
28 
(644) 

0 
(500) 
115 
(9) 
(66) 
(207) 
(59) 
0 
68 
(658) 
(6) 
(262) 
978 
$716 

2010 

$765 

416 
81 
18 
29 
36 
76 
(79) 
(239) 
101 
(53) 
(4) 
285 
1,432 

(550) 
(53) 
49 
0 
0 
43 
0 
11 
(500) 

0 
(1,034) 
0 
0 
0 
(48) 
(59) 
140 
42 
(959) 
1 
(26) 
1,004 
$978 

2009 

$(551) 

445 
68 
(33) 
560 
32 
72 
137 
493 
(216) 
33 
(60) 
(20) 
960 

(368) 
(37) 
56 
0 
75 
(43) 
(93) 
(17) 
(427) 

15 
(380) 
852 
(59) 
0 
(19) 
(60) 
(140) 
6 
215 
6 
754 
250 
$1,004 

42 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
TYSON FOODS, INC. 

NOTE 1: BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

Description of Business: Tyson Foods, Inc. (collectively, “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”), founded in 1935 with world 
headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world’s largest meat protein companies and the second-largest food production 
company in the Fortune 500. We produce a wide variety of brand name protein-based and prepared food products marketed in the 
United States and approximately 130 countries around the world. 

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

We have an investment in a joint venture, Dynamic Fuels LLC (Dynamic Fuels), in which we have a 50 percent ownership interest. 
Dynamic Fuels qualifies as a variable interest entity. We consolidate Dynamic Fuels since we are the primary beneficiary. At October 
1, 2011, Dynamic Fuels had $170 million of total assets, of which $144 million was property, plant and equipment, and $116 million 
of total liabilities, of which $100 million was long-term debt. At October 2, 2010, Dynamic Fuels had $154 million of total assets, of 
which $145 million was property, plant and equipment, and $107 million of total liabilities, of which $100 million was long-term debt. 

Fiscal Year: We utilize a 52- or 53-week accounting period ending on the Saturday closest to September 30. The Company's 
accounting cycle resulted in a 52-week year for fiscal years 2011 and 2010 and a 53-week year for fiscal year 2009. 

Discontinued Operation: On March 13, 2009, we completed the sale of the beef processing, cattle feed yard and fertilizer assets of 
three of our Alberta, Canada subsidiaries (collectively, Lakeside), which were part of our Beef segment, and related inventories. The 
financial statements report Lakeside as a discontinued operation. See Note 3: Acquisitions and Discontinued Operation in the Notes to 
Consolidated Financial Statements for further information. 

Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash equivalents consist of investments in short-term, highly liquid securities having original maturities 
of three months or less, which are made as part of our cash management activity. The carrying values of these assets approximate their 
fair values. We primarily utilize a cash management system with a series of separate accounts consisting of lockbox accounts for 
receiving cash, concentration accounts where funds are moved to, and several zero-balance disbursement accounts for funding payroll, 
accounts payable, livestock procurement, grower payments, etc. As a result of our cash management system, checks issued, but not 
presented to the banks for payment, may result in negative book cash balances. These negative book cash balances are included in 
accounts payable and other current liabilities. At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, checks outstanding in excess of related book 
cash balances totaled approximately $281 million and $267 million, respectively. 

Accounts Receivable: We record accounts receivable at net realizable value. This value includes an appropriate allowance for 
estimated uncollectible accounts to reflect any loss anticipated on the accounts receivable balances and charged to the provision for 
doubtful accounts. We calculate this allowance based on our history of write-offs, level of past due accounts and relationships with 
and economic status of our customers. At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, our allowance for uncollectible accounts was $31 
million and $32 million, respectively. We generally do not have collateral for our receivables, but we do periodically evaluate the 
credit worthiness of our customers.  

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

Processed products: 

Weighted-average method – chicken and prepared foods 
First-in, first-out method – beef and pork 

Livestock – first-in, first-out method 
Supplies and other – weighted-average method 
Total inventory 

2011 

$715 
581 
928 
363 
$2,587 

in millions 
2010 

$721 
462 
759 
332 
$2,274 

43 

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

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

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets are initially recorded at fair value and not 
amortized, but are reviewed for impairment at least annually or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. Our goodwill is 
allocated by reporting unit, and we follow a two-step process to evaluate if a potential impairment exists. The first step is to identify if 
a potential impairment exists by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair 
value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is not considered to have a potential impairment 
and the second step of the impairment test is not necessary. However, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, 
the second step is performed to determine if goodwill is impaired and to measure the amount of impairment loss to recognize, if any. 
The second step compares the implied fair value of goodwill with the carrying amount of goodwill. If the implied fair value of 
goodwill exceeds the carrying amount, then goodwill is not considered impaired. However, if the carrying amount of goodwill 
exceeds the implied fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill 
is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination (i.e., the fair value of the reporting 
unit is allocated to all the assets and liabilities, including any unrecognized intangible assets, as if the reporting unit had been acquired 
in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was determined as the exit price a market participant would pay for 
the same business). We have elected to make the first day of the fourth quarter the annual impairment assessment date for goodwill 
and other indefinite life intangible assets. 

We have estimated the fair value of our reporting units using a discounted cash flow analysis, which uses significant unobservable 
inputs, or Level 3 inputs, as defined by the fair value hierarchy. This analysis requires us to make various judgmental estimates and 
assumptions about sales, operating margins, growth rates and discount factors and is believed to reflect market participant views 
which would exist in an exit transaction. Generally, we utilize normalized operating margin assumptions based on future expectations 
and operating margins historically realized in the reporting units’ industries. For the fiscal 2011 impairment test of material reporting 
units, only our Domestic Chicken reporting unit, which had goodwill at October 1, 2011 totaling $900 million, utilized operating 
margins in future years in excess of the operating margins realized in the most recent year. The current year Domestic Chicken 
reporting unit results were not indicative of future market participant expectations in an exit transaction. We assumed operating 
margins in future years would return to our normalized range, as we believe this is consistent with market participant views in an exit 
transaction. Some of the inherent estimates and assumptions used in determining fair value of the reporting units are outside the 
control of management, including interest rates, cost of capital, tax rates, and credit ratings. While we believe we have made 
reasonable estimates and assumptions to calculate the fair value of the reporting units, it is possible a material change could occur. If 
our actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions used to calculate fair value, we may be required to perform the 
second step in future years, which could result in material impairments of our goodwill. 

During fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, all of our reporting units passed the first step of the goodwill impairment analysis, with the 
exception of an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit in fiscal 2010 and the Beef reporting unit in fiscal 2009. In fiscal 2010, we 
recorded a $29 million full impairment of an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit’s goodwill. In fiscal 2009, we recorded a 
$560 million partial impairment of our Beef reporting unit’s goodwill, which was driven by an increase in our discount rate used in the 
2009 annual goodwill impairment analysis as a result of disruptions in global credit and other financial markets and deterioration of 
economic conditions.  

For our other indefinite life intangible assets, if the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is 
recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The fair value of trademarks is determined using a royalty rate method based on 
expected revenues by trademark. 

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

44 

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

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

Capital Stock: We have two classes of capital stock, Class A Common Stock, $0.10 par value (Class A stock) and Class B Common 
Stock, $0.10 par value (Class B stock). Holders of Class B stock may convert such stock into Class A stock on a share-for-share basis. 
Holders of Class B stock are entitled to 10 votes per share, while holders of Class A stock are entitled to one vote per share on matters 
submitted to shareholders for approval. As of October 1, 2011, Tyson Limited Partnership (the TLP) owned 99.97% of the outstanding 
shares of Class B stock and the TLP and members of the Tyson family owned, in the aggregate, 2.45% of the outstanding shares of 
Class A stock, giving them, collectively, control of approximately 70.74% of the total voting power of the outstanding voting stock. 
Cash dividends cannot be paid to holders of Class B stock unless they are simultaneously paid to holders of Class A stock. The per 
share amount of the cash dividend paid to holders of Class B stock cannot exceed 90% of the cash dividend simultaneously paid to 
holders of Class A stock. We pay quarterly cash dividends to Class A and Class B shareholders. We paid Class A dividends per share 
of $0.16 and Class B dividends per share of $0.144 in each of fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009. 

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

On May 11, 2011, we announced our Board of Directors reactivated a share repurchase program, which had no activity since fiscal 
2005, to repurchase up to the remaining available 22.5 million shares of Class A common stock under the program. The share 
repurchase program has no fixed or scheduled termination date. During fiscal 2011, we repurchased 9.7 million shares for 
approximately $170 million under this plan. As of October 1, 2011, 12.8 million shares remain authorized for repurchase. The timing 
and extent to which we repurchase shares will depend upon, among other things, market conditions, liquidity targets, limitations under 
our debt obligations and regulatory requirements. In addition to the share repurchase program, we purchase shares on the open market 
to fund certain obligations under our equity compensation plans. These repurchases totaled $37 million and $48 million during fiscal 
2011 and 2010, respectively. 

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

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

45 

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

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

Advertising and Promotion Expenses: Advertising and promotion expenses are charged to operations in the period incurred. 
Customer incentive and trade promotion activities are recorded as a reduction to sales based on amounts estimated as being due to 
customers, based primarily on historical utilization and redemption rates, while other advertising and promotional activities are 
recorded as selling, general and administrative expenses. Advertising and promotion expenses for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009 
were $552 million, $505 million and $491 million, respectively. 

Research and Development: Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and development costs totaled $42 
million, $38 million and $33 million in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. 

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

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements: In May 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) clarified the 
guidance around fair value measurements and disclosures. This guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after 
December 15, 2011. We will adopt this guidance in the second quarter of fiscal year 2012. We do not expect the adoption will have a 
significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. 

In June 2011, the FASB issued guidance regarding the presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance is effective for annual 
periods, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011. We anticipate we will adopt this guidance in the 
first quarter of fiscal year 2013. Upon adoption, we will be required to present comprehensive income as part of our consolidated 
statements of income, or in a separate financial statement. Currently, we present such information in our notes to the consolidated 
financial statements. Other than changing the presentation of comprehensive income, we do not expect the adoption will have a 
significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. 

In September 2011, the FASB issued guidance amending the way companies test for goodwill impairment. This guidance is effective 
for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. We do not expect the adoption will 
have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. 

NOTE 2: CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES 

In December 2007, the FASB issued guidance to establish accounting and reporting standards for a noncontrolling interest in a 
subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This guidance clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an 
ownership interest in the consolidated entity and may be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements, rather than in the 
liability or mezzanine section between liabilities and equity. This guidance also requires consolidated net income be reported at 
amounts that include the net income attributable to both Tyson (the parent) and the noncontrolling interest. We adopted the 
presentation and disclosure requirements retrospectively at the beginning of fiscal 2010. Accordingly, “attributable to Tyson” refers to 
operating results exclusive of any noncontrolling interest. In conjunction with this adoption, we also adopted guidance applicable for 
all noncontrolling interests in which we are or may be required to repurchase an interest in a consolidated subsidiary from the 
noncontrolling interest holder under a put option or other contractual redemption requirement. Because we had certain redeemable 
noncontrolling interests, noncontrolling interests were presented in both the equity section and the mezzanine section of the balance 
sheet between liabilities and equity. 

46 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In May 2008, the FASB issued guidance which specifies issuers of convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash upon 
conversion (including partial cash settlement) should separately account for the liability and equity components in a manner that will 
reflect the entity’s nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. The amount allocated to 
the equity component represents a discount to the debt, which is amortized into interest expense using the effective interest method 
over the life of the debt. We adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 and applied it retrospectively. Upon retrospective 
adoption, our effective interest rate on our 3.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013 issued in September 2008 was determined to be 
8.26%, which resulted in the recognition of a $92 million discount to these notes with the offsetting after tax amount of $56 million 
recorded to capital in excess of par value. This discount is being accreted over the five-year term of the convertible notes at the 
effective interest rate. 

The following table presents the effects of the retrospective application of new accounting guidance on our consolidated financial 
statements (in millions, except per share data): 

Adjustments:  Adjustments: 
Previously  Convertible  Noncontrolling 
Reported 

Interest 

Debt 

October 3, 2009 – Income Statement: 

Interest Expense 
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes  
Income Tax Expense 
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 
Minority Interest 
Net Income (Loss) 
Less:  Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson 

Net Income (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations 

Attributable to Tyson: 
Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

Net Income (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Tyson: 

Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

$310 
(526) 
14 
(540) 
(4) 
(537) 
0 
0 

$(1.47) 
$(1.32) 
$(1.44) 

$(1.47) 
$(1.32) 
$(1.44) 

$17 
(17) 
(7) 
(10) 
0 
(10) 
0 
0 

$(0.02) 
$(0.03) 
$(0.03) 

$(0.02) 
$(0.03) 
$(0.03) 

As 
Adjusted 

$327 
(543) 
7 
(550) 
0 
(551) 
(4) 
(547) 

$0 
0 
0 
0 
4 
(4) 
(4) 
0 

$0.00 
$0.00 
$0.00 

$0.00 
$0.00 
$0.00 

$(1.49) 
$(1.35) 
$(1.47) 

$(1.49) 
$(1.35) 
$(1.47) 

In December 2008, the FASB issued guidance requiring additional disclosures about assets held in an employer’s defined benefit 
pension or other postretirement plan. This guidance is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009, with early adoption 
permitted. We adopted the disclosure requirements in fiscal 2010. See Note 14: Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits for 
required disclosures. 

In June 2009, the FASB issued guidance removing the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity. This guidance also clarifies the 
requirements for isolation and limitations on portions of financial assets eligible for sale accounting. This guidance is effective for 
fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009. We adopted this guidance at the beginning of fiscal year 2011. The adoption did not 
have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. 

In June 2009 and December 2009, the FASB issued guidance requiring an analysis to determine whether a variable interest gives the 
entity a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity. This guidance requires an ongoing assessment and eliminates the 
quantitative approach previously required for determining whether an entity is the primary beneficiary. This guidance is effective for 
fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2009. We adopted this guidance at the beginning of fiscal year 2011. The adoption did not 
have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. 

47 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 3: ACQUISITIONS AND DISCONTINUED OPERATION 

Acquisitions 
In August 2009, we completed the establishment of related joint ventures in China referred to as Shandong Tyson Xinchang Foods. 
The aggregate purchase price for our 60% equity interest was $21 million, which excludes $93 million of cash transferred to the joint 
venture for future capital needs. The purchase price included $29 million allocated to Intangible Assets and $19 million allocated to 
Goodwill, as well as the assumption of $76 million of Current and Long-Term Debt. 

In May 2011, the minority partner exercised put options requiring us to purchase its entire 40% equity interest. In August 2011, the 
transaction closed for $66 million. 

In October 2008, we acquired three vertically integrated poultry companies in southern Brazil: Macedo Agroindustrial, Avicola 
Itaiopolis and Frangobras. The aggregate purchase price was $67 million. In addition, we had $15 million of contingent purchase price 
based on production volumes. The purchase price included $23 million allocated to Goodwill and $19 million allocated to Intangible 
Assets. Through fiscal 2011, we have paid $11 million of the contingent purchase price. 

Discontinued Operation 
On March 13, 2009, we completed the sale of the beef processing, cattle feed yard and fertilizer assets of three of our Alberta, Canada 
subsidiaries (collectively, Lakeside), which were part of our Beef segment, and related inventories for total consideration of $145 
million, based on exchange rates then in effect. This included (a) cash received at closing of $43 million, (b) $78 million of 
collateralized notes receivable from either XL Foods or an affiliated entity to be collected throughout the two years following closing, 
and (c) $24 million of XL Foods Preferred Stock to be redeemed over five years. 

We recorded a pretax loss on sale of Lakeside of $10 million in fiscal 2009, which included an allocation of beef reporting unit 
goodwill of $59 million and cumulative currency translation adjustment gains of $41 million. 

The following is a summary of Lakeside’s operating results prior to its disposition (in millions): 

Sales 

Pretax income from discontinued operation 
Loss on sale of discontinued operation 
Income tax expense  
Loss from discontinued operation 

NOTE 4: PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT 

2009 
$461 

$20 
(10) 
11 
$(1) 

Major categories of property, plant and equipment and accumulated depreciation at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010: 

Land 
Building and leasehold improvements 
Machinery and equipment 
Land improvements and other 
Buildings and equipment under construction 

Less accumulated depreciation 
Net property, plant and equipment 

2011 
$95 
2,698 
4,897 
386 
446 
8,522 
4,699 
$3,823 

in millions 
2010 
$97 
2,617 
4,694 
232 
513 
8,153 
4,479 
$3,674 

Approximately $427 million will be required to complete buildings and equipment under construction at October 1, 2011. 

48 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 5: GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS 

The following table reflects goodwill activity for fiscal years 2011 and 2010: 

Balances at October 3, 2009: 
Goodwill 
Accumulated impairment losses 

Fiscal 2010 Activity: 
Impairment losses 
Currency translation and other 

Balances at October 2, 2010: 
Goodwill 
Accumulated impairment losses 

Fiscal 2011 Activity: 
Impairment losses 
Currency translation and other 

Balances at October 1, 2011: 
Goodwill 
Accumulated impairment losses 

Chicken 

Beef 

$973 
0 
973 

(29) 
6 

$979 
(29) 
$950 

0 
(1) 

978 
(29) 
$949 

$1,123 
(560) 
563 

0 
0 

$1,123 
(560) 
$563 

0 
0 

1,123 
(560) 
$563 

Other intangible assets by type at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010: 

Gross Carrying Value: 

Trademarks 
Patents, intellectual property and other 
Land use rights 

Less Accumulated Amortization 
Total Intangible Assets 

Pork 

$317 
0 
317 

0 
0 

$317 
0 
$317 

0 
0 

317 
0 
$317 

in millions 

Prepared 
Foods 

Consolidated 

$64 
0 
64 

0 
(1) 

$63 
0 
$63 

0 
0 

63 
0 
$63 

$2,477 
(560) 
1,917 

(29) 
5 

$2,482 
(589) 
$1,893 

0 
(1) 

2,481 
(589) 
$1,892 

2011 

$56 
143 
25 
75 
$149 

in millions 
2010 

$56 
144 
23 
57 
$166 

Beginning with the date benefits are realized, other intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated 
period of benefit of three to 30 years. Amortization expense of $18 million, $19 million and $10 million was recognized during fiscal 
2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. We estimate amortization expense on intangible assets for the next five fiscal years subsequent to 
October 1, 2011 will be: 2012 - $16 million; 2013 - $16 million; 2014 - $15 million; 2015 - $15 million; 2016 - $14 million.  

NOTE 6: OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES 

Other current liabilities at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, include: 

Accrued salaries, wages and benefits 
Self-insurance reserves 
Other 
Total other current liabilities 

2011 
$407 
298 
335 
$1,040 

in millions 
2010 
$444 
256 
334 
$1,034 

49 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 7: DEBT 

The major components of debt are as follows (in millions): 

Revolving credit facility 
Senior notes: 

8.25% Notes due October 2011 (2011 Notes) 
3.25% Convertible senior notes due October 2013 (2013 Notes) 
10.50% Senior notes due March 2014 (2014 Notes) 
6.85% Senior notes due April 2016 (2016 Notes) 
7.00% Notes due May 2018 
7.00% Notes due January 2028 
Discount on senior notes 

GO Zone tax-exempt bonds due October 2033 (0.14% at 10/1/2011) 
Other 
Total debt 
Less current debt 
Total long-term debt 

2011 

$0 

0 
458 
810 
638 
120 
18 
(76) 
100 
114 
2,182 
70 
$2,112 

2010 

$0 

315 
458 
810 
701 
122 
18 
(105) 
100 
117 
2,536 
401 
$2,135 

Annual maturities of debt for the five fiscal years subsequent to October 1, 2011, are: 2012 - $70 million; 2013 - $17 million; 2014 - 
$1,279 million; 2015 - $7 million; 2016 - $643 million. 

Revolving Credit Facility 
In February 2011, we amended and extended our $1.0 billion revolving credit facility that supports short-term funding needs and 
letters of credit. The facility will mature and the commitments thereunder will terminate in February 2016, provided that (a) at any 
time during the six-month period ending November 29, 2013, we have corporate credit ratings not lower than BBB- and Baa3 from 
Standard & Poor’s (S&P) and Moody’s Investor Services, Inc. (Moody’s), respectively, in each case with stable outlook or better, (b) 
on or prior to November 29, 2013, we have refinanced, purchased, or defeased the 2014 Notes, or (c) we have irrevocably deposited 
cash in an amount not less than the aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 2014 Notes on or prior to November 29, 2013, in a 
blocked cash collateral account. In the event none of the foregoing events have occurred, the loans made under this facility will mature 
and the commitments thereunder will terminate on November 29, 2013. As of October 1, 2011, none of the foregoing events have 
occurred. 

After reducing the amount available by outstanding letters of credit issued under this facility, the amount available for borrowing 
under this facility at October 1, 2011, was $842 million. At October 1, 2011, we had outstanding letters of credit issued under this 
facility totaling $158 million, none of which were drawn upon. Our letters of credit are issued primarily in support of workers’ 
compensation insurance programs, derivative activities and Dynamic Fuels’ Gulf Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds. We had an 
additional $50 million of bilateral letters of credit not issued under this facility, none of which were drawn upon. 

This facility is fully and unconditionally guaranteed by substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries. The guarantors’ cash, accounts 
receivable, inventory and proceeds received related to these items previously secured our obligations under this facility. Because we 
satisfied certain credit rating requirements provided for in the facility, we requested the release of the liens securing the facility. As of 
October 1, 2011, all liens securing our obligations under this facility were released, while the facility remains fully and 
unconditionally guaranteed by substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries. 

2013 Notes 
In September 2008, we issued $458 million principal amount 3.25% convertible senior unsecured notes due October 15, 2013, with 
interest payable semi-annually in arrears on April 15 and October 15. The conversion rate initially is 59.1935 shares of Class A stock 
per $1,000 principal amount of notes, which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of $16.89 per share of Class A stock. The 2013 
Notes may be converted before the close of business on July 12, 2013, only under the following circumstances: 

50 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
●  during any fiscal quarter after December 27, 2008, if the last reported sale price of our Class A stock for at least 20 trading 
days during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the last trading day of the preceding fiscal quarter is at least 
130% of the applicable conversion price on each applicable trading day (which would currently require our shares to trade 
at or above $21.96); or 

●  during the five business days after any 10 consecutive trading days (measurement period) in which the trading price per 

$1,000 principal amount of notes for each trading day of the measurement period was less than 98% of the product of the 
last reported sale price of our Class A stock and the applicable conversion rate on each such day; or 

●  upon the occurrence of specified corporate events as defined in the supplemental indenture. 

On and after July 15, 2013, until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date, 
holders may convert their notes at any time, regardless of the foregoing circumstances. Upon conversion, we will deliver cash up to 
the aggregate principal amount of the 2013 Notes to be converted and shares of our Class A stock in respect of the remainder, if any, 
of our conversion obligation in excess of the aggregate principal amount of the 2013 Notes being converted. As of October 1, 2011, 
none of the conditions permitting conversion of the 2013 Notes had been satisfied. 

The 2013 Notes were originally accounted for as a combined instrument because the conversion feature did not meet the requirements 
to be accounted for separately as a derivative financial instrument. However, we adopted new accounting guidance in the first quarter 
of fiscal 2010 and applied it retrospectively to all periods presented. This new accounting guidance required us to separately account 
for the liability and equity conversion features. Upon retrospective adoption, our effective interest rate on the 2013 Notes was 
determined to be 8.26%, which resulted in the recognition of a $92 million discount to these notes with the offsetting after tax amount 
of $56 million recorded to capital in excess of par value. This discount is being accreted over the five-year term of the convertible 
notes at the effective interest rate. 

In connection with the issuance of the 2013 Notes, we entered into separate convertible note hedge transactions with respect to our 
Class A stock to minimize the potential economic dilution upon conversion of the 2013 Notes. We also entered into separate warrant 
transactions. We recorded the purchase of the note hedge transactions as a reduction to capital in excess of par value, net of $36 
million pertaining to the related deferred tax asset, and we recorded the proceeds of the warrant transactions as an increase to capital in 
excess of par value. Subsequent changes in fair value of these instruments are not recognized in the financial statements as long as the 
instruments continue to meet the criteria for equity classification. 

We purchased call options in private transactions for $94 million that permit us to acquire up to approximately 27 million shares of 
our Class A stock at an initial strike price of $16.89 per share, subject to adjustment. The call options allow us to acquire a number of 
shares of our Class A stock initially equal to the number of shares of Class A stock issuable to the holders of the 2013 Notes upon 
conversion. These call options will terminate upon the maturity of the 2013 Notes. 

We sold warrants in private transactions for total proceeds of $44 million. The warrants permit the purchasers to acquire up to 
approximately 27 million shares of our Class A stock at an initial exercise price of $22.31 per share, subject to adjustment. The 
warrants are exercisable on various dates from January 2014 through March 2014. 

The maximum amount of shares that may be issued to satisfy the conversion of the 2013 Notes is limited to 35.9 million shares. 
However, the convertible note hedge and warrant transactions, in effect, increase the initial conversion price of the 2013 Notes from 
$16.89 per share to $22.31 per share, thus reducing the potential future economic dilution associated with conversion of the 2013 
Notes. If our share price is below $22.31 upon conversion of the 2013 Notes, there is no economic net share impact. Upon conversion, 
a 10% increase in our share price above the $22.31 conversion price would result in the issuance of 2.5 million incremental shares. 
The 2013 Notes and the warrants could have a dilutive effect on our earnings per share to the extent the price of our Class A stock 
during a given measurement period exceeds the respective exercise prices of those instruments. The call options are excluded from the 
calculation of diluted earnings per share as their impact is anti-dilutive. 

2014 Notes 
In March 2009, we issued $810 million of senior unsecured notes, which will mature in March 2014. The 2014 Notes carry a 10.50% 
interest rate, with interest payments due semi-annually on March 1 and September 1. These were issued at an original issue discount 
of $59 million, based on an issue price of 92.756% of face value. The 2014 Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by 
substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries. 

51 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2016 Notes 
The 2016 Notes carried an interest rate at issuance of 6.60%, with an interest step up feature dependent on their credit rating. On 
November 13, 2008, Moody’s downgraded the credit rating from “Ba1” to “Ba3.” This downgrade increased the interest rate from 
7.35% to 7.85%, effective beginning with the six-month interest payment due April 1, 2009. 

On August 19, 2010, S&P upgraded the credit rating of these notes from “BB” to “BB+.” On September 2, 2010, Moody’s upgraded 
our credit rating from “Ba3” to “Ba2.” These upgrades decreased the interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 7.85% to 7.35%, effective 
beginning with the six-month interest payment due October 1, 2010. 

On February 24, 2011, S&P upgraded the credit rating of these notes from “BB+” to “BBB-.” On March 29, 2011, Moody’s upgraded 
our credit rating from “Ba2” to “Ba1”. These upgrades decreased the interest rate on the 2016 Notes from 7.35% to 6.85%, effective 
beginning with the six-month interest payment due April 1, 2011. 

GO Zone Tax-Exempt Bonds 
In October 2008, Dynamic Fuels received $100 million in proceeds from the sale of Gulf Opportunity Zone tax-exempt bonds made 
available by the federal government to the regions affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. These floating rate bonds are due 
October 1, 2033. In November 2008, we entered into an interest rate swap related to these bonds to mitigate our interest rate risk on a 
portion of the bonds for five years. We also issued a letter of credit as a guarantee for the entire bond issuance. 

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

Our 2014 Notes also contain affirmative and negative covenants that, among other things, may limit or restrict our ability to: incur 
additional debt and issue preferred stock; make certain investments and restricted payments; create liens; create restrictions on 
distributions from subsidiaries; engage in specified sales of assets and subsidiary stock; enter into transactions with affiliates; enter 
new lines of business; engage in consolidation, mergers and acquisitions; and engage in certain sale/leaseback transactions. 

We were in compliance with all debt covenants at October 1, 2011. 

NOTE 8: INCOME TAXES 

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

Federal 
State 
Foreign 

Current 
Deferred 

2011 
$320 
21 
0 
$341 

$255 
86 
$341 

2010 
$374 
44 
20 
$438 

$420 
18 
$438 

in millions 
2009 
$7 
(4) 
4 
$7 

$40 
(33) 
$7 

52 

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

Federal income tax rate 
State income taxes 
Unrecognized tax benefits, net 
Goodwill impairment 
General business credits 
Domestic production deduction 
Change in foreign valuation allowance 
Tax planning in foreign jurisdictions 
Other 

2011 
35.0% 
1.6 
(1.7) 
0.0 
(0.9) 
(2.3) 
0.3 
0.0 
(0.2) 
31.8% 

2010 
35.0% 
2.4 
(1.4) 
0.9 
(0.7) 
(2.0) 
0.8 
0.0 
1.4 
36.4% 

2009 
35.0% 
0.1 
(0.3) 
(36.1) 
2.2 
0.5 
(3.8) 
1.7 
(0.8) 
(1.5)% 

During fiscal 2011, tax expense was impacted by the domestic production deduction, adjustments to reserves for uncertain tax 
positions due to domestic and foreign tax audit activities, and estimated general business credits, which decreased tax expense by $25 
million, $19 million, and $9 million, respectively. 

During fiscal 2010, tax expense was impacted by the domestic production deduction and reductions in unrecognized tax benefits, 
which decreased tax expense by $24 million and $16 million, respectively. 

The fiscal 2009 goodwill impairment is not deductible for income tax purposes and negatively impacted our effective income tax rate 
by 36.1%. During fiscal 2009, our tax expense was impacted by an increase in foreign valuation allowance which increased tax 
expense by $21 million, estimated general business credits, which decreased tax expense by $12 million, and tax planning in foreign 
jurisdictions which decreased tax expense by $9 million. 

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

The tax effects of major items recorded as deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: 

Property, plant and equipment 
Suspended taxes from conversion to accrual method 
Intangible assets 
Inventory 
Accrued expenses 
Net operating loss and other carryforwards 
Insurance reserves 
Other 

Valuation allowance 
Net deferred tax liability 

2011 
Deferred Tax 

in millions 

2010 
Deferred Tax 

Assets 
$0 
0 
0 
9 
196 
97 
23 
80 
$405 
$(92) 

Liabilities 
$401 
81 
35 
113 
0 
0 
0 
68 
$698 

$385 

Assets 
$0 
0 
0 
9 
202 
97 
20 
108 
$436 
$(96) 

Liabilities 
$347 
86 
34 
85 
0 
0 
0 
90 
$642 

$302 

We record deferred tax amounts in Other Current Assets and in Deferred Income Taxes on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

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

53 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
At October 1, 2011, our gross state tax net operating loss carryforwards approximated $635 million and expire in fiscal years 2012 
through 2029. Gross foreign net operating loss carryforwards approximated $160 million, of which $63 million expire in fiscal years 
2012 through 2020, and the remainder has no expiration. We also have tax credit carryforwards of approximately $19 million that 
expire in fiscal years 2012 through 2025. 

We have accumulated undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries aggregating approximately $339 million and $260 million at 
October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, respectively. These earnings are expected to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the United 
States. If those earnings were distributed in the form of dividends or otherwise, we would be subject to federal income taxes (subject 
to an adjustment for foreign tax credits), state income taxes and withholding taxes payable to the various foreign countries. It is not 
currently practicable to estimate the tax liability that might be payable on the repatriation of these foreign earnings. 

The following table summarizes the activity related to our gross unrecognized tax benefits at October 1, 2011, October 2, 2010, and 
October 3, 2009: 

Balance as of the beginning of the year 
Increases related to current year tax positions 
Increases related to prior year tax positions 
Reductions related to prior year tax positions 
Reductions related to settlements 
Reductions related to expirations of statute of limitations 
Balance as of the end of the year 

2011 
$184 
4 
21 
(24) 
(9) 
(2) 
$174 

2010 
$233 
4 
11 
(35) 
(25) 
(4) 
$184 

in millions 
2009 
$220 
7 
60 
(21) 
(25) 
(8) 
$233 

The amount of unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, that would impact our effective tax rate was $155 million and $150 million at 
October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, respectively. We classify interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits as income tax 
expense. At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, before tax benefits, we had $58 million and $64 million, respectively, of accrued 
interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits. 

As of October 1, 2011, we are subject to income tax examinations for U.S. federal income taxes for fiscal years 2003 through 2010. 
We are also subject to income tax examinations for state and foreign income taxes for fiscal years 2001 through 2010. During fiscal 
2012, tax audit resolutions could potentially reduce our unrecognized tax benefits by approximately $10 million, either because tax 
positions are sustained on audit or because we agree to their disallowance. 

NOTE 9: OTHER INCOME AND CHARGES 

During fiscal 2011, we recorded an $11 million gain related to a sale of interests in an equity method investment. This gain was 
recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net. 

During fiscal 2010, we recognized $38 million of insurance proceeds received related to losses incurred from Hurricane Katrina in 
2005. These proceeds are reflected in the Chicken segment’s Operating Income and included in the Consolidated Statements of 
Income in Cost of Sales. Also in fiscal 2010, we recorded a $12 million impairment charge related to an equity method investment. 
This charge is included in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other, net. 

On March 27, 2009, we announced the decision to close our Ponca City, Oklahoma, processed meats plant. The plant ceased operation 
in August 2009. The closing resulted in the elimination of approximately 600 jobs. During fiscal 2009, we recorded charges of $15 
million, which included $14 million for estimated impairment charges and $1 million of employee termination benefits. The charges 
are reflected in the Prepared Foods segment’s Operating Income and included in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other 
Charges. 

54 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 10: EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE 

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

Numerator: 

Income (loss) from continuing operations 
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest 
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Tyson 
Less Dividends: 

Class A ($0.16/share) 
Class B ($0.144/share) 

Undistributed earnings (losses) 

Class A undistributed earnings (losses) 
Class B undistributed earnings (losses) 
Total undistributed earnings (losses) 

Denominator: 

Denominator for basic earnings (loss) per share: 

Class A weighted average shares 
Class B weighted average shares, and shares under if-converted 

method for diluted earnings per share 

Effect of dilutive securities: 

Stock options and restricted stock 
Convertible 2013 Notes 

Denominator for diluted earnings (loss) per share – adjusted 

weighted average shares and assumed conversions 

Net Income (Loss) Per Share from Continuing Operations 

Attributable to Tyson: 
Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

Net Income (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Tyson: 

Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

2011 

$733 
(17) 
750 

49 
10 
$691 

$572 
119 
$691 

303 

70 

6 
1 

380 

$2.04 
$1.84 
$1.97 

$2.04 
$1.84 
$1.97 

in millions, except per share data 
2009 

2010 

$765 
(15) 
780 

49 
10 
$721 

$597 
124 
$721 

303 

70 

6 
0 

379 

$2.13 
$1.91 
$2.06 

$2.13 
$1.91 
$2.06 

$(550) 
(4) 
(546) 

50 
10 
$(606) 

$(501) 
(105) 
$(606) 

302 

70 

0 
0 

372 

$(1.49) 
$(1.35) 
$(1.47) 

$(1.49) 
$(1.35) 
$(1.47) 

Approximately 4 million, 5 million and 24 million in fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, of our stock-based compensation 
shares were antidilutive and were not included in the dilutive earnings per share calculation.  

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

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

55 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 11: DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS 

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

Our risk management programs are periodically reviewed by our Board of Directors’ Audit Committee. These programs are monitored 
by senior management and may be revised as market conditions dictate. Our current risk management programs utilize industry-
standard models that take into account the implicit cost of hedging. Risks associated with our market risks and those created by 
derivative instruments and the fair values are strictly monitored at all times, using Value-at-Risk and stress tests. Credit risks 
associated with our derivative contracts are not significant as we minimize counterparty concentrations, utilize margin accounts or 
letters of credit, and deal with credit-worthy counterparties. Additionally, our derivative contracts are mostly short-term in duration 
and we generally do not make use of credit-risk-related contingent features. No significant concentrations of credit risk existed at 
October 1, 2011. 

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

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

certain foreign exchange forward contracts. 

  ●  Fair Value Hedges – include certain commodity forward contracts of forecasted purchases (i.e., livestock). 
  ●  Net Investment Hedges – include certain foreign currency forward contracts of permanently invested capital in certain 

foreign subsidiaries. 

Cash flow hedges 
Derivative instruments, such as futures and options, are designated as hedges against changes in the amount of future cash flows related to 
procurement of certain commodities utilized in our production processes. We do not purchase forward and option commodity contracts 
in excess of our physical consumption requirements and generally do not hedge forecasted transactions beyond 18 months. The 
objective of these hedges is to reduce the variability of cash flows associated with the forecasted purchase of those commodities. For 
the derivative instruments we designate and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is 
reported as a component of OCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects 
earnings. Gains and losses representing hedge ineffectiveness are recognized in earnings in the current period. Ineffectiveness related to 
our cash flow hedges was not significant during fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009. 

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

Commodity: 
Corn 
Soy Meal 
Foreign Currency 

Metric 

October 1, 2011 

October 2, 2010 

Bushels 
Tons 
United States dollar 

6 million 
82,300 
$75 million 

16 million 
101,500 
$0 

As of October 1, 2011, the net amounts expected to be reclassified into earnings within the next 12 months are pretax losses of $21 million 
related to grain and pretax gains of $9 million related to foreign currency. During fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, we did not reclassify 
significant pretax gains/losses into earnings as a result of the discontinuance of cash flow hedges due to the probability the original 
forecasted transaction would not occur by the end of the originally specified time period or within the additional period of time allowed by 
generally accepted accounting principles. 

56 

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

Gain/(Loss) 
Recognized in OCI 
on Derivatives 
2009 
2010 

2011 

Consolidated 
Statements of Income 
Classification 

Gain/(Loss) 
Reclassified from 
OCI to Earnings 
2009 

2010 

2011 

Cash Flow Hedge – Derivatives designated  
as hedging instruments: 
Commodity contracts 
Foreign exchange contracts 

Total 

$(5) 
9 
$4 

$6 
1 
$7 

$(61) 
8 
$(53) 

Cost of Sales 
Other Income/Expense 

$25 
0 
$25 

$(6) 
1 
$(5) 

$(67) 
6 
$(61) 

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

Commodity: 
Live Cattle 
Lean Hogs 

Metric 

October 1, 2011 

October 2, 2010 

Pounds 
Pounds 

318 million 
601 million 

361 million 
508 million 

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

Gain/(Loss) on forwards 
Gain/(Loss) on purchase contract 

Consolidated 
Statements of Income 
Classification 
Cost of Sales 
Cost of Sales 

in millions 

2011 
$(78) 
78 

2010 
$(58) 
58 

2009 
$152 
(152) 

Ineffectiveness related to our fair value hedges was not significant during fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009. 

Foreign net investment hedges 
We utilize forward foreign exchange contracts to protect the value of our net investments in certain foreign subsidiaries. For derivative 
instruments that are designated and qualify as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign currency, the gain or loss is reported in OCI as part of 
the cumulative translation adjustment to the extent it is effective, with the related amounts due to or from counterparties included in other 
liabilities or other assets. We utilize the forward-rate method of assessing hedge effectiveness. Any ineffective portions of net investment 
hedges are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income during the period of change. Ineffectiveness related to our foreign net 
investment hedges was not significant during fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009. At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, we had $35 million 
and $49 million aggregate outstanding notionals related to our forward foreign currency contracts accounted for as foreign net investment 
hedges. 

The following table sets forth the pretax impact of these derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Income (in 
millions): 

Net Investment Hedge – Derivatives  
designated as hedging instruments: 
Foreign exchange contracts 

Gain/(Loss) 
Recognized in OCI 
on Derivatives 
2009 
2010 

2011 

Consolidated 
Statements of Income 
Classification 

Gain/(Loss) 
Reclassified from 
OCI to Earnings 
2009 

2011  2010 

$(2) 

$(1) 

$(5) 

Other Income/Expense 

$0 

$0 

$(2) 

57 

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

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

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

The objective of our undesignated interest rate swap is to manage interest rate risk exposure on a floating-rate bond. Our interest rate 
swap agreement effectively modifies our exposure to interest rate risk by converting a portion of the floating-rate bond to a fixed rate 
basis for the first five years, thus reducing the impact of the interest-rate changes on future interest expense. This interest rate swap 
does not qualify for hedge treatment due to differences in the underlying bond and swap contract interest-rate indices. 

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

Commodity: 

Corn 
Soy Meal 
Soy Oil 
Live Cattle  
Lean Hogs 
Natural Gas 
Foreign Currency 
Interest Rate 

Metric 

October 1, 2011 

October 2, 2010 

Bushels 
Tons 
Pounds 
Pounds 
Pounds 
British thermal units 
United States dollars 
Average monthly notional debt 

17 million 
174,600 
13 million 
72 million 
19 million 
0 
$110 million 
$39 million 

38 million 
367,000 
2 million 
73 million 
134 million 
450 billion 
$146 million 
$53 million 

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

Derivatives not designated 
as hedging instruments: 
Commodity contracts 
Commodity contracts 
Foreign exchange contracts 
Interest rate contracts 

Total 

Consolidated 
Statements of Income 
Classification 

Sales 
Cost of Sales 
Other Income/Expense 
Interest Expense 

Gain/(Loss) 
Recognized 
in Earnings 
2009 

2010 

$27 
(20) 
(5) 
1 
$3 

$(34) 
(151) 
0 
(4) 
$(189) 

2011 

$20 
(2) 
(3) 
0 
$15 

58 

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

Derivative Assets: 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: 

Commodity contracts 
Foreign exchange contracts 
Total derivative assets – designated 

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: 

Commodity contracts 
Foreign exchange contracts 
Total derivative assets – not designated 

Total derivative assets 

Derivative Liabilities: 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: 

Commodity contracts 

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: 

Commodity contracts 
Foreign exchange contracts 
Interest rate contracts 
Total derivative liabilities – not designated 

Total derivative liabilities 

Fair Value 

2011 

2010 

$3 
12 
15 

21 
5 
26 

$41 

$20 
0 
20 

10 
1 
11 

$31 

$41 

$16 

121 
1 
2 
124 

34 
6 
3 
43 

$165 

$59 

Our derivative assets and liabilities are presented in our Consolidated Balance Sheets on a net basis. We net derivative assets and 
liabilities, including cash collateral when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the counterparty to a 
derivative contract and us. See Note 12: Fair Value Measurements for a reconciliation to amounts reported in the Consolidated 
Balance Sheets in Other current assets and Other current liabilities. 

NOTE 12: FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS 

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

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

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

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

Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and 
Inputs derived principally from or corroborated by other observable market data. 

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

59 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis 
The fair value hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. In instances where the inputs used to measure fair 
value fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the fair value measurement has been determined based on the lowest level 
input significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Our assessment of the significance of a particular item to the fair value 
measurement in its entirety requires judgment, including the consideration of inputs specific to the asset or liability. The following 
tables set forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our financial assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value on a recurring 
basis according to the valuation techniques we used to determine their fair values (in millions): 

October 1, 2011 
Assets: 
Commodity Derivatives 
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts 
Available for Sale Securities: 

Debt securities 
Equity securities 

Deferred Compensation Assets 
Total Assets 

Liabilities: 
Commodity Derivatives 
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts 
Interest Rate Swap 
Total Liabilities 

October 2, 2010 
Assets: 
Commodity Derivatives 
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts 
Available for Sale Securities: 

Debt securities 
Equity securities 

Deferred Compensation Assets 
Total Assets 

Liabilities: 
Commodity Derivatives 
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts 
Interest Rate Swap 
Total Liabilities 

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Netting (a) 

Total 

$0 
0 

0 
7 
28 
$35 

$0 
0 
0 
$0 

$24 
17 

34 
0 
122 
$197 

$162 
1 
2 
$165 

$0 
0 

83 
0 
0 
$83 

$0 
0 
0 
$0 

$(21) 
(2) 

0 
0 
0 
$(23) 

$(135) 
(1) 
0 
$(136) 

$3 
15 

117 
7 
150 
$292 

$27 
0 
2 
$29 

Level 1 

Level 2 

Level 3 

Netting (a) 

Total 

$0 
0 

0 
15 
0 
$15 

$0 
0 
0 
$0 

$30 
1 

42 
3 
86 
$162 

$50 
6 
3 
$59 

$0 
0 

73 
0 
0 
$73 

$0 
0 
0 
$0 

$(18) 
(1) 

0 
0 
0 
$(19) 

$(50) 
(1) 
(1) 
$(52) 

$12 
0 

115 
18 
86 
$231 

$0 
5 
2 
$7 

(a) Our derivative assets and liabilities are presented in our Consolidated Balance Sheets on a net basis. We net derivative assets and 
liabilities, including cash collateral, when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the counterparty to a 
derivative contract and us. At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, we had posted $113 million and $35 million of cash collateral 
and held $0 and $3 million cash collateral with various counterparties, respectively. 

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

Balance at beginning of year 
Total realized and unrealized gains (losses): 

Included in earnings 
Included in other comprehensive income (loss) 

Purchases, issuances and settlements, net 
Balance at end of year 
Total gains (losses) for the periods included in earnings 

attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to 
assets and liabilities still held at end of year 

October 1, 2011 
$73 

October 2, 2010 
$72 

0 
(1) 
11 
$83 

$0 

1 
1 
(1) 
$73 

$0 

60 

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

Derivative Assets and Liabilities: Our derivatives, including commodities, foreign exchange forward contracts and an interest rate 
swap, primarily include exchange-traded and over-the-counter contracts which are further described in Note 11: Derivative Financial 
Instruments. We record our commodity derivatives at fair value using quoted market prices adjusted for credit and non-performance 
risk and internal models that use as their basis readily observable market inputs including current and forward commodity market 
prices. Our foreign exchange forward contracts are recorded at fair value based on quoted prices and spot and forward currency prices 
adjusted for credit and non-performance risk. Our interest rate swap is recorded at fair value based on quoted LIBOR swap rates 
adjusted for credit and non-performance risk. We classify these instruments in Level 2 when quoted market prices can be corroborated 
utilizing observable current and forward commodity market prices on active exchanges, observable market transactions of spot 
currency rates and forward currency prices or observable benchmark market rates at commonly quoted intervals. 

Available for Sale Securities: Our investments in marketable debt securities are classified as available-for-sale and are included in 
Other Assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These investments, which are generally long-term in nature with maturities ranging 
up to 45 years, are reported at fair value based on pricing models and quoted market prices adjusted for credit and non-performance 
risk. We classify our investments in U.S. government and agency debt securities as Level 2 as fair value is generally estimated using 
discounted cash flow models that are primarily industry-standard models that consider various assumptions, including time value and 
yield curve as well as other readily available relevant economic measures. We classify certain corporate, asset-backed and other debt 
securities as Level 3 as there is limited activity or less observable inputs into proprietary valuation models, including estimated 
prepayment, default and recovery rates on the underlying portfolio or structured investment vehicle. 

Additionally, we have eight million shares of Syntroleum Corporation common stock and 4.25 million warrants, which expire in early 
fiscal 2014, to purchase an equivalent amount of Syntroleum Corporation common stock at an average price of $2.87. We record the 
shares and warrants in Other Assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value based on quoted market prices. We classify the 
shares as Level 1 as the fair value is based on unadjusted quoted prices available in active markets. We classify the warrants as Level 
2 as fair value can be corroborated based on observable market data. 

(in millions) 

October 1, 2011 

October 2, 2010 

Amortized 
Cost Basis 

Fair 
Value 

Unrealized 
Gain/(Loss) 

  Amortized 
Cost Basis 

Fair 
Value 

Unrealized 
Gain 

Available for Sale Securities: 
Debt Securities: 

U.S. Treasury and Agency 
Corporate and Asset-Backed (a) 
Redeemable Preferred Stock 

Equity Securities: 
Common Stock 
Stock Warrants 

$33 
54 
27 

9 
0 

$34 
56 
27 

7 
0 

$1 
2 
0 

(2) 
0 

$41 
43 
27 

9 
0 

$42 
46 
27 

15 
3 

$1 
3 
0 

6 
3 

(a)  At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, the amortized cost basis for Corporate and Asset-Backed debt securities had been 

reduced by accumulated other than temporary impairments of $3 million and $3 million, respectively. 

Unrealized holding gains (losses), net of tax, are excluded from earnings and reported in OCI until the security is settled or sold. On a 
quarterly basis, we evaluate whether losses related to our available-for-sale securities are temporary in nature. Losses on equity 
securities are recognized in earnings if the decline in value is judged to be other than temporary. If losses related to our debt securities 
are determined to be other than temporary, the loss would be recognized in earnings if we intend, or more likely than not will be 
required, to sell the security prior to recovery. For debt securities in which we have the intent and ability to hold until maturity, losses 
determined to be other than temporary would remain in OCI, other than expected credit losses which are recognized in earnings. We 
consider many factors in determining whether a loss is temporary, including the length of time and extent to which the fair value has 
been below cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer and our ability and intent to hold the investment for a 
period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery. During fiscal 2011 and 2010, we recognized no other than temporary 
impairments in earnings, while we recognized $4 million of other than temporary impairments during fiscal 2009. No other than 
temporary losses were deferred in OCI as of October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010. 

61 

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

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis 
In addition to assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, we record assets and liabilities at fair value on a 
nonrecurring basis. Generally, assets are recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as a result of impairment charges. During fiscal 
2010, we recorded a $29 million charge to fully impair an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit’s goodwill. We utilized a 
discounted cash flow analysis that incorporated unobservable Level 3 inputs. We did not have any other significant measurements of 
assets or liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis subsequent to their initial recognition. 

Other Financial Instruments 
Fair values for debt are based on quoted market prices or published forward interest rate curves. Fair value and carrying value for our 
debt were as follows (in millions): 

Total Debt 

October 1, 2011 

October 2, 2010 

Fair 
Value 
$2,334 

Carrying 
Value 
$2,182 

Fair 
Value 
$2,770 

Carrying 
Value 
$2,536 

For all of our other financial instruments, the estimated fair value approximated the carrying value at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 
2010. The carrying value of our other financial instruments, not otherwise disclosed herein, included notes receivable, which 
approximated fair value at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010. Notes receivable were recorded in Other Current Assets in the 
Consolidated Balance Sheets and totaled $0 and $49 million at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, respectively. The fair values 
were determined using pricing models for which the assumptions utilize management’s estimates of market participant assumptions. 

Concentrations of Credit Risk 
Our financial instruments exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts 
receivable. Our cash equivalents are in high quality securities placed with major banks and financial institutions. Concentrations of 
credit risk with respect to receivables are limited due to the large number of customers and their dispersion across geographic areas. 
We perform periodic credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition and generally do not require collateral. At October 1, 
2011, and October 2, 2010, 16.5% and 15.3%, respectively, of our net accounts receivable balance was due from Wal-Mart Stores, 
Inc. No other single customer or customer group represented greater than 10% of net accounts receivable. 

NOTE 13: STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION 

We issue shares under our stock-based compensation plans by issuing Class A stock from treasury. The total number of shares 
available for future grant under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan (Incentive Plan) was 15,102,409 at October 1, 2011. 

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

62 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, October 2, 2010 
Exercised 
Canceled 
Granted 
Outstanding, October 1, 2011 

Shares Under 
Option 
19,373,912 
(4,127,763) 
(498,920) 
3,507,992 
18,255,221 

Weighted 
Average Exercise 
Price Per Share 
$12.69 
12.26 
12.78 
16.19 
13.46 

Exercisable, October 1, 2011 

9,465,184 

$13.93 

Weighted Average 
Remaining 
Contractual Life 
(in Years) 

Aggregate 
Intrinsic Value 
(in millions) 

6.1 

4.3 

$246 

$132 

We generally grant stock options once a year; however, we granted stock options twice during fiscal 2010. The weighted average 
grant-date fair value of options granted in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $6.19, $4.76 and $1.29, respectively. The fair value of each 
option grant is established on the date of grant using a binomial lattice method. We use historical volatility for a period of time 
comparable to the expected life of the option to determine volatility assumptions. Expected life is calculated based on the contractual 
term of each grant and takes into account the historical exercise and termination behavior of participants. Risk-free interest rates are 
based on the five-year Treasury bond rate. Assumptions as of the grant date used in the fair value calculation of each year’s grants are 
outlined in the following table. 

Expected life 
Risk-free interest rate 
Expected volatility 
Expected dividend yield 

2011 
6.7 years 
1.5% 
38.8% 
1.0% 

2010 
6.5 years 
1.2% 
40.4% 
1.3% 

2009 
5.3 years 
2.3% 
34.6% 
3.3% 

We recognized stock-based compensation expense related to stock options, net of income taxes, of $12 million, $11 million and $9 
million, respectively, during fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, with a $7 million, $7 million and $6 million related tax benefit. We had 
6.8 million, 2.2 million and 2.4 million options vest in fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, with a grant date fair value of 
$16 million, $13 million and $15 million, respectively. 

In fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, we received cash of $51 million, $31 million and $1 million, respectively, for the exercise of 
stock options. Shares are issued from treasury for stock option exercises. The related tax benefit realized from stock options exercised 
during fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, was $10 million, $5 million and $0, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options 
exercised in fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, was $26 million, $12 million and $0, respectively. Cash flows resulting from tax 
deductions in excess of the compensation cost of those options (excess tax deductions) are classified as financing cash flows. We 
realized $5 million, $3 million and $0, respectively, in excess tax deductions during fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. As 
of October 1, 2011, we had $26 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock option plans that will be recognized 
over a weighted average period of 1.4 years. 

Restricted Stock 
We issue restricted stock at the market value as of the date of grant, with restrictions expiring over periods through 2014. Unearned 
compensation is recognized over the vesting period for the particular grant using a straight-line method. 

Nonvested, October 2, 2010 
Granted 
Dividends 
Vested 
Forfeited 
Nonvested, October 1, 2011 

Weighted 
Average Grant-
Date Fair Value 
Per Share 
$14.55 
17.38 
17.92 
15.12 
14.74 
$14.70 

Number of Shares 
3,601,614 
377,423 
28,000 
(913,954) 
(122,781) 
2,970,302 

Weighted Average 
Remaining 
Contractual Life 
(in Years) 

Aggregate 
Intrinsic Value 
(in millions) 

1.2 

$52 

As of October 1, 2011, we had $14 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock awards that will be 
recognized over a weighted average period of 1.2 years. 

63 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We recognized stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock, net of income taxes, of $7 million, $8 million and $10 
million for years 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The related tax benefit for fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $5 million, $5 
million and $7 million, respectively. We had 0.9 million, 1.8 million and 0.7 million, respectively, restricted stock awards vest in 
fiscal years 2011, 2010 and 2009, with a grant date fair value of $14 million, $30 million and $11 million. 

Performance-Based Shares 
In July 2003, our Compensation Committee began authorizing us to award performance-based shares of our Class A stock to certain 
senior executives. These awards are typically granted on the first business day of our fiscal year. The vesting of the performance-based 
shares is generally over three years and each award is subject to the attainment of goals determined by the Compensation Committee 
prior to the date of the award. We review progress toward the attainment of goals each quarter during the vesting period. However, the 
attainment of goals can be determined only at the end of the vesting period. If the shares vest, the ultimate cost will be equal to the 
Class A stock price on the date the shares vest multiplied by the number of shares awarded for all performance grants with other than 
market criteria. For grants with market performance criteria, the ultimate expense will be the fair value of the probable shares to vest 
regardless if the shares actually vest. Total expense recorded related to performance-based shares was not material for fiscal 2011, 
2010 and 2009. 

NOTE 14: PENSIONS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS 

At October 1, 2011, we had four noncontributory defined benefit pension plans consisting of three funded qualified plans and one 
unfunded non-qualified plan. All three of our qualified plans are frozen and provide benefits based on a formula using years of service 
and a specified benefit rate. Effective January 1, 2004, we implemented a non-qualified defined benefit plan for certain contracted 
officers that uses a formula based on years of service and final average salary. We also have other postretirement benefit plans for 
which substantially all of our employees may receive benefits if they satisfy applicable eligibility criteria. The postretirement 
healthcare plans are contributory with participants’ contributions adjusted when deemed necessary. 

We have defined contribution retirement and incentive benefit programs for various groups of employees. We recognized expenses of 
$45 million, $48 million and $49 million in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. 

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

Other postretirement benefits include postretirement medical costs and life insurance. 

Benefit Obligations And Funded Status 
The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the plans’ benefit obligations, assets and funded status at October 1, 
2011, and October 2, 2010: 

Change in benefit obligation 

Benefit obligation at beginning of year 

Service cost 
Interest cost 
Plan participants’ contributions 
Actuarial loss 
Benefits paid 

Benefit obligation at end of year 

Change in plan assets 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 

Actual return on plan assets 
Employer contributions 
Plan participants’ contributions 
Benefits paid 

Fair value of plan assets at end of year 

Pension Benefits 

Qualified 

2011 

2010 

Non-Qualified 
2011 

2010 

in millions 

Other Postretirement 
Benefits 

2011 

2010 

$97 
0 
5 
0 
3 
(6) 
99 

74 
1 
5 
0 
(6) 
74 

$89 
0 
5 
0 
9 
(6) 
97 

68 
9 
3 
0 
(6) 
74 

$42 
3 
2 
0 
17 
(2) 
62 

0 
0 
2 
0 
(2) 
0 

$38 
3 
2 
0 
0 
(1) 
42 

0 
0 
1 
0 
(1) 
0 

$45 
0 
2 
1 
4 
(8) 
44 

0 
0 
7 
1 
(8) 
0 

$46 
1 
2 
1 
1 
(6) 
45 

0 
0 
5 
1 
(6) 
0 

Funded status 

$(25) 

$(23) 

$(62) 

$(42) 

$(44) 

$(45) 

64 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of: 

Accrued benefit liability 
Accumulated other comprehensive 

(income)/loss: 

Unrecognized actuarial loss 
Unrecognized prior service (cost)/credit 

Net amount recognized 

Pension Benefits 

Qualified 

2011 
$(25) 

2010 
$(23) 

Non-Qualified 
2011 
$(62) 

2010 
$(42) 

45 
0 
$20 

40 
0 
$17 

17 
2 
$(43) 

1 
3 
$(38) 

in millions 

Other Postretirement 
Benefits 

2011 
$(44) 

0 
(5) 
$(49) 

2010 
$(45) 

0 
(6) 
$(51) 

At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, all pension plans had an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets. The 
accumulated benefit obligation for all qualified pension plans was $99 million and $97 million at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 
2010, respectively. Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets are as follows: 

Projected benefit obligation 
Accumulated benefit obligation 
Fair value of plan assets 

in millions 

Pension Benefits 

Qualified 

2011 
$99 
99 
74 

2010 
$97 
97 
74 

Non-Qualified 
2011 
$62 
55 
0 

2010 
$42 
41 
0 

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

in millions 

Service cost 
Interest cost 
Expected return on plan assets 
Amortization of prior service cost 
Recognized actuarial loss, net 
Net periodic benefit cost 

Pension Benefits 

Qualified 
2010 
$0 
5 
(6) 
0 
1 
$0 

2011 
$0 
5 
(6) 
0 
3 
$2 

2009 
$0 
6 
(7) 
0 
1 
$0 

Non-Qualified 
2010 
$3 
2 
0 
1 
0 
$6 

2011 
$3 
2 
0 
1 
0 
$6 

2009 
$4 
2 
0 
1 
0 
$7 

Assumptions 
Weighted average assumptions are as follows: 

Pension Benefits 

Qualified 
2010 

2011 

2009 

Non-Qualified 
2010 

2011 

2009 

Other Postretirement 
Benefits 
2010 
$1 
2 
0 
(1) 
0 
$2 

2011 
$0 
2 
0 
(1) 
1 
$2 

2009 
$0 
3 
0 
0 
1 
$4 

Other Postretirement 
Benefits 
2010 

2011 

2009 

Discount rate to determine net 

periodic benefit cost 
Discount rate to determine 

benefit obligations 

Rate of compensation increase 
Expected return on plan assets 

5.06% 

6.00% 

6.33% 

5.50% 

6.00% 

6.50% 

4.50% 

5.71% 

6.50% 

4.53% 
N/A 
7.79% 

5.06% 
N/A 
7.80% 

6.00% 
N/A 
8.00% 

4.75% 
3.50% 
N/A 

5.50% 
3.50% 
N/A 

6.00% 
3.50% 
N/A 

4.09% 
N/A 
N/A 

4.50% 
N/A 
N/A 

5.71% 
N/A 
N/A 

To determine the rate-of-return on assets assumption, we first examined historical rates of return for the various asset classes. We then 
determined a long-term projected rate-of-return based on expected returns over the next five to 10 years. 

65 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Our discount rate assumptions used to account for pension and other postretirement benefit plans reflect the rates at which the benefit 
obligations could be effectively settled. These were determined using a cash flow matching technique whereby the rates of a yield 
curve, developed from high-quality debt securities, were applied to the benefit obligations to determine the appropriate discount rate. 

We have three postretirement health plans. Two of these consist of fixed, annual payments and account for $28 million of the 
postretirement medical obligation at October 1, 2011. A healthcare cost trend is not required to determine this obligation. The 
remaining plan accounts for $16 million of the postretirement medical obligation at October 1, 2011. The plan covers retirees who do 
not yet qualify for Medicare and uses a healthcare cost trend of 6% in the current year. A one-percentage point change in assumed 
healthcare cost trend rate would have an immaterial impact on the postretirement benefit obligation and total service and interest cost. 

Plan Assets 
The fair value of plan assets for domestic pension benefit plans was $59 million as of October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010. The 
following table sets forth the actual and target asset allocation for pension plan assets: 

Cash 
Fixed income securities 
US Stock Funds 
International Stock Funds 
Real Estate 
Alternatives 
Total 

2011 
1.9% 
24.2 
41.4 
17.7 
4.7 
10.1 
100.0% 

2010 
0.3% 
18.5 
44.6 
19.9 
5.0 
11.7 
100.0% 

Target Asset 
Allocation 
1.0% 
19.0 
45.0 
20.0 
5.0 
10.0 
100.0% 

A foreign subsidiary pension plan had $15 million in plan assets at October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010. All of this plan’s assets are 
held in an insurance contract consistent with its target asset allocation. 

The Plan Trustees have established a set of investment objectives related to the assets of the pension plans and regularly monitor the 
performance of the funds and portfolio managers. Objectives for the pension assets are (1) to provide growth of capital and income, 
(2) to achieve a target weighted average annual rate of return competitive with other funds with similar investment objectives and (3) 
to diversify to reduce risk. The investment objectives and target asset allocation were adopted in January 2004 and amended in 
November 2008. Alternative investments may include, but not limited to, hedge funds, private equity funds and fixed income funds. 

The following table shows the categories of pension plan assets and the level under which fair values were determined in the fair value 
hierarchy, which is described in Note 12: Fair Value Measurements. 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Fixed Income Securities Bond Fund (a) 

Equity Securities: 

U.S. stock funds (a) 
International stock funds (a) 
Global real estate funds (a) 
Total equity securities 

Other Investments - Alternatives (b) 
Total fair value 

Insurance Contract at Contract Value 
Total plan assets 

Level 1 
$1 
14 

October 1, 2011 

Level 2 
$0 
0 

Level 3 
$0 
0 

25 
10 
3 
38 

0 
53 

0 
$53 

0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 

0 
$0 

0 
0 
0 
0 

6 
6 

15 
$21 

in millions 

Total 
$1 
14 

25 
10 
3 
38 

6 
59 

15 
$74 

(a)  Valued using quoted market prices in active markets. 
(b)  Valued using plan’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the assets based on 

the best information available, such as investment manager pricing. 

66 

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

Balance at October 2, 2010 
Actual return on plan assets: 

Assets still held at reporting date 
Assets sold during the period 
Purchases, sales and settlements, net 
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3 
Balance at October 1, 2011 

Alternative funds 
$7 

Insurance contract 
$15 

(1) 
0 
0 
0 
$6 

0 
0 
0 
0 
$15 

Total 
$22 

(1) 
0 
0 
0 
$21 

We believe there are no significant concentrations of risk within our plan assets as of October 1, 2011. 

Contributions 
Our policy is to fund at least the minimum contribution required to meet applicable federal employee benefit and local tax laws. In our 
sole discretion, we may from time to time fund additional amounts. Expected contributions to pension plans for fiscal 2012 are 
approximately $7 million. For fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, we funded $7 million, $4 million and $2 million, respectively, to defined 
benefit plans. 

Estimated Future Benefit Payments 
The following benefit payments are expected to be paid:  

2012 
2013 
2014 
2015 
2016 
2017-2021 

Pension Benefits 

Qualified 
$8 
7 
7 
7 
6 
29 

Non-Qualified 
$2 
2 
2 
3 
3 
18 

in millions 
Other Postretirement 
Benefits 
$7 
4 
4 
4 
4 
17 

The above benefit payments for other postretirement benefit plans are not expected to be offset by Medicare Part D subsidies in 2011 
or thereafter. 

67 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 15: COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) 

The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows: 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): 

Unrealized net hedging gains (losses), net of taxes 
Unrealized net gain on investments, net of taxes 
Currency translation adjustment 
Postretirement benefits reserve adjustments 

Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 

The components of other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows: 

Fiscal 2011: 

Net hedging gain reclassified to earnings 
Net hedging unrealized gain (loss) 
Unrealized loss on investments 
Currency translation adjustment 
Net change in postretirement liabilities 
Other comprehensive income (loss) – 2011 

Fiscal 2010: 

Net hedging loss reclassified to earnings 
Net hedging unrealized gain 
Currency translation adjustment 
Net change in postretirement liabilities 
Other comprehensive income (loss) – 2010 

Fiscal 2009: 

Net hedging loss reclassified to earnings 
Net hedging unrealized loss 
Loss on investments reclassified to other income 
Unrealized gain on investments 
Currency translation adjustment gain reclassified to loss from discontinued 

operation 

Currency translation adjustment 
Net change in postretirement liabilities 
Other comprehensive income (loss) – 2009 

2011 

$(7) 
1 
(35) 
(38) 
$(79) 

in millions 
2010 

$10 
9 
6 
(25) 
$0 

Before Tax 

in millions 
Income Tax  After Tax 

$(25) 
4 
(12) 
(42) 
(21) 
$(96) 

$7 
7 
27 
(6) 
$35 

$61 
(53) 
4 
12 

(41) 
(43) 
(11) 
$(71) 

$10 
(6) 
4 
1 
8 
$17 

$(1) 
(1) 
0 
1 
$(1) 

$(25) 
23 
(1) 
(5) 

0 
3 
1 
$(4) 

$(15) 
(2) 
(8) 
(41) 
(13) 
$(79) 

$6 
6 
27 
(5) 
$34 

$36 
(30) 
3 
7 

(41) 
(40) 
(10) 
$(75) 

68 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 16: SEGMENT REPORTING 

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

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

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

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

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

The results from Dynamic Fuels are included in Other. 

69 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fiscal year ended October 1, 2011 
Sales 
Operating Income (Loss) 
Total Other (Income) Expense 
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 

before Income Taxes 

Depreciation 
Total Assets 
Additions to property, plant and equipment 
Fiscal year ended October 2, 2010 
Sales 
Operating Income (Loss) 
Total Other (Income) Expense 
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 

before Income Taxes 

Depreciation 
Total Assets 
Additions to property, plant and equipment 
Fiscal year ended October 3, 2009 
Sales 
Operating Income (Loss) 
Total Other (Income) Expense 
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 

before Income Taxes 

Depreciation 
Total Assets 
Additions to property, plant and equipment 

Chicken 

Beef 

Pork 

Prepared 
Foods 

Intersegment 
Sales 

Other 

Consolidated 

in millions 

$11,017 
164 

$13,549 
468 

$5,460 
560 

$3,215 
117 

$127 
(24) 

$(1,102) 

259 
5,412 
464 

84 
2,610 
88 

28 
960 
27 

58 
943 
58 

4 
1,146 
6 

$10,062 
519 

$11,707 
542 

$4,552 
381 

$2,999 
124 

$0 
(10) 

$(890) 

251 
5,031 
320 

82 
2,468 
61 

27 
845 
27 

56 
940 
42 

0 
1,468 
100 

$9,660 
(157) 

$10,937 
(346) 

$3,875 
160 

$2,836 
133 

$0 
(5) 

$(604) 

252 
4,927 
174 

103 
2,277 
39 

36 
840 
18 

54 
905 
58 

0 
1,646 
79 

$32,266 
1,285 
211 

1,074 
433 
11,071 
643 

$28,430 
1,556 
353 

1,203 
416 
l0,752 
550 

$26,704 
(215) 
328 

(543) 
445 
l0,595 
368 

We allocate expenses related to corporate activities to the segments, while the related assets and additions to property, plant and 
equipment remain in Other. 

The Pork segment had sales of $816 million, $718 million and $449 million for fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, from 
transactions with other operating segments. The Beef segment had sales of $286 million, $172 million and $155 million for fiscal 
2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, from transactions with other operating segments.  

Our largest customer, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., accounted for 13.3%, 13.4% and 13.8% of consolidated sales in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 
2009, respectively. Sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. were included in the Chicken, Beef, Pork and Prepared Foods segments. Any 
extended discontinuance of sales to this customer could, if not replaced, have a material impact on our operations. 

The majority of our operations are domiciled in the United States. Approximately 96%, 96% and 97% of sales to external customers 
for fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, were sourced from the United States. Approximately $5.8 billion and $5.6 billion, 
respectively, of long-lived assets were located in the United States at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010. Approximately $539 
million and $511 million of long-lived assets were located in foreign countries, primarily Brazil, China, Mexico and India, at fiscal 
years ended 2011 and 2010, respectively. 

We sell certain products in foreign markets, primarily Canada, Central America, China, the European Union, Japan, Mexico, the 
Middle East, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam. Our export sales from the United States totaled $4.1 billion, $3.2 billion and 
$2.7 billion for fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Substantially all of our export sales are facilitated through unaffiliated 
brokers, marketing associations and foreign sales staffs. Sales of products produced in a country other than the United States were less 
than 10% of consolidated sales for each of fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009. Approximately $57 million of income, $11 million of loss and 
$14 million of loss from continuing operations before income taxes for fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, was from operations 
based in a country other than the United States, all of which was included in the Chicken segment. 

70 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 17: SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION 

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

Interest 
Income taxes, net of refunds 

NOTE 18: TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES 

2011 
$192 
311 

2010 
$302 
470 

in millions 
2009 
$333 
35 

We have operating leases for farms, equipment and other facilities with the estate of Don Tyson, a former director of the Company, 
John Tyson, Chairman of the Company, certain members of their families and the Randal W. Tyson Testamentary Trust. Total 
payments of $2 million in fiscal 2011, $2 million in fiscal 2010 and $3 million in fiscal 2009, were paid to entities in which these 
parties had an ownership interest. 

NOTE 19: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES 

Commitments 
We lease equipment, properties and certain farms for which total rentals approximated $183 million, $188 million and $175 million, 
respectively, in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009. Most leases have initial terms up to seven years, some with varying renewal periods. The 
most significant obligations assumed under the terms of the leases are the upkeep of the facilities and payments of insurance and 
property taxes. 

Minimum lease commitments under non-cancelable leases at October 1, 2011, were: 

2012 
2013 
2014 
2015 
2016 
2017 and beyond 
Total 

in millions 
$95 
63 
39 
19 
12 
54 
$282 

We guarantee obligations of certain outside third parties, which consists of a lease and grower loans, all of which are substantially 
collateralized by the underlying assets. Terms of the underlying debt cover periods up to ten years, and the maximum potential amount 
of future payments as of October 1, 2011, was $76 million. We also maintain operating leases for various types of equipment, some of 
which contain residual value guarantees for the market value of the underlying leased assets at the end of the term of the lease. The 
remaining terms of the lease maturities cover periods over the next seven years. The maximum potential amount of the residual value 
guarantees is $50 million, of which $43 million would be recoverable through various recourse provisions and an additional 
undeterminable recoverable amount based on the fair value of the underlying leased assets. The likelihood of material payments under 
these guarantees is not considered probable. At October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, no material liabilities for guarantees were 
recorded. 

We have cash flow assistance programs in which certain livestock suppliers participate. Under these programs, we pay an amount for 
livestock equivalent to a standard cost to grow such livestock during periods of low market sales prices. The amounts of such 
payments that are in excess of the market sales price are recorded as receivables and accrue interest. Participating suppliers are 
obligated to repay these receivables balances when market sales prices exceed this standard cost, or upon termination of the 
agreement. Our maximum obligation associated with these programs is limited to the fair value of each participating livestock 
supplier’s net tangible assets. The potential maximum obligation as of October 1, 2011, was approximately $220 million. The total 
receivables under these programs were $28 million and $51 million at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, respectively, and are 
included, net of allowance for uncollectible amounts, in Other Assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Even though these 
programs are limited to the net tangible assets of the participating livestock suppliers, we also manage a portion of our credit risk 
associated with these programs by obtaining security interests in livestock suppliers' assets. After analyzing residual credit risks and 
general market conditions, we have recorded an allowance for these programs' estimated uncollectible receivables of $10 million and 
$15 million at October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010, respectively. 

71 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Additionally, we enter into future purchase commitments for various items, such as grains, livestock contracts and fixed grower fees. 
At October 1, 2011, these commitments totaled:  

2012 
2013 
2014 
2015 
2016 
2017 and beyond 
Total 

in millions 
$886 
63 
18 
16 
15 
61 
$1,059 

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

Several private lawsuits are pending against us alleging that we failed to compensate poultry plant employees for all hours worked, 
including overtime compensation, in violation of the Federal Labor Standards Act (FLSA). These lawsuits include DeAsencio v. 
Tyson Foods, Inc. (DeAsencio), filed on August 22, 2000, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. This 
matter involves similar allegations that employees should be paid for the time it takes to engage in pre- and post-shift activities such as 
changing into and out of protective and sanitary clothing, obtaining clothing and walking to and from the changing area, work areas 
and break areas. They seek back wages, liquidated damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, and attorneys’ fees. Plaintiffs appealed a 
jury verdict and final judgment entered in our favor on June 22, 2006, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of 
Pennsylvania. On September 7, 2007, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit reversed the jury verdict and remanded the case 
to the District Court for further proceedings. We sought rehearing en banc, which was denied by the Court of Appeals on October 5, 
2007. The United States Supreme Court denied our petition for a writ of certiorari on June 9, 2008. The new trial date has not been set. 

The other private lawsuits referred to above are Sheila Ackles, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (N. Dist. Alabama, October 23, 2006); 
McCluster, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (M. Dist. Georgia, December 11, 2006); Dobbins, et al. v. Tyson Chicken, Inc., et al. (N.D. 
Alabama, December 21, 2006); Buchanan, et al. v. Tyson Chicken, Inc., et al. and Potter, et al. v. Tyson Chicken, Inc., et al. (N.D. 
Alabama, December 22, 2006); Jones, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al., Walton, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al. and Williams, et al. 
v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al. (S.D. Mississippi, February 9, 2007); Balch, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (E.D. Oklahoma, March 1, 2007); 
Adams, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (W.D. Arkansas, March 2, 2007); Atkins, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (M.D. Georgia, March 5, 
2007); Laney, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. and Williams, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (M.D. Georgia, May 23, 2007) (the Williams Case). 
Similar to DeAsencio, each of these matters involves allegations that employees should be paid for the time it takes to engage in pre- 
and post-shift activities such as changing into and out of protective and sanitary clothing, obtaining clothing and walking to and from 
the changing area, work areas and break areas. The plaintiffs in each of these lawsuits seek or have sought to act as class 
representatives on behalf of all current and former employees who were allegedly not paid for time worked and seek back wages, 
liquidated damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, and attorneys’ fees. On April 6, 2007, we filed a motion for transfer of the above 
named actions for coordinated pretrial proceedings before the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation, which was granted on 
August 17, 2007. These cases and five other cases subsequently filed involving the same allegations (i.e., Armstrong, et al. v. Tyson 
Foods, Inc. (W.D. Tennessee, January 30, 2008); Maldonado, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (E.D. Tennessee, January 31, 2008); White, 
et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (E.D. Texas, February 1, 2008); Meyer, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (W.D. Missouri, February 2, 2008); and 
Leak, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. (W.D. North Carolina, February 6, 2008)), were transferred to the U.S. District Court in the Middle 
District of Georgia, In re: Tyson Foods, Inc., Fair Labor Standards Act Litigation (MDL Proceedings). On September 2, 2011, the 
parties executed a settlement agreement and filed a joint motion with the court seeking its approval of the settlement. The court 
approved the settlement on September 15, 2011, and Tyson will pay at least $12.25 million but no more than $17.5 million in back 
pay and damages to eligible class members. The settlement agreement provides a process for identifying and certifying eligible class 
members, which includes a 75-day notice period for certain class members to become eligible for payment under the settlement. In 
addition, the settlement agreement provides that plaintiffs’ attorneys must file an application for fees with the court but that no more 
than $14.5 million in attorneys’ fees and costs will be paid. Plaintiffs’ attorneys filed their fee application on October 11, 2011. 

72 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
We have pending twelve separate wage and hour actions involving Tyson Fresh Meats Inc.’s plants located in Lexington, Nebraska 
(Lopez, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., D. Nebraska, June 30, 2006), Garden City and Emporia, Kansas (Garcia, et al. v. Tyson Foods, 
Inc., Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., D. Kansas, May 15, 2006), Storm Lake, Iowa (Bouaphakeo (f/k/a Sharp), et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., 
N.D. Iowa, February 6, 2007), Columbus Junction, Iowa (Guyton (f/k/a Robinson), et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., d.b.a Tyson Fresh 
Meats, Inc., S.D. Iowa, September 12, 2007), Joslin, Illinois (Murray, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., C.D. Illinois, January 2, 2008; and 
DeVoss v. Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a. Tyson Fresh Meats, C.D. Illinois, March 2, 2011), Dakota City, Nebraska (Gomez, et al. v. Tyson 
Foods, Inc., D. Nebraska, January 16, 2008), Madison, Nebraska (Acosta, et al. v Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., D. 
Nebraska, February 29, 2008), Perry and Waterloo, Iowa (Edwards, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., S.D. 
Iowa, March 20, 2008); Council Bluffs, Iowa (Maxwell (f/k/a Salazar), et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. d.b.a. Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., S.D. 
Iowa, April 29, 2008); Logansport, Indiana (Carter, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc. and Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., N.D. Indiana, April 29, 
2008); and Goodlettsville, Tennessee (Abadeer v. Tyson Foods, Inc., and Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc., M.D. Tennessee, February 6, 
2009). The actions allege we failed to pay employees for all hours worked, including overtime compensation for the time it takes to 
change into protective work uniforms, safety equipment and other sanitary and protective clothing worn by employees, and for 
walking to and from the changing area, work areas and break areas in violation of the FLSA and analogous state laws. The plaintiffs 
seek back wages, liquidated damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys’ fees and costs. Each case is proceeding in its 
jurisdiction. 

(cid:2)  After a trial in the Garcia case, a jury verdict in favor of the plaintiffs was entered on March 17, 2011, with respect to the 

Garden City, Kansas facility. Exclusive of pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys’ fees and costs, the jury found violations 
of federal and state laws for pre- and post-shift work activities and awarded damages in the amount of $503,011, respectively. 
Plaintiffs’ counsel has filed an application for attorneys’ fees and expenses in the amount of $3,475,422. We contested the 
application and are currently evaluating our appeal options. 

(cid:2)  A jury trial was held in the Lopez case, which involved the Lexington, NE beef plant, and resulted in a jury verdict in favor 

of Tyson. Judgment was entered and the complaint was dismissed with prejudice, on May 26, 2011. Plaintiffs filed an appeal 
with the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals on June 16, 2011. 

(cid:2)  A jury trial was held in the Bouaphakeo case, which involved the Storm Lake, Iowa pork plant and resulted in a jury verdict 
in favor of the plaintiffs on September 26, 2011. Exclusive of pre- and post-judgment interest, attorneys’ fees and costs, the 
jury found violations of federal and state laws for pre- and post-shift work activities and awarded damages in the amount of 
$2,892,379. On October 24, 2011, we renewed our motion for judgment as a matter of law due to a failure of class-wide 
proof and, in the alternative, for a new trial on damages. 

(cid:2)  The Guyton, Gomez and Acosta cases are scheduled for trials on April 9, 2012, October 15, 2012, and November 13, 2012, 

respectively. 

We have pending one wage and hour action involving our Tyson Prepared Foods plant located in Jefferson, Wisconsin (Weissman, et 
al. v. Tyson Prepared Foods, Inc., Jefferson County (Wisconsin) Circuit Court, October 20, 2010). The plaintiffs allege that employees 
should be paid for the time it takes to engage in pre- and post-shift activities such as changing into and out of protective and sanitary 
clothing and the associated time it takes to walk to and from their workstations post-donning and pre-doffing of protective and sanitary 
clothing. Six named plaintiffs seek to act as state law class representatives on behalf of all current and former employees who were 
allegedly not paid for time worked and seek back wages, liquidated damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, and attorneys’ fees and 
costs. On May 16, 2011, Plaintiffs filed a motion to certify a state law class of all hourly employees who have worked at the Jefferson 
plant from October 20, 2008, to the present. We have filed motions for summary judgment seeking dismissal of the claims, or, in the 
alternative, to limit the claims made for non-compensable clothes changing activities. 

On June 19, 2005, the Attorney General and the Secretary of the Environment of the State of Oklahoma filed a complaint in the U.S. 
District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma against us, three of our subsidiaries and six other poultry integrators. This 
complaint was subsequently amended. As amended, the complaint asserts a number of state and federal causes of action including, but 
not limited to, counts under Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), Resource 
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), and state-law public nuisance theories. The amended complaint asserts that defendants and 
certain contract growers who are not named in the amended complaint polluted the surface waters, groundwater and associated 
drinking water supplies of the Illinois River Watershed (IRW) through the land application of poultry litter. Oklahoma asserts that this 
alleged pollution has also caused extensive injury to the environment (including soils and sediments) of the IRW and that the 
defendants have been unjustly enriched. Oklahoma’s claims cover the entire IRW, which encompasses more than one million acres of 
land and the natural resources (including lakes and waterways) contained therein. Oklahoma seeks wide-ranging relief, including 
injunctive relief, compensatory damages in excess of $800 million, an unspecified amount in punitive damages and attorneys’ fees.  

73 

 
 
 
 
 
 
We and the other defendants have denied liability, asserted various defenses, and filed a third-party complaint that asserts claims 
against other persons and entities whose activities may have contributed to the pollution alleged in the amended complaint. The 
district court has stayed proceedings on the third party complaint pending resolution of Oklahoma’s claims against the defendants. On 
October 31, 2008, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss for failure to join the Cherokee Nation as a required party or, in the 
alternative, for judgment as a matter of law based on the plaintiffs’ lack of standing. This motion was granted in part and denied in 
part on July 22, 2009. In its ruling, the district court dismissed Oklahoma’s claims for cost recovery and for natural resources damages 
under CERCLA and for unjust enrichment under Oklahoma common law. This ruling also narrowed the scope of Oklahoma’s 
remaining claims by dismissing all damage claims under its causes of action for Oklahoma common law nuisance, federal common 
law nuisance, and Oklahoma common law trespass, leaving only its claims for injunctive relief for trial. On August 18, 2009, the 
Court granted partial summary judgment in favor of the defendants on Oklahoma’s claims for violations of the Oklahoma Registered 
Poultry Feeding Operations Act. Oklahoma later voluntarily dismissed the remainder of this claim. On September 2, 2009, the 
Cherokee Nation filed a motion to intervene in the lawsuit. Its motion to intervene was denied on September 15, 2009, and the 
Cherokee Nation filed a notice of appeal of that ruling in the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals on September 17, 2009. A non-jury trial 
of the case began on September 24, 2009. At the close of Oklahoma’s case-in-chief, the Court granted the defendants’ motions to 
dismiss claims based on RCRA, nuisance per se, and health risks related to bacteria. The defense rested its case on January 13, 2010, 
and closing arguments were held on February 11, 2010. On September 21, 2010, the Court of Appeals affirmed the district court’s 
denial of the Cherokee Nation’s motion to intervene. On October 6, 2010 the Cherokee Nation and the State of Oklahoma filed a 
petition for rehearing or en banc review seeking reconsideration of this ruling. The Court of Appeals denied this petition.  

On May 8, 2008, a lawsuit was filed against the Company and two of our employees in the District Court of McCurtain County, 
Oklahoma styled Armstrong, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al. (the Armstrong Case). The lawsuit was brought by a group of 52 
poultry growers who allege that certain of our live production practices in Oklahoma constitute fraudulent inducement, fraud, unjust 
enrichment, negligence, gross negligence, unconscionability, violations of the Oklahoma Business Sales Act, Deceptive Trade 
Practice violations, violations of the Consumer Protection Act, and conversion, as well as other theories of recovery. The plaintiffs 
sought damages in an unspecified amount. On October 30, 2009, 20 additional growers represented by the same attorney filed a 
lawsuit against us in the same court asserting the same or similar claims, which is styled Clardy, et al. v. Tyson Foods, Inc., et al. (the 
Clardy Case). In both of these cases we have denied all allegations of wrongdoing. In June 2009, the plaintiffs in the Armstrong case 
requested an expedited trial date for a smaller group of plaintiffs they claimed were facing imminent financial peril. The Court 
ultimately severed a group of 10 plaintiffs from the Armstrong Case, and a trial began on March 15, 2010. There were numerous 
irregularities and rulings during the trial which we believe to have been legally erroneous and highly prejudicial to our right to a fair 
trial. On April 1, 2010, the jury returned a verdict against us and one of our employees, and on April 2, 2010, the jury returned a 
punitive damages verdict against us. After a dispute caused by inconsistencies between the multiple verdict forms completed by the 
jury and apparent confusion by the jury as to how to complete those verdict forms, the Court entered a final judgment in the amount of 
$8,655,735. Subsequent to the trial, the presiding judge disqualified from the cases and the Oklahoma Supreme Court appointed a new 
judge to the cases. The Company filed post-trial motions challenging the verdict. Those motions were denied. The Company has 
appealed the verdict to the Oklahoma Supreme Court. We filed a motion with the trial court to change venue from McCurtain County 
on the grounds that the numerous irregularities that occurred during the trial, coupled with the attendant publicity, resulted in 
community bias which would prevent the Company from receiving a fair trial in McCurtain County. The trial court granted this 
motion and the case will be transferred to Choctaw County, Oklahoma. We filed another motion, which the trial court also granted, to 
stay all future trials of the claims of the plaintiffs in the Armstrong Case and the Clardy Case pending the outcome of the appeal of the 
first trial. We also filed a motion to sever all of the plaintiffs’ claims into individual cases, which was heard on January 25, 2010. This 
motion was denied, but the Court took under advisement the sizes and groupings of plaintiffs in future trials. We believe numerous 
and substantial legal errors were made by the Court during the trial and that a review of and guidance on these issues by the appellate 
court could have a substantial impact on the outcome of future trials in the Armstrong Case and the Clardy Case. 

74 

 
 
 
 
 
NOTE 20: QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) 

2011 
Sales 
Gross profit 
Operating income 
Net income 
Net income attributable to Tyson 

Net income per share attributable to Tyson: 

Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

2010 
Sales 
Gross profit 
Operating income 
Net income 
Net income attributable to Tyson 

Net income per share attributable to Tyson: 

Class A Basic 
Class B Basic 
Diluted 

First 
Quarter 

$7,615 
744 
498 
294 
298 

$0.81 
$0.73 
$0.78 

$6,635 
529 
314 
159 
160 

$0.44 
$0.39 
$0.42 

in millions, except per share data 
Fourth 
Quarter 

Third 
Quarter 

Second 
Quarter 

$8,000 
533 
303 
156 
159 

$0.43 
$0.39 
$0.42 

$6,916 
564 
344 
156 
159 

$0.43 
$0.39 
$0.42 

$8,247 
531 
312 
188 
196 

$0.53 
$0.48 
$0.51 

$7,438 
752 
507 
242 
248 

$0.68 
$0.61 
$0.65 

$8,404 
391 
172 
95 
97 

$0.27 
$0.24 
$0.26 

$7,441 
669 
391 
208 
213 

$0.58 
$0.52 
$0.57 

First quarter fiscal 2011 net income included $11 million gain related to a sale of interests in an equity method investment. Third 
quarter fiscal 2011 net income included $21 million reduction to income tax expense related to a reversal of reserves for foreign 
uncertain tax positions. 

Second quarter fiscal 2010 net income included $24 million of pretax charges related to losses on notes repurchased during the 
quarter. Third quarter fiscal 2010 operating income included $38 million of insurance proceeds received during the quarter and net 
income included $34 million of pretax charges related to losses on notes repurchased during the quarter and a $12 million charge 
related to an equity method investment impairment. Fourth quarter fiscal 2010 operating income included a $29 million non-cash 
charge related to the full impairment of an immaterial Chicken segment reporting unit’s goodwill. 

NOTE 21: CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc. (TFM Parent), our wholly-owned subsidiary, has fully and unconditionally guaranteed the 2016 Notes. TFM 
Parent and substantially all of our wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries have fully and unconditionally guaranteed the 2014 Notes. The 
following financial information presents condensed consolidating financial statements, which include Tyson Foods, Inc. (TFI Parent); 
TFM Parent; the other 2014 Notes' guarantor subsidiaries (Guarantors) on a combined basis; the elimination entries necessary to 
reflect TFM Parent and the Guarantors, which collectively represent the 2014 Notes' total guarantor subsidiaries (2014 Guarantors), on 
a combined basis; the 2014 Notes' non-guarantor subsidiaries (Non-Guarantors) on a combined basis; the elimination entries necessary 
to consolidate TFI Parent, the 2014 Guarantors and the Non-Guarantors; and Tyson Foods, Inc. on a consolidated basis, and is 
provided as an alternative to providing separate financial statements for the guarantor(s). 

75 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income for the year ended October 1, 2011 

in millions 

Sales 
Cost of Sales 
Gross Profit (Loss) 
Operating Expenses: 

Selling, general and administrative 
Goodwill impairment 
Other charges 
Operating Income 

Other (Income) Expense: 
Interest expense, net 
Other, net 
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries 

Total Other (Income) Expense 

Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before 

Income Taxes 

Income Tax Expense (Benefit) 
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 
Loss from Discontinued Operation, net of tax 
Net Income (Loss) 
Less:  Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling 
Interest 
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson 

2014 Guarantors 

TFM 
Parent 
$18,636 
17,461 
1,175 

Guar-
antors 
$13,159 
12,364 
795 

Elimin-
ations 
$(1,227) 
(1,226) 
(1) 

Subtotal 
$30,568 
28,599 
1,969 

Non-
Guar-
antors 
$1,542 
1,440 
102 

Elimin-
ations 
$(1) 
(1) 
0 

Total 
$32,266 
30,067 
2,199 

215 
0 
0 
960 

148 
0 
(115) 
33 

927 
272 
655 
0 
655 

0 
$655 

561 
0 
0 
234 

117 
(12) 
(59) 
46 

188 
38 
150 
0 
150 

0 
$150 

(1) 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
102 
102 

(102) 
0 
(102) 
0 
(102) 

0 
$(102) 

775 
0 
0 
1,194 

265 
(12) 
(72) 
181 

1,013 
310 
703 
0 
703 

0 
$703 

87 
0 
0 
15 

(8) 
1 
(13) 
(20) 

35 
(3) 
38 
0 
38 

(17) 
$55 

0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
758 
758 

(758) 
0 
(758) 
0 
(758) 

0 
$(758) 

914 
0 
0 
1,285 

231 
(20) 
0 
211 

1,074 
341 
733 
0 
733 

(17) 
$750 

TFI 
Parent 
$157 
29 
128 

52 
0 
0 
76 

(26) 
(9) 
(673) 
(708) 

784 
34 
750 
0 
750 

0 
$750 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income for the year ended October 2, 2010 

in millions 

Sales 
Cost of Sales 
Gross Profit 
Operating Expenses: 

Selling, general and administrative 
Goodwill impairment 
Other charges 

Operating Income (Loss) 

Other (Income) Expense: 
Interest expense, net 
Other, net 
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries 

Total Other (Income) Expense 

Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before 

Income Taxes 

Income Tax Expense (Benefit) 
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 
Loss from Discontinued Operation, net of tax 
Net Income (Loss) 
Less:  Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling 
Interest 
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson 

2014 Guarantors 

TFM 
Parent 
$15,950 
14,867 
1,083 

Guar-
antors 
$12,248 
11,343 
905 

Elimin-
ations 
$(966) 
(966) 
0 

199 
0 
0 
884 

2 
1 
(51) 
(48) 

932 
304 
628 
0 
628 

0 
$628 

550 
0 
0 
355 

17 
(7) 
25 
35 

320 
116 
204 
0 
204 

0 
$204 

0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
37 
37 

(37) 
0 
(37) 
0 
(37) 

0 
$(37) 

TFI 
Parent 
$454 
16 
438 

93 
0 
0 
345 

328 
25 
(782) 
(429) 

774 
(6) 
780 
0 
780 

0 
$780 

Subtotal 
$27,232 
25,244 
1,988 

749 
0 
0 
1,239 

19 
(6) 
11 
24 

1,215 
420 
795 
0 
795 

0 
$795 

Non-
Guar-
antors 
$1,167 
1,079 
88 

Elimin-
ations 
$(423) 
(423) 
0 

87 
29 
0 
(28) 

(14) 
1 
(14) 
(27) 

(1) 
24 
(25) 
0 
(25) 

0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
785 
785 

(785) 
0 
(785) 
0 
(785) 

(15) 
$(10) 

0 
$(785) 

Total 
$28,430 
25,916 
2,514 

929 
29 
0 
1,556 

333 
20 
0 
353 

1,203 
438 
765 
0 
765 

(15) 
$780 

76 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
in millions 

Elimin-
ations 
$(40) 
(40) 
0 

Total 
$26,704 
25,501 
1,203 

0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
(165) 
(165) 

165 
0 
165 

0 
165 

841 
560 
17 
(215) 

310 
18 
0 
328 

(543) 
7 
(550) 

(1) 
(551) 

0 
$165 

(4) 
$(547) 

in millions 

Elimin-
ations 

Total 

$0 
1 
0 
(24) 
(23) 
0 
0 
0 
(2,360) 
(12,647) 
$(15,030) 

$0 
0 
(5,695) 
(5,695) 
(2,243) 
0 
(117) 
0 

$716 
1,321 
2,587 
156 
4,780 
3,823 
1,892 
149 
427 
0 
$11,071 

$70 
1,264 
1,040 
2,374 
2,112 
424 
476 
0 

Non-
Guar-
antors 
$709 
638 
71 

72 
0 
0 
(1) 

(8) 
16 
(17) 
(9) 

8 
0 
8 

(27) 
(19) 

(4) 
$(15) 

Non-
Guar-
antors 

$300 
157 
219 
54 
730 
542 
45 
69 
296 
319 
$2,001 

$68 
83 
474 
625 
269 
9 
29 
0 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Income for the year ended October 3, 2009 

Sales 
Cost of Sales 
Gross Profit (Loss) 
Operating Expenses: 

Selling, general and administrative 
Goodwill impairment 
Other charges 

Operating Income (Loss) 

Other (Income) Expense: 
Interest expense, net 
Other, net 
Equity in net earnings of subsidiaries 

Total Other (Income) Expense 

Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before 

Income Taxes 

Income Tax Expense (Benefit) 
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, net of 

tax 

Net Income (Loss) 
Less:  Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling 
Interest 
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Tyson 

2014 Guarantors 

TFM 
Parent 
$14,504 
13,970 
534 

Guar-
antors 
$12,245 
11,526 
719 

Elimin-
ations 
$(725) 
(725) 
0 

Subtotal 
$26,024 
24,771 
1,253 

187 
560 
0 
(213) 

13 
(3) 
(32) 
(22) 

(191) 
111 
(302) 

5 
(297) 

450 
0 
17 
252 

20 
(6) 
44 
58 

194 
34 
160 

0 
160 

0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
13 
13 

(13) 
0 
(13) 

0 
(13) 

637 
560 
17 
39 

33 
(9) 
25 
49 

(10) 
145 
(155) 

5 
(150) 

TFI 
Parent 
$11 
132 
(121) 

132 
0 
0 
(253) 

285 
11 
157 
453 

(706) 
(138) 
(568) 

21 
(547) 

0 
$(547) 

0 
$(297) 

0 
$160 

0 
$(13) 

0 
$(150) 

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of October 1, 2011 

2014 Guarantors 

TFI 
Parent 

TFM 
Parent 

Guar-
antors 

Elimin-
ations 

Subtotal 

$0 
0 
0 
(133) 
(133) 
0 
0 
0 
(15) 
(1,760) 
$(1,908) 

$0 
0 
(133) 
(133) 
0 
(15) 
0 
0 

$415 
1,162 
2,366 
64 
4,007 
3,244 
1,847 
80 
312 
932 
$10,422 

$0 
1,173 
453 
1,626 
2,114 
415 
333 
0 

Assets 
Current Assets: 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable, net 
Inventories 
Other current assets 

Total Current Assets 
Net Property, Plant and Equipment 
Goodwill 
Intangible Assets 
Other Assets 
Investment in Subsidiaries 
Total Assets 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity 
Current Liabilities: 
Current debt 
Accounts payable 
Other current liabilities 

Total Current Liabilities 
Long-Term Debt 
Deferred Income Taxes 
Other Liabilities 
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest 

Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity 
Noncontrolling Interest 
Total Shareholders’ Equity 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity 

$1 
1 
2 
62 
66 
37 
0 
0 
2,179 
11,396 
$13,678 

$2 
8 
5,808 
5,818 
1,972 
0 
231 
0 

5,657 
0 
5,657 
$13,678 

$1 
506 
926 
95 
1,528 
875 
881 
31 
180 
1,923 
$5,418 

$0 
525 
144 
669 
1,198 
120 
142 
0 

3,289 
0 
3,289 
$5,418 

$414 
656 
1,440 
102 
2,612 
2,369 
966 
49 
147 
769 
$6,912 

$0 
648 
442 
1,090 
916 
310 
191 
0 

4,405 
0 
4,405 
$6,912 

77 

(1,760) 
0 
(1,760) 
$(1,908) 

5,934 
0 
5,934 
$10,422 

1,041 
28 
1,069 
$2,001 

(6,975) 
0 
(6,975) 
$(15,030) 

5,657 
28 
5,685 
$11,071 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet as of October 2, 2010 

2014 Guarantors 

TFI 
Parent 

TFM 
Parent 

Guar-
antors 

Elimin-
ations 

Subtotal 

Assets 
Current Assets: 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Accounts receivable, net 
Inventories 
Other current assets 

Total Current Assets 
Net Property, Plant and Equipment 
Goodwill 
Intangible Assets 
Other Assets 
Investment in Subsidiaries 
Total Assets 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity 
Current Liabilities: 
Current debt 
Accounts payable 
Other current liabilities 

Total Current Liabilities 
Long-Term Debt 
Deferred Income Taxes 
Other Liabilities 
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest 

Total Tyson Shareholders’ Equity 
Noncontrolling Interest 
Total Shareholders’ Equity 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity 

$2 
0 
0 
43 
45 
39 
0 
0 
2,804 
10,776 
$13,664 

$317 
16 
6,044 
6,377 
2,011 
0 
110 
0 

5,166 
0 
5,166 
$13,664 

$2 
2,389 
734 
49 
3,174 
870 
880 
37 
101 
1,785 
$6,847 

$0 
421 
168 
589 
1,638 
105 
148 
0 

4,367 
0 
4,367 
$6,847 

$731 
4,670 
1,361 
27 
6,789 
2,257 
967 
53 
61 
631 
$10,758 

$0 
608 
335 
943 
1,228 
204 
179 
0 

$0 
0 
0 
(9) 
(9) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(1,607) 
$(1,616) 

$0 
0 
(9) 
(9) 
0 
0 
0 
0 

$733 
7,059 
2,095 
67 
9,954 
3,127 
1,847 
90 
162 
809 
$15,989 

$0 
1,029 
494 
1,523 
2,866 
309 
327 
0 

in millions 

Elimin-
ations 

Total 

$0 
(5,993) 
0 
(37) 
(6,030) 
0 
0 
0 
(2,860) 
(11,892) 
$(20,782) 

$0 
0 
(6,030) 
(6,030) 
(2,860) 
0 
0 
0 

$978 
1,198 
2,274 
168 
4,618 
3,674 
1,893 
166 
401 
0 
$10,752 

$401 
1,110 
1,034 
2,545 
2,135 
321 
486 
64 

Non-
Guar-
antors 

$243 
132 
179 
95 
649 
508 
46 
76 
295 
307 
$1,881 

$84 
65 
526 
675 
118 
12 
49 
64 

8,204 
0 
8,204 
$10,758 

(1,607) 
0 
(1,607) 
$(1,616) 

10,964 
0 
10,964 
$15,989 

928 
35 
963 
$1,881 

(11,892) 
0 
(11,892) 
$(20,782) 

5,166 
35 
5,201 
$10,752 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended October 1, 2011 

in millions 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities 
Cash Flows From Investing Activities: 

Additions to property, plant and equipment 
Purchases of marketable securities, net 
Proceeds from notes receivable 
Proceeds from sale of discontinued operation 
Change in restricted cash-investing 
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired 
Other, net 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Investing Activities 
Cash Flows from Financing Activities: 

Net change in debt 
Debt issuance costs 
Purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest 
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock 
Dividends 
Change in restricted cash-financing 
Other, net 
Net change in intercompany balances 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities 
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash 
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year 

2014 Guarantors 

TFI 
Parent 
$31 

TFM 
Parent 
$564 

Guar-
antors 
$468 

Elimin-
ations 
$0 

Subtotal 
$1,032 

(1) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
23 
22 

(391) 
(9) 
0 
(207) 
(59) 
0 
58 
554 
(54) 
0 
(1) 
2 
$1 

(107) 
(57) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(164) 

(6) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(395) 
(401) 
0 
(1) 
2 
$1 

(443) 
(21) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
8 
(456) 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(329) 
(329) 
0 
(317) 
731 
$414 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
$0 

(550) 
(78) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
8 
(620) 

(6) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(724) 
(730) 
0 
(318) 
733 
$415 

Non-
Guar-
antors 
$3 

(92) 
(2) 
51 
0 
0 
0 
(3) 
(46) 

12 
0 
(66) 
0 
(20) 
0 
10 
170 
106 
(6) 
57 
243 
$300 

Elimin-
ations 
$(20) 

Total 
$1,046 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
0 
0 
20 
0 
0 
0 
20 
0 
0 
0 
$0 

(643) 
(80) 
51 
0 
0 
0 
28 
(644) 

(385) 
(9) 
(66) 
(207) 
(59) 
0 
68 
0 
(658) 
(6) 
(262) 
978 
$716 

78 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended October 2, 2010 

in millions 

Cash Provided by Operating Activities 
Cash Flows From Investing Activities: 

Additions to property, plant and equipment 
Purchases of marketable securities, net 
Proceeds from notes receivable 
Proceeds from sale of discontinued operation 
Change in restricted cash-investing 
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired 
Other, net 

Cash Used for Investing Activities 
Cash Flows from Financing Activities: 

Net change in debt 
Debt issuance costs 
Purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest 
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock 
Dividends 
Change in restricted cash-financing 
Other, net 
Net change in intercompany balances 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities 
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash 
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year 

2014 Guarantors 

TFI 
Parent 
$386 

TFM 
Parent 
$499 

Guar-
antors 
$462 

Elimin-
ations 
$0 

Subtotal 
$961 

(3) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(1) 
(4) 

(874) 
0 
0 
(48) 
(59) 
0 
32 
569 
(380) 
0 
2 
0 
$2 

(85) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(1) 
(86) 

(149) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(262) 
(411) 
0 
2 
0 
$2 

(323) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
15 
(308) 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
140 
0 
(351) 
(211) 
0 
(57) 
788 
$731 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
$0 

(408) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
14 
(394) 

(149) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
140 
0 
(613) 
(622) 
0 
(55) 
788 
$733 

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended October 3, 2009 

2014 Guarantors 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Operating Activities 
Cash Flows From Investing Activities: 

Additions to property, plant and equipment 
Proceeds from sale of marketable securities, net 
Proceeds from notes receivable 
Proceeds from sale of discontinued operation 
Change in restricted cash-investing 
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired 
Other, net 

Cash Used for Investing Activities 
Cash Flows from Financing Activities: 

Net change in debt 
Debt issuance costs 
Purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest 
Purchases of Tyson Class A common stock 
Dividends 
Change in restricted cash-financing 
Other, net 
Net change in intercompany balances 

Cash Provided by (Used for) Financing Activities 
Effect of Exchange Rate Change on Cash 
Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year 
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year 

TFI 
Parent 
$(617) 

TFM 
Parent 
$507 

Guar-
antors 
$982 

Elimin-
ations 
$0 

Subtotal 
$1,489 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(37) 
(37) 

545 
(58) 
0 
(19) 
(60) 
0 
0 
106 
514 
0 
(140) 
140 
$0 

(56) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
1 
(55) 

(94) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(358) 
(452) 
0 
0 
0 
$0 

(211) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(13) 
12 
(212) 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(140) 
0 
123 
(17) 
0 
753 
35 
$788 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
$0 

(267) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(13) 
13 
(267) 

(94) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
(140) 
0 
(235) 
(469) 
0 
753 
35 
$788 

Non-
Guar-
antors 
$85 

(139) 
(4) 
0 
0 
43 
0 
(2) 
(102) 

(11) 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
10 
44 
43 
1 
27 
216 
$243 

Non-
Guar-
antors 
$113 

(101) 
19 
0 
75 
(43) 
(80) 
7 
(123) 

36 
(1) 
0 
0 
(25) 
0 
6 
129 
145 
6 
141 
75 
$216 

Elimin-
ations 
$0 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
$0 

Elimin-
ations 
$(25) 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
0 
0 
25 
0 
0 
0 
25 
0 
0 
0 
$0 

Total 
$1,432 

(550) 
(4) 
0 
0 
43 
0 
11 
(500) 

(1,034) 
0 
0 
(48) 
(59) 
140 
42 
0 
(959) 
1 
(26) 
1,004 
$978 

in millions 

Total 
$960 

(368) 
19 
0 
75 
(43) 
(93) 
(17) 
(427) 

487 
(59) 
0 
(19) 
(60) 
(140) 
6 
0 
215 
6 
754 
250 
$1,004 

79 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of  
Tyson Foods, Inc. 

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010 and the related 
consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for the fiscal years then ended present fairly, in all material 
respects, the financial position of Tyson Foods, Inc. and its subsidiaries at October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010, and the results of 
their operations and their cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended October 1, 2011 in conformity with accounting 
principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedules for the 
fiscal years ended October 1, 2011 and October 2, 2010 listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a) present fairly, in all material 
respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our 
opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of October 1, 2011, 
based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the 
Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement 
schedules, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal 
control over financial reporting, included in Management's Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting appearing 
under Item 9A.  Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedules, and on 
the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the 
standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the 
audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective 
internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  Our audits of the financial statements included 
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting 
principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  Our audit 
of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing 
the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on 
the assessed risk.  Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We 
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions. 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the 

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

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Also, 

projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of 
changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. 

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 

Fayetteville, AR 
November 21, 2011 

80 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of 
Tyson Foods, Inc. 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows of Tyson Foods, Inc. for 
the year ended October 3, 2009. Our audit also included the financial statement schedule for the year ended October 3, 2009 listed in 
the Index at Item 15(a). These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our 
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audit. 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those 
standards require we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of 
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial 
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as 
evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the results of operations of Tyson 
Foods, Inc. and its cash flows for the year ended October 3, 2009, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. 
Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule for the year ended October 3, 2009, when considered in relation to the 
basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein. 

As described in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company adopted guidance establishing accounting and reporting 
standards for a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for convertible debt instruments in 2010. 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP 

Rogers, Arkansas 
November 23, 2009, except for those matters 
described in Note 2 “Change in Accounting 
Principles” as it relates to the retrospective 
application of accounting principles adopted in 
2010, as to which the date is November 22, 2010 

81 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL 
DISCLOSURE 
Not applicable. 

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures 
An evaluation was performed, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Chief Executive Officer 
(CEO) and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and 
procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the 1934 Act)). Based on that 
evaluation, management, including the CEO and CFO, has concluded that, as of October 1, 2011, our disclosure controls and 
procedures were effective. 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 
In the quarter ended October 1, 2011, there have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that have 
materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. 

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

Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of October 1, 2011. In 
making this assessment, we used criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission 
(COSO) in Internal Control – Integrated Framework.  

Based on this evaluation under the framework in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by COSO, Management concluded 
the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of October 1, 2011. 

The Company's independent registered public accounting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, who has audited the fiscal 2011 
financial statements included in this Form 10-K has also audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Their report 
appears in Part II, Item 8. 

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION 
Not applicable. 

82 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART III 

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
See information set forth under the captions “Election of Directors” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” 
in the Company’s definitive Proxy Statement for the Company’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held February 3, 2012 (the 
“Proxy Statement”), which information is incorporated herein by reference. Pursuant to general instruction G(3) of Annual Report on 
Form 10-K, certain information concerning our executive officers is included under the caption “Executive Officers of the Company” 
in Part I of this Report. 

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

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION 
See the information set forth under the captions “Executive Compensation,” “Director Compensation For Fiscal 2011,” 
“Compensation Discussion and Analysis,” “Report of the Compensation Committee,” and “Compensation Committee Interlocks and 
Insider Participation” in the Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference. However, pursuant to 
instructions to Item 407(e)(5) of the Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-K, the material appearing under the sub-
heading “Report of the Compensation Committee” shall not be deemed to be “filed” with the Commission, other than as provided in 
this Item 11. 

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED 
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS 
See the information included under the captions “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners” and “Security Ownership of 
Management” in the Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference. 

Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans 
The following information reflects certain information about our equity compensation plans as of October 1, 2011: 

Equity Compensation Plan Information 

(a) 
Number of 
Securities to be 
issued upon 
exercise of 
outstanding 
options 
18,255,221 
- 
18,255,221 

(b) 

(c) 

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
of outstanding 
options 
$13.46 
- 
$13.46 

Number of Securities 
remaining available for 
future issuance under 
equity compensation plans 
(excluding Securities 
reflected in column (a)) 
28,259,095 
- 
28,259,095 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders 
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders 
Total 

a)  Outstanding options granted by the Company 
  b)  Weighted average price of outstanding options 

c)  Shares available for future issuance as of October 1, 2011, under the Stock Incentive Plan (15,102,409), the Employee 

Stock Purchase Plan (5,509,078) and the Retirement Savings Plan (7,647,608) 

83 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE 
See the information included under the captions “Election of Directors” and “Certain Transactions” in the Proxy Statement, which 
information is incorporated herein by reference. 

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES 
See the information included under the captions “Audit Fees,” “Audit-Related Fees,” “Tax Fees,” “All Other Fees,” and “Audit 
Committee Pre-Approval Policy” in the Proxy Statement, which information is incorporated herein by reference. 

PART IV 

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES  

(a) 

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

Consolidated Statements of Income 

for the three years ended October 1, 2011 

Consolidated Balance Sheets at 

October 1, 2011, and October 2, 2010 

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity 

for the three years ended October 1, 2011 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 

for the three years ended October 1, 2011 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms 

Financial Statement Schedule - Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying 

Accounts for the three years ended October 1, 2011 

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

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

84 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX 
Exhibit No. 

3.1 

3.2 

4.1 

4.2 

4.3 

4.4 

4.5 

4.6 

4.7 

4.8 

10.1 

10.2 

Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 1998, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by 
reference). 

Fourth Amended and Restated By-laws of the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 3.2 to the Company's Current Report 
on Form 8-K filed September 28, 2007, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Indenture dated June 1, 1995 between the Company and The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A., as Trustee (the “Company 
Indenture”) (previously filed as Exhibit 4 to Registration Statement on Form S-3, filed with the Commission on 
December 18, 1997, Registration No. 333-42525, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Form of 7.0% Note due January 15, 2028 issued under the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the 
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 27, 1997, Commission File No. 001-14704, 
and incorporated herein by reference). 

Form of 7.0% Note due May 1, 2018 issued under the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the 
Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 28, 1998, Commission File No. 001-14704, and 
incorporated herein by reference). 

Form of 6.60% Senior Notes due April 1, 2016 issued under the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 to 
the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 22, 2006, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated 
herein by reference). 

Supplemental Indenture among the Company, Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, 
dated as of September 18, 2006, supplementing the Company Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the 
Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 19, 2006, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated 
herein by reference). 

Supplemental Indenture dated as of September 15, 2008, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust 
Company, National Association (as successor to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (formerly The Chase Manhattan Bank, 
N.A.)), as Trustee (including the form of 3.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2013), supplementing the Company 
Indenture (previously filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 15, 2008, 
Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Indenture, dated March 9, 2009, among the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined therein) and The Bank of 
New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee (previously filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on 
Form 8-K filed March 10, 2009, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Form of 10.50% Senior Note due 2014 (previously filed as Exhibit 4.2 and included in Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 10, 2009, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by 
reference). 

Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of March 9, 2009, as amended and restated as of February 23, 2011, 
among the Company, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as the Administrative Agent, and certain other lenders party thereto 
(previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed February 28, 2011, Commission 
File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Convertible note hedge transaction confirmation, dated as of September 9, 2008, by and between JPMorgan Chase Bank, 
National Association and the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K 
filed September 15, 2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.3  Warrant transaction confirmation, dated as of September 9, 2008, by and between JPMorgan Chase Bank, National 
Association and the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed 
September 15, 2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

85 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.4 

10.5 

Letter Agreement, dated as of September 9, 2008, by and between JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association and the 
Company (previously filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 15, 2008, 
Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Convertible note hedge transaction confirmation, dated as of September 9, 2008, by and between Merrill Lynch Financial 
Markets, Inc. and the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed 
September 15, 2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.6  Warrant transaction confirmation, dated as of September 9, 2008, by and between Merrill Lynch Financial Markets, Inc. 

and the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 15, 
2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.7 

10.8 

10.9 

Letter Agreement, dated as September 9, 2008, by and between Merrill Lynch Financial Markets, Inc. and the Company 
(previously filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 15, 2008, Commission 
File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Employment Agreement, dated October 5, 2009, by and between the Company and Craig J. Hart (previously filed as 
Exhibit 10.14 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2009, Commission File 
No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Senior Advisor Agreement, dated July 30, 2004, by and between Don Tyson and the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 
10.43 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2004, Commission File No. 001-
14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.10 

First Amendment, dated October 3, 2010, to the Senior Advisor Agreement, dated July 30, 2004, by and between Don 
Tyson and the Company (previously filed as Exhibit 10.12 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal 
year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.11  Employment Agreement, dated December 16, 2009, by and between the Company and Donnie Smith (previously filed as 
Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 18, 2009, Commission File No. 001-14704, 
and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.12  Employment Agreement, dated December 16, 2009, by and between the Company and James V. Lochner (previously filed 
as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 18, 2009, Commission File No. 001-14704, 
and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.13  Executive Employment Agreement, dated May 21, 2008, by and between the Company and David L. Van Bebber 

(previously filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 28, 2008, 
Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.14  Executive Employment Agreement, dated June 6, 2008, by and between the Company and Dennis Leatherby (previously 

filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 11, 2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, 
and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.15  Employment Agreement, dated October 5, 2009, by and between the Company and Kenneth J. Kimbro (previously filed as 
Exhibit 10.22 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2009, Commission File 
No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.16  Employment Agreement, dated December 9, 2009, by and between the Company and Donnie King (previously filed as 

Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended January 2, 2010, Commission File No. 
001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.17  Employment Agreement, dated December 21, 2009, by and between the Company and Noel White (previously filed as 

Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended January 2, 2010, Commission File No. 
001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.18  Agreement, dated as of October 3, 2010, between the Company and John Tyson (previously filed as Exhibit 10.22 to the 

Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-14704, and 
incorporated herein by reference). 

86 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.19 

10.20 

Indemnity Agreement, dated as of September 28, 2007, between the Company and John Tyson (previously filed as Exhibit 
10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed September 28, 2007, Commission File No. 001-14704, and 
incorporated herein by reference). 

Form of Indemnity Agreement between Tyson Foods, Inc. and its directors and certain executive officers (previously filed 
as Exhibit 10(t) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1995, Commission 
File No. 0-3400, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.21  Tyson Foods, Inc. Annual Incentive Compensation Plan for Senior Executives adopted February 4, 2005, and reapproved 

February 5, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.34 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year 
ended October 1, 2005, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.22  Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan, effective as of October 1, 2008 (previously filed 

as Exhibit 10.41 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008, 
Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.23 

First Amendment to the Tyson Foods, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan, effective December 27, 2009 (previously filed 
as Exhibit 10.30 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2009, Commission 
File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.24  Restated Executive Savings Plan of Tyson Foods, Inc. effective January 1, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.42 to the 

Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, 
and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.25 

10.26 

First Amendment to Executive Savings Plan of Tyson Foods, Inc. effective January 1, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 
10.32 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2009, Commission File No. 001-
14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

Second Amendment to Executive Savings Plan of Tyson Foods, Inc. effective May 1, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 
10.31 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-
14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.27  Third Amendment to the Executive Savings Plan of Tyson Foods, Inc. effective December 21, 2010. 

10.28  Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 19, 2004, First Amendment to 
the Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective February 2, 2007, and Second 
Amendment to the Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective August 13, 2007 
(previously filed as Exhibit 10.43 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 27, 
2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.29  Third Amendment to the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 20, 2009 (previously filed as 

Exhibit 10.34 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2009, Commission File 
No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.30  Amended and Restated Retirement Income Plan of IBP, inc. effective August 1, 2000, and Amendment to Freeze the 

Retirement Income Plan of IBP, inc. effective December 31, 2002 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.46 to the Company's 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008, Commission File No. 001-14704, and 
incorporated herein by reference). 

10.31  Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement and Life Insurance Premium Plan effective 
March 1, 2007, First Amendment to the Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement and 
Life Insurance Premium Plan effective September 24, 2007, and Second Amendment to the Amended and Restated Tyson 
Foods, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement and Life Insurance Premium Plan effective January 1, 2008 (previously 
filed as Exhibit 10.47 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008, 
Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

10.32  Third Amendment to the Amended and Restated Tyson Foods, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement and Life Insurance 

Premium Plan effective November 17, 2011. 

10.33  Retirement Savings Plan of Tyson Foods, Inc. effective January 1, 2011.  

87 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10.34 

10.35 

10.36 

10.37 

10.38 

10.39 

Form of Restricted Stock Agreement pursuant to which restricted stock awards were granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 
2000 Stock Incentive Plan prior to July 31, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.48 to the Company's Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2004, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by 
reference). 

Form of Restricted Stock Agreement pursuant to which restricted stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 
2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective July 31, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.41 to the Company's Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2009, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by 
reference). 

Form of Restricted Stock Agreement pursuant to which restricted stock awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 
2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective January 1, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.41 to the Company's Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by 
reference). 

Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement pursuant to which stock option awards were granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 
2000 Stock Incentive Plan prior to July 31, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.49 to the Company's Annual Report on 
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2004, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by 
reference). 

Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 
2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective July 31, 2009 through February 3, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.43 to the 
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-14704, and 
incorporated herein by reference). 

Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement pursuant to which stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 
2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective February 4, 2010 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.44 to the Company's Annual Report 
on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 2, 2010, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by 
reference). 

10.40 

Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with non-contracted employees pursuant to which stock option awards are granted 
under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 29, 2010. 

10.41 

Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with contracted employees at band level 1-5 pursuant to which stock option 
awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 29, 2010. 

10.42 

Form of Stock Option Grant Agreement with key employees and contracted employees at band level 6-9 pursuant to which 
stock option awards are granted under the Tyson Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective November 29, 2010. 

10.43 

Form of Performance Stock Award Agreement pursuant to which performance stock awards are granted under the Tyson 
Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective September 29, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 10.44 to the Company's 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 3, 2009, Commission File No. 001-14704, and 
incorporated herein by reference). 

10.44 

Form of Performance Stock Award Agreement pursuant to which performance stock awards are granted under the Tyson 
Foods, Inc. 2000 Stock Incentive Plan effective October 4, 2010. 

12.1 

Calculation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges 

14.1 

Code of Conduct of the Company 

16.1 

Letter of Ernst & Young LLP dated November 23, 2009 (previously filed as Exhibit 16.1 to the Company's Current Report 
on Form 8-K/A filed November 23, 2009, Commission File No. 001-14704, and incorporated herein by reference). 

21 

Subsidiaries of the Company 

23.1 

Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP 

23.2 

Consent of Ernst & Young, LLP 

88 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
31.1 

31.2 

32.1 

32.2 

101 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of 
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of 
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the 
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the 
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

The following financial information from our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 1, 2011, formatted 
in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Statements of Income, (ii) Consolidated Balance 
Sheets, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (v) the Notes 
to Consolidated Financial Statements, and (vi) Financial Statement Schedule. 

89 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SIGNATURES 

        Pursuant to requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report 
to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. 

TYSON FOODS, INC. 

By: 

/s/ Dennis Leatherby 
Dennis Leatherby 
Executive Vice President and Chief  
  Financial Officer 

November 21, 2011 

90 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pursuant  to  the  requirements  of  the  Securities  Exchange  Act  of  1934,  this  report  has  been  signed  below  by  the  following 

persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated. 

/s/ Kathleen M. Bader 
Kathleen M. Bader 

Gaurdie E. Banister Jr. 

/s/ Craig J. Hart 
Craig J. Hart 

/s/ Jim Kever 
Jim Kever 

/s/ Dennis Leatherby 
Dennis Leatherby 

/s/ Kevin M. McNamara 
Kevin M. McNamara 

/s/ Brad T. Sauer 
Brad T. Sauer 

/s/ Donnie Smith 
Donnie Smith 

/s/ Robert C. Thurber 
Robert C. Thurber 

/s/ Barbara A. Tyson 
Barbara A. Tyson 

/s/ John Tyson 
John Tyson 

/s/ Albert C. Zapanta 
Albert C. Zapanta 

Director 

Director 

November 21, 2011 

Senior Vice President, Controller and 

November 21, 2011 

Chief Accounting Officer 

Director 

November 21, 2011 

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer  November 21, 2011 

Director 

Director 

November 21, 2011 

November 21, 2011 

President and Chief Executive Officer 

November 21, 2011 

Director 

Director 

November 21, 2011 

November 21, 2011 

Chairman of the Board of Directors 

November 21, 2011 

Director 

November 21, 2011 

91 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE 
TYSON FOODS, INC. 
SCHEDULE II 
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS 

Three Years Ended October 1, 2011 

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: 

2011 
2010 
2009 

Inventory Lower of Cost or Market Allowance: 

2011 
2010 
2009 

Additions 

Balance at 
Beginning 
of Period 

Charged to 
Costs and 
Expenses 

Charged to 
Other Accounts 

(Deductions) 

Balance at End 
of Period 

in millions 

$32 
33 
12 

$2 
22 
13 

$3 
0 
22 

$12 
7 
57 

$0 
0 
0 

$0 
0 
0 

$(4) 
(1) 
(1) 

$(8) 
(27) 
(48) 

$31 
32 
33 

$6 
2 
22 

92