ConAgra adjusts earnings, again

Omaha-ConAgra Foods Inc. is still dealing with the results reported by its former subsidiary, United Agri Products, and on July 28 again adjusted earnings for the years 1999-2001. This time ConAgra cited matters related to UAP, as well as the level and application of company reserves. The Securities Exchange Commission alleges that a gross amount of $170 million related to the reversal of reserves was improperly recorded in income during fiscal years 1999-2001. ConAgra said it is currently conducting discussions with the SEC regarding a possible settlement of these matters. It said any settlement may include the company consenting to the issuance of a final judgment without admitting or denying the allegations, with respect to a complaint to be filed by the SEC in federal court. ConAgra has previously filed restatements in June 2001 for the years 1997-2000 related to UAP, and in April 2005 for years 2002-2004 relating to income tax matters. New restatements for fiscal years ending in May are as follows.

Earnings $M Net Income Diluted Earnings Per Share
2001 Reported 641.8 1.25
2001 Restated 627.0 1.22
2000 Reported 382.7 .80
2000 Restated 360.5 .75
1999 Reported 330.2 .69
1999 Restated 278.8 .58