Well-known brand names within the packaged foods industry; Broad market penetration in the U.S.; and A strong presence in potato products. Sluggish performance in the consumer food sector, which is more critical following the sale of the trading and merchandising business; Exposure to volatile commodity costs; and The highly competitive nature of the packaged foods market. The ratings on ConAgra Foods Inc. reflect its diverse portfolio of well-known packaged food brands and its good geographic coverage in the U.S. Higher operating costs, which negatively affected margins, particularly in the company's consumer foods segment (about 64% of fiscal 2008 revenues), and Standard&Poor's Ratings Services' concern that the company's core packaged food business will face challenges to improve performance in
