• July 3, 2008

It intends to acquire the French manufacturer of table top sauces, mayonnaises and salad dressings. Terms of the intended transaction were not disclosed.

The acquisition is subject to normal regulatory and Works Council review. The management of Bénédicta has today informed its local Works Council of this prospective transaction.

Bénédicta is one of a few century-old brands founded in France. With its long tradition of product innovation, Bénédicta was the first to introduce table top mayonnaise in France in 1957 and a few years later other varieties of table top sauces.

Throughout the years, Bénédicta which has approximately $90 million in sales, has become the French standard for quality sauces, including the traditional mayonnaise and Béarnaise sauces, as well as modern dip and barbecue sauces.

Both parties strongly believe that the proposed acquisition will enhance prospects for the long term growth of both Bénédicta and the Heinz brand.

--Nina M. Lentini