Tyson Foods Establishes Venture Fund to Innovate in the Food Sector

In Springdale, Arkansas, on December 5, 2016, Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) announced the creation of a venture capital fund as part of its dedication to innovation and expansion. The fund, named Tyson New Ventures LLC, will invest in businesses that are creating innovative technologies, business models, and products to sustainably feed the increasing global population. Tyson has allocated $150 million to the fund, which will supplement the company's ongoing investment in its primary fresh meats, poultry, and prepared foods businesses. Tyson New Ventures will focus on three sectors within the food industry: the commercialization of tasty, safe, and affordable alternative proteins; addressing food insecurity and food waste through market creation and other business models; and utilizing the internet of food to encourage more accurate and efficient resource use, safety, and consumer involvement in the food chain. Tyson New Ventures will invest in these innovative food businesses and use Tyson Foods' expertise to enhance their growth. The first investment is Tyson Foods' previously disclosed five percent ownership in plant-based protein manufacturer Beyond Meat. Monica McGurk, executive vice president of strategy and new ventures and president of foodservice for Tyson Foods, stated, "Our goal is to work with innovative food entrepreneurs who are developing new products and technology that are significantly improving and changing food systems. We believe we can speed up the growth of startups through our skills in areas such as food and culinary research and development, sourcing, insights, customer relationships, and distribution. In doing so, we aim to significantly improve the state of the U.S. and global food system." Tyson New Ventures will be headquartered in Chicago and managed by Mary Kay James, who has been appointed vice president and general manager. James previously held the position of managing director of DuPont Ventures, chaired the National Venture Capital Association, Corporate Venture Group, and served on the advisory board of Global Corporate Venturing. James and her team will target startups that complement Tyson Foods' existing business and product development initiatives. They will concentrate on alternative proteins, food waste reduction, and the utilization of innovative technology trends. McGurk added, "This fund is about expanding our exposure to innovative protein sources and food production methods, while staying focused on our primary fresh meats, poultry, and prepared foods businesses, which are also seeing significant consumer demand and growth." For more details about Tyson New Ventures, visit: www.tysonfoods.com/TysonNewVentures About Tyson Foods Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN), headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, is among the world's largest food companies with top brands like Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Sara Lee®, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells®, and State Fair®. It's a recognized leader in the chicken, beef, and pork markets as well as prepared foods, including bacon, breakfast sausage, turkey, lunchmeat, hot dogs, pizza crusts and toppings, tortillas, and desserts. The company serves retail and foodservice customers across the United States and in approximately 130 countries. Tyson Foods was established in 1935 by John W. Tyson, and his family has continued to lead the business with his son, Don Tyson, guiding the company for many years and grandson, John H. Tyson, currently serving as the chairman of the board of directors. The company currently employs approximately 114,000 Team Members at over 400 facilities and offices in the United States and globally. Through its Core Values, Code of Conduct, and Team Member Bill of Rights, Tyson Foods aims to operate with integrity and trust and is committed to creating value for its shareholders, customers, and Team Members. The company also aims to be faith-friendly, provide a safe work environment, and serve as stewards of the animals, land, and environment entrusted to it. Forward Looking Statements This release includes forward-looking statements as well as historical information. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of the release and include statements relating to potential investments. Actual results may vary. Additional information regarding risks which may affect our results is included in Item 1.A. “Risk Factors” on our Form 10-K for the period ended October 1, 2016. Tyson Foods does not assume any obligation to update the information contained in this communication (whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise), except as required by applicable law. Contact: Gary Mickelson, 479-290-6111, gary.mickelson@tyson.com