AURORA FOODS INC /MD/, S-1/A, 1998-05-15

AURORA FOODS INC /MD/
S-1/A, 1998-05-15
GRAIN MILL PRODUCTS

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<PAGE>

AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON MAY 15, 1998.

REGISTRATION NO. 333-50681

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
------------------------

PRE-EFFECTIVE
AMENDMENT NO. 1
TO
FORM S-1
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

------------------------

AURORA FOODS INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
MARYLAND 2045 TO BE APPLIED FOR
(State or other jurisdiction (Primary Standard Industrial (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation or organization) Classification Code Number) Identification Number)
</TABLE>

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456 MONTGOMERY STREET, SUITE 2200
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94104
(415) 982-3019

(Address, including ZIP Code, and telephone number, including area code, of
registrant's principal executive offices)

------------------------------

IAN R. WILSON
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
AURORA FOODS INC.
456 MONTGOMERY STREET, SUITE 2200
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94104
(415) 982-3019

(Name, address, including ZIP Code, and telephone number, including area code,
of agent for service)

------------------------------

COPIES TO:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
NANCY YOUNG, ESQ. ROBERT E. BUCKHOLZ, JR., ESQ.
Richards & O'Neil, LLP Sullivan & Cromwell
885 Third Avenue 125 Broad Street
New York, New York 10022-4873 New York, New York 10004
(212) 207-1200 (212) 558-4000
</TABLE>

------------------------

APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC: As soon as
practicable after this Registration Statement becomes effective.

If any of the securities being registered on this form are to be offered on
a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of
1933, check the following box. / /

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following
box. / /

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. / /

If the delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule
434, please check the following box. / /
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CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROPOSED
MAXIMUM
AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF
TITLE OF EACH CLASS OFFERING REGISTRATION
OF SECURITIES TO BE REGISTERED PRICE(1)(2) FEE(3)
<S> <C> <C>
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share........................ $270,000,000 $79,650
</TABLE>

(1) Estimated solely for purposes of calculating the registration fee pursuant
to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933.

(2) The shares of Common Stock are not being registered for the purpose of sales
outside the United States.

(3) Previously paid.

THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL
FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(A) OF
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT
SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID
SECTION 8(A), MAY DETERMINE.

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<PAGE>
INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT. A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY
OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT BECOMES
EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE
SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE SECURITIES
IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL PRIOR
TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY SUCH STATE.
<PAGE>
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED , 1998

,000,000 SHARES

<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
LOGO AURORA FOODS INC.
</TABLE>

COMMON STOCK
(PAR VALUE $.01 PER SHARE)

--------------------------

Of the shares of Common Stock offered, shares are being offered
hereby in the United States and shares are being offered in the concurrent
international offering outside the United States. The initial public offering
price and the aggregate underwriting discount per share of Common Stock will be
identical for both Offerings. See "Underwriting".

Of the shares of Common Stock offered, shares of Common Stock
are being sold by the Company and shares of Common Stock are being sold by
the Selling Stockholder. See "Principal Stockholders and Selling Stockholder".
The Company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of shares of Common
Stock by the Selling Stockholder.

Prior to these offerings, there has not been any public market for the
Common Stock of the Company. It is currently estimated that the initial public
offering price will be between $ and $ per share. For factors
to be considered in determining the initial public offering price, see
"Underwriting".

SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE HEREIN FOR CERTAIN CONSIDERATIONS
RELEVANT TO AN INVESTMENT IN THE COMMON STOCK.

Application will be made to list the Common Stock on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol " ".
--------------------------

THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS
THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES
COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS
PROSPECTUS.
ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
--------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INITIAL PUBLIC UNDERWRITING PROCEEDS TO PROCEEDS TO SELLING
OFFERING PRICE DISCOUNT (1) COMPANY (2) STOCKHOLDER
------------------- ------------------- ------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share........................... $ $ $ $
Total(3)............................
</TABLE>

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(1) The Company and the Selling Stockholder have agreed to indemnify the
Underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the
Securities Act of 1933. See "Underwriting".

(2) Before deducting expenses estimated at $ , payable by the Company.

(3) The Company has granted to the U.S. Underwriters an option for 30 days to
purchase up to an additional shares at the initial public offering
price per share, less the underwriting discount, solely to cover over-
allotments, if any. Additionally, the Company has granted the International
Underwriters a similar option with respect to an additional shares of
Common Stock as part of the concurrent International Offering. If such
options are exercised in full, the total initial public offering price,
underwriting discount and proceeds to the Company and proceeds to the
Selling Stockholder will be $ , $ , $ and
$ , respectively. See "Underwriting".

The shares are offered severally by the U. S. Underwriters, as specified
herein, subject to receipt and acceptance by them and subject to their right to
reject any order in whole or in part. It is expected that certificates for the
shares will be ready for delivery in New York, New York on or about
, 1998, against payment therefor in immediately available funds.

GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.

BT ALEX. BROWN

DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
SECURITIES CORPORATION

CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON

SBC WARBURG DILLON READ INC.

CHASE SECURITIES INC.
--------------------------

The date of this Prospectus is , 1998.
<PAGE>
CERTAIN PERSONS PARTICIPATING IN THE OFFERINGS MAY ENGAGE IN TRANSACTIONS
THAT STABILIZE, MAINTAIN, OR OTHERWISE AFFECT THE MARKET PRICE OF THE COMMON
STOCK INCLUDING OVER-ALLOTMENT, STABILIZING AND SHORT-COVERING TRANSACTIONS IN
SUCH SECURITIES AND THE IMPOSITION OF A PENALTY BID, IN CONNECTION WITH THE
OFFERINGS. FOR A DESCRIPTION OF THESE ACTIVITIES, SEE "UNDERWRITING".

The inside cover will contain colored art work of brand trademarks and logos
owned or licensed by the Company. DUNCAN HINES-Registered Trademark-, LOG
CABIN-Registered Trademark-, MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S-Registered Trademark-, AUNT
JEMIMA-Registered Trademark-, COUNTRY KITCHEN-Registered Trademark-,
WIGWAM-Registered Trademark-, VAN DE KAMP'S-Registered Trademark-, MRS.
PAUL'S-Registered Trademark-, and CELESTE-Registered Trademark- are registered
trademarks of the Company. The Aunt Jemima trademark is licensed from The Quaker
Oats Company ("Quaker Oats"). This Prospectus also includes trademarks of
companies other than trademarks of the Company.

The Company intends to furnish stockholders with annual reports containing
audited financial statements and quarterly reports for the first three quarters
of each fiscal year containing unaudited financial statements.

2
<PAGE>
PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

THE FOLLOWING SUMMARY IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY, AND SHOULD BE READ IN
CONJUNCTION WITH, THE MORE DETAILED INFORMATION AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND
NOTES THERETO APPEARING ELSEWHERE IN THIS PROSPECTUS. AS USED IN THIS
PROSPECTUS, THE "COMPANY" REFERS TO AURORA FOODS INC., A DELAWARE CORPORATION
INCORPORATED PRIOR TO THE OFFERINGS, AND ITS PREDECESSORS. EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE
INDICATED, ALL REFERENCES TO CATEGORY AND SEGMENT SALES AND SHARE PERCENTAGES
AND POSITIONS ARE BASED ON U.S. RETAIL SUPERMARKET SALES DOLLARS FOR THE 52-WEEK
PERIOD IN THE CASE OF SYRUPS, ENDED MARCH 21, 1998, AND IN THE CASE OF BAKING
MIXES, ENDED MARCH 14, 1998, AS GATHERED AND PUBLISHED BY A.C. NIELSEN COMPANY
("NIELSEN") AND, IN THE CASE OF FROZEN CONVENIENCE FOODS, ENDED MARCH 22, 1998,
AS GATHERED AND PUBLISHED BY INFORMATION RESOURCES INCORPORATED ("IRI").

THE COMPANY

The Company is a leading producer and marketer of premium branded food
products including DUNCAN HINES baking mixes, LOG CABIN and MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S
syrup, VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S frozen seafood, AUNT JEMIMA frozen
breakfast products and CELESTE frozen pizza. The Company's brands are among the
oldest and most widely recognized food brands in the United States, have leading
market positions and participate in some of the fastest growing categories in
the supermarket. LOG CABIN and MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S have a leading 33.9% share of
the syrup category, VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S have a leading 28.2% share of
the frozen seafood category, DUNCAN HINES is the #2 cake mix with a 35.8% share
and CELESTE is the #2 brand of frozen pizza in the Northeast. In 1997, dollar
sales of frozen pizza, frozen seafood and frozen waffles grew at annual rates of
8.5%, 9.5% and 7.8%, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 1997, the
Company's pro forma net sales were $874.2 million and the Company's pro forma as
adjusted EBITDA was $ million.

The Company was formed by Dartford Partnership L.L.C. ("Dartford"), Fenway
Partners, Inc. and McCown De Leeuw & Co., Inc. ("MDC") to serve as a platform
upon which to build a leading branded grocery products company through both
strategic acquisitions and internal growth. The Company has been built through
six separate acquisitions over the last three years. The Company seeks to
acquire well-recognized brands which have become non-core businesses to their
corporate parents, but which retain strong brand equities and long-term growth
potential. The Company's objective is to revitalize the brands it acquires and
renew their growth by providing them with the strategic direction, dedicated
management and marketing focus they lacked under prior owners.

Under the direction of CEO Ian R. Wilson and Dartford, each of the brands
owned by the Company for more than one year has experienced significant growth.
The following table sets forth (i) the growth rates of the brands for the twelve
months prior to the date of acquisition, and (ii) the annual growth rate as
measured eighteen months after the date of acquisition.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DATE
OF GROWTH PRIOR GROWTH
BRAND PRIOR OWNER ACQUISITION TO ACQUISITION AFTER ACQUISITION
- --------------------- ------------------ ------------- --------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
VAN DE KAMP'S Pillsbury Sept. 1995 -2.5% +5.0%
MRS. PAUL'S Campbell Soup May 1996 -9.2 +7.1
AUNT JEMIMA Quaker Oats July 1996 -8.9 +10.5
CELESTE Quaker Oats July 1996 -16.8 +8.6
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S Unilever Dec. 1996 0.0 +3.1
LOG CABIN Kraft July 1997 -6.0 n/a
DUNCAN HINES Procter & Gamble Jan. 1998 -5.0 n/a
</TABLE>

The Company has renewed the growth of its brands by providing them with
experienced management, refocusing marketing support, reformulating and
repackaging outdated products, developing and launching new products and
expanding distribution. The Company has also realized significant cost savings
by consolidating and improving the efficiency of its manufacturing operations,
outsourcing the production of certain products and eliminating redundant
administrative functions. The Company believes that the growth exhibited by the
brands it acquired in 1995 and 1996, combined with expected growth from its most
recent acquisitions and additional cost savings opportunities, have positioned
it to achieve superior long-term sales and earnings growth.

3
<PAGE>
BUSINESS STRATEGY

The Company's objective is to continue to generate sales and earnings growth
by (i) sustaining the growth of the brands it acquired in 1995 and 1996, (ii)
achieving similar results for its recently acquired brands, and (iii) continuing
to acquire brands with strong equities and long-term growth potential. The
Company's strategy is to revitalize its brands, reduce costs and continue to
make strategic acquisitions.

REVITALIZE BRANDS. To revitalize the brands it has acquired and stimulate
growth, the Company (i) provides experienced management, (ii) refocuses
marketing support, (iii) reformulates and repackages outdated products, (iv)
develops and launches new products, and (v) expands distribution of its
products.

PROVIDE EXPERIENCED MANAGEMENT. The Company has assembled a dedicated
sales, marketing and administrative infrastructure by recruiting experienced
managers from a wide variety of food and consumer products companies. The
Company believes that it significantly improves the performance of its
brands by taking them out of large organizations where they have not been a
priority and providing them with experienced, dedicated management.

REFOCUS MARKETING SUPPORT. The Company refocuses and broadens marketing
support for its brands by rationalizing product lines, refreshing
advertising campaigns and adjusting the mix of its marketing programs. The
Company increases media advertising and consumer promotional events
(coupons) and generally reduces price discounting. The Company has increased
media advertising in order to increase brand awareness and introduce new or
reformulated products. Focused consumer promotional support, including
point-of-sale and in-store coupons and cross promotions with other food
products, has also been increased to generate trial and repeat purchases of
the Company's products. In many circumstances, trade spending levels have
been reduced while the quality of the merchandising support for the
Company's brands has improved.

REFORMULATE AND REPACKAGE PRODUCTS. To reinvigorate its brands, the Company
reformulates and repackages outdated products. For example, the Company has
reformulated MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S Lite syrup and certain AUNT JEMIMA frozen
breakfast products, resulting in significant increases in unit volumes for
both product lines. The Company has recently launched reformulated DUNCAN
HINES brownie mixes and plans to introduce reformulated LOG CABIN Lite syrup
in the second half of 1998. The Company has also redesigned the packaging of
its AUNT JEMIMA and MRS. PAUL'S product lines and plans to introduce new
packaging for CELESTE Pizza for One and LOG CABIN syrup in the summer of
1998.

DEVELOP AND LAUNCH NEW PRODUCTS. The Company has successfully developed and
launched more than 25 new products. New product successes include grilled
and premium fish fillets marketed under both the VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS.
PAUL'S brands and MAMA CELESTE Fresh Baked Rising Crust pizza. The Company
has developed and is preparing to launch additional new products for its
frozen breakfast, frozen seafood and syrup product lines.

EXPAND DISTRIBUTION. The Company expands distribution of its products by
(i) improving the selection of its products on the shelf, (ii) increasing
penetration in established markets, (iii) broadening the geographic
distribution of its products, and (iv) improving its presence in selected
channels of distribution including club stores and foodservice.

REDUCE COSTS. The Company has reduced costs of the acquired businesses by
approximately $ million since their respective acquisitions. To achieve these
cost reductions, the Company has (i) consolidated the manufacture of MRS. PAUL'S
frozen seafood products into the Van de Kamp's facilities, (ii) outsourced the
production of syrup, (iii) reduced fixed costs and improved the efficiency of
its manufacturing facilities, and (iv) eliminated redundant administrative
functions of the acquired businesses. The Company believes that there are
further opportunities to reduce costs, which include outsourcing the production
of baking mixes and further consolidating its brokerage and administrative
functions.

4
<PAGE>
MAKE STRATEGIC ACQUISITIONS. The Company has a proven track record of
successfully acquiring and integrating food businesses. The Company's
acquisition strategy is to acquire established, well-recognized food brands that
can leverage off of the infrastructure it has developed. The Company will
continue to look for opportunities where strong but non-core brands would
benefit from the renewed focus and experienced management it brings to its
acquisitions. Management believes that these opportunities will continue to
arise as a result of large food companies continuing their recent trend of
divesting non-core businesses.

OWNERSHIP

Upon completion of the Offerings, Fenway Partners, Inc. and certain of its
affiliates (collectively, "Fenway") will beneficially own %, affiliates of
MDC will beneficially own %, Dartford will beneficially own %, and
divisional management will beneficially own % of the outstanding shares of
Common Stock. See "Principal Stockholders and Selling Stockholders".

Dartford was formed by Managing Partner Ian R. Wilson, former Vice Chairman
of The Coca-Cola Company and former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of
Castle & Cooke, Inc. (now known as Dole Food Company, Inc.), to make investments
in the consumer food and beverage industries. Dartford's four partners have
extensive experience in building and managing investments in the food and
beverage industries. Over the past thirteen years, Dartford and its predecessors
have successfully built and managed a number of food companies including Wyndham
Foods Inc. ("Wyndham"), which Dartford grew to become the fourth largest cookie
company in the United States, Windmill Holdings Corp. ("Windmill"), a branded
baking products company, and Windy Hill Pet Food Company, Inc. ("Windy Hill"), a
national supplier of branded and private label pet food products.

Fenway is a private equity investment firm based in New York City with
approximately $527 million of equity capital under management. Fenway was formed
in 1994 by Peter Lamm, Richard Dresdale, and Andrea Geisser. Together, the
firm's principals have over 60 years of experience building and managing direct
investment portfolios and have made over 80 investments in a wide variety of
industries. Fenway focuses its investment activities on acquiring domestic
middle market companies with revenues between $100 million and $750 million
which offer leading market shares, strong franchises, multiple profit centers,
and underlying opportunities for growth. Fenway's portfolio companies include
Central Tractor Farm & Country, Inc., Decorative Concepts, Inc., Delimex
Holdings, Inc., Iron Age Corporation, and National School Supply Company.

MDC is a private equity investment firm based in Menlo Park, California and
New York City organized in 1984 to "buy and build" middle market companies in
partnership with management. MDC currently manages four generations of funds
totaling in excess of $1.2 billion of capital. MDC has developed, and committed
itself to, an investment process that identifies and then backs top managers in
industries that are undergoing consolidation or rapid internal growth. Over the
past 14 years, MDC has made 32 separate acquisitions, of which 23 have been
acquisition-oriented "buy and builds" similar to the strategy executed by the
Company. MDC's platform investments include RSP Manufacturing Corporation, The
Brown Schools, Inc., Outsourcing Solutions Inc., Fitness Holdings, Inc., DIMAC
Corp., Sarcom, Inc., and Nimbus CD International Inc.

BACKGROUND

Just prior to the Offerings, the Company will be incorporated in Delaware
and will assume the Registration Statement (of which this Prospectus forms a
part) filed by Aurora Foods Inc., a Maryland corporation ("Aurora Maryland")
upon the merger of Aurora Maryland with and into the Company. As used in this
Prospectus (i) "Aurora" refers to Aurora Foods Holdings Inc., a Delaware
corporation incorporated in 1996; (ii) "Aurora Foods" refers to Aurora Foods
Inc., a Delaware corporation also formed in 1996 and wholly owned by Aurora; and
(iii) "VDK" refers to VDK Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation incorporated in
1995. Unless the context otherwise requires, discussion of the business of the
Company gives effect to acquisitions made by Aurora or VDK and to the merger of
Aurora, Aurora

5
<PAGE>
Foods, VDK, and Van de Kamp's, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of VDK, with and
into the Company, concurrently with the closing of the Offerings (the "Merger").
All references to the Company's historical financial statements are to
historical financial statements of Aurora, to which the Company will be the
successor upon formation and after the Merger. The consummation of the Merger is
a condition to, and will close concurrent with, the closing of the Offerings.

Aurora Foods was formed for the purpose of acquiring the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S
syrup business from Conopco, Inc. (the "Predecessor"), a subsidiary of Unilever
United States, Inc. ("Unilever"). Aurora then acquired the LOG CABIN syrup
business from Kraft Foods, Inc. ("Kraft") in July 1997 and the DUNCAN HINES
baking mix business from The Procter & Gamble Company ("P&G") in January 1998.

Van de Kamp's, Inc. was incorporated in Delaware in July 1995 for the
purpose of acquiring the VAN DE KAMP'S frozen seafood business from the
Pillsbury Company ("Pillsbury") in September 1995. Van de Kamp's, Inc. then
acquired the MRS. PAUL'S frozen seafood business from the Campbell Soup Company
("Campbell Soup") in May 1996 and the AUNT JEMIMA frozen breakfast and CELESTE
frozen pizza businesses from Quaker Oats in July 1996. Each of the acquisitions
consummated by Aurora Foods or Van de Kamp's, Inc., collectively are referred to
as the "Acquired Businesses".

On April 8, 1998, MBW Investors LLC and VDK Foods LLC formed Aurora/VDK LLC
("New LLC"). MBW Investors LLC contributed all of the capital stock of Aurora
and VDK Foods LLC contributed all of the capital stock of VDK to New LLC (the
"Contribution Transaction"). In return for those contributions, MBW Investors
LLC was issued 55.5% of the interests in New LLC plus a right to receive a
special $8.5 million priority distribution from New LLC, and VDK Foods LLC was
issued 44.5% of the interests in New LLC plus a right to receive a special $42.4
million priority distribution from New LLC. On April 16, 1998, Aurora Maryland
was incorporated to facilitate the Offerings. Just prior to the Offerings, the
Company will be incorporated, New LLC will contribute all of the issued and
outstanding stock of Aurora and VDK to it, and Aurora Maryland will be merged
with and into the Company.

New LLC will sell shares of Common Stock in the Offerings and will
distribute shares of Common Stock to its members consisting of MBW
Investors LLC and VDK Foods LLC. After completion of any required filings under
the Hart Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended (the "Hart
Scott Rodino Act"), and the termination or expiration of any applicable waiting
period, New LLC will be liquidated or dissolved. MBW Investors will distribute
its shares of Common Stock to its members consisting of Fenway,
affiliates of MDC, Dartford, California Public Employees Retirement System
("CALPERS"), Sunapee Securities, Inc. and Squam Lake Investors II, L.P.,
(collectively, "Sunapee") and certain divisional management and, after
completion of any required filings under the Hart Scott Rodino Act and the
termination or expiration of any applicable waiting period, MBW Investors LLC
will be liquidated or dissolved.

SALE OF FROZEN DESSERTS BUSINESS

On May 1, 1998, VDK completed the sale of its frozen desserts product line
(the "Desserts Sale") to Mrs. Smith's Bakeries, Inc., a subsidiary of Flowers,
Inc. VDK received approximately $26.0 million from the sale of machinery and
equipment, contracts, the Pet Ritz and Oronoque Orchards trademarks,
intellectual property and goodwill. The Company received approximately $2.0
million from the sale of finished goods inventory. VDK sold the machinery and
equipment physically located at the Chambersburg, Pennsylvania manufacturing
facility and announced a restructuring program, which will include the closure
of the Chambersburg facility and relocation of machinery and equipment related
to the production of certain frozen seafood and vegetable products to the
Company's Erie, Pennsylvania, and Jackson, Tennessee manufacturing facilities.
The impact of the Desserts Sale on the Company's annual results is not expected
to be material and management believes the Desserts Sale will not significantly
impact future results. The net proceeds from the Desserts Sale were used to
repay $25.0 million in indebtedness under the Second Amended and Restated Credit
and Guarantee Agreement, dated as of July 9, 1996, among VDK, Van de Kamp's,
Inc., the banks and other financial institutions parties thereto, as amended
(the "VDK Senior Bank Facilities"). The Company's pro forma financial data
reflects the consummation of the Desserts Sale. See "--Summary Historical and
Pro Forma Financial Data" and "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information."

6
<PAGE>
THE OFFERINGS

The offering of shares of Common Stock initially being offered in the
United States (the "U.S. Offering") and the concurrent offering of shares
of Common Stock initially being offered outside the United States (the
"International Offering") are collectively referred to in this Prospectus as the
"Offerings". The underwriters for the U.S. Offering (the "U.S. Underwriters")
and the underwriters for the International Offering (the "International
Underwriters") are collectively referred to in this Prospectus as the
"Underwriters". The closing of the U.S. Offering is conditioned upon the closing
of the International Offering and vice versa.

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Common Stock offered by the
Company:(1)
U.S. Offering................. shares
International Offering........ shares
Total....................... shares

Common Stock offered by the
Selling Stockholder:
United States Offering........ shares
International Offering........ shares
Total....................... shares

Common Stock to be outstanding
after the Offerings............. shares (1)(2)
Use of Proceeds by the Company.. To redeem $35 million principal amount of the 12% Senior
Subordinated Notes due 2005 issued by VDK (the "VDK
Notes") and pay the associated $3.5 million redemption
premium, to repay approximately $ million of
indebtedness under the VDK Senior Bank Facilities and
Aurora Senior Bank Facilities (defined below), and to pay
the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the
Offerings and the refinancing of the Company's
indebtedness. The Company will not receive any proceeds
from the sale of shares by the Selling Stockholder. See
"Use of Proceeds".
Proposed New York Stock
Exchange ("NYSE") Symbol........ [ ]
</TABLE>

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(1) Assumes that the Underwriters' over-allotment options are not exercised. See
"Underwriting".

(2) Does not include shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of
outstanding stock options granted to certain employees of the Company. In
addition, the Company has reserved shares of Common Stock for issuance
in connection with options that may be granted under the Company's 1998
Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "1998 Incentive Plan"). See "Management--1998
Incentive Plan".

RISK FACTORS

Prospective investors should consider carefully, in addition to the other
information contained in this Prospectus, matters set forth under the caption
"Risk Factors" before purchasing shares of the Common Stock offered by this
Prospectus.

7
<PAGE>
SUMMARY HISTORICAL AND PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA

The following table sets forth summary historical and unaudited pro forma as
adjusted financial data of the Company for the periods ended and as of the dates
indicated. The summary historical statement of operations data for the year
ended December 27, 1997 and the summary historical balance sheet data as of
December 27, 1997 are derived from audited financial statements of the Company
included elsewhere in this Prospectus. The summary historical statement of
operations data for the three months ended March 28, 1998 and the summary
historical balance sheet data as of March 28, 1998 are derived from the
unaudited financial statements of the Company included elsewhere in this
Prospectus which, in the opinion of management, include all normal recurring
adjustments. The summary unaudited pro forma and pro forma as adjusted statement
of operations data reflect adjustments, where appropriate, to the historical
financial data of the Company to give effect to (i) the acquisition of the LOG
CABIN business, (ii) the acquisition of the DUNCAN HINES business, (iii) the
acquisition of VDK, (iv) the Desserts Sale, and (v) the Offerings, as if each
occurred on January 1, 1997. The summary unaudited pro forma and pro forma as
adjusted balance sheet data reflect adjustments, where appropriate, to the
historical financial data for the Company to give effect to (i) the acquisition
of VDK, (ii) the Desserts Sale, and (iii) the Offerings, as if each had occurred
on March 28, 1998. This information should be read in conjunction with the
Company's unaudited pro forma and historical financial statements, and related
notes thereto, each appearing elsewhere in this Prospectus and "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations".

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED THREE MONTHS ENDED
DECEMBER 27, 1997 MARCH 28, 1998
------------------------------------- ------------------------------------
PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
(IN THOUSANDS) ACTUAL PRO FORMA AS ADJUSTED ACTUAL PRO FORMA AS ADJUSTED
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales........................... $ 143,020 $ 874,231 $ 874,231 $ 89,385 $ 240,337 $ 240,337
Cost of goods sold.................. 45,729 373,101 373,101 37,734 95,111 95,111
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
Gross profit...................... 97,291 501,130 501,130 51,651 145,226 145,226
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution........ 17,096 88,188 88,188 9,355 23,544 23,544
Trade promotions.................. 26,075 172,487 172,487 15,568 57,737 57,737
Consumer marketing................ 15,142 65,717 65,717 7,997 21,057 21,057
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
Total brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses................ 58,313 326,392 326,392 32,920 102,338 102,338
Amortization of goodwill and other
intangibles....................... 5,938 33,424 33,424 4,597 8,356 8,356
Selling, general and administrative
expenses.......................... 5,229 34,427 34,427 2,346 7,084 7,084
Compensation plan expense........... 2,300 2,300 60,000 129,000(1) -- (1)
Transition expenses................. 2,113 -- -- 1,926 -- --
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
Total operating expenses............ 73,893 396,543 101,789 246,778
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
Operating income (loss)........... 23,398 104,587 (50,138) (101,552)
Interest income..................... (151) (515) (515) (223) (253) (253)
Interest expense.................... 18,393 84,502 12,837 21,126
Amortization of deferred financing
expense........................... 3,059 4,575 513 1,144
Other bank and financing expenses... 83 304 304 51 95 95
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
Income (loss) before income
taxes........................... 2,014 15,721 (63,316) (123,664)
Income tax expense (benefit)........ 779 6,210 (360) (20,632)
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
Net income (loss)................. $ 1,235 $ 9,511 $ $ (62,956) $(103,032) $
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
--------- ------------ ------------ --------- ----------- ------------
Basic and diluted earnings (loss)
per share......................... $ 1 $ (63)
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
Weighted average number of shares
outstanding....................... 1 1
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
Pro forma basic and diluted earnings
(loss) per share(2)............... $ 10 $ (103)
------------ -----------
------------ -----------
Pro forma weighted average number of
shares outstanding(2)............. 1 1
------------ -----------
------------ -----------
Pro forma as adjusted basic and
diluted earnings per share(3)..... $ $
------------ ------------
------------ ------------
Pro forma as adjusted weighted
average number of shares
outstanding(3)....................
------------ ------------
------------ ------------
</TABLE>

8
<PAGE>

BALANCE SHEET DATA (END OF PERIOD):
Working capital (excluding current
portion of long-term debt)...... $ 6,524 $ 29,164 $ 54,548 $ --
Total assets...................... 372,739 869,551 1,416,093 --
Long-term debt (including current
portion)........................ 279,919 652,377(6) 937,136(6) --
Stockholders' equity.............. 65,223 154,029 341,571 --
</TABLE>

(1) Pro forma compensation plan expense represents the expense incurred under
the VDK Plan (as defined) and the Aurora Plan (as defined), which are
described elsewhere in the Prospectus, based on the valuation of the Company
just prior to the Offerings. Pro forma as adjusted compensation expense
reflects the effect of accelerated vesting as a result of the Offerings. See
"Management--VDK Compensation Plan" and "Management--Aurora Compensation
Plan".

(2) Pro forma basic and diluted earnings per share and the pro forma weighted
average number of shares outstanding gives effect to the acquisitions as
described in the notes to the Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information.

(3) Pro forma as adjusted basic and diluted earnings per share and the pro forma
as adjusted weighted average number of shares outstanding gives effect to
the acquisitions and the Offerings as described in the notes to the
Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information.

(4) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) before interest, taxes,
depreciation, amortization, extraordinary items, compensation plan expense
(see (1) above) and transition expenses and is presented because it is
commonly used by certain investors and analysts to analyze and compare
companies on the basis of operating performance and to determine a company's
ability to service and incur debt. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered
in isolation from or as a substitute for net income, cash flows from
operating activities or other consolidated income or cash flow statement
data prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles or
as a measure of profitability or liquidity.

(5) Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 27, 1997 and the three months
ended March 31, 1998 on a pro forma as adjusted basis was $ million and
$ million, respectively. Including cost savings of $18.2 million and
$ million for the year ended December 31, 1997 and the three months ended
March 28, 1998, respectively, each of which are described in the notes to
the Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information, Adjusted EBITDA for the year
ended December 27, 1997 and March 28, 1998 would have been $ million and
$ million, respectively. Cost savings primarily reflect savings pursuant
to long term contract manufacturing agreements the Company has entered into
for its syrup and baking mix products and the elimination of manufacturing
and administrative expenses allocated from prior owners. There can be no
assurance the cost savings will be realized.

(6) Includes $15.0 million of revolving debt outstanding under the VDK Senior
Bank Facilities.

9
<PAGE>
RISK FACTORS

Investors should carefully consider the following risk factors, in addition
to the other information contained in this Prospectus, before purchasing the
Common Stock offered hereby.

IMPLEMENTATION OF BUSINESS STRATEGY; LIMITED OPERATING HISTORY; STRATEGIC
ACQUISITIONS

The Company intends to pursue a business strategy of increasing sales and
earnings through revitalizing its brands and achieving operational cost savings.
No assurance can be given that the Company will be successful in implementing
this strategy. See "Business--Competition" and "Business". Van de Kamp's, Inc.
was incorporated in July 1995 and Aurora Foods was incorporated in December
1996. Accordingly, investors have a limited operating history upon which to base
an evaluation of the Company's performance and an investment in the Company.
Moreover, certain of the financial statements included herein represent the
operations of the various Acquired Businesses by persons other than the
Company's management and may not be comparable with current operations or
indicative of future performance.

The Company also intends to pursue a business strategy of growth through
strategic acquisitions. The Company cannot predict whether it will be successful
in pursuing any acquisition opportunities or whether any acquisitions will be
successful. The Company continually evaluates potential strategic acquisitions;
however, the Company has no binding commitment to acquire any business or other
material assets. The Company's acquisition strategy involves numerous risks
including integration of the operations, systems, and management of acquired
businesses and the diversion of management's attention from other business
concerns. Depending on the nature, size, and timing of future acquisitions, the
Company may be required to raise additional financing. There can be no assurance
that [the Credit Agreement, dated as , 1998, by and between the
Company and Chase Manhattan Bank] (the "Senior Credit Facilities"), the
indenture (the "VDK Indenture") related to the "VDK Notes", and the indentures
(the "Aurora Indentures") related to the 9 7/8% Series B Senior Subordinated
Notes due 2007 ("Aurora Series B Notes") and the 9 7/8% Series D Senior
Subordinated Notes due 2007 ("Aurora Series D Notes") (the VDK Notes, Aurora
Series B Notes, and Aurora Series D Notes, collectively the "Senior Subordinated
Notes") or any other loan agreement to which the Company may become a party will
permit such additional financing or that any additional financing will be
available on terms acceptable to the Company.

RESTRICTIVE DEBT COVENANTS

The Senior Credit Facilities and each of the Indentures contain a number of
significant covenants that, among other things, restrict the ability of the
Company and its subsidiaries to engage in a variety of financing and corporate
activities (e.g. incur additional indebtedness, pay dividends, make
acquisitions, etc.). The breach of any of such covenants or restrictions could
result in a default under the Senior Credit Facilities or the Indentures, which
would permit the senior lenders or the holders of the Senior Subordinated Notes,
as the case may be, to declare all amounts borrowed thereunder to be due and
payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest. If the Company were unable
to repay its indebtedness to its senior lenders, such lenders could proceed
against the collateral securing such indebtedness which collateral represents
substantially all of the assets of the Company. See "Description of
Indebtedness".

GENERAL RISKS OF FOOD INDUSTRY; COMPETITION

The food products manufacturing industry is subject to the risk of adverse
changes in general economic conditions; adverse changes in local markets
resulting in greater risks inherent in the limited shelf life of food products
in case of oversupply; lack of attractiveness of a particular food product line
after its novelty has worn off; evolving consumer preferences and nutritional
and health-related concerns; federal, state, and local food processing controls;
consumer product liability claims; the risk of product tampering; and the
availability and expense of insurance. See "Business".

10
<PAGE>
The food products business is highly competitive. Numerous brands and
products compete for shelf space and sales, with competition based primarily on
brand recognition and loyalty, price, quality, and convenience. The Company
competes with a significant number of companies of varying sizes, including
divisions or subsidiaries of larger companies. A number of these competitors
have broader product lines, substantially greater financial and other resources
available to them, lower fixed costs and/or longer operating histories than the
Company. There can be no assurance that the Company can compete successfully
with such other companies. Competitive pressures or other factors could cause
the Company's products to lose market share or result in significant price
erosion, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company. See
"Business".

PRODUCT LIABILITY; PRODUCT RECALLS

The Company may be subject to significant liability should the consumption
of any of its products cause injury, illness, or death and may be required to
recall certain of its products in the event of contamination, mislabeling or
damage to its products. There can be no assurance that product liability claims
will not be asserted against the Company or that the Company will not be
obligated to recall its products. A product liability judgment against the
Company or a product recall could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, financial condition, and results of operations.

GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION

The Company's operations are subject to extensive regulation by the United
States Food and Drug Administration ("FDA"), the United States Department of
Agriculture and other state and local authorities regarding the processing,
packaging, storage, distribution, advertising, and labeling of the Company's
products, and environmental compliance. The Company's manufacturing facilities
and products are subject to periodic inspection by federal, state, and local
authorities. There can be no assurance that the Company is in compliance with
such laws and regulations or that it will be able to comply with any future laws
and regulations. Failure by the Company to comply with applicable laws and
regulations could subject the Company to civil remedies, including fines,
injunctions, recalls, or seizures, as well as potential criminal sanctions,
which could have a material adverse effect on the Company. See "Business--
Certain Legal and Regulatory Matters" and "--Environmental".

TRADEMARKS

The Company believes that its trademarks and other proprietary rights are
important to its success and its competitive position. There can be no assurance
that the actions taken by the Company to establish and protect its trademarks
and other proprietary rights will be adequate to prevent imitation of its
products by others or to prevent others from seeking to block sales of the
Company's products as violative of the trademarks and proprietary rights of
others. Moreover, no assurance can be given that others will not assert rights
in, or ownership of, trademarks and other proprietary rights of the Company or
that the Company will be able to successfully resolve such conflicts. See
"Business--Trademarks".

DEPENDENCE ON RAW MATERIALS

The Company purchases agricultural commodities, other raw materials, and
packaging from growers, commodity processors, fish processors, importers, other
food companies, and packaging manufacturers. While all such materials are
available from numerous independent suppliers, commodity raw materials are
subject to fluctuations in price attributable to, among other things, changes in
crop size and federal and state agricultural programs. Such fluctuations could
have a material adverse effect on the performance of the Company. See
"Business--Raw Materials".

11
<PAGE>
CONTROL BY PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS; CONSENT RIGHTS; AND ALLOCATION OF CORPORATE
OPPORTUNITIES

Upon completion of the Offerings, Fenway will beneficially own %,
affiliates of MDC will beneficially own %, and the parties to the
Securityholders Agreement dated April 8, 1998 (the "Securityholders Agreement")
by and among New LLC, MBW Investors LLC, VDK Foods LLC, Fenway, MDC, Dartford,
UBS Capital LLC ("UBS"), an affiliate of Tiger Oats Limited ("Tiger Oats"),
Sunapee, certain divisional management and other parties thereto (the
"Stockholders") will beneficially own, in the aggregate, % of the outstanding
shares of Common Stock. Pursuant to the Securityholders Agreement, the
Stockholders have agreed that until the occurrence of certain events, the
initial Board of Directors will consist of three directors designated by Fenway,
three directors designated by MDC, two directors designated by Dartford, one
director designated by UBS, and one director designated by Tiger Oats. In
addition, for a period not to exceed 30 months after the closing of the
Offerings, the affirmative consent of Fenway and MDC is required for certain
actions which could otherwise be approved by a majority of the directors
including certain acquisitions or divestitures by the Company and the removal or
termination of Ian R. Wilson or the employment or termination of his successor
as Chief Executive Officer of the Company. The interests of Fenway and/or MDC
may conflict with those of the Company and with stockholders of the Company. By
reason of their independent consent rights and the fact that if Fenway and MDC
vote together, they have the right to designate a majority of the directors,
Fenway and MDC will be able to practically determine the outcome of significant
matters affecting the management and business affairs of the Company. See
"Principal Stockholders and Selling Stockholder--Securityholders Agreement" and
"Certain Relationships and Related Transactions".

In addition, certain directors of the Company affiliated with Fenway or MDC
also serve as officers or directors of other portfolio companies of Fenway or
MDC. Service as a director of the Company and as a director or officer of
another company (other than a subsidiary of the Company) could create or appear
to create conflicts of interest when the director is faced with decisions that
could have different implications for the Company and such other company. A
conflict of interest could also exist with respect to allocation of the time and
attention of persons who are officers of both the Company and one or more other
companies. MDC, Fenway and their professional staffs are not restricted from
acquiring or managing other companies in the food business, including companies
that may be competitive with the Company. For example, Fenway controls Delimex
Holdings, Inc., a leading manufacturer and distributor of Mexican and other
ethnic frozen food. Each of Dartford, and its partners (Messrs. Ian R. Wilson,
James B. Ardrey, and Ray Chung, and Ms. M. Laurie Cummings) are restricted from
acquiring or managing companies other than the Company and Windy Hill for
certain periods of time. If Dartford's management services agreement with Windy
Hill is terminated, Dartford may acquire or manage another company in place of
Windy Hill. During the period that Messrs. Wilson, Ardrey, and Chung and Ms.
Cummings are subject to non-compete covenants in their employment agreements,
they are not permitted to manage or acquire any additional company in the
business of offering food products (other than beverages) for human consumption.
See "Management--Employment Agreements", "Principal Stockholders and Selling
Stockholder--Securityholders Agreement" and "Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions".

DILUTION

Persons purchasing shares of Common Stock in the Offerings will incur
immediate and substantial dilution in the net tangible book value of
approximately $ per share. See "Dilution".

NO DIVIDENDS

The Company has never paid dividends on the Common Stock and does not
anticipate paying such dividends in the foreseeable future. See "Dividend
Policy".

12
<PAGE>
SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE; REGISTRATION RIGHTS

Upon completion of the Offerings, the Company will have outstanding
shares of Common Stock. Of these shares, the shares of Common Stock
sold in the Offerings ( shares if the Underwriters' over-allotment option
are exercised in full) will be freely transferable without restriction under the
Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"), unless purchased by an
"affiliate" of the Company within the meaning of Rule 144 promulgated under the
Securities Act ("Rule 144"). The remaining outstanding shares of Common
Stock are "restricted securities" under Rule 144. Of the shares of
"restricted securities", there are currently no shares of Common Stock eligible
for sale and there will be (i) shares of Common Stock eligible for sale
beginning on and (ii) shares of Common Stock eligible for sale
beginning on , based on current Securities and Exchange Commission
("Commission") rules generally limiting the manner-of-sale, volume, and timing
of such sales. New LLC and its beneficial owners will continue to hold
approximately shares of Common Stock immediately after the Offerings, have
certain registration rights with respect to them, and have agreed to certain
restrictions on the sale of any shares of Common Stock. See "Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions", "Background", "Shares Eligible for
Future Sale", "Underwriting", and "Principal Stockholders and Selling
Stockholder--Securityholders Agreement".

The Company plans to register on Form S-8 up to shares of Common Stock
issuable to its employees pursuant to the 1998 Incentive Plan.

Future sales of substantial amounts of Common Stock, or the perception that
such sales could occur, could adversely affect the market price of the Common
Stock prevailing from time to time and could impair the ability of the Company
to raise additional capital in the future through the sale of its equity
securities. See "Shares Eligible for Future Sale" and "Underwriting".

NO PRIOR PUBLIC MARKET

Prior to the Offerings, there has been no public market for the Common Stock
and there can be no assurance that an active public market will develop or be
sustained after the Offerings or that the initial public offering price
corresponds to the price at which the Common Stock will trade in the public
market subsequent to the Offerings. The initial public offering price for the
Common Stock will be determined by negotiations among the Company, the Selling
Stockholder and the representatives of the Underwriters based upon the
consideration of certain factors set forth herein under "Underwriting".
Subsequent to the Offerings, prices for the Common Stock will be determined by
the market and may be influenced by a number of factors including the depth and
liquidity of the market for the Common Stock, investor perceptions of the
Company and other food products companies and general economic and other
conditions.

PREFERRED STOCK

The Certificate of Incorporation allows the Company to issue preferred stock
without stockholder approval. Such issuances could make it more difficult for a
third party to acquire the Company. See "Description of Capital Stock".

USE OF PROCEEDS

The net proceeds to be received by the Company from the Offerings (after
deducting the underwriting discounts and estimated offering expenses), based on
an assumed initial public offering price of $ per share, the midpoint of
the estimated offering range set forth on the cover page of this Prospectus, are
estimated to be approximately $ million. The net proceeds will be used
to redeem $35 million principal amount of the VDK Notes and pay the associated
redemption premium of $3.5 million pursuant to the VDK Indenture. Any portion of
the net proceeds not so utilized will be used to repay indebtedness of
$ million under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as
of January 16, 1998, by and among Aurora Foods, Aurora, the lenders listed
therein, The Chase

13
<PAGE>
Manhattan Bank. The National Westminister Bank PLC, and Swiss Bank Corporation
(the "Aurora Senior Bank Facilities") and of $ million under the VDK Senior
Bank Facilities. The indebtedness under the Aurora Senior Bank Facilities, which
was incurred in connection with the acquisitions of the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S
business, the LOG CABIN business and the DUNCAN HINES business, bears interest
at and has maturity dates ranging from December 31, 2004 through June 30,
2006. The indebtedness under the VDK Senior Bank Facilities was incurred in
connection with the acquisitions of the VAN DE KAMP'S business, the MRS. PAUL'S
business, the AUNT JEMIMA business, and the CELESTE business, bears interest at
and has maturity dates ranging from September 19, 2001 through September 30,
2003. For a description of the VDK Notes, see "Description of
Indebtedness--Senior Subordinated Notes--VDK Notes". The Company will not
receive any of the proceeds from the sale of shares of Common Stock by the
Selling Stockholder.

DIVIDEND POLICY

The Senior Credit Facilities and the Indentures contain certain restrictive
covenants, including covenants that directly or indirectly restrict or prohibit
the Company's ability to pay dividends and make other distributions. The Company
intends to retain future earnings for use in the Company's business and does not
anticipate declaring or paying any cash or stock dividends on shares of its
Common Stock in the foreseeable future. Further, any determination to declare
and pay dividends will be made by the Board of Directors of the Company in light
of the Company's earnings, financial condition, capital requirements, and
contractual agreements, and other factors deemed relevant by the Board of
Directors at that time. See "Risk Factors--Restrictive Debt Covenants" and
"Description of Indebtedness".

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this Prospectus, including, without
limitation, statements containing the words "believes", "anticipates",
"intends", "expects", "estimates" and words of similar import, constitute
"forward-looking statements" and involve known and unknown risk, uncertainties
and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements
of the Company or industry results to be materially different from any future
results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such
forward-looking statements. These statements appear under the captions
"Prospectus Summary", "Risk Factors", "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data",
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations", and "Business" and elsewhere in this Prospectus. Such factors
include, among others, the following: the actions of the Company's competitors;
general economic and business conditions, industry trends; demographics, raw
material costs; the continued success of management's strategy; integration of
acquired businesses into the Company; terms and deployment of capital; changes
in, or the failure or inability to comply with, governmental rules and
regulations, including, without limitation, FDA and environmental rules and
regulations, and other factors referenced in the Prospectus. Given these
uncertainties, prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance
on such forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any obligation to
update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to
any of the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect future events
or developments.

BACKGROUND

Aurora Foods was incorporated in Delaware in December 1996 for the purpose
of acquiring the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S syrup business from Unilever. Aurora then
acquired the LOG CABIN syrup business from Kraft in July 1997 and the DUNCAN
HINES baking mix business from P&G in January 1998.

Van de Kamp's was incorporated in Delaware in July 1995 for the purpose of
acquiring the VAN DE KAMP'S frozen seafood business from Pillsbury in September
1995. Van de Kamp's then acquired the MRS. PAUL'S frozen seafood business from
Campbell Soup in May 1996 and AUNT JEMIMA frozen breakfast and CELESTE frozen
pizza businesses from Quaker Oats in July 1996.

14
<PAGE>
On April 8, 1998, the Contribution Transaction occurred. On April 16, 1998,
Aurora Maryland was incorporated to facilitate the Offerings. Just prior to the
Offerings, the Company will be incorporated, New LLC will contribute all of the
issued and outstanding stock of Aurora and VDK to it, and Aurora Maryland will
be merged with and into the Company.

All references to the Company's historical financial statements are to the
historical financial statements of Aurora, to which the Company will be the
successor upon formation and after the Merger.

New LLC is a majority owned subsidiary of MBW Investors LLC. New LLC and the
Company will account for the contribution of the ownership of Aurora at MBW
Investors LLC's historical cost and the contribution of the ownership of VDK
will be accounted for as an acquisition using the purchase method of accounting
at New LLC's cost. New LLC will sell shares of Common Stock in the
Offerings and will distribute shares of Common Stock to its members
consisting of MBW Investors LLC and VDK Foods LLC. After completion of any
required filings under the Hart Scott Rodino Act and the termination or
expiration of any applicable waiting period, New LLC will be liquidated or
dissolved. MBW Investors LLC will distribute its shares of Common Stock to
its members consisting of Fenway, affiliates of MDC, Dartford, CALPERS, Sunapee,
and certain divisional management and, after completion of any required filings
under the Hart Scott Rodino Act and the termination or expiration of any
applicable waiting period, MBW Investors LLC will be dissolved. The consummation
of the Merger is a condition to, and will close concurrent with, the closing of
the Offerings.

The Company's principal executive offices are located at 456 Montgomery
Street, Suite 2200, San Francisco, California 94104, and the telephone number is
415-982-3019.

DILUTION

As of March 28, 1998, the Company had a pro forma deficit in net tangible
book value of $725.0 million or approximately $7.3 million per share of Common
Stock after giving effect to the Company's acquisitions of VDK and the DUNCAN
HINES business, and the Desserts Sale. Pro forma net tangible book value per
share is determined by dividing the pro forma tangible net worth of the Company
(tangible assets less total liabilities) by the total number of shares of Common
Stock outstanding. After giving effect to the sale by the Company of the shares
of Common Stock offered hereby at an assumed initial public offering price of
$ per share (the midpoint of the range of the initial public offering
prices set forth on the cover page of this Prospectus) and the deduction of the
estimated underwriting discounts and offering expenses payable by the Company in
connection therewith, but without taking into account any other changes in such
pro forma net tangible book value after March 28, 1998, the pro forma as
adjusted deficit in net tangible book value of the Company as of March 28, 1998,
as adjusted, would have been approximately $ million or $ per share.
This represents an immediate increase in net tangible book value per share to
the existing stockholder of per share of Common Stock and an immediate
dilution of $ per share to new investors purchasing shares at the
assumed initial public offering price.

15
<PAGE>

The following table illustrates the per share dilution in pro forma net
tangible book value to new investors. The table assumes no exercises of any
options to purchase Common Stock outstanding at March 28, 1998.

<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Assumed initial public offering price per share.......... $
Pro forma net tangible book value (deficit) per share
of
Common Stock as of March 28, 1998....................
Increase in pro forma net tangible book value per
share of Common Stock attributable to the
Offerings..........................................
---------
Pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value (deficit)
per share of Common Stock for the Offerings............
---------
Net tangible book value dilution per share of the Common
Stock to new investors................................. $
---------
---------
</TABLE>

The following table summarizes as of March 28, 1998, after giving effect to
the sale of the shares of Common Stock offered hereby, the number of shares of
Common Stock purchased from the Company, the total consideration paid therefor
and the average price per share paid by the existing stockholder and by the new
investors purchasing shares of Common Stock in the Offerings before deduction of
the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses
payable by the Company.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES PURCHASED TOTAL CONSIDERATION
---------------------- --------------------------- AVERAGE PRICE
NUMBER PERCENT AMOUNT PERCENT PER SHARE
--------- ----------- -------------- ----------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(IN THOUSANDS)
Existing stockholder.... %(1) $ % $
New investors........... %(2)
$
--------- ----- -------------- -----
Total............. 100.0% $ 100.0%
--------- ----- -------------- -----
--------- ----- -------------- -----
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) Assuming a price of $ per share of Common Stock paid by the existing
stockholder.

(2) Assuming an initial public offering price of $ per share of Common
Stock (the midpoint of the range of initial public offering prices set forth
on the cover page of this Prospectus).

16
<PAGE>
CAPITALIZATION

The following table sets forth the historical capitalization of the Company
as of March 28, 1998 ("Actual"), the unaudited pro forma capitalization of the
Company after giving effect to the VDK acquisition and the Desserts Sale ("Pro
Forma"), and the unaudited pro forma as adjusted capitalization of the Company,
after giving further effect to the Offerings and the application of the net
proceeds therefrom ("Pro Forma As Adjusted"). This table should be read in
conjunction with the historical financial statements of the Company, the
unaudited pro forma financial statements, the financial statements of the
Acquired Businesses and the Predecessor, and the related notes thereto included
elsewhere in this Prospectus.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AS OF MARCH 28, 1998
-------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
PRO FORMA
ACTUAL PRO FORMA AS ADJUSTED
--------- ------------ ------------

<CAPTION>
(IN
MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Long-term debt (including current maturities):
Senior Credit Facilities............................ $ -- $ -- $ (1)
Aurora Senior Bank Facilities....................... 450.0 450.0 (2)
VDK Senior Bank Facilities.......................... -- 184.8 (2)
12% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005.............. -- 100.0 65.0(2)
9 7/8% Series B Senior Subordinated Notes due
2007.............................................. 100.0 100.0
9 7/8% Series D Senior Subordinated Notes due
2007.............................................. 102.4 102.4
--------- ------------ ------------
Total long-term debt............................ 652.4 937.2
--------- ------------ ------------
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock (no shares issued and
outstanding)...................................... -- -- --
Common stock........................................ -- --
Paid-in capital..................................... 218.2 447.9
Promissory notes.................................... (0.6) (0.7) (0.7)
Accumulated deficit................................. (63.6) (105.6) (3)
--------- ------------ ------------
Total stockholders' equity........................ 154.0 341.6
--------- ------------ ------------
Total capitalization............................ $ 806.4 $ 1,278.8 $
--------- ------------ ------------
--------- ------------ ------------
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) The Senior Credit Facilities provides for borrowings of up to $ million.
See "Description of Indebtedness".

(2) Pro Forma As Adjusted gives effect to the $ million of estimated
proceeds to the Company from the Offerings, less the related estimated
underwriting discounts and expenses of $ million, assuming an
initial public offering price of $ per share (the mid-point of the
initial public offering prices set forth on the cover page of this
Prospectus).

(3) Pro Forma As Adjusted gives effect to the write-off of deferred financing
costs related to the repayment of $ under the Aurora Senior Bank
Facilities, $ million under the VDK Senior Bank Facilities and $35.0
million of VDK Notes and $3.5 million of redemption premium on such VDK
Notes. Under the terms of the VDK Indenture, upon closing of the Offerings,
the Company may at any time, from time to time, prior to September 15, 1998,
redeem up to $35.0 million of the aggregate principal amount of the VDK
Notes with the proceeds of the Offerings. The redemption price for the VDK
Notes (expressed as a percentage of principal amount) is 110%, plus accrued
and unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of
holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the
relevant interest payment date). See "Description of Indebtedness--Senior
Subordinated Notes--VDK Notes--Optional Redemption".

17
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The following unaudited pro forma financial statements of the Company are
based on the audited and unaudited historical financial statements of (i) the
Company, (ii) the LOG CABIN business, (iii) the DUNCAN HINES business, and (iv)
VDK. These audited and unaudited historical financial statements are included
elsewhere in this Prospectus, except for the LOG CABIN business, the DUNCAN
HINES stub period January 1, 1998 through January 15, 1998, and the VDK business
for the three months ended March 28, 1998, which are not included herein.

The unaudited pro forma statements of operations has been prepared to give
effect to (i) the acquisition of the LOG CABIN business, (ii) the acquisition of
the DUNCAN HINES business, (iii) the acquisition of VDK, (iv) the Desserts Sale,
and (v) the Offerings, as if each had occurred on January 1, 1997. The unaudited
pro forma balance sheet has been prepared to give effect to (i) the acquisition
of VDK, (ii) the Desserts Sale, and (iii) the Offerings, as though each had
occurred as of March 28, 1998.

The unaudited pro forma adjustments are based upon available information and
certain assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable. The unaudited pro
forma financial statements and accompanying notes should be read in conjunction
with the historical financial statements of (i) the Company, (ii) the DUNCAN
HINES business, and (iii) VDK and other financial information pertaining to the
Company, including "The Company", "Capitalization," and "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included
elsewhere herein. The unaudited pro forma financial statements are not
indicative of either future results of operations or the results that might have
occurred if the foregoing transactions had been consummated on the indicated
dates.

18
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 27, 1997

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DUNCAN HINES
LOG CABIN LAST
COMPANY SIX TWELVE MONTHS VDK
YEAR MONTHS DECEMBER 31, PRO PRO FORMA
ENDED ENDED 1997 FORMA ADJUSTMENTS
DECEMBER 27, JUNE 28, SEE SEE FOR COMPANY
(IN THOUSANDS) 1997 1997 TABLE 1 TABLE 2 ACQUISITIONS PRO FORMA
- -------------------------------------- -------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales............................. $ 143,020 $ 51,222 $ 233,150 $ 413,523 $ 33,316(a) $ 874,231
Cost of goods sold.................... 45,729 18,067 160,577 162,248 (13,520)(b) 373,101(i)
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Gross profit........................ 97,291 33,155 72,573 251,275 46,836 501,130
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing
expenses:
Brokerage and distribution.......... 17,096 3,239 -- 39,110 28,743(c) 88,188
Trade promotions.................... 26,075 9,457 -- 111,146 25,809(a) 172,487
Consumer marketing.................. 15,142 597 16,450 30,544 2,984(a) 65,717
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Total brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses................ 58,313 13,293 16,450 180,800 57,536 326,392
Amortization of goodwill and other
intangibles......................... 5,938 675 -- 12,374 14,437(d) 33,424
Selling, general and administrative
expenses............................ 5,229 3,637 7,995 17,566 -- (e) 34,427(i)
Compensation plan expense............. 2,300 -- -- -- -- 2,300
Transition expenses................... 2,113 -- -- 1,292 (3,405)(f) --
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Total operating expenses............ 73,893 17,605 24,445 212,032 68,568 396,543
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Operating income.................... 23,398 15,550 48,128 39,243 (21,732) 104,587
Interest income....................... (151) -- -- (364) -- (515)
Interest expense...................... 18,393 -- -- 29,673 36,436(g) 84,502
Amortization of deferred financing
expense............................. 3,059 -- -- 1,900 (384)(g) 4,575
Other bank and financing expenses..... 83 -- -- 221 -- 304
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Income before income taxes.......... 2,014 15,550 48,128 7,814 (57,784) 15,721
Income tax expense.................... 779 6,376 -- 1,749 (2,694)(h) 6,210
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Net income.......................... $ 1,235 $ 9,174 $ 48,128 $ 6,065 $ (55,091) $ 9,511
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
-------------- ----------- -------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Adjusted EBITDA.......................
Basic and diluted earnings per
share............................... $ 1
--------------
--------------
Weighted average number of shares
outstanding......................... 1
--------------
--------------
Pro forma basic and diluted earnings
per share $ 10
-----------
-----------
Pro forma weighted average number of
shares outstanding.................. 1
-----------
-----------
Pro forma as adjusted basic and
diluted earnings per share
Pro forma as adjusted weighted average
number of shares outstanding

PRO FORMA COMPANY
ADJUSTMENTS PRO FORMA
FOR AS
(IN THOUSANDS) OFFERINGS ADJUSTED
- -------------------------------------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Net sales............................. $ -- $ 874,231
Cost of goods sold.................... -- 373,101
------------ -----------
Gross profit........................ -- 501,130
------------ -----------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing
expenses:
Brokerage and distribution.......... -- 88,188
Trade promotions.................... -- 172,487
Consumer marketing.................. -- 65,717
------------ -----------
Total brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses................ -- 326,392
Amortization of goodwill and other
intangibles......................... -- 33,424
Selling, general and administrative
expenses............................ -- 34,427
Compensation plan expense............. --
Transition expenses................... --
------------ -----------
Total operating expenses............ --
------------ -----------
Operating income.................... --
Interest income....................... -- (515)
Interest expense...................... -- (l)
Amortization of deferred financing
expense............................. (l)
Other bank and financing expenses..... -- 304
------------ -----------
Income before income taxes.......... --
Income tax expense.................... -- (m)
------------ -----------
Net income.......................... $ -- $
------------ -----------
------------ -----------
Adjusted EBITDA....................... $ (1)
-----------
-----------
Basic and diluted earnings per
share...............................

Weighted average number of shares
outstanding.........................

Pro forma basic and diluted earnings
per share

Pro forma weighted average number of
shares outstanding..................

Pro forma as adjusted basic and
diluted earnings per share $
-----------
-----------
Pro forma as adjusted weighted average
number of shares outstanding
-----------
-----------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to the Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations

- ------------------------------
(1) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income before interest, taxes,
depreciation, amortization, extraordinary items, compensation plan expenses
and transition expenses and is presented because it is commonly used by
certain investors and analysts to analyze and compare companies on the basis
of operating performance and to determine a company's ability to service and
incur debt. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation from or as
a substitute for net income, cash flows from operating activities or other
consolidated income or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles or as a measure of profitability or
liquidity.

19
<PAGE>
TABLE 1

The following table derives the statement of direct revenues and direct
expenses of the DUNCAN HINES business for the twelve months ended December 31,
1997. The DUNCAN HINES business was acquired from P&G in January 1998. The
historical statements of direct revenues and direct expenses for the year ended
June 30, 1997 and the six months ended December 31, 1996 and 1997 are derived
from the financial statements of the DUNCAN HINES business included elsewhere in
this Prospectus. The basis of presentation of the statements of direct revenues
and direct expenses is disclosed in Note 1 to the DUNCAN HINES financial
statements included elsewhere in this Prospectus.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
DECEMBER 31, TWELVE MONTHS
YEAR ENDED ------------------------ ENDED
(in thousands) JUNE 30, 1997 1996 1997 DECEMBER 31, 1997
- -------------------------------------------------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Direct revenues:
Gross revenues.......................................... $ 253,548 $ 146,124 $ 154,519 $ 261,943
Less: trade spending.................................. (19,646) (9,659) (15,822) (25,809)
Less: coupon expense.................................. (2,900) (2,110) (2,194) (2,984)
-------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Net direct revenues................................. 231,002 134,355 136,503 233,150

Cost of products sold:
Product costs......................................... 144,261 80,361 85,139 149,039
Delivery costs........................................ 11,787 6,647 6,398 11,538
-------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Total costs of products sold........................ 156,048 87,008 91,537 160,577
-------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Gross margin............................................ 74,954 47,347 44,966 72,573

Direct marketing:
Consumer promotional expense.......................... 3,376 1,226 1,184 3,334
Advertising expense................................... 9,957 5,576 6,549 10,930
Other marketing expenses.............................. 2,520 1,453 1,119 2,186
-------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Total direct marketing expense...................... 15,853 8,255 8,852 16,450

Direct selling, administrative and other................ 10,041 6,177 4,131 7,995
-------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
Excess of direct revenues over direct expenses.......... $ 49,060 $ 32,915 $ 31,983 $ 48,128
-------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
-------------- ----------- ----------- ----------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to the Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations

20
<PAGE>
TABLE 2

The following table sets forth the statements of operations for VDK for the
periods ended as indicated. The audited statements of operations for the year
ended June 30, 1997 and the unaudited statement of operations for the six months
ended December 31, 1996 and 1997 are derived from the VDK financial statements
included elsewhere in this Prospectus. The pro forma statement of operations is
based on the audited and unaudited historical financial statements of VDK
adjusted to reflect the Desserts Sale as if it occurred on January 1, 1997.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA
SIX MONTHS ENDED ADJUSTMENTS
DECEMBER 31, TWELVE FOR
YEAR ENDED ------------------------ MONTHS ENDED DESSERTS
(IN THOUSANDS) JUNE 30, 1997 1996 1997 DECEMBER 31, 1997 SALE PRO FORMA
-------------- ----------- ----------- ------------------- ------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales.................. $ 435,476 $ 193,046 $ 199,329 $ 441,759 $ (28,236)(n) $ 413,523
Cost of goods sold......... 180,941 83,581 79,575 176,935 (14,687)(n) 162,248
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
Gross profit............. 254,535 109,465 119,754 264,824 (13,549)(n) 251,275
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses:
Brokerage and
distribution............. 45,352 22,824 19,764 42,292 (3,182)(n) 39,110
Trade promotions......... 108,925 47,045 58,340 120,220 (9,074)(n) 111,146
Consumer marketing....... 29,524 10,040 12,443 31,927 (1,383)(n) 30,544
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
Total brokerage,
distribution and
marketing expenses....... 183,801 79,909 90,547 194,439 (13,639) 180,800
Amortization of goodwill
and other intangibles.... 13,142 6,760 6,792 13,174 (800)(o) 12,374
Selling, general and
administrative
expenses................. 14,270 6,081 9,377 17,566 -- 17,566
Transition expenses........ 2,885 1,593 -- 1,292 -- 1,292
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
Total operating expenses... 214,098 94,343 106,716 226,471 (14,439) 212,032
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
Operating income......... 40,437 15,122 13,038 38,353 890 39,243
Interest income............ (965) (632) (31) (364) -- (364)
Interest expense........... 32,499 16,603 15,839 31,735 (2,063)(p) 29,673
Amortization of deferred
financing expense........ 2,108 1,047 1,080 2,141 (241)(q) 1,900
Other bank and financing
expenses................. 265 132 88 221 -- 221
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
Income (loss) before
income tax............. 6,530 (2,028) (3,938) 4,620 3,194 7,814
Income tax expense
benefit.................. 2,377 (811) (1,439) 1,749 -- 1,749
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
Net income (loss)........ $ 4,153 $ (1,217) $ (2,499) $ 2,871 $ 3,194 $ 6,065
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
-------------- ----------- ----------- ---------- ------------- -----------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to the Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations

21
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 28, 1998

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMPANY
THREE DUNCAN HINES
MONTHS STUB
ENDED PERIOD VDK PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
MARCH 28, JANUARY PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS COMPANY ADJUSTMENTS
(in thousands) 1998 1-15, 1998 SEE TABLE 1 FOR ACQUISITIONS PRO FORMA FOR OFFERINGS
- ------------------------------- ----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales...................... $ 89,385 $ 4,951 $ 145,267 $ 734(r) $ 240,337
Cost of goods sold............. 37,734 3,322 54,371 (316)(s) 95,111(y)
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
Gross profit................. 51,651 1,629 90,896 1,050 145,226
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution... 9,355 -- 13,542 647(t) 23,544
Trade promotions............. 15,568 -- 41,621 548(r) 57,737
Consumer marketing........... 7,997 333 12,638 89(r) 21,057
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
Total brokerage, distribution
and marketing expenses....... 32,920 333 67,801 1,284 102,338
Amortization of goodwill and
other intangibles............ 4,597 -- 3,202 557(u) 8,356 --
Selling, general and
administrative expenses...... 2,346 144 4,594 --(e) 7,084(y)
Compensation plan expense...... 60,000 -- 69,000 -- 129,000 (z,aa)
Transition expenses............ 1,926 -- -- (1,926)(v) --
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
Total operating expenses....... 101,789 477 144,597 (85) 246,778 --
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
Operating loss............... (50,138) 1,152 (53,701) 1,135 (101,552) --
Interest income................ (223) -- (30) (253) --
Interest expense............... 12,837 -- 7,279 1,009(w) 21,126 (bb)
Amortization of deferred
financing expense............ 513 -- 472 159(w) 1,144 --(bb)
Other bank and financing
expenses..................... 51 -- 44 95
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
Loss before income tax....... (63,316) 1,152 (61,466) (33) (123,664) --
Income tax (benefit)........... (360) -- (19,865) (407) (x) (20,632) (cc)
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
Net loss..................... $ (62,956) $ 1,152 $ (41,601) 374 (103,032) --
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
----------- ------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------ -------
Adjusted EBITDA
Basic and diluted loss per
share........................ $ (63)
-----------
-----------
Weighted average number of
shares outstanding........... 1
-----------
-----------
Pro forma basic and diluted
loss per share............... $ (103)
------------
------------
Pro forma weighted average
number of shares
outstanding.................. 1
------------
------------
Pro forma as adjusted basic and
diluted loss per share.......
Pro forma as adjusted weighted
average number of shares
outstanding..................

COMPANY
PRO FORMA
(in thousands) AS ADJUSTED
- ------------------------------- --------------
<S> <C>
Net sales...................... $ 240,337
Cost of goods sold............. 95,111
--------------
Gross profit................. 145,226
--------------
Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution... 23,544
Trade promotions............. 57,737
Consumer marketing........... 21,057
--------------
Total brokerage, distribution
and marketing expenses....... 102,338
Amortization of goodwill and
other intangibles............ 8,356
Selling, general and
administrative expenses...... 7,084
Compensation plan expense...... --
Transition expenses............ --
--------------
Total operating expenses....... --
--------------
Operating loss............... --
Interest income................ (253)
Interest expense............... --
Amortization of deferred
financing expense............ --
Other bank and financing
expenses..................... 95
--------------
Loss before income tax....... --
Income tax (benefit)........... --
--------------
Net loss..................... $ --
--------------
--------------
Adjusted EBITDA $ (1)
--------------
--------------
Basic and diluted loss per
share........................

Weighted average number of
shares outstanding...........

Pro forma basic and diluted
loss per share...............

Pro forma weighted average
number of shares
outstanding..................

Pro forma as adjusted basic and
diluted loss per share....... $
--------------
--------------
Pro forma as adjusted weighted
average number of shares
outstanding..................
--------------
--------------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to the Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations

- ------------------------------

(1) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income before interest, taxes,
depreciation, amortization, extraordinary items, compensation plan expenses
and transition expenses and is presented because it is commonly used by
certain investors and analysts to analyze and compare companies on the basis
of operating performance and to determine a company's ability to service and
incur debt. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation from or as
a substitute for net income, cash flows from operating activities or other
consolidated income or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles or as a measure of profitability or
liquidity.

22
<PAGE>

TABLE 1

The following table sets forth the unaudited statement of operations for the
three months ended March 31, 1998, derived from the VDK financial statements not
included herein. The unaudited statement of operations has been adjusted to
reflect the Desserts Sale as if it occurred as of January 1, 1998.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA
THREE MONTHS ADJUSTMENTS
ENDED FOR SALE OF
(in thousands) MARCH 31, 1998 DESSERTS PRO FORMA
- ----------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ------------ ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales.................................................. $ 148,959 $ (3,692) dd) $ 145,267
Cost of goods sold......................................... 56,202 (1,831) dd) 54,371
--------------- ------------ ---------------
Gross profit............................................. 92,757 (1,861) 90,896
--------------- ------------ ---------------
--------------- ------------ ---------------

Brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution................................. 14,001 (459) dd) 13,542
Trade promotions........................................... 43,194 (1,573) dd) 41,621
Consumer marketing......................................... 12,705 (67) dd) 12,638
--------------- ------------ ---------------
Total brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses....... 69,900 (2,099) 67,801

Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles............. 3,402 (200) ee) 3,202
Selling, general and administrative expenses............... 4,594 -- 4,594
Compensation plan expense.................................. 69,000 -- 69,000
--------------- ------------ ---------------
Total operating expenses................................... 146,896 (2,299) 144,597
--------------- ------------ ---------------
--------------- ------------ ---------------

Operating income......................................... (54,139) 438 (53,701)

Interest income............................................ (30) (30)
Interest expense........................................... 7,795 (516) ff) 7,279
Amortization of deferred financing expense................. 532 (60) gg) 472
Other bank and financing expenses.......................... 44 -- 44
--------------- ------------ ---------------

Loss before income tax................................... (62,480) 1,014 (61,466)
Income tax benefit......................................... (19,865) -- (19,865)
--------------- ------------ ---------------
Net loss................................................. $ (42,615) $ 1,014 $ (41,601)
--------------- ------------ ---------------
--------------- ------------ ---------------
</TABLE>

23
<PAGE>

NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Acquisitions for the Year Ended December 27, 1997

(a) Adjustments to net sales reflect the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(in thousands)
<S> <C>
Reclassification of trade spending expense, netted against sales by P&G, to trade
promotions................................................................................. $ 25,809
Reclassification of cash discounts, netted against sales by P&G, to brokerage and
distribution............................................................................... 4,523
Reclassification of coupon expense, netted against sales by P&G, to consumer marketing....... 2,984
--------------
$ 33,316
--------------
--------------
</TABLE>

(b) Adjustments to cost of goods sold reflect the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(in thousands)
<S> <C>
Adjustments to convert LOG CABIN cost of goods sold from a Last-in, First-out Inventory basis
for the six month period ended June 30, 1997, prior to July 1, 1997 acquisition by the
Company, to the First-in, First-out basis to be consistent with the inventory accounting
policy of the Company...................................................................... $ 9
Reclassification of warehousing and shipping expense, included in cost of goods sold by P&G,
to brokerage and distribution.............................................................. (3,800)
Reclassification of delivery expense, included in cost of goods sold by P&G, to brokerage and
distribution............................................................................... (11,538)
Depreciation(1).............................................................................. 1,809
--------------
$ (13,520)
--------------
--------------
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) Represents adjustment to reflect pro forma depreciation expense based
on acquired machinery and equipment at fair market value and estimated
remaining useful lives.

The Company entered into a co-pack agreement with the Red Wing Company,
Inc. ("Red Wing") on June 9, 1997, pursuant to which Red Wing contract
manufactures MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S syrup until November 19, 2002. In addition,
on November 19, 1997, the Company entered into a second co-pack agreement,
pursuant to which Red Wing also contract manufactures LOG CABIN syrup until
November 19, 2002. The Company commenced transferring production of LOG
CABIN syrup from Kraft to Red Wing in February 1998 and expects to complete
the transition by June 1998.

The Company has entered into co-pack agreements whereby third parties
will contract manufacture the DUNCAN HINES cake mix, frosting, brownies and
specialty products.

The Company anticipates lower conversion costs pursuant to its co-pack
agreements. As a result, the Company anticipates lower costs than those
incurred by the prior owners in the annual amount of $12.4 million. The
adjustment related to the anticipated cost savings from the co-pack
agreements is not reflected in the pro forma statement of operations as it
is not viewed as being directly related to the acquisitions.

(c) Adjustment reflects (i) brokerage expense at the contractual rates which the
Company will be charged under its existing contracts with its broker network
for the sale of LOG CABIN syrup and DUNCAN HINES products, and (ii) the
reclassification of cash discounts of $4.5 million, warehousing and shipping
expense of $3.8 million and delivery expense of $11.5 million from (a) and
(b) above. The Company anticipates a cost reduction in the amount of $0.7
million due to the new contractual brokerage rates. In addition, the Company
anticipates lower annual warehousing and distribution costs of $3.8 million
going forward. The warehousing and distribution cost savings relate to
allocations made by the prior owner of the DUNCAN HINES business. However,
as these anticipated cost

24
<PAGE>
reductions are not viewed as being directly related to the acquisitions, the
pro forma cost savings are not included in the pro forma statement of
operations.

(d) Reflects goodwill and intangible amortization expense as a result of the
acquisitions. Goodwill will be amortized on a straight-line basis over a
forty year period and other intangibles will be amortized over periods
ranging from five to forty years.

(e) The Company has completed a thorough analysis of anticipated costs going
forward. Based on this analysis, the Company developed a detailed annual
operating budget which reflected approximately $33.1 million in factually
supportable selling, general and administrative costs, which is
approximately $1.3 million lower than the combined amounts previously
incurred to operate the business. A substantial portion of these savings is
attributable to a lower headcount relative to the headcount included in the
historical allocations from prior owners. These direct and indirect
allocations included multiple layers of management which the Company
believes it will not need to replicate. The table below reflects cost
reductions resulting from the new personnel infrastructure of the Company.
However, as these potential adjustments are not viewed as directly related
to the acquisitions, the pro forma cost savings are not included in the
unaudited pro forma statement of operations.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(in thousands)
<S> <C>
Selling, general and administrative expenses:
1997 pro forma expenses...................................................................... $ 34,427
--------------
Company's anticipated expenses:
Executive and finance...................................................................... 16,021
Division management and marketing.......................................................... 9,641
Sales...................................................................................... 7,458
--------------
Total Company pro forma expense.............................................................. 33,120
--------------
Difference................................................................................... $ (1,307)
--------------
--------------
</TABLE>

(f) To eliminate one-time costs incurred by the Company to establish operations
including broker conversions and orientations, recruiting fees and costs
related to the transition service agreements with prior owners.

(g) The adjustment to interest expense reflects the effect of the additional
financing incurred in connection with the acquisition of the DUNCAN HINES
business and the fair value adjustment to the VDK Notes. The adjustment to
the amortization of deferred financing costs reflects the effect of the
additional financing incurred in connection with the acquisition of the
DUNCAN HINES business, net of the write-off of Aurora's pre-DUNCAN HINES
indebtedness and the related costs thereof.

(h) Reflects an adjustment to the income tax provision to reflect an effective
rate of 39.5% based upon the Company's effective rate for the year ended
December 27, 1997.

(i) Pro forma depreciation expense for the Company included in cost of goods
sold for the year ended December 27, 1997 is $13.8 million. Pro forma
depreciation expense for the Company included in selling, general and
administrative is $0.3 million.

25
<PAGE>

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Offerings for the Year Ended December 27, 1997

(j) Not used.

(k) Not used.

(l) Pro forma interest expense has been calculated based upon pro forma debt
levels and the applicable interest rates after giving effect to the
Offerings and the application of the net proceeds to the Company therefrom.
The table below presents pro forma interest expense, noted with the
respective interest rates or fee, and pro forma debt amortization of
deferred financing costs:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(in thousands)
<S> <C>
Interest expense:
Aurora Series B Notes ($100 million at 9.875%)............................................... $ 9,875
Aurora Series D Notes ($100 million at 9.875%)............................................... 9,875
VDK Notes ($65 million at 12%)............................................................... 7,800
Effect of VDK Notes fair value adjustment ($65 million at 2.5%)(1)........................... (1,625)
Senior debt ($ million at %)............................................................
--------------
Pro forma interest expense............................................................... $
--------------
--------------
Pro forma amortization of deferred financing costs........................................... $
--------------
--------------
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) Represents applicable interest rate adjustment to reflect the VDK
Notes at fair value.

(m) Reflects an adjustment to the income tax provision at an effective rate of
39.5%, based upon the Company's effective rate for the year ended December
27, 1997.

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Desserts Sale for the Year Ended December 27, 1997

(n) Reflects the elimination of sales and operating expenses of the business
sold in the Desserts Sale.

(o) Reflects the impact on amortization expense of the write-off of goodwill and
intangibles related to the Desserts Sale.

(p) Reflects the reduction in interest expense related to the repayment of VDK
Senior Bank Facilities with the net proceeds from the Desserts Sale ($25.0
million at an interest rate of 8.25%).

(q) Reflects the elimination of a portion of amortization of deferred financing
costs related to the repayment of $25.0 million of VDK Senior Bank
Facilities term debt with the net proceeds from the Desserts Sale.

26
<PAGE>

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Acquisitions for the Three Months Ended March 28,
1998

(r) Adjustments to net sales reflect the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the period January 1- January 15, 1998 (IN THOUSANDS)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Reclassification of trade spending expense, netted against sales by P&G, to trade
promotions............................................................................. $ 548
Reclassification of cash discounts, netted against sales by P&G, to brokerage and
distribution........................................................................... 97
Reclassification of coupon expense, netted against sales by P&G, to consumer
marketing.............................................................................. 89
-----
$ 734
-----
-----
</TABLE>

(s) Adjustments to cost of goods sold reflect the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the period January 1- January 15, 1998 (IN THOUSANDS)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Reclassification of warehousing and shipping expense, included in cost of goods sold by
P&G, to brokerage and distribution..................................................... $ (158)
Reclassification of delivery expense, included in cost of goods sold by P&G, to
brokerage and distribution............................................................. (233)
Depreciation(1)......................................................................... 75
-------
$ (316)
-------
-------
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) Represents adjustment to reflect pro forma depreciation expense based on
acquired machinery and equipment at fair market value and estimated
remaining useful lives.

The Company entered into a co-pack agreement with Red Wing on June 9, 1997,
pursuant to which Red Wing contract manufactures MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S syrup
until November 19, 2002. In addition, on November 19, 1997, the Company
entered into a second co-pack agreement, pursuant to which Red Wing also
contract manufactures LOG CABIN syrup until November 19, 2002. The Company
commenced transferring production of LOG CABIN syrup from Kraft to Red Wing
in February 1998 and expects to complete the transition by June 1998.

The Company has entered into co-pack agreements whereby third parties will
contract manufacture the DUNCAN HINES cake mix, frosting, brownies and
specialty products.

The Company anticipates lower conversion costs pursuant to its co-pack
agreements. As a result, the Company anticipates lower costs than those
incurred by the prior owners in the amount of $1.7 million for the quarter.
The adjustment related to the anticipated cost savings from the co-pack
agreements is not reflected in the pro forma statement of operations as it
is not viewed as being directly related to the acquisitions.

(t) Adjustment reflects (i) brokerage expense for the January 1- January 15,
1998 period at the contractual rates which the Company will be charged under
its existing contracts with its broker network for the sale of DUNCAN HINES
products, and (ii) the reclassification of cash discounts of $0.1 million,
warehousing and shipping expense of $0.2 million and delivery expense of
$0.2 million from (r) and (s) above.

(u) Reflects goodwill and intangible amortization expense as a result of the
acquisitions. Goodwill will be amortized on a straight-line basis over a
forty year period and other intangibles will be amortized over periods
ranging from five to forty years.

(v) Eliminates one-time costs incurred by the Company to establish operations
including broker conversions and orientations, recruiting fees and costs
related to the transition service agreements with prior owners.

27
<PAGE>

(w) The adjustment to interest expense reflects the effect of the additional
financing incurred in connection with the acquisition of the DUNCAN HINES
business and the fair value adjustment to the VDK Notes. The adjustment to
the amortization of deferred financing costs reflects the effect of the
additional financing incurred in connection with the acquisition of the
DUNCAN HINES business for the period January 1- January 15, 1998, net of the
write-off of Aurora's pre-DUNCAN HINES indebtedness and the related costs
thereof.

(x) Reflects an adjustment to the income tax provision to reflect an effective
rate of 39.5%, after taking into consideration the non-deductible portion of
compensation plan expense of $69.1 million.

(y) Pro forma depreciation expense for the Company included in cost of goods
sold for the three months ended March 28, 1998 is $2.9 million. Pro forma
depreciation expense for the Company included in selling, general and
administrative is $0.2 million.

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Offerings for the Three Months Ended March 28,
1998

(z) Reflects additional compensation plan expense under the VDK Plan and the
Aurora Plan, which are described elsewhere in the Prospectus, based on the
valuation of the Company just prior to the Offerings and based on
acceleration of vesting due to the Offerings. See "Management--VDK
Compensation Plan" and "Management--Aurora Compensation Plan." Note that all
pro forma adjustments for compensation plan expense have been recorded to
the three month period ended March 28, 1998.

(aa) Reflects additional compensation plan expense for additional tax roll-up
payments due under the VDK Plan (see (h) in Unaudited Pro Forma Balance
Sheet). See "Management--VDK Compensation Plan".

(bb) Pro forma interest expense for the quarter has been calculated based upon
pro forma debt levels and the applicable interest rates after giving effect
to the Offerings and the application of the net proceeds to the Company
therefrom. The table below presents pro forma interest expense, noted with
the respective interest rates and pro forma debt amortization of deferred
financing costs:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS ENDED
(IN THOUSANDS) MARCH 28, 1998
---------------------
<S> <C>
Interest expense:
Aurora Series B Notes................................................................. $ 2,469
Aurora Series D Notes................................................................. 2,469
VDK Notes............................................................................. 1,950
Effect of VDK Notes fair value adjustment(1).......................................... (406)
Senior debt ($ million at %).....................................................
--------
Pro forma interest expense........................................................ $
--------
--------
Pro forma amortization of deferred financing costs.................................... $
--------
--------
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) Represents applicable interest rate adjustment to reflect the VDK
Notes at fair value.

(cc) Reflects an adjustment to the income tax provision at an effective rate of
39.5%, after taking into consideration the non-deductible portion of
compensation plan expense of $ million.

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Desserts Sale for the Three Months Ended March 28,
1998

(dd) Reflects the elimination of sales and operating expenses of the business
sold in the Desserts Sale.

(ee) Reflects the impact on amortization expense of the write-off of goodwill
and intangibles related to the Desserts Sale.

(ff) Reflects the reduction in interest expense related to the repayment of VDK
Senior Bank Facilities with the net proceeds from the Desserts Sale ($25.0
million at an interest rate of 8.25%).

(gg) Reflects the elimination of a portion of amortization of deferred financing
costs related to the repayment of $25.0 million of VDK Senior Bank
Facilities term debt with the net proceeds from the Desserts Sale.

28
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA BALANCE SHEET
AS OF MARCH 28, 1998

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
VDK PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS ADJUSTMENTS COMPANY
SEE FOR COMPANY FOR PRO FORMA
(IN THOUSANDS) COMPANY TABLE 1 ACQUISITIONS PRO FORMA OFFERINGS AS ADJUSTED(1)(2)
- ------------------------------------ ---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents........... $ 23,330 $ 53 $ $ 23,383 -- (f) $
Accounts receivable, net............ 22,847 43,350 66,197 -- 66,197
Inventories......................... 24,851 33,825 -- 58,676 -- 58,676
Prepaid expenses and other assets... 4,973 1,459 -- 6,432 -- 6,432
Current deferred tax assets......... 8,537 12,397 (13,116)(d) 7,818 -- 7,818
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
Total current assets............ 84,538 91,084 (13,116) 162,506
Property, plant and equipment,
net............................... 45,031 86,359 131,390 -- 131,390
Goodwill and other intangible
assets, net....................... 717,956 304,031 44,554(a) 1,066,541 -- 1,064,024
Non-current deferred tax assets..... -- 7,171 11,044(d) 18,215 ( (h) 17,215
Other assets........................ 22,026 15,415 37,441 (i)
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
Total assets.................... $ 869,551 $ 504,060 $ 42,482 $ 1,416,093 $ $
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS'
EQUITY:
Current portion of long term debt... $ 9,000 $ 16,978 $ $ 25,978 $ (f) $
Accounts payable and accrued
liabilities....................... 55,374 47,784 4,800(b) 107,958 -- 107,958
Senior secured revolving debt
facility.......................... -- 15,000 -- 15,000 -- (f)
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
Total current liabilities....... 64,374 79,762 4,800 148,936 --
Senior term facility................ 441,000 152,781 593,781 (f)
Senior subordinated notes........... 202,377 100,000 -- 302,377 (f)
Other liabilities................... -- 15,000 14,428(c) 29,428 ( (j)
Deferred tax liabilities............ 7,771 -- (7,771)(d) -- -- --
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
Total liabilities............... 715,522 347,543 11,457 1,074,522
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
Total stockholders' equity:
Common stock........................ -- -- -- -- -- --
Paid-in capital..................... 218,191 198,635 31,025(e) 447,851 ( (m)
Promissory notes.................... (565) (107) (672) -- (672)
Retained earnings................... (63,597) (42,011) (105,608) ( (m)
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
Stockholders' equity............ 154,029 156,517 31,025 341,571
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
Total liabilities and
stockholders' equity.......... $ 869,551 $ 504,060 $ 42,482 $ 1,416,093 $ $
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
---------- ---------- ------------ ---------------- ------------ -----------------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Balance Sheet
- ------------------------------

(1) Assuming a price of $ per share of Common Stock paid by the existing
stockholder.

(2) Assuming an initial public offering price of $ per share of Common
Stock (the midpoint of the range of initial public offering prices set forth
on the cover page of this Prospectus).

29
<PAGE>
TABLE 1

The following table sets forth the unaudited balance sheet as of March 31,
1998, derived from the VDK financial statements included elsewhere in this
Prospectus. The unaudited pro forma balance sheet has been adjusted to reflect
the Desserts Sale as if it occurred as of March 31, 1998.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(in thousands)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
PRO FORMA
ADJUSTMENTS VDK PRO FORMA
VDK AS OF FOR DESSERTS AS OF
MARCH 31, 1998 SALE MARCH 31, 1998
--------------- -------------- ---------------
ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents................. $ 53 $ -- $ 53
Accounts receivable, net.................. 43,350 -- 43,350
Inventories............................... 35,825 (2,000)(n) 33,825
Prepaid expenses.......................... 1,459 -- 1,459
Current deferred tax assets............... 11,989 408(q) 12,397
--------------- -------------- ---------------
Total current assets.................. 92,676 (1,592) 91,084
Property, plant and equipment, net........ 88,240 (1,881)(o) 86,359
Goodwill and other intangible
assets, net............................. 322,550 (18,519)(p) 304,031
Non-current deferred tax assets........... 7,171 -- 7,171
Other assets.............................. 16,434 (1,019)(q) 15,415
--------------- -------------- ---------------
Total assets.......................... $ 527,071 $ (23,011) $ 504,060
--------------- -------------- ---------------
--------------- -------------- ---------------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY:
Current portion of long term debt......... $ 16,978 $ -- $ 16,978
Accounts payable and accrued
liabilities............................. 45,184 2,600(r) 47,784
Senior secured revolving debt facility.... 15,000 -- 15,000
--------------- -------------- ---------------
Total current liabilities............. 77,162 2,600 79,762
Senior term facility...................... 177,781 (25,000)(s) 152,781
Senior subordinated notes................. 100,000 -- 100,000
Other liabilities......................... 15,000 -- 15,000
--------------- -------------- ---------------
Total liabilities..................... 369,943 (22,400) 347,543
--------------- -------------- ---------------
Stockholder's equity:
Common stock.............................. -- -- --
Paid-in capital........................... 198,635 -- 198,635
Promissory notes.......................... (107) -- (107)
Retained earnings......................... (41,400) (611)(q) (42,011)
--------------- -------------- ---------------
Total stockholder's equity............ 157,128 (611) 156,517
--------------- -------------- ---------------
Total liabilities and stockholder's
equity.............................. $ 527,071 $ (23,011) $ 504,060
--------------- -------------- ---------------
--------------- -------------- ---------------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Balance Sheet

30
<PAGE>

NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA BALANCE SHEET
AS OF MARCH 28, 1998

Pro Forma Adjustments for the acquisition of VDK.

(a) Reflects the excess of cost over book value of the assets purchased in
connection with the VDK acquisition. Goodwill will be amortized on a
straight-line basis over a forty year period and other intangibles will be
amortized over periods ranging from five to forty years. The Company will
evaluate the net realizable value of intangible assets on an ongoing basis
relying on a number of factors, including operating results and future
undiscounted cash flows.

(b) Reflects an accrual for acquisition costs related to the acquisition of VDK.

(d) Reflects the reclassification of non-current deferred tax assets originating
from net operating loss carryforwards of $13.1 million, plus the tax benefit
from the adjustment to record the VDK Notes to fair value of $5.7 million
(see (c) above).

(e) Represents the equity contribution associated with the acquisition of VDK of
$31.0 million.

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Offerings

(f) Reflects the assumed proceeds to the Company from the Offerings and
application of proceeds therefrom as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(in millions)
-------------
<S> <C>
Gross proceeds to the Company from the Offerings........................ $
Uses:
Repayment of Aurora Senior Bank Facilities............................
Repayment of VDK Senior Bank Facilities...............................
Repayment of principal on VDK Notes................................... 35.0
Redemption premium on VDK Notes....................................... 3.5
Underwriting discounts, fees and expenses.............................
-------------
Remaining cash........................................................ $
-------------
-------------
</TABLE>

(g) Reflects the tax benefit from (i) the redemption premium paid to redeem a
portion of the VDK Notes, of $1.4 million, plus (ii) the write-off of
deferred financing costs related to the repayment of Aurora Senior Bank
Facilities and VDK Senior Bank Facilities from proceeds of the Offerings of
$1.6 million, (iii) the tax benefit from the deductible portion of
compensation plan expense less (iv) the write-off of $1.9 million related to
the fair value adjustment to the VDK Notes and the partial redemption
thereof.

(h) The VDK Plan provide for tax gross up payments on certain distributions
related to compensation plan expense (see (m) below). Because the Company
will receive the tax benefit of such distributions and related tax gross up
payments and because the tax benefit will approximate the amount of the tax
gross up payments, the Company will bear the liability for any such tax
gross up payments due. The estimated tax gross up payment of $ million
will be recorded as additional compensation plan expense and other
liabilities. The tax benefit of the tax gross up payment and related
distributions of the like amount of $ million will be recorded to income
tax expense and as a deferred tax asset.

(i) Reflects the write-off of deferred financing costs of $4.1 million related
to the repayment of VDK Senior Bank Facilities and Aurora Senior Bank
Facilities from the proceeds of the Offerings. The write-off of $4.1
million, net of tax of $1.6 million, results in a net change to retained
earnings of $2.5 million.

(j) Reflects the write-off of a portion of the fair value adjustment to the VDK
Notes in connection with the redemption of the VDK Notes with the proceeds
from the Offerings.

(k) Reflects gross proceeds of the Offerings of $ , net of
underwriting discounts, fees and expenses of $ million.

(l) Reflects the impact on retained earnings of (i) the write-off of deferred
financing costs of $2.5 million related to the repayment of the VDK Senior
Bank Facilities and Aurora Senior Bank Facilities from the proceeds of the
Offerings, plus (ii) the extraordinary charge of $2.1 million related to the

31
<PAGE>
payment of the VDK Notes redemption premium, less (iii) the write-off of a
portion of the fair value adjustment to the VDK Notes in connection with the
redemption of the VDK Notes with the proceeds of the Offerings of $3.0
million.

(m) Reflects compensation plan expense recorded under the VDK Plan and Aurora
Plan, which are described elsewhere in this Prospectus. See "Management--VDK
Compensation Plan" and "Management--Aurora Compensation Plan". The $114.0
million recorded to paid in capital and retained earnings was based on the
valuation of the Company just prior to the Offerings. Under the VDK Plan and
Aurora Plan, the expense is a liability of VDK Foods LLC and MBW Investors
LLC, respectively, and therefore has been pushed down to the Company as an
expense and additional paid in capital.

Pro Forma Adjustments for the Desserts Sale

(n) Reflects the finished goods inventory included in the Desserts Sale.

(o) Reflects the book value of the machinery and equipment included in the
Desserts Sale.

(p) Reflects the write-off of the allocated goodwill and intangibles from the
Desserts Sale.

(q) Reflects the write-off of deferred financing costs of $1.0 million related
to the repayment of VDK Senior Bank Facilities as a result of the Desserts
Sale and related deferred taxes of $0.4 million. The write-off of $1.0
million, net of taxes of $0.4 million, results in a net change to retained
earnings of $0.6 million.

(r) Reflects costs related to the Desserts Sale to be paid subsequent to the
closing date of such sale.

(s) Reflects repayment of VDK Senior Bank Facilities from the proceeds of the
Desserts Sale.

32
<PAGE>
SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA

THE COMPANY

The following table sets forth selected historical financial and operating
information of the Predecessor and the Company for the periods ended and as of
the dates indicated. Statement of operations data for the years ended December
1994, 1995, and 1996 represents the operations of the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S
business by the Predecessor while such data for the year ended December 27, 1997
includes the operations of the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S business by the Company and
commencing July 1, 1997, the operations of the acquired LOG CABIN business, and
does not include the operations of VDK or the DUNCAN HINES business which were
acquired in 1998. Statement of operations data for the three months ended March
29, 1997 includes the operations of the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S business by the
Company. Statement of Operations data for the three months ended March 28, 1998
includes the operations of the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S and LOG CABIN businesses and
commencing January 16, 1998, the operations of the acquired DUNCAN HINES
business. The selected historical statements of operations data for the years
ended December 31, 1994, 1995, and 1996 are derived from the audited financial
statements of the Predecessor included elsewhere in this Prospectus for 1995 and
1996 and not included herein for 1994. The selected historical statement of
operations data and the historical balance sheet data for the year ended as of
December 27, 1997 are derived from the audited financial statements of the
Company included elsewhere in this Prospectus. The selected historical statement
of operations data for the three months ended March 29, 1997 and March 28, 1998
and the historical balance sheet data as of March 28, 1998 are derived from the
unaudited financial statements of the Company included elsewhere in this
Prospectus and which, in the opinion of management, include all normal recurring
adjustments. This table should be read in conjunction with the Predecessor's and
the Company's historical consolidated financial statements, the Company's
unaudited pro forma financial statements and related notes appearing elsewhere
in this Prospectus and with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations".

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PREDECESSOR
----------------------------------
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------------
(in thousands) 1994 1995 1996
--------- --------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales......................................................................... $ 96,729 $ 91,302 $ 89,541
Cost of goods sold................................................................ 29,930 27,743 28,955
--------- --------- ------------
Gross profit.................................................................... 66,799 63,559 60,586
--------- --------- ------------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution...................................................... 8,662 7,583 8,140
Trade promotions................................................................ 21,911 19,380 17,672
Consumer marketing.............................................................. 15,297 13,291 10,835
--------- --------- ------------
Total brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses.............................. 45,870 40,254 36,647
Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles.................................... -- -- --
Selling, general and administrative expenses...................................... 6,829 6,120 6,753
Compensation plan expense......................................................... -- -- --
Transition expenses............................................................... -- -- --
--------- --------- ------------
Total operating expenses.......................................................... 52,699 46,374 43,400
--------- --------- ------------
Operating income................................................................ 14,100 17,185 17,186
Interest income................................................................... -- -- --
Interest expense.................................................................. -- -- --
Amortization of deferred financing expense........................................ -- -- --
Other bank and financing expenses................................................. -- -- --
--------- --------- ------------
Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary item........................ 14,100 17,185 17,186
Income tax expense (benefit)...................................................... 5,429 6,616 6,616
--------- --------- ------------
Income (loss) before extraordinary item......................................... 8,671 10,569 10,570
Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of tax of $1,184........ -- -- --
--------- --------- ------------
Net income (loss)............................................................... $ 8,671 $ 10,569 $ 10,570
--------- --------- ------------
--------- --------- ------------
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share before extraordinary item.............
Extraordinary item per share......................................................
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share.......................................
Weighted average number of shares outstanding.....................................
OPERATING AND OTHER DATA:
Adjusted EBITDA(1)................................................................ $ 14,315 $ 17,496 $ 17,463
Adjusted EBITDA margin(2)......................................................... 14.8% 19.2% 19.5%
Depreciation and amortization..................................................... $ 215 $ 311 $ 277
Capital expenditures.............................................................. -- -- --
BALANCE SHEET DATA (END OF PERIOD):
Working capital (excluding current portion of long-term debt)..................... -- -- --
Total assets...................................................................... -- -- --
Long-term debt (including current portion)........................................ -- -- --
Stockholder's equity.............................................................. -- -- --

<CAPTION>
COMPANY
---------------------------------
THREE MONTHS
YEAR ENDED ENDED
DECEMBER 27, ----------------
(in thousands) 1997 MARCH 29, 1997
--------------- ----------------
<S> <C>
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales......................................................................... $ 143,020 $ 21,253
Cost of goods sold................................................................ 45,729 7,167
--------------- ----------------
Gross profit.................................................................... 97,291 14,086
--------------- ----------------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution...................................................... 17,096 2,279
Trade promotions................................................................ 26,075 3,643
Consumer marketing.............................................................. 15,142 1,331
--------------- ----------------
Total brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses.............................. 58,313 7,253
Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles.................................... 5,938 828
Selling, general and administrative expenses...................................... 5,229 1,053
Compensation plan expense......................................................... 2,300 --
Transition expenses............................................................... 2,113 126
--------------- ----------------
Total operating expenses.......................................................... 73,893 9,260
--------------- ----------------
Operating income................................................................ 23,398 4,826
Interest income................................................................... (151) (32)
Interest expense.................................................................. 18,393 2,654
Amortization of deferred financing expense........................................ 3,059 2,313
Other bank and financing expenses................................................. 83 9
--------------- ----------------
Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary item........................ 2,014 (118)
Income tax expense (benefit)...................................................... 779 (47)
--------------- ----------------
Income (loss) before extraordinary item......................................... 1,235 (71)
Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of tax of $1,184........ -- --
--------------- ----------------
Net income (loss)............................................................... $ 1,235 $ (71)
--------------- ----------------
--------------- ----------------
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share before extraordinary item............. $ 1 $ --
Extraordinary item per share...................................................... -- --
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share....................................... 1 --
--------------- ----------------
--------------- ----------------
Weighted average number of shares outstanding..................................... 1 --
--------------- ----------------
--------------- ----------------
OPERATING AND OTHER DATA:
Adjusted EBITDA(1)................................................................ $ 34,796 $ 5,936
Adjusted EBITDA margin(2)......................................................... 24.3% 27.9%
Depreciation and amortization..................................................... $ 9,976 $ 3,274
Capital expenditures.............................................................. 2,411 96
BALANCE SHEET DATA (END OF PERIOD):
Working capital (excluding current portion of long-term debt)..................... $ 6,524 $ 10,709
Total assets...................................................................... 372,739 140,942
Long-term debt (including current portion)........................................ 279,919 100,000
Stockholder's equity.............................................................. 65,223 33,089

<CAPTION>
(in thousands) MARCH 28, 1998
----------------
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales......................................................................... $ 89,385
Cost of goods sold................................................................ 37,734
----------------
Gross profit.................................................................... 51,651
----------------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution...................................................... 9,355
Trade promotions................................................................ 15,568
Consumer marketing.............................................................. 7,997
----------------
Total brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses.............................. 32,920
Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles.................................... 4,597
Selling, general and administrative expenses...................................... 2,346
Compensation plan expense......................................................... 60,000
Transition expenses............................................................... 1,926
----------------
Total operating expenses.......................................................... 101,789
----------------
Operating income................................................................ (50,138)
Interest income................................................................... (223)
Interest expense.................................................................. 12,837
Amortization of deferred financing expense........................................ 513
Other bank and financing expenses................................................. 51
----------------
Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary item........................ (63,316)
Income tax expense (benefit)...................................................... (360)
----------------
Income (loss) before extraordinary item......................................... (62,956)
Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of tax of $1,184........ 1,876
----------------
Net income (loss)............................................................... $ (64,832)
----------------
----------------
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share before extraordinary item............. $ (65)
Extraordinary item per share...................................................... (2)
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share....................................... (65)
----------------
----------------
Weighted average number of shares outstanding..................................... 1
----------------
----------------
OPERATING AND OTHER DATA:
Adjusted EBITDA(1)................................................................ $ 17,587
Adjusted EBITDA margin(2)......................................................... 19.7%
Depreciation and amortization..................................................... $ 6,140
Capital expenditures.............................................................. 1,511
BALANCE SHEET DATA (END OF PERIOD):
Working capital (excluding current portion of long-term debt)..................... $ 29,164
Total assets...................................................................... 869,551
Long-term debt (including current portion)........................................ 652,377
Stockholder's equity.............................................................. 154,029
</TABLE>

- ------------------------
(1) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income before interest, taxes,
depreciation, amortization, extraordinary items, compensation plan expense
and transition expenses and is presented because it is commonly used by
certain investors and analysts to analyze and compare companies on the basis
of operating performance and to determine a company's ability to service and
incur debt. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation from or as
a substitute for net income, cash flows from operating activities or other
consolidated income or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles or as a measure of profitability or
liquidity.
(2) Adjusted EBITDA margin is computed as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net
sales.

33
<PAGE>
VDK

The following table sets forth selected historical financial and operating
information of VDK for the periods ended and as of the dates indicated. VDK
commenced operations in September 1995, concurrent with the acquisition of the
VAN DE KAMP's business from Pillsbury. Commencing May 1996, the VDK statement of
operations data includes the operations of the MRS. PAUL'S business and
commencing July 1996, it includes the operations of the AUNT JEMIMA and CELESTE
businesses. The selected historical statements of operations data for the
operating period September 19, 1995 through June 29, 1996 and for the year ended
June 30, 1997 and the historical balance sheet data at June 29, 1996 and June
30, 1997 are derived from the audited financial statements of VDK included
elsewhere in this Prospectus. The selected historical statements of operations
data and the historical balance sheet data for the nine months ended and as of
March 31, 1997 and 1998 are derived from the unaudited financial statements of
VDK included elsewhere in this Prospectus and which, in the opinion of
management, include all normal, recurring adjustments. This table should be read
in conjunction with VDK's historical financial statements appearing elsewhere in
this Prospectus and with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations".

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPERATING PERIOD YEAR ENDED NINE MONTHS ENDED
SEPTEMBER 19, JUNE 30, MARCH 31,
1995 THROUGH ------------ -------------------
(in thousands) JUNE 29, 1996 1997 1997
------------------- ------------ -------------------
(UNAUDITED)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales................................................................. $ 143,296 $ 435,476 $ 344,113
Cost of goods sold........................................................ 60,367 180,941 143,522
---------- ------------ ----------
Gross profit............................................................ 82,929 254,535 200,591
---------- ------------ ----------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution.............................................. 15,901 45,352 37,005
Trade promotions........................................................ 32,517 108,925 83,908
Consumer marketing...................................................... 11,336 29,524 23,897
---------- ------------ ----------
Total brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses...................... 59,754 183,801 144,810
Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles............................ 4,223 13,142 9,982
Selling, general and administrative expenses.............................. 5,267 14,270 9,825
Compensation plan expense................................................. -- -- --
Transition expenses....................................................... 1,337 2,885 2,073
---------- ------------ ----------
Total operating expenses.................................................. 70,581 214,098 166,690
---------- ------------ ----------
Operating income........................................................ 12,348 40,437 33,901
Interest income........................................................... (135) (965) (939)
Interest expense.......................................................... 12,469 32,499 24,762
Amortization of deferred financing expense................................ 607 2,108 1,573
Other bank and financing expenses......................................... 79 265 215
---------- ------------ ----------
Income (loss) before income taxes....................................... (672) 6,530 8,290
Income tax expense (benefit).............................................. (233) 2,377 3,316
---------- ------------ ----------
Net income (loss)....................................................... $ (439) $ 4,153 $ 4,974
---------- ------------ ----------
---------- ------------ ----------
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share............................... $ (4) $ 42 $ 50
---------- ------------ ----------
---------- ------------ ----------
Weighted average number of shares outstanding............................. 0.1 0.1 0.1
---------- ------------ ----------
---------- ------------ ----------
OPERATING AND OTHER DATA:
Adjusted EBITDA(1)........................................................ $ 20,588 $ 64,231 $ 51,897
Adjusted EBITDA margin(2)................................................. 14.4% 14.8% 15.1%
Depreciation and amortization............................................. $ 7,454 $ 22,317 $ 16,772
Capital expenditures...................................................... 2,204 14,379 12,717
BALANCE SHEET DATA (END OF PERIOD):
Working capital (excluding current portion of long-term debt)............. $ 25,019 $ 37,921 $ 37,958
Total assets.............................................................. 305,499 509,591 521,406
Long term debt (including current portion)................................ 188,750 312,856 321,856
Stockholder's equity...................................................... 83,676 147,921 148,742

(in thousands) 1998
---------

<S> <C>
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales................................................................. $ 348,288
Cost of goods sold........................................................ 135,777
---------
Gross profit............................................................ 212,511
---------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution.............................................. 33,765
Trade promotions........................................................ 101,534
Consumer marketing...................................................... 25,151
---------
Total brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses...................... 160,450
Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles............................ 10,194
Selling, general and administrative expenses.............................. 13,968
Compensation plan expense................................................. 69,000
Transition expenses....................................................... --
---------
Total operating expenses.................................................. 253,612
---------
Operating income........................................................ (41,101)
Interest income........................................................... (60)
Interest expense.......................................................... 23,634
Amortization of deferred financing expense................................ 1,612
Other bank and financing expenses......................................... 131
---------
Income (loss) before income taxes....................................... (66,418)
Income tax expense (benefit).............................................. (21,304)
---------
Net income (loss)....................................................... $ (45,114)
---------
---------
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share............................... $ (451)
---------
---------
Weighted average number of shares outstanding............................. $ 0.1
---------
---------
OPERATING AND OTHER DATA:
Adjusted EBITDA(1)........................................................ $ 43,699
Adjusted EBITDA margin(2)................................................. 12.6%
Depreciation and amortization............................................. $ 17,483
Capital expenditures...................................................... 7,524
BALANCE SHEET DATA (END OF PERIOD):
Working capital (excluding current portion of long-term debt)............. $ 47,492
Total assets.............................................................. 527,071
Long term debt (including current portion)................................ 309,759
Stockholder's equity...................................................... 157,128
</TABLE>

- ------------------------
(1) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) before interest, taxes,
depreciation, amortization, extraordinary items, and transition expenses and
is presented because it is commonly used by certain investors and analysts
to analyze and compare companies on the basis of operating performance and
to determine a company's ability to service and incur debt. Adjusted EBITDA
should not be considered in isolation from or as a substitute for net
income, cash flows from operating activities or other consolidated income or
cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles or as a measure of profitability or liquidity.
(2) Adjusted EBITDA margin is computed as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net
sales.

34
<PAGE>
DUNCAN HINES

The following table sets forth selected historical financial data of the
DUNCAN HINES business for the periods ended as indicated. The Company acquired
the DUNCAN HINES business in January 1998. All statement of direct revenues and
direct expenses, operating and other data presented below represent the DUNCAN
HINES business while under the management of P&G. The selected historical
statements of direct revenues and direct expenses for the years ended June 30,
1995, 1996 and 1997 are derived from the audited financial statements of the
DUNCAN HINES business included elsewhere in this Prospectus. The selected
historical statements of direct revenues and direct expenses for the six months
ended December 31, 1996 and 1997 are derived from the unaudited financial
statements of the DUNCAN HINES business included elsewhere in this Prospectus
and which, in the opinion of management, include all normal, recurring
adjustments. Certain amounts have been reclassified to conform to the Company's
presentation. This table should be read in conjunction with the DUNCAN HINES
business historical financial statements and related notes thereto included
elsewhere in this Prospectus and with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations".

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, DECEMBER 31,
------------------------------- --------------------
(in thousands) 1995 1996 1997 1996 1997
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(UNAUDITED)
STATEMENT OF DIRECT REVENUES AND DIRECT EXPENSES:
Net sales(1).......................................................... $ 286,167 $ 282,525 $ 257,932 $ 148,652 $ 157,191
Cost of goods sold.................................................... 153,015 153,791 144,261 80,361 85,139
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Gross profit........................................................ 133,152 128,734 113,671 68,291 72,052
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution(1)....................................... 19,131 18,192 16,171 9,175 9,070
Trade promotions.................................................... 14,775 16,357 19,646 9,659 15,822
Consumer marketing.................................................. 25,407 26,411 18,753 10,365 11,046
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses.............. 59,313 60,960 54,570 29,199 35,938
Selling, general and administrative expenses.......................... 9,962 10,791 10,041 6,177 4,131
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Total expenses.................................................... 69,275 71,751 64,611 35,376 40,069
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Excess of direct revenues over direct expenses...................... $ 63,877 $ 56,983 $ 49,060 $ 32,915 $ 31,983
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------

OPERATING AND OTHER DATA:
EBITDA(2)............................................................. $ 67,477 $ 60,683 $ 52,860 $ 34,815 $ 33,933
EBITDA margin(3)...................................................... 23.6% 21.5% 20.5% 23.4% 21.6%
Depreciation and amortization (unaudited)............................. $ 3,600 $ 3,700 $ 3,800 $ 1,900 $ 1,950
</TABLE>

- ------------------------
(1) Cash discounts of $4,864, $4,804, $4,384, $2,528, and $2,672 for the years
ended June 30, 1995, 1996, and 1997 and the six-month periods ended December
31, 1996 and 1997, respectively, have been reclassified from net sales to
brokerage and distribution expenses to provide consistency with the
Company's presentation and accounting policy.

(2) EBITDA is defined as the excess of direct revenues over direct expenses
before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and extraordinary items
and is presented because it is commonly used by certain investors and
analysts to analyze and compare companies on the basis of operating
performance and to determine a company's ability to service and incur debt.
EBITDA should not be considered in isolation from or as a substitute for net
income, cash flows from operating activities or other consolidated income or
cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles or as a measure of profitability or liquidity.

(3) EBITDA margin is computed as EBITDA as a percentage of net sales.

35
<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THE COMPANY AND PREDECESSOR

The following discussion and analysis of the Company's financial condition
and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the historical
financial information of the Company and the Predecessor included in the
financial statements and notes to the financial statements. Unless otherwise
noted, fiscal years in this discussion refer to the Company's fiscal year ended
December 27 or December 31, as the case may be.

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS ENDED
----------------------
PREDECESSOR
---------------------------------------------- COMPANY
-----------------------
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------------------------- YEAR ENDED
DECEMBER 27, MARCH 29,
1995 1996 1997 1997
---------------------- ---------------------- ----------------------- ----------------------
% OF % OF % OF % OF
(in thousands) AMOUNT NET SALES AMOUNT NET SALES AMOUNT NET SALES NET SALES
--------- ----------- --------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
AMOUNT
---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS:
Net sales........................ $ 93,382(1) 100.0% $ 91,581(1) 100.0% $ 143,020 100.0% $ 21,253 100.0%
Cost of goods sold............... 27,743 29.7 28,955 31.6 45,729 32.0 7,167 33.7
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----
Gross profit................... 65,639 70.3 62,626 68.4 97,291 68.0 14,086 66.3
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----
Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution..... 9,663(1) 10.3 10,180(1) 11.1 17,096 12.0 2,279 10.7
Trade promotions............... 19,380 20.8 17,672 19.3 26,075 18.2 3,643 17.1
Consumer marketing............. 13,291 14.2 10,835 11.8 15,142 10.6 1,331 6.3
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----
Total brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses............. 42,334 45.3 38,687 42.2 58,313 40.8 7,253 34.1
Amortization of goodwill and
other intangibles.............. -- -- -- -- 5,938 4.1 828 3.9
Selling, general and
administrative expenses........ 6,120 6.6 6,753 7.4 5,229 3.6 1,053 5.0
Compensation plan expense........ -- -- -- -- 2,300 1.6 -- --
Transition expenses.............. -- -- -- -- 2,113 1.5 126 0.6
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----
Total operating expenses......... 48,454 51.9 45,440 49.6 73,893 51.6 9,260 43.6
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----
Operating income (loss)........ 17,185 18.4 17,186 18.8 23,398 16.4 4,826 22.7
Interest income.................. -- -- -- -- (151) (0.1) (32) (0.2)
Interest expense................. -- -- -- -- 18,393 12.9 2,654 12.5
Amortization of deferred
financing expense.............. -- -- -- -- 3,059 2.1 2,313 10.9
Other bank and financing
expenses....................... -- -- -- -- 83 0.1 9 --
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----
Income (loss) before income
taxes and extraordinary
item......................... 17,185 18.4 17,186 18.8 2,014 1.4 (118) (0.6)
Income tax expense (benefit)..... 6,616 7.1 6,616 7.2 779 0.5 (47) (0.2)
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----
Income (loss) before
extraordinary item............. 10,569 11.3 10,570 11.6 1,235 0.9 (71) (0.4)
Extraordinary loss on early
extinguishment of debt, net of
tax of $1,184.................. -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Net income (loss)................ $ 10,569 11.3% $ 10,570 11.6% $ 1,235 0.9% $ (71) (0.3)%
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----
--------- ----- --------- ----- ---------- ----- --------- -----

<CAPTION>
MARCH 28,
1998
----------------------
% OF
(in thousands) AMOUNT NET SALES
--------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS:
Net sales........................ $ 89,385 100.0%
Cost of goods sold............... 37,734 42.2
--------- -----
Gross profit................... 51,651 57.8
--------- -----
Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution..... 9,355 10.5
Trade promotions............... 15,568 17.4
Consumer marketing............. 7,997 8.9
--------- -----
Total brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses............. 32,920 36.8
Amortization of goodwill and
other intangibles.............. 4,597 5.2
Selling, general and
administrative expenses........ 2,346 2.6
Compensation plan expense........ 60,000 67.1
Transition expenses.............. 1,926 2.2
--------- -----
Total operating expenses......... 101,789 113.9
--------- -----
Operating income (loss)........ (50,138) (56.1)
Interest income.................. (223) (0.3)
Interest expense................. 12,837 14.4
Amortization of deferred
financing expense.............. 513 0.5
Other bank and financing
expenses....................... 51 0.1
--------- -----
Income (loss) before income
taxes and extraordinary
item......................... (63,316) (70.8)
Income tax expense (benefit)..... (360) (0.4)
--------- -----
Income (loss) before
extraordinary item............. (62,956) (70.4 )
Extraordinary loss on early
extinguishment of debt, net of
tax of $1,184.................. 1,876 2.1
Net income (loss)................ $ (64,832) (72.5)%
--------- -----
--------- -----
</TABLE>

- ------------------------
(1) Cash discounts of the Predecessor of $2,080 and $2,040 for the years ended
December 31, 1995 and 1996, respectively, have been reclassified from net
sales to brokerage and distribution expense to provide consistency with the
Company's presentation and accounting policy, and to facilitate comparison
between periods.

36
<PAGE>

THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 28, 1998 COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 29, 1997

NET SALES. Net sales for the three months ended March 28, 1998 were $89.4
million, which was an increase of $68.1 million compared to sales in the prior
year's quarter of $21.3 million. The increase was the result of the acquisitions
of LOG CABIN and DUNCAN HINES, which provided $25.9 and $42.7 million in net
sales, respectively. Net dollar sales for MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S branded products
were down slightly for the three months ended March 28, 1998 at $20.8 million.
However, sales volume increased 4.5% for the three months ended March 28, 1998.

Syrup net sales of $44.8 million increased $26.2 million, of which $25.9
million was attributable to the LOG CABIN acquisition. Net sales for MRS.
BUTTERWORTH'S syrup products increased $0.3 million compared to the 1997 period
while MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S syrup case volume increased by 10.8% from 788,000
standard cases in the 1997 period to 874,000 standard cases in 1998. The growth
in MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S syrup volume was attributable to increased sales of lower
revenue per case products sold to the club store and foodservice markets.

MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S pancake mix sales were $1.9 million overall in the 1998
period compared to $2.7 million in the 1997 period. The decrease was due to a
decline in the overall pancake mix category and a retail inventory build up
during the first quarter of 1997 in anticipation of a consumer event that
occurred in the second quarter of 1997.

Net sales for the Company's DUNCAN HINES baking mix products were $42.7
million for the three months ended March 28, 1998 and included results of
operations from January 16, 1998, the date of acquisition. Including results for
the stub period (January 1 to January 15), sales would have been $47.8 million,
which was a decrease of 10.1% from the prior year period. Sales of DUNCAN HINES
products were negatively impacted in January and February by a case load into
retail channels initiated by P&G in the latter part of 1997 which resulted in
volume increases in December 1997 relative to December 1996 for cake mix and
ready-to-spread frosting of 118.3% and 129.5%, respectively. Monthly sales
volumes since February have returned to prior year levels.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 57.8% for the
three months ended March 28, 1998 as compared to 66.3% for the corresponding
1997 period. The gross margin was affected by the inclusion of sales of DUNCAN
HINES baking mix products, which have lower gross margins than syrup and pancake
mix products. The syrup and pancake mix products had a gross margin of 67.2% in
the current quarter, a 0.9% increase compared to the 1997 period. The
improvement was attributable to lower manufacturing expense resulting from the
Company's long-term contract manufacturing agreements and lower corn syrup
costs.

BROKERAGE, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING EXPENSES. Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses for the three months ended March 28, 1998 were 36.8% as a
percentage of net sales compared to 34.1% in the 1997 period. The increase was
primarily the result of the implementation of new advertising programs for all
of the Company's brands where none existed during the prior year period.

AMORTIZATION OF GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES. Amortization of goodwill
and other intangibles of $4.6 million was attributable to the acquisitions of
the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S business on December 31, 1996, LOG CABIN on July 1, 1997
and DUNCAN HINES on January 16, 1998.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses of $2.3 million were 2.6% as a percentage of net sales,
as compared to 5.0% for the same period in 1997. The favorable variance
represents the efficiencies realized from the increased size of the Company.

COMPENSATION PLAN EXPENSE. For the three months ended March 28, 1998, the
Company recorded non-cash compensation plan expense of $60.0 million based on
the estimated current valuation of the Company and in accordance with the Aurora
Plan contained in the Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement
of MBW Investors LLC. The previous estimated valuation of the

37
<PAGE>

Company for the year ended December 27, 1997 resulted in recording $2.3 million
of compensation plan expense. The current estimated valuation of the Company has
increased significantly and has resulted in significant compensation plan
expense. In addition, most rights under the Aurora Plan are fully vested. The
expense has been recorded as a liability of MBW Investors LLC as the sponsor of
the Aurora Plan. However, because the Aurora Plan is for the benefit of key
personnel of the Company, expense recognized under the Aurora Plan has been
pushed down to the Company, and has been recorded by the Company as compensation
plan expense and as additional paid in capital from its parent. See
"Management--Aurora Compensation Plan."

TRANSITION EXPENSES. Transition expenses consist of one-time costs incurred
to establish the Company's operations and integrate the acquired businesses,
including relocation expenses, recruiting fees, sales support and other unique
transitional expenses. The increase for the 1998 period of $1.8 million as
compared to 1997 was due to the LOG CABIN and DUNCAN HINES acquisitions. The
1997 period included transition expenses for the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S business
only.

OPERATING (LOSS) INCOME. Operating loss for the three months ended March
28, 1998 was $50.1 million as compared to operating income of $4.8 million for
the prior year period. Excluding the effect of the recognition of non-cash
compensation plan expense of $60.0 million, operating profit was $9.9 million,
which was an increase of $5.1 million compared to last year. The operating
income margin, excluding (i) compensation plan expense (ii) higher goodwill
amortization (5.2% versus 3.9% as a percentage of net sales in 1997) and (iii)
higher transition related expenses (2.2% versus 0.6% as a percentage of net
sales) associated with the acquisitions of LOG CABIN and DUNCAN HINES, would
have been 18.5%, as compared to 22.7% in the prior year's quarter). The margin
decrease was due to lower gross margins and incremental marketing costs for
advertising associated with reestablishing media programs for the MRS.
BUTTERWORTH'S and LOG CABIN syrup brands and ongoing media support for the
DUNCAN HINES brand.

INTEREST EXPENSE AND AMORTIZATION OF DEFERRED FINANCING EXPENSE. The
aggregate of net interest expense and amortization of deferred financing expense
was $13.1 million in the three months ended March 28, 1998. The increased
expenses were related to the financing of the acquisitions of LOG CABIN and
DUNCAN HINES.

INCOME TAX BENEFIT. The effective tax rate was lower than the statutory
rate due to the effect of non-deductible compensation plan expense.

NET LOSS. Net loss was $64.8 million for the three months ended March 28,
1998. Excluding the effect of non-cash compensation plan expense, the net loss
of $4.8 million was greater than the net loss incurred in the 1997 period due to
higher interest expense and amortization of deferred financing expense.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

For the three months ended March 28, 1998, and the year ended December 27,
1997 cash provided by operations was $14.3 million and $23.0 million,
respectively. Net income (loss) plus non-cash charges provided $2.8 million and
$11.2 million, respectively, of operating cash flow. A decrease in net working
capital generated an additional $11.5 million in cash from operations for the
three months ended March 28, 1998. The decrease in net working capital was
primarily the result of the timing of working capital commitments associated
with the Company's transition agreements with prior owners of the LOG CABIN and
DUNCAN HINES businesses. The transition agreements resulted in minimal working
capital commitments for the Company during the transition period due to a
monthly settlement procedure by which the Company remitted payments subsequent
to the receipt of finished goods. At March 28, 1998 current assets, excluding
cash and current deferred tax assets, increased $30.0 million as compared to
December 27, 1997 and current liabilities, excluding current maturities of
senior secured term debt, increased $31.5 million as compared to December 27,
1997. The increase in both current

38
<PAGE>

assets and current liabilities was the result of three factors: (1) inclusion of
all items of working capital related to the LOG CABIN business, which had
previously been accounted for on the prior owner's books through the transition
period and recorded on the Company's books as a monthly net cash settlement, (2)
addition of inventory balances of DUNCAN HINES products which were assumed in
March 1998 as part of the transition process from P&G, and (3) receivable
balance due from P&G to cover reimbursable costs incurred in connection with the
relocation of manufacturing equipment from P&G to the Company's contract
manufacturers' production facilities.

Net cash used in investing activities was $449.3 million and $229.2 million
for the three months ended March 28, 1998 and the year ended December 27, 1997,
respectively. In addition to the acquisition of DUNCAN HINES, the Company spent
$1.5 million on capital expenditures and $0.1 million on furniture and fixtures
during the three months ended March 28, 1998. In addition to the acquisition of
LOG CABIN, the Company spent $2.4 million on capital expenditures and $0.8
million on software to establish a management information computer system for
the Company during the year ended December 27, 1997. The capital expenditures
were incurred to relocate and install acquired manufacturing equipment at the
Company's contract manufacturers' production facilities. In addition, the
Company disposed of surplus production equipment and received proceeds of $0.5
million from the dispositions. The Company expects to spend approximately $10.7
million on capital expenditures in 1998 and anticipates that these expenditures
will be funded from internal cash flow.

During the three months ended March 28, 1998, and the year ended December
27, 1998 financing activities provided cash of $453.6 million and $202.2
million, respectively. To finance the acquisition of DUNCAN HINES and related
expenses, the Company incurred an early extinguishment of its existing senior
secured term debt and senior secured revolving debt facility, which totaled
$76.5 million. The Company borrowed $450 million of senior secured bank debt
under the Aurora Senior Bank Facilities.
During 1997, the Company received $202.5 million from issuances of senior
subordinated notes and $90.0 million from borrowings under the senior secured
term debt and a senior secured revolving debt facilities under the Aurora Senior
Bank Facilities. In addition, the Company received a capital contribution from
MBW Investors LLC in the amount of $28.5 million. The proceeds from the notes
and debt facilities were used to repay senior secured debt and a senior
subordinated note, together totaling $95.0 million, existing from the
acquisition of MRS. BUTTERWORTHS on December 31, 1996, and to fund the $220.0
million acquisition of LOG CABIN on July 1, 1997.

At March 28, 1998, the Company had $23.3 million of cash and cash
equivalents and an unused commitment of $75.0 million on its revolving debt
facility. The Company's primary sources of liquidity are cash flows from
operations and available borrowings under the $75.0 million revolving debt
facility. Management believes the available borrowing capacity under the
revolving debt facility combined with cash provided by operations will provide
the Company with sufficient cash to fund operations as well as to meet existing
obligations.

INFLATION

The Company does not believe that inflation has had a material impact on its
financial position or results of operations during the years ended December
1995, 1996, and 1997.

YEAR 2000

The Company has reviewed its computer systems and believes that they are
substantially Year 2000 compliant. Any remediation costs are not expected to be
material.

OTHER INFORMATION

On January 16, 1998, subsequent to the Company's fiscal year end, the
Company acquired all the assets of the DUNCAN HINES business from P&G. The
assets acquired by the Company include (i) the DUNCAN HINES and associated
trademarks, (ii) substantially all of the equipment for the manufacture of

39
<PAGE>

DUNCAN HINES products currently located in P&G's Jackson, Tennessee facility,
(iii) proprietary formulations for DUNCAN HINES products, (iv) other product
specifications and customer lists, and (v) rights under certain contracts,
licenses, purchase orders and other arrangements and permits. The Company
intends to use the acquired assets in its operations of the DUNCAN HINES
business. The purchase price was approximately $445.0 million and was based on
arm's length negotiations between the Company and P&G.

The Company financed the acquisition of the DUNCAN HINES business and
related costs with a capital contribution by MBW Investors LLC of $93.6 million
and with additional senior secured bank borrowings totaling approximately $373.5
million. The additional senior secured bank borrowings were incurred under the
Aurora Senior Bank Facility.

The Contribution Transaction occurred on April 8, 1998. On April 16, 1998,
Aurora Maryland was incorporated to facilitate the Offerings. Just prior to the
Offerings, the Company will be incorporated, New LLC will contribute all of the
issued and outstanding stock of Aurora and VDK to it, and Aurora Maryland will
be merged with and into the Company. New LLC is a majority owned subsidiary of
MBW Investors LLC. New LLC and the Company will account for the contribution of
the ownership of Aurora at MBW Investors LLC's historical cost and the
contribution of the ownership of VDK will be accounted for as an acquisition
using the purchase method of accounting at New LLC's cost.

The Company expects to spend $23.0 million on capital expenditures in 1998.
Capital expenditures include the expansion of production capacity for frozen
breakfast products and routine maintenance and cost saving projects. In
addition, the Company anticipates one time expenditures of approximately $5.0
million in excess of relocation costs for which it will be reimbursed by P&G to
relocate and install DUNCAN HINES machinery and equipment into the Company's
contract manufacturers, and expenditures of approximately $5.0 million to
relocate and install syrup machinery and equipment into Red Wing manufacturing
facilities.

In conjunction with the Offerings, the Company has refinanced its Aurora
Senior Bank Facilities and VDK Senior Bank Facilities. The Senior Credit
Facilities consists of $ million of senior secured term loans and $ million
under a senior secured revolving credit facility. The Company has written off
$ million of deferred financing costs associated with the refinancing of its
Aurora Senior Bank Facilities and VDK Senior Bank Facilities which will result
in an extraordinary charge in the amount of $ million. See "Description of
Indebtedness--Senior Credit Facilities".

The acquisition of VDK on April 8, 1998 constitutes a change of control
under the terms of the VDK Indenture and the Company is required to offer to
purchase the VDK Notes at 101% of their principal amount plus accrued interest
at the repurchase date. The Company has entered into a commitment letter with
The Chase Manhattan Bank and Chase Securities Inc., whereby they have agreed to
provide the Company with $101 million senior subordinated facility, the proceeds
of which will be used to purchase such VDK Notes. See "Description of
Indebtedness--Senior Facility Commitment" and "Description of
Indebtedness--Senior Subordinated Notes--The VDK Notes--Change of Control".

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 27, 1997 FOR THE COMPANY COMPARED TO THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER
31, 1996 FOR THE PREDECESSOR

NET SALES. Net sales for the period increased $51.4 million versus the
prior year to $143.0 million. The increase was due primarily to the acquisition
of LOG CABIN on July 1, 1997, which added $50.4 million in net sales. Net dollar
sales for all of MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S branded products increased 1.1% to $92.6
million for the year ended December 27, 1997 from $91.6 million for the 1996
period, while case volume increased 5.1% to 4.1 million cases.

Syrup sales increased $52.1 million to $133.2 million in 1997 from $81.1
million in 1996. The increase was due primarily to the LOG CABIN acquisition,
which added $50.4 million in sales during 1997. MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S syrup dollar
sales increased $1.7 million, or 2.1%, to $82.8 million in 1997. MRS.
BUTTERWORTH'S syrup case volume increased 7.6% to 3.5 million cases in 1997 from
3.3 million cases in

40
<PAGE>
1996. The percentage increase in MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S syrup case volume exceeded
the percentage increase in dollar sales because the Predecessor adopted a value
pricing strategy in mid-1996, which lowered the list price on 90% of its retail
syrup volume by 10%. The increase in syrup volume was attributable to increases
in the Company's MRS. BUTTERWORTH's Original brand and foodservice and club
store sales. The volume increase was partially offset by a decrease in sales of
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S Country Best Recipe and MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S Lite brands. MRS.
BUTTERWORTH's Lite has been reformulated and was introduced in December 1997.

MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S pancake mix sales of $9.8 million in 1997 were down by
$0.7 million as compared to the 1996 period, and pancake mix volume decreased 7%
to 0.6 million cases. The overall pancake mix category was down approximately 4%
in 1997 from the prior year.

The Company's pro forma 1997 net sales after giving effect to the
acquisition of LOG CABIN were $194.2 million, which was $1.8 million less than
the combined sales of MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S and LOG CABIN of $196.0 million for the
year ended December 31, 1996. The decline in sales was attributable to softness
in the LOG CABIN business.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 68.0% for the
1997 period as compared to 68.4% for the 1996 period. The gross margin
percentage in the 1996 period was impacted by the value pricing strategy
implemented by the Predecessor in mid-year 1996. The change to value pricing
caused net revenues and gross profits to be reduced in 1997 relative to the
prior year, which only included a partial year impact of value pricing.

BROKERAGE, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING EXPENSES. Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses for 1997 were 40.8% of net sales as compared to 42.2% for
1996. The improvement was due to lower trade promotions as a percentage of net
sales in 1997 as a result of the value pricing strategy as well as a reduction
in high redemption value coupons compared to 1996.

AMORTIZATION OF GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES. Amortization of goodwill
and other intangibles of $5.9 million in 1997 was attributable to amortization
of goodwill associated with the acquisitions of MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S on December
31, 1996 and LOG CABIN on July 1, 1997.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses of $5.2 million for 1997 were $1.6 million less than the
$6.8 million of expense incurred for 1996. The favorable variance was due to
lower overhead spending associated with the Company's stand-alone structure as
compared to amounts allocated to MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S during the Predecessor's
ownership period.

COMPENSATION PLAN EXPENSE. Compensation plan expense was recorded under the
Aurora Plan based on the estimated valuation of the Company. See Note 15 to the
Company's 1997 financial statements included elsewhere in this Prospectus.

TRANSITION EXPENSES. Transition expenses of $2.1 million in 1997 consist of
one-time costs incurred to establish the Company's operations and integrate the
acquired businesses of MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S and LOG CABIN, including relocation
expenses, recruiting fees, sales support and other unique transitional expenses.

OPERATING INCOME. Operating income as a percentage of net sales was 16.4%
for 1997 as compared to 18.8% for 1996. The decrease in the Company's operating
profit margin was primarily due to amortization of goodwill and other
intangibles (4.1% of net sales), incentive compensation expense (1.6% of net
sales) and transition expenses (1.5% of net sales), which were not incurred
under the Predecessor's ownership. Excluding the impact of these expenses, the
operating margin increased to 23.6% of net sales because trade promotions,
consumer marketing and selling, general and administrative expenses as a
percentage of net sales were lower than the prior year. Overall, operating
income increased $6.2 million, or 36.1%, to $23.4 million as compared to $17.2
million in 1996.

41
<PAGE>
INTEREST EXPENSE AND AMORTIZATION OF DEFERRED FINANCING EXPENSE. Net
interest expense and amortization of deferred financing expense was $21.3
million in 1997. These expenses were related to the financing of the acquired
businesses. The Predecessor did not separately allocate these respective costs
to MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S.

INCOME TAX PROVISION. The Company has a combined federal and state tax rate
of approximately 38.7% in 1997 as compared to the Predecessor's effective rate
in 1996 of 38.5%.

NET INCOME. Net income was $1.2 million in 1997, which was $9.3 million
lower than the prior year. The decline in net income was attributable to the
interest expense and amortization of deferred financing expense incurred during
1997.

YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 FOR THE PREDECESSOR COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER
31, 1995 FOR THE PREDECESSOR

NET SALES. Net sales declined 1.9% to $91.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 1996 as compared to $93.4 million for the year ended December 31,
1995. Sales volume increased 2.6% to 3.9 million cases in 1996 from 3.8 million
cases in 1995.

Syrup sales decreased $1.8 million to $81.1 million in 1996 from $82.9
million in 1995. Syrup volume increased 3.1% to 3.3 million cases in 1996 from
3.2 million cases in 1995. In May 1996, the Predecessor adopted a value pricing
strategy to position its MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S brand as the best value among the
three national syrup brands. This value pricing strategy benefited the brand
through higher volumes and savings on consumer marketing expenses, but resulted
in a net decrease in syrup dollar sales in 1996.

MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S pancake mix sales remained constant at $10.5 million in
1996, the same as in 1995. Pancake mix volume was flat at 0.6 million cases in
1996, which was the same volume achieved in 1995.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit was 68.4% in 1996, as compared to 70.3% in 1995.
The decrease in the gross profit margin was primarily due to lower list prices
related to the Predecessor's value pricing strategy.

BROKERAGE, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING EXPENSES. Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses for 1996 were 42.2% as a percentage of net sales as compared
to 45.3% for 1995. The favorable variance was the result of lower trade
promotion and consumer marketing expenses attributable to the Predecessor's
value pricing strategy.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses of $6.8 million for 1996 were $0.7 million more than
expenses of $6.1 million in 1995.

OPERATING INCOME. Operating income as a percentage of net sales improved to
18.8% for the year ended December 31, 1996 as compared to 18.4% for the year
ended December 31, 1995. The operating margin improvement was primarily the
result of a reduction in consumer marketing expense as a percentage of net sales
to 11.8% in 1996 from 14.2% in 1995 due to a reduction in costly buy-one-
get-one-free promotions.

INTEREST EXPENSE AND AMORTIZATION OF DEFERRED FINANCING EXPENSE. The
Predecessor did not allocate interest expense or amortization of deferred
financing expense to MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S.

INCOME TAX PROVISION. The provision for income taxes of $6.6 million in
1996 represented an effective tax rate of 38.5%, the same rate as in 1995.

NET INCOME. Net income was $10.6 million in 1995 and 1996 due to the
factors discussed above.

42
<PAGE>
VDK

The following discussion and analysis of VDK's financial condition and
statements of operations should be read in conjunction with the historical
financial information included in the financial statements. Unless otherwise
noted, years (1997, 1996, etc.) in this discussion refer to VDK's fiscal years
ended June 30 or June 29, as applicable.

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the percentage
which the items in the Statements of Operations bear to net sales. Certain
amounts from prior years have been reclassified to conform with VDK's current
year presentation. The Statement of Operations column for the period July 1,
1995 through June 29, 1996 combines VDK's operating period September 19, 1995
through June 29, 1996, including the operations of the acquired MRS. PAUL'S
business for the period May 6, 1996 through June 29, 1996, and the operations by
Pillsbury of VDK from July 1, 1995 through September 18, 1995.

(in thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31,
----------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------
JUNE 29, 1996 JUNE 30, 1997 1997 1998
------------------- ------------------- ------------------- ---------------------
(UNAUDITED)
% OF % OF % OF % OF
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS: AMOUNT NET SALES AMOUNT NET SALES AMOUNT NET SALES AMOUNT NET SALES
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales............................... $163,841 100.0% $435,476 100.0% $344,113 100.0% $348,288 100.0%
Cost of goods sold...................... 71,345 43.5 180,941 41.6 143,522 41.7 135,777 39.0
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
Gross profit............................ 92,496 56.5 254,535 58.4 200,591 58.3 212,511 61.0
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
Brokerage, distribution and marketing
expenses:
Brokerage and distribution............ 17,517 10.7 45,352 10.4 37,005 10.8 33,765 9.7
Trade promotions...................... 36,216 22.1 108,925 25.0 83,908 24.4 101,534 29.2
Consumer marketing.................... 13,255 8.1 29,524 6.8 23,897 6.9 25,151 7.2
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
Total brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses.................... 66,988 40.9 183,801 42.2 144,810 42.1 160,450 46.1
Amortization of goodwill and other
intangibles........................... 4,912 3.0 13,142 3.0 9,982 2.9 10,194 2.9
General and administrative expenses..... 6,637 4.1 14,270 3.3 9,825 2.8 13,968 4.0
Compensation plan expense............... -- -- -- -- -- -- 69,000 19.8
Transition expenses..................... 1,337 0.8 2,885 0.7 2,073 0.6 -- --
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
Total operating expenses................ 79,874 48.8 214,098 49.2 166,690 48.4 253,612 72.8
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
Operating income (loss)................. 12,622 7.7 40,437 9.3 33,901 9.9 (41,101) (11.8)
Interest income......................... (135) (0.1) (965) (0.2) (939) (0.3) (60) --
Interest expense........................ 12,469 7.6 32,499 7.5 24,762 7.2 23,634 6.8
Amortization of deferred financing
expense............................... 607 0.4 2,108 0.5 1,573 0.5 1,612 0.5
Other bank and financing expenses....... 79 0.0 265 0.1 215 0.1 131 --
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
Income (loss) before income tax expense
(benefit)............................. (398) (0.2) 6,530 1.5 8,290 2.4 (66,418) (19.1)
Income tax expense (benefit)............ 163 0.1 2,377 0.5 3,316 1.0 (21,304) (6.1)
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
Net income (loss)....................... $ (561) (0.3)% $ 4,153 1.0% $ 4,974 1.4% $(45,114) (13.0)%
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- --------- -------- -----------
</TABLE>

43
<PAGE>

NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1998 COMPARED TO
NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1997

NET SALES. Net sales for the nine month period were $348.3 million, which
was 1.2% higher than net sales during the prior nine month period of $344.1
million. Excluding the impact in both years of (i) sales of the desserts product
line, which was divested on May 1, 1998, and (ii) sales of whipped topping
product lines, which was divested in February 1997, sales increased $11.7
million, or 3.7%. AUNT JEMIMA sales increased by $5.0 million, or 8.4%, as a
result of increased trade promotion spending and consumer marketing support.
CELESTE pizza sales increased by $5.9 million, or 10.6%, due to the introduction
of MAMA CELESTE Fresh Baked Rising Crust Pizza and increased sales of CELESTE
Pizza For One products. Frozen seafood sales decreased 0.8% versus the same
period last year primarily because the current period included two fewer weeks
of high volume Lenten season sales than the prior year period (Lent began on
February 25 in 1998 compared to February 12 in 1997), which affected the
Company's sales as well as overall seafood category volume. Foodservice sales
increased $2.2 million, or 9.1%, versus 1997 due to higher frozen breakfast
volumes and a price increase of approximately 3.0% taken in July 1997.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit increased from 58.3% as a percentage of net
sales to 61.0%. The increase reflected favorable packaging and raw material
costs, improved manufacturing and distribution efficiencies, and the impact of
the divestiture of the less profitable whipped topping product line in February
1997.

BROKERAGE, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING EXPENSES. Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses increased from 42.1% as a percentage of net sales in 1997 to
46.1% in the current period. Lower brokerage and distribution expenses were
offset by higher trade promotion and consumer marketing expenses.

Brokerage and distribution expenses declined as a percentage of net sales
compared to last year as a result of operational efficiencies within VDK's
distribution system and favorable freight rates. Trade promotion spending
increased to support the introduction of new products in the frozen seafood and
frozen pizza product lines and in response to competitive activity in the frozen
seafood and breakfast categories. Increased coupon support and new media
programs for VDK's frozen pizza and frozen breakfast product lines resulted in
higher consumer marketing spending versus 1997.

AMORTIZATION OF GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES. Amortization of goodwill
and intangibles was unchanged as a percentage of net sales versus the same
period in the prior year.

GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. General and administrative expenses
increased $4.1 million to 4.0% as a percentage of net sales versus 2.8% in the
prior year. The increase reflected higher staffing levels required to support
the acquired business and the incremental cost of a foodservice sales
organization. In the prior year period, Quaker Oats managed the VDK foodservice
sales function for a fee of $1.3 million, which was classified as a selling and
distribution expense.

COMPENSATION PLAN EXPENSE. For the nine months ended March 31, 1998, VDK
recorded non-cash compensation plan expense of $69.0 million based on the
estimated current valuation of VDK and in VDK Plan under which most rights are
vested. Included in compensation plan expense was a tax gross up amount of $15.0
million, which relates to certain distributions as provided for in the VDK Plan.
Valuations prior to the 1998 nine month period did not result in compensation
plan expense under the VDK Plan. The expense has been recorded as a liability of
VDK Foods LLC as the sponsor of the VDK Plan. However, because the VDK Plan is
for the benefit of key personnel of VDK, expense recognized under the VDK Plan
has been pushed down to VDK, and has been recorded by VDK as compensation plan
expense and as additional paid in capital from its parent. See "Management--VDK
Compensation Plan". In addition, the tax benefit related to the tax gross up
element of compensation plan expense had

44
<PAGE>

been recorded to income tax expense and as a deferred tax asset. Because the
Company will receive the tax benefit associated with the tax gross up amount,
and because the tax benefit will approximate the amount of the tax gross up
payments, the VDK will bear the liability for any such tax gross up payments
due. Therefore, the tax gross up amount has been recorded as compensation plan
expense and as an other liability. See "Management--VDK Compensation Plan."

OPERATING (LOSS) INCOME. Operating loss for the nine month period was $41.1
million as compared to operating income of $33.9 million for the prior nine
month period. Excluding the effect of the recognition of non-cash compensation
plan expense of $69.0 million, operating profit was $27.9 million, which was
$6.0 million lower than the prior year period. VDK's operating income margin,
excluding the effect of compensation plan expense, was 8.0% as a percentage of
net sales in 1998 as compared to 9.9% during the same period in 1997. The
decrease in VDK's operating income, excluding the effect of compensation plan
expense, was primarily due to increased promotional spending in support of VDK's
new product offerings and in response to competitive activity and higher general
and administrative expenses.

INTEREST EXPENSE (INCOME). Interest expense decreased $1.2 million versus
the same period in the prior year due to scheduled repayments of VDK's Senior
Bank Facility. The decrease in interest expense was partially offset by
additional borrowings versus last year on the VDK Senior Bank Facility. Interest
income decreased $0.9 million in the current nine month period. In the prior
nine month period, VDK earned interest income on an escrow account which held a
$20.0 million senior secured convertible loan which was repaid in February 1997.

INCOME TAX (BENEFIT) EXPENSE. VDK's combined effective federal and state
tax rate for the current period was approximately 32.1%. The rate was lower than
the rate experienced in the same period last year because a portion of
compensation plan expense was not deductible, which generated a greater book
loss than tax loss and commensurate lower income tax benefit benefit for tax
purposes.

NET INCOME (LOSS). VDK incurred a net loss of $45.1 million as compared to
net income of $5.0 million for the same period last year. Excluding the effect
of non-cash compensation plan expense, the net income of $1.3 million was lower
than the net income in the 1997 period due to lower operating income.

YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1997 COMPARED TO THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 29, 1996

NET SALES. Net sales for the year increased $271.6 million over the prior
year to $435.5 million. MRS. PAUL'S seafood, which was acquired from Campbell
Soup on May 6, 1996, generated $85.8 million in the first full year of
ownership. CELESTE/AUNT JEMIMA, which was acquired from Quaker Oats on July 9,
1996, added $184.1 million in sales following the acquisition. VAN DE KAMP'S
seafood sales increased $10.5 million, or 8.7% versus the prior year, largely
due to the successful introduction of flavored baked and grilled fillet
products. Desserts sales decreased $1.0 million versus 1996 due to lower whipped
topping sales volume resulting from the divestiture of the whipped topping
product line in February 1997. Excluding the impact of whipped topping sales in
both years, desserts sales grew $5.7 million, or 26.4%, due to increased
promotional efforts and new product introductions.

Compared to 1996 pro forma sales of $401.5 million, sales increased $34.0
million, or 8.5%. MRS. PAUL'S sales increased by $4.7 million, or 5.8%, due to
new product introductions which were supported by advertising and increased
promotional activity. CELESTE pizza sales increased by $4.1 million, or 6%,
behind focused promotional programs and more effective trade spending. AUNT
JEMIMA sales increased by $11.6 million, or 16.7%, due to increased consumer
marketing and trade promotion spending. Foodservice sales increased $4.1
million, or 15.8% versus the prior year, due to a focused selling effort on
frozen breakfast products.

45
<PAGE>
GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit increased from 56.5% as a percentage of net
sales in 1996 to 58.4% in 1997. The improvement was caused primarily by lower
seafood manufacturing costs stemming from the integration of MRS. PAUL'S seafood
production in the Erie, Pennsylvania facility and the effect of the sale of the
lower margin private label whipped topping product line in February 1997.

BROKERAGE, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING EXPENSES. Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses increased from 40.9% as a percentage of net sales in the
prior year to 42.2% in 1997. The increase was due to an increase in trade
promotion expense, which was partially offset by lower selling and distribution
expense and lower consumer marketing expense.

The increase in trade promotion spending was caused by (i) higher spending
levels to support new product introductions under the VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS.
PAUL'S brands, and (ii) the inclusion in 1997 of the CELESTE pizza business
which has a higher rate of trade spending than the seafood product lines.
Brokerage and distribution expenses declined from 10.7% as a percentage of net
sales in 1996 to 10.4% as a percentage of sales in 1997 due to the development
of a lower cost distribution network than the prior owner and distribution
efficiencies resulting from the MRS. PAUL'S and CELESTE/AUNT JEMIMA
acquisitions. Consumer marketing decreased as a percentage of net sales because
the spending rate was lower for the CELESTE pizza and AUNT JEMIMA breakfast
products than for VDK's other product lines. The lower CELESTE/AUNT JEMIMA
spending rate was partially offset by increased consumer spending to support the
introduction of new seafood and dessert products during 1997.

AMORTIZATION OF GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES. Amortization of goodwill
and intangibles increased $8.2 million from 1996 to 1997 due to the increase in
intangibles resulting from the acquisitions of VAN DE KAMP'S in the first
quarter of 1996, MRS. PAUL'S in the fourth quarter of 1996, and CELESTE/ AUNT
JEMIMA in the first quarter of 1997.

GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. General and administrative expenses
increased $7.6 million from 1996 to 1997 due to management of the businesses
acquired during calendar 1996. General and administrative expenses decreased
from 1996 to 1997 from 4.1% as a percentage of net sales to 3.3% during this
period due to delays in reaching full staffing levels following the MRS. PAUL'S
and CELESTE/AUNT JEMIMA acquisitions, and lower overhead spending associated
with VDK's organizational structure as compared to amounts allocated to the
business during the Pillsbury ownership period.

TRANSITION EXPENSES. Transition expenses of $2.9 million in 1997 and $1.3
million in 1996 consist of what management believes to be one-time costs
incurred to establish operations and integrate acquired businesses, including
relocation expenses, recruiting fees, sales training, broker conversions and
orientations, computer systems conversion, and other unique transitional
expenses. The increase in transition related costs was mainly attributable to
the CELESTE/AUNT JEMIMA acquisition and additional MRS. PAUL'S costs not
incurred in 1996.

INTEREST EXPENSE. Interest expense increased versus the prior year due to
additional debt incurred to complete the acquisition of CELESTE/AUNT JEMIMA and
the inclusion of a full year of interest and debt resulting from the
acquisitions of the VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S businesses.

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES. Income before income taxes increased $6.9
million due to the increased size, and therefore operating income of VDK, as
well as the operating improvements described previously.

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES. VDK's combined effective federal and state tax
rate for 1997 was 36.4%. This rate was lower than the rate experienced by
Pillsbury, primarily because VDK's amortization of goodwill is deductible for
income tax purposes.

NET INCOME. Net income of $4.2 million in 1997 was higher than the $0.6
million loss experienced in 1996. The increase in size of VDK resulting from the
acquisitions, combined with improvements in the gross profit margin, contributed
to the increase in net income.

46
<PAGE>
DUNCAN HINES

The following discussion and analysis of DUNCAN HINES financial condition
and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the historical
financial information included in the financial statements. The Company acquired
the DUNCAN HINES business from P&G in January 1998. Accordingly, all of the
information presented below represents the operations of the DUNCAN HINES
business by P&G. Unless otherwise noted, years (1997, 1996, etc.) in this
discussion refer to DUNCAN HINES fiscal years ended years June 30.

STATEMENTS OF DIRECT REVENUES AND DIRECT EXPENSES

The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the percentage
which the items in the statements of direct revenues and Direct Expenses bear to
net sales. Certain amounts from prior periods have been reclassified to conform
to the Company's presentation. The basis of presentation of the statements of
direct revenues and direct expenses is disclosed in Note 1 to the financial
statements included elsewhere in this Prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, SIX MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
---------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
(IN THOUSANDS) 1995 1996 1997 1996 1997
- ------------------ ---------------------- ---------------------- ---------------------- ---------------------- ---------
% OF % OF % OF % OF
NET NET NET NET
AMOUNT SALES AMOUNT SALES AMOUNT SALES AMOUNT SALES AMOUNT
--------- ----------- --------- ----------- --------- ----------- --------- ----------- ---------
(UNAUDITED)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
STATEMENTS OF DIRECT
REVENUES AND
DIRECT EXPENSES:
Net sales(1)...... $ 286,167 100.0% $ 282,525 100.0% $ 257,932 100.0% $ 148,652 100.0% $ 157,191
Cost of
goods sold...... 153,015 53.5 153,791 54.4 144,261 55.9 80,361 54.1 85,139
--------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- ---------
Gross profit.... 133,152 46.5 128,734 45.6 113,671 44.1 68,291 45.9 72,052
--------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- ---------
Brokerage,
distribution and
marketing
expenses:
Brokerage and
distribution(1).. 19,131 6.7 18,192 6.4 16,171 6.3 9,175 6.2 9,070
Trade
promotions.... 14,775 5.1 16,357 5.8 19,646 7.6 9,659 6.5 15,822
Consumer
marketing..... 25,407 8.9 26,411 9.3 18,753 7.3 10,365 7.0 11,046
--------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- ---------
Total brokerage,
distribution and
marketing
expenses........ 59,313 20.7 60,960 21.6 54,570 21.2 29,199 19.6 35,938
Selling, general
and
administrative
expenses........ 9,962 3.5 10,791 3.8 10,041 3.9 6,177 4.2 4,131
--------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- ---------
Total
operating
expenses.... 69,275 24.2 71,751 25.4 64,611 25.1 35,376 23.8 40,069
--------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- ---------
Excess of
direct
revenues
over direct
expenses.... $ 63,877 22.3% $ 56,983 20.2% $ 49,060 19.0% $ 32,915 22.1% $ 31,983
--------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- ---------
--------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- ---------

(IN THOUSANDS)
- ------------------
% OF
NET
SALES
-----------

<S> <C>
STATEMENTS OF DIRE
REVENUES AND
DIRECT EXPENSES:
Net sales(1)...... 100.0%
Cost of
goods sold...... 54.2
-----
Gross profit.... 45.8
-----
Brokerage,
distribution and
marketing
expenses:
Brokerage and
distribution(1).. 5.8
Trade
promotions.... 10.1
Consumer
marketing..... 7.0
-----
Total brokerage,
distribution and
marketing
expenses........ 22.9
Selling, general
and
administrative
expenses........ 2.6
-----
Total
operating
expenses.... 25.5
-----
Excess of
direct
revenues
over direct
expenses.... 20.3%
-----
-----
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) Cash discounts of $4,864, $4,804, $4,384, $2,528, and $2,672 for the years
ended June 30, 1995, 1996, and 1997 and the six-month periods ended December
31, 1996 and 1997, respectively, have been reclassified from net sales to
brokerage and distribution expenses to provide consistency with the
Company's presentation and accounting policy.

47
<PAGE>
SIX MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
1996

NET SALES. Net sales for the six months ended December 31, 1997 of $157.2
million were 5.7% higher than net sales of $148.7 million for the same six month
period in 1996. During 1997, P&G instituted in some markets a modified everyday
low pricing strategy ("EDLP"). In 1994, P&G converted its entire portfolio of
products to an EDLP strategy, including the DUNCAN HINES business. The EDLP
strategy had a detrimental effect on volumes as the baking mix category responds
well to promotion and merchandising activity. As trade activity was increased in
certain markets during the six months ended December 31, 1997, the brand
responded as characteristic in the category, and sales increased for the first
time in over two years.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales in 1997 of 45.8%
was flat as compared to the gross profit margin of 45.9% in 1996.

BROKERAGE, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING EXPENSE. Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses were $6.7 million higher during the six month period in 1997
versus the comparable period in 1996. As a percentage of net sales, brokerage,
distribution and marketing expenses were 22.9% in 1997, or 3.3 percentage points
higher than 1996. The increase was attributable to higher trade promotions,
which were $6.2 million above the prior year period. As a percentage of net
sales, trade promotions increased to 10.1% from 6.5% in 1996. The increase in
trade promotion was attributable to the modified EDLP strategy undertaken in
certain markets. Brokerage and distribution expenses were 1.1% lower than the
prior year while consumer marketing expenses were flat as compared to 1996.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were $4.1 million in 1997 or $2.1 million lower than
expenses of $6.2 million in 1996.

EXCESS OF DIRECT REVENUES OVER DIRECT EXPENSES. Excess of direct revenue
over direct expenses was $32.0 million for the six months ended December 31,
1997, as compared to $32.9 million for the same six month period in 1996. The
decrease of $0.9 million was due to higher trade promotions and was partially
mitigated by lower selling, general and administrative expenses and increased
gross profit.

YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1997 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1996

NET SALES. Net sales of $257.9 million in 1997 decreased 8.7% from net
sales of $282.5 million in 1996. The decrease in net sales was the result of
volume declines caused by the suspension of the variety strategy implemented by
P&G in 1994 and the reduction in corporate resources allocated to the DUNCAN
HINES business by P&G. The variety strategy was initiated to meet trade and
consumer demand for increased product variety. P&G introduced 50 new flavors,
which brought initial strong volume and a peak in sales in fiscal 1995. However,
the increase in sales proved unsustainable as a significant number of flavors
failed to generate repeat purchases and often cannibalized and crowded out the
brand's more popular product offerings. P&G suspended the variety strategy
during 1997.

The volume declines were also the result of a reduction in corporate
resources devoted to the business. P&G had shifted its sales efforts to other
more strategic and core brands. In addition, the EDLP strategy had a negative
effect on volumes as competitors within the baking mix category continued to
actively promote and merchandise while the DUNCAN HINES brand was left out of
the promotional cycle.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 44.1%, which
was lower than the gross profit margin of 45.6% in 1996. The decrease of 1.5
percentage points was due to higher flour and sugar costs experienced in the
1997 period and lower absorption of fixed manufacturing costs resulting from the
lower sales levels.

48
<PAGE>
BROKERAGE, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING EXPENSES. Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses were $6.4 million lower in 1997 as compared to 1996. As a
percentage of net sales, brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses were
21.2% in 1997 or 0.4 percentage points lower than 1996. The decrease in expenses
was attributable to lower brokerage and distribution, and consumer marketing
expenses. Consumer marketing expenses decreased $7.7 million, or 29%, as
allocations of corporate marketing resources were reduced. Trade promotions
increased to 7.6% as a percentage of sales from 5.8% in 1996.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were $10.0 million in 1997 or $0.8 million lower than
expenses of $10.8 million in 1996.

EXCESS OF DIRECT REVENUES OVER DIRECT EXPENSES. Excess of direct revenues
over direct expenses in 1997 of $49.1 million was $7.9 million lower than the
prior year amount of $57.0 million. The decrease was due to lower sales and a
decline in the gross profit margin.

YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1996 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1995

NET SALES. Net sales in 1996 of $282.5 million were 1.3% below net sales of
$286.2 million in 1995. The sales decline in 1996 was the first indication that
the variety strategy, which generated record sales in 1995, was causing a
deterioration in sales volumes of core DUNCAN HINES products. The new flavors
were not generating repeat purchases and the unproductive flavors introduced in
1994 remained on the retailers' shelves and crowded out the brand's higher
turnover product offerings.

GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 45.6% in 1996,
which was lower than the gross profit margin of 46.5% in 1995. The decrease of
0.9 percentage points was primarily due to higher flour and sugar costs.

BROKERAGE, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING EXPENSES. Brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses were $61.0 million or 2.8% higher than the prior year. As a
percentage of net sales, brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses were
21.6% in 1996, or 0.9 percentage points higher than in 1995. Trade promotions
and consumer marketing expenses were 10.7% and 4.0%, respectively, higher than
such expenses in 1995. The increase in marketing expenses was due to the
requisite marketing support of the variety strategy and the introduction of the
multiple new flavor product offerings. The increase in marketing expenses was
somewhat offset by a 4.9% decrease in brokerage and distribution expenses.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Selling, general and
administrative expenses were $10.8 million in 1996 or $0.8 million higher than
expenses of $10.0 million in 1995.

EXCESS OF DIRECT REVENUES OVER DIRECT EXPENSES. Excess of direct revenues
over direct expenses in 1996 of $56.9 million was $7.0 million lower than the
prior year amount of $63.9 million. The decrease was due to lower sales and
gross profit margin and higher marketing expenses.

49
<PAGE>
BUSINESS

The Company was formed by Dartford, Fenway and MDC to serve as a platform
upon which to build a leading branded grocery products company through both
strategic acquisitions and internal growth. The Company has been built through
six separate acquisitions over the last three years. The Company seeks to
acquire well-recognized brands which have become non-core businesses to their
corporate parents, but which retain strong brand equities and long-term growth
potential. The Company's objective is to revitalize the brands it acquires and
renew their growth by providing them with the strategic direction, dedicated
management and marketing focus they lacked under prior owners.

BUSINESS STRATEGY

50
<PAGE>
PROVIDE EXPERIENCED MANAGEMENT. The Company has assembled a dedicated
sales, marketing and administrative infrastructure by recruiting experienced
managers from a wide variety of food and consumer products companies. The
Company believes that it significantly improves the performance of its
brands by taking them out of large organizations where they have not been a
priority and providing them with experienced, dedicated management.

MAKE STRATEGIC ACQUISITIONS. The Company has a proven track record of
successfully acquiring and integrating food businesses. The Company's
acquisition strategy is to acquire established, well-recognized food brands that
can leverage off of the infrastructure it has developed. The Company will
continue to look for opportunities where strong but non-core brands would
benefit from the renewed focus and experienced management it brings to its
acquisitions. Management believes that these opportunities will continue to
arise as a result of large food companies continuing their recent trend of
divesting non-core businesses.

51
<PAGE>
INDUSTRY

The U.S. food industry is relatively stable with growth based on modest
price and population increases. Over the last ten years, there has been industry
consolidation and food companies have been divesting non-core business lines and
making strategic acquisitions.

The desire for nutrition and convenience strongly affects consumer demand
for food products. Increasingly, consumers want nutritious food that is
convenient to prepare and can be served as a meal occasion. The Company targets
consumers between the ages of 18 and 48 and particularly households with
children. There are approximately 39 million children between the ages of 5 and
14 which represent a growing target market for the Company.

The Company competes in the dry grocery and frozen convenience food
categories of the food industry. The Company is becoming increasingly
competitive in the foodservice markets which offer further opportunities.

PRODUCTS AND MARKETS

The Company manufactures and markets popular branded food products that are
leaders within their respective markets. The Company groups its brands into two
general categories: dry grocery products and frozen convenience food products.
The dry grocery category includes DUNCAN HINES brand baking mix products and
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S and LOG CABIN brand syrup products. The frozen convenience
food category includes VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S brand frozen seafood
products, AUNT JEMIMA brand frozen breakfast products, and CELESTE brand frozen
pizza products. The following table sets forth aggregate pro forma net sales and
related information for each of the brands within these two categories for the
periods indicated.(1)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 27,
1997
------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
AMOUNT % TOTAL
----------- -----------

<CAPTION>
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C>
DRY GROCERY
DUNCAN HINES baking mixes............................ $ 266.0 30.4%
LOG CABIN and MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S syrups.............. 194.8 22.3
----------- -----
TOTAL DRY GROCERY.................................. 460.8 52.7
----------- -----

FROZEN CONVENIENCE
VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S frozen seafood......... 218.0 25.0
AUNT JEMIMA frozen breakfast......................... 85.6 9.8
CELESTE frozen pizza................................. 78.0 8.9
Foodservice.......................................... 31.8 3.6
----------- -----
TOTAL FROZEN CONVENIENCE........................... 413.4 47.3
----------- -----
AGGREGATE PRO FORMA NET SALES............................ $ 874.2 100.0%
----------- -----
----------- -----
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) Aggregate pro forma net sales include sales of the Company as well as sales
of the prior owners for each of the periods shown.

52
<PAGE>
DUNCAN HINES BAKING MIXES (30.4% of 1997 Aggregate Pro Forma Net Sales)

For over 40 years, the DUNCAN HINES brand has represented excellence in
baking mixes. The DUNCAN HINES product line consists of cake mix,
ready-to-spread ("RTS") frosting, brownie mix, muffin mix, and cookie and other
specialty mixes. The DUNCAN HINES trademark is among the most recognized in the
U.S. with 92% unaided brand awareness and 100% all commodity volume ("ACV")
distribution. DUNCAN HINES baking mixes enjoy consumer satisfaction ratings
which are superior to those of its principal competitors, BETTY CROCKER and
PILLSBURY. Consumer test results show the DUNCAN HINES brand appeals to the
consumer who wants to bake a "quality, good as homemade" product.

The Company's products compete in the $1.3 billion baking mix category,
which has grown at a compound annual rate of 3.7% over the last four years. Four
products (layer cake, frosting, brownies, and muffin mixes) account for
approximately 85% of the U.S. baking mix sales volume. The remaining 15% is
comprised of several smaller items including specialty cake, dessert bar, and
cookie mixes. Management believes there will be stable growth at historic rates
in the baking mix category as consumers continue to purchase baking mix products
which they perceive to be an easy, convenient, "quality" alternative to scratch
baking.

The following table indicates that the baking mix category is led by three
brands, DUNCAN HINES, BETTY CROCKER, and PILLSBURY, with the remainder in
regional brands and private label.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Share
------------------------------------------------------------
$ Sales DUNCAN BETTY Regional/
Segment (mm) HINES CROCKER PILLSBURY Private Label
- -------------------------------- ----------- ------------- --------------- ----------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Cake mix........................ $ 315.0 35.8% 36.9% 22.2% 5.1%
Frosting........................ 245.4 18.5 49.7 26.3 5.5
Brownie mix..................... 196.8 16.6 47.0 26.5 9.9
Muffin mix...................... 144.5 12.9 34.4 25.1 27.6
Cookie mix...................... 36.1 29.8 67.8 1.1 1.3
</TABLE>

The DUNCAN HINES brand has been built on the strength of its cake mix.
Introduced in 1956, DUNCAN HINES has the #1 and #2 selling stock keeping units
("SKU's") in the cake mix segment (yellow and devil's food cake mixes). Cake
mixes accounted for approximately 55% of DUNCAN HINES total sales for the year
ended December 27, 1997.

To complement its cake mixes, DUNCAN HINES offers RTS frostings. DUNCAN
HINES frostings have received consumer satisfaction scores that are among the
highest in its segment relative to its competitors. Popular DUNCAN HINES
frostings include homestyle vanilla and chocolate flavors.

DUNCAN HINES offers two tiers of brownie mixes, plain and premium. DUNCAN
HINES brownie mixes have received the highest overall consumer satisfaction
ratings relative to its competitors and ranked highest among consumers in key
product attributes such as "tastes as good as homemade," "rich and fudgey," and
"chewy." To capitalize on such key attributes, the Company has recently launched
a new, improved, "thicker, moister" reformulated brownie mix. DUNCAN HINES
brownies compete primarily in the premium tier of brownie mixes and include
product offerings such as Double Fudge and Milk Chocolate Chunk.

Other DUNCAN HINES products include muffin, cookie, and fruit bar mixes.
Similar to its other products, DUNCAN HINES muffin mixes enjoy superior consumer
satisfaction ratings.

Management believes that sales of DUNCAN HINES products have suffered over
the last several years as a result of two strategies pursued by its prior owner.
First, DUNCAN HINES products were sold on an every day low price basis that was
inconsistent with category dynamics. Industry studies show that over 50% of
consumers make their purchase decision regarding baking mixes on impulse in the
supermarket aisle. Every day low pricing placed DUNCAN HINES at a disadvantage
because it was unable to promote

53
<PAGE>
its products as frequently as its competitors. Second, a variety strategy was
launched in 1994 which involved the introduction of more than 50 new flavors
such as key lime cake mix and grape bubble gum frosting. This initiative was not
successful, as the new flavors failed to generate repeat purchases and caused
core SKU's to be crowded off the retail shelf. The variety strategy was
discontinued in 1997.

While DUNCAN HINES cake mix is the cornerstone of the trademark with a 36%
share, other DUNCAN HINES products have a weighted average share of
approximately 15%. Management intends to increase sales of DUNCAN HINES products
by maintaining its position in cake mix and increasing its focus on brownie
mixes and RTS frosting. Management intends to continue to build DUNCAN HINES'
brand equity by maintaining the brands media advertising expenditures.

The Company plans to stimulate sales of DUNCAN HINES products by
reestablishing a high-low pricing and merchandising strategy, co-promoting the
brand's products and using consumer promotions to stimulate trial purchases.
Management has restored a high-low pricing strategy to its baking mix products,
which is more responsive to consumers' buying habits in the baking mix aisle.
This strategy has increased the list price on DUNCAN HINES cake mix and frosting
products, which will allow the Company to more than double the frequency of
quality merchandising--the number of times a product is featured or displayed by
a retailer. In addition, management intends to co-promote DUNCAN HINES RTS
frosting with its cake mixes and highlight the "new news" of the reformulated
brownie mix through couponing and television advertising.

LOG CABIN AND MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S SYRUPS (22.3% of 1997 Aggregate Pro Forma Net
Sales)

MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S and LOG CABIN syrup products together have a leading 34%
share of the syrup category. MRS BUTTERWORTH'S Original and LOG CABIN 24 ounce
bottles are the #1 and #2 selling SKU's, respectively, in the syrup category.
Different consumer perceptions of these two brands offer unique opportunities
for consumer targeting. MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S distinctive, grandmother-shaped
bottle represents a fun image to the family with children. The strong heritage
of LOG CABIN, which dates back to 1888, represents an authentic, rich maple
brand targeted more to traditional "warm, cozy" breakfast occasions. The Company
also sells LOG CABIN'S COUNTRY KITCHEN, a value priced syrup, to target the
economy segment. Introduced in 1954, COUNTRY KITCHEN has the highest share in
the economy segment. The Company's products are also sold to the club store
channel. The Company sells foodservice products under the LOG CABIN, LOG CABIN
Lite, and WIGWAM labels and under private label arrangements to the restaurant
and institutional channels. MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S, LOG CABIN, and COUNTRY KITCHEN
are offered in regular and lite versions. The Company also sells pancake mixes
under the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S brand, which accounted for less than 1% of the
Company's 1997 aggregate pro forma net sales.

The U.S. retail syrup category is $469.1 million and has grown at a compound
annual rate of approximately 2% over the last three years. The category is
comprised of three segments: regular (approximately 60% of sales), lite
(approximately 27% of sales), and pure maple/diet/specialty (approximately 13%
of sales). Regular syrup is a full-calorie corn syrup based product. Lite syrup
is also a corn syrup based product, but has only half the calories of regular
syrup. Pure maple, diet, and other specialty syrups are all non-corn syrup based
products which occupy market niches that are not currently offered by any of the
major national syrup manufacturers. The Company competes in the regular and lite
segments and plans to launch a LOG CABIN sugar-free diet syrup to capitalize on
the strength of the LOG CABIN brand equity.

54
<PAGE>
The Company is the leader in both the regular and lite syrup segments of the
syrup category as indicated in the table below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Share
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ Regional/
Sales MRS. COUNTRY Total AUNT HUNGRY Private
Segment (mm) BUTTERWORTH'S LOG CABIN KITCHEN Company JEMIMA JACK Label
- ---------------- --------- ----------------- ----------- ------------- ------------- ----------- ------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Regular......... $ 279.2 17.1% 15.8% 4.6% 37.5% 15.2% 6.3% 41.0%
Lite............ 126.6 16.0 15.1 4.7 35.8% 34.3 8.3 21.6
Specialty/ Pure
Maple......... 63.3 -- -- -- -- -- -- 100.0
---------
Total........... $ 469.1 15.1% 13.5% 5.3% 33.9% 18.3% 6.0% 41.8%
-- --
-- --
--------- --- --- --- --- -----
--------- --- --- --- --- -----
</TABLE>

As non-core brands to their prior owners, both the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S and
LOG CABIN brands lacked sufficient marketing and brand management resources,
resulting in share erosion. To revitalize the LOG CABIN brand, management
recently introduced a new television advertising campaign featuring the slogan,
"In the heart of every home, there's a little Log Cabin". New packaging has been
developed which replicates a log cabin and will be introduced in the second half
of 1998. To compete against AUNT JEMIMA Lite, the Company introduced a new,
reformulated MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S Lite product in December 1997. MRS.
BUTTERWORTH'S Lite has out-performed AUNT JEMIMA Lite in consumer testing and
has been well received since its launch. For the 13 weeks ended March 21, 1998,
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S Lite sales increased 5.2% over the prior year period while
AUNT JEMIMA'S Lite sales decreased 9.3% from the prior year period. The Company
also plans to reformulate its LOG CABIN Lite product.

VAN DE KAMP'S AND MRS. PAUL'S FROZEN SEAFOOD (25.0% of 1997 Aggregate Pro Forma
Net Sales)

Marketed under the VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S brands, the Company
manufactures and markets a variety of frozen seafood products including breaded
and battered fish sticks and fish fillets, grilled and plain fish fillets,
"healthy" breaded fish, and specialty seafood items. The Company's dual brand
strategy considers both regional strengths (VAN DE KAMP'S is stronger in the
West and Central U.S. while MRS. PAUL'S is stronger in the Northeast and
Southeast) as well as brand positioning (VAN DE KAMP'S targets families with
children while MRS. PAUL'S targets adults). The VAN DE KAMP'S trademark dates
back over 40 years and is recognized as a fun, "contemporary" image that appeals
to families with children. The MRS. PAUL'S franchise began in the mid-1940's
with the introduction of deviled crab cakes and has grown to include a wide
range of specialty seafood items which target the adult consumer.

The $859.5 million frozen seafood category is broken down into two segments:
fin and non-fin. Fin products are fish whereas non-fin products are other
seafood such as shrimp and clams. The frozen seafood category has experienced a
compound annual growth rate of 5.8% over the last three years due to the
introduction of new premium and healthy fillet products and increased
advertising support by the Company and GORTON'S. VAN DE KAMP'S introduced a 97%
fat-free product under its "Crisp and Healthy" label in 1992 and is the only
major retail competitor to offer a line of "healthy" breaded fish products. The
Company offers 14 different premium and grilled products under the VAN DE KAMP'S
and MRS. PAUL'S brands including salmon with creamy dill sauce, teriyaki tuna,
and grilled lemon pepper and garlic herb fillets. The Company also offers a
variety of specialty seafood products including shrimp, fried clams, and deviled
crab cakes.

As the table below indicates, the Company has a leading 28.2% share of the
frozen seafood category. GORTON'S has the number two position with a 20.5%
share, and the remainder of the category is comprised of a multitude of other
regional brands and private label. According to IRI, the #1 and #2

55
<PAGE>
selling frozen seafood SKU's are VAN DE KAMP'S 44 Breaded Fish Sticks and VAN DE
KAMP'S Battered Fillets, respectively.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Share
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
$
Sales VAN DE Total Other/
Segment (mm) KAMP'S MRS. PAUL'S Company GORTON'S Private Label
- ----------- --------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Fin........ $ 549.1 25.2% 15.3% 40.5% 30.3% 29.2%
Non-fin.... 310.4 2.4 4.0 6.4 2.9 90.7
---------
Total...... $ 859.5 17.0% 11.2% 28.2 20.5% 51.3%
--------- --- --- ----------- --- ---
--------- --- --- ----------- --- ---

GRILLED
FIN(1)... $ 66.0 10.6% 29.1% 39.7% 58.8% 1.5%
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

(1) Included in fin segment.

Management is in the process of SKU rationalization between the two brands,
to optimize the VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S product offerings on a
market-by-market basis. This action is intended to insure that key products of
both brands can be found in the freezer case.

The Company continuously builds VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S brand equity
through television and print advertising and consumer promotions.
Cross-promoting is used to focus on the target consumer. For example, VAN DE
KAMP'S products are cross-promoted with KRAFT macaroni and cheese to target
children. Another example of cross-promoting is including in-pack samples of
HEINZ cocktail sauce with VAN DE KAMP'S fish sticks.

AUNT JEMIMA FROZEN BREAKFAST PRODUCTS (9.8% of 1997 Aggregate Pro Forma Net
Sales)

AUNT JEMIMA was established as a brand over 100 years ago. AUNT JEMIMA
frozen breakfast products are offered in three segments: waffles, pancakes
(including frozen pancake batter), and french toast. AUNT JEMIMA is the only
national brand represented across all three segments of the frozen syrup carrier
segment. AUNT JEMIMA'S waffle and pancake products are offered in four
varieties, original, blueberry, buttermilk, and lowfat. The french toast product
is offered in two flavors, regular and cinnamon.

The Company's frozen breakfast products compete in the frozen syrup carrier
segment of the $1.3 billion frozen breakfast foods category. The frozen
breakfast foods category has three segments: frozen syrup carriers
(approximately 51% of total sales), breakfast entrees (approximately 28% of
total sales), and frozen bagels (approximately 21% of total sales). The frozen
syrup carrier segment consists of waffles (approximately 85% of total frozen
syrup carrier sales), pancakes (approximately 9% of total frozen syrup carrier
sales), and french toast (approximately 6% of total frozen syrup carrier sales).
The frozen syrup carrier segment has grown faster than any other frozen
breakfast product offering over the last ten years due to consumers' demand for
quick, convenient, and nutritious foods. Annual per capita consumption of frozen
syrup carriers has grown at a 7.5% compound average growth rate over the last
three years.

56
<PAGE>
As the table below indicates, AUNT JEMIMA is the number three brand in the
frozen syrup carrier category. AUNT JEMIMA is strongest in the Northeast and
holds the number one national share in french toast.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Share
$ ------------------------------------------------------
Size AUNT HUNGRY Regional/
Segment (mm) JEMIMA EGGO JACK Private Label
- --------------------------------- --------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Waffles.......................... $ 576.0 9.3% 64.8% 17.4% 8.5%
Pancakes and Pancake Batter...... 67.6 21.6 8.1 50.7 19.6
French Toast..................... 42.5 52.2 -- -- 47.8
Total............................ $ 686.1 13.1% 55.2% 19.7% 12.0%
--------- --- --- --- ---
--------- --- --- --- ---
</TABLE>

Management plans to increase further AUNT JEMIMA sales through a series of
focused marketing initiatives. At the start of 1998, management redesigned AUNT
JEMIMA's packaging, changing the color from white, which had a very low visual
impact in the freezer case, to red, which has a strong visual impact. Management
plans to or is in the process of (i) expanding distribution of current items,
(ii) launching a reformulated "more homemade taste" pancake product, (iii)
introducing new products in core markets that have proven successful in the
category such as mini pancakes and french toast sticks, and (iv) expanding its
foodservice and private label business. Through a series of television and print
ads on NICKELODEON, management has introduced AUNT JEMIMA to children. This
campaign recognizes the buying power of children and includes an "AUNT JEMIMA
club" for children to join which has proven successful in increasing its brand
recognition to children.

CELESTE FROZEN PIZZA (9.0% of 1997 Aggregate Pro Forma Net Sales)

For over 36 years CELESTE frozen pizza has been a prominent regional brand
in the Northeast. CELESTE frozen pizzas are offered in small and large sizes and
a rising crust pizza is offered under the MAMA CELESTE label. CELESTE'S small
pizzas (marketed as CELESTE Pizza for One) and large pizzas are economy priced
while the MAMA CELESTE Fresh Baked Rising Crust pizza is premium priced.
Introduced in November 1997, MAMA CELESTE Fresh Baked Rising Crust pizza has
performed well in consumer testing and has achieved an 8.4% share in CELESTE
markets (as defined) for the 13 weeks ended March 22, 1998.

Frozen pizza is a $2.0 billion category which has grown at a compound annual
rate of 10.8% over the last two years. The category is comprised of three
segments: large (46.5% total sales), small (33.7% total sales), and a new
entrant, rising crust (19.8% of total sales). Rising crust pizzas have been a
very successful line extension and have been the primary driver of growth within
the frozen pizza category. Rising crust pizzas rise as they bake in the
consumers' oven and offer a pizza comparable in quality to a restaurant or home
delivered pizza.

As indicated in the table below, CELESTE is the number two brand in the
markets in which it competes and the number eight brand nationally. CELESTE
products are primarily sold in the Northeast, Florida, and California. In the
markets in which it competes, CELESTE Pizza for One is the leading brand of
small pizzas. The frozen pizza category is highly fragmented with numerous
regional brands such as CELESTE.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
$ Share
Size ----------------------------------------------------------
(mm) CELESTE TOMBSTONE RED BARON All other
--------- ----------- --------------- --------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
National.............. $ 2,066 3.9% 17.3% 12.3% 66.5%
CELESTE markets....... 641 11.0 15.9 8.4 64.7
</TABLE>

Management believes the CELESTE brand is in a solid position to grow sales
in its core markets due to its strong brand image. Management intends to expand
distribution of its MAMA CELESTE Fresh Baked

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<PAGE>
Rising Crust pizza and its Pizza For One by offering more items in existing
accounts and increasing its geographic distribution. Management is also in the
process of redesigning its Pizza For One packaging to update and contemporize
its brand image.

FOODSERVICE (3.6% of 1997 Aggregate Pro Forma Net Sales)

The Company's foodservice product line consist primarily of AUNT JEMIMA
frozen breakfast products.

Sales of frozen syrup carrier products in the foodservice channel are
growing rapidly due to increased consumption of breakfasts away from home.
Customers in this area include schools, colleges, businesses, and fast food
chains. Management believes that significant opportunities exist for sales
growth of frozen syrup carrier products as well as other frozen product lines.
Management also believes the growth in the syrup carrier segment will drive
foodservice opportunities for MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S and LOG CABIN syrup products.

MARKETING, SALES, AND DISTRIBUTION

Management believes that a focused, consistent marketing strategy is
critical to the successful merchandising and growth of the Company's brands.
Television and print advertising is considered to be a key component to its
marketing strategy. The Company's television and print advertising acts both as
a builder of brand equity by emphasizing the heritage and characteristics of its
product offerings and as a promoter of "new news" for new products within the
brand segments. Consumer promotions include targeted couponing to generate trial
usage and increase purchase frequency. The Company's trade promotions focus on
obtaining retail display support, achieving key price points, and securing
retail shelf space.

The leading positions of the Company's brands has enabled it to practice
category management and enter into alliances and co-marketing arrangements with
leading manufacturers of complementary food products. As the category leader in
syrups and frozen seafood, the Company can practice category management which is
a cooperative effort between the category leader and the retailer aimed at
increasing shelf space profitability for the retail store by rationalizing
product offerings in the category. The category leader generally benefits from
category management because its products are usually featured more prominently
and accorded more shelf space and it can maximize distribution efficiencies.
Successful examples of co-marketing are coupon events for the VAN DE KAMP'S
frozen seafood products with Kraft macaroni and cheese (the most frequently
purchased item in the grocery store) and in-pack samples of Heinz cocktail
sauce.

The Company sells its dry grocery and frozen food products through two
separate sales forces: broker networks and distribution systems. The dry grocery
division has a sales force of 13 people which manages approximately 63
independent food brokers and 40 foodservice brokers. Dry grocery products are
shipped either directly to the customer or to one of five independent,
regionally located warehouses which provides national coverage. The frozen
convenience food division has a sales force of 16 people which manages
approximately 57 independent frozen food brokers and 49 independent food service
brokers. Frozen food products are shipped either directly to the customer or to
one of four independent, regionally located warehouses which provides national
coverage. The Company's customers include most of the major supermarkets and
chains in the U.S. None of the Company's customers or group of customers account
for more than 10% of the Company's sales.

RAW MATERIALS

The Company purchases its raw materials, all of which are widely available,
from numerous independent suppliers throughout the year. The principal raw
material of VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S brand fish products is Alaskan
pollock.

58
<PAGE>
The Company procures its annual Alaskan pollock fillet requirements from
various North Pacific suppliers. The key fishing season is in January through
April with a second season in September through October. In late May or early
June, the Company contracts to purchase pollock fillet requirements for the
following 10 to 12 months. This enables the Company to project reasonably
accurately its production costs for the fall and Lent seasonal peaks in frozen
seafood sales. The Company does not purchase the frozen fillets until delivery
to ports in the United States, which occurs in stages as needed, over the course
of 10 to 12 months. This arrangement minimizes the investment required in
inventory.

The Company's other primary raw materials are flour, sugar, corn syrup,
liquid sucrose, maple sugar, flavorings, cheeses, meat, eggs, milk, and
vegetable oil which are generally sourced from the U.S. commodity market. The
Company also utilizes significant quantities of glass, plastic, and cardboard
for its packaging requirements. Supplies of raw materials and packaging
requirements are readily available from a number of sources. Purchases are based
on price and quality. Major purchases are made through a bidding process.

COMPETITION

The food products business is highly competitive. Numerous brands and
products compete for shelf space and sales, with competition based primarily on
brand recognition and loyalty, price, quality, and convenience. The Company
competes with a significant number of companies of varying sizes, including
divisions or subsidiaries of larger companies. A number of these competitors
have broader product lines, substantially greater financial and other resources
available to them, lower fixed costs and/or longer operating histories.

SEASONALITY

The Company does not experience any material effects of seasonality in its
business. There are no material backlogs.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

The Company maintains its primary research and development departments for
its Aurora Division in Columbus, Ohio and for its VDK Division in St. Louis,
Missouri. The departments are responsible for nearly all of the food research
and product development for the Company. The Company uses food technology
consultants where appropriate. The Company's research and development resources
are focused on new product development, product enhancement, process design and
improvement, packaging, and exploratory research in new business areas.

PRODUCTION AND FACILITIES

The Company owns and operates two manufacturing facilities for its frozen
food products described in the following table. The Company's headquarters are
leased by Dartford pursuant to a lease that expires February 2002. See "Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions". The VDK Division's corporate offices
lease will expire in September 2000, subject to one five-year renewal option.

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<PAGE>
The Aurora Division's corporate offices lease will expire in May 2002. The
Company's facilities, equipment and offices are subject to security interests
granted to its lenders:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
APPROXIMATE
LOCATION PRINCIPAL USE SQUARE FOOTAGE OWNED/LEASED
- ---------------------------- ---------------------------- ----------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Jackson, TN................. Frozen Breakfast, Frozen 302,000 Owned
Pizza and Grilled Fish
Erie, PA.................... Frozen Seafood 116,000 Owned
St. Louis, MO............... VDK Division Corporate 12,000 Leased
Offices
Columbus, OH................ Aurora Division Corporate 10,500 Leased
Offices
San Francisco, CA........... Company Headquarters 7,000 Leased
</TABLE>

BAKING MIXES

DUNCAN HINES products are contract manufactured and distributed by P&G
pursuant to a co-pack agreement for the following periods: until July 16, 1998
for specialty mixes, until October 16, 1998 for frosting, and until April 16,
1999 for cake mixes. The Company entered into long-term co-pack agreements for
its DUNCAN HINES cake mixes and frosting and specialty mixes with contract
manufacturers and will transition the DUNCAN HINES manufacturing assets from
P&G's Jackson, Tennessee plant to production facilities owned or leased by such
contract manufacturers. The terms of the long-term co-pack agreements are five
years with an automatic one-year renewal.

SYRUPS

The Company's syrup products are produced by contract manufacturers at four
manufacturing facilities pursuant to syrup co-pack agreements with terms of five
years and automatic renewal for one year unless cancelled by the other party.
All of the Company's syrup production equipment, including batching, filling,
and case-packing equipment is, or will be located, at one of the contract
manufacturers.

FROZEN CONVENIENCE FOODS

The Company manufactures its VAN DE KAMP'S and MRS. PAUL'S frozen seafood
products at its Erie, Pennsylvania and Jackson, Tennessee facilities. The Erie
plant currently operates at 59% of capacity (based on 3 shifts, 5 days a week).
Annual capacity of the plant is approximately 9.2 million cases. Certain
specialty seafood items such as shrimp and clams are contract manufactured by
third parties. The Company produces AUNT JEMIMA and CELESTE products at its
Jackson facility. The plant currently operates at a weighted average of
approximately 70% of capacity (based on 3 shifts, 5 days a week).

TRADEMARKS

The Company's principal trademarks are DUNCAN HINES, LOG CABIN, MRS.
BUTTERWORTH'S, VAN DE KAMP'S, MRS. PAUL'S, CELESTE, and MAMA CELESTE. The
Company licenses the AUNT JEMIMA trademark pursuant to a perpetual,
royalty-free, license agreement which requires the Company to obtain the
approval of Quaker Oats for any material change to any labels, packaging,
advertising, and promotional materials bearing the AUNT JEMIMA trademark. Quaker
Oats can only withhold approval if such proposed use violates such license
agreement. See "Risk Factors--Trademarks".

EMPLOYEES

As of June 1, 1998, the Company had a total of approximately 1,225
employees, none of whom are represented by unions. Management of the Company
believes it has good relations with its employees.

60
<PAGE>
CERTAIN LEGAL AND REGULATORY MATTERS

LITIGATION

The Company, in the ordinary course of business, is involved in various
legal proceedings. The Company does not believe the outcome of these proceedings
will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or
results of operation.

PUBLIC HEALTH

The Company is subject to the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and
regulations promulgated thereunder by the FDA. This comprehensive regulatory
program governs, among other things, the manufacturing, composition and
ingredients, labeling, packaging and safety of food. For example, the FDA
regulates manufacturing practices for foods through its current "good
manufacturing practices" regulations and specifies the "recipes," called
standards of identity, for certain foods. In addition, the Nutrition Labeling
and Education Act of 1990, as amended, prescribes the format and content of
certain information required to appear on the labels of food products. The
Company is subject to regulation by certain other governmental agencies,
including the United States Department of Agriculture.

The operations and the products of the Company are also subject to state and
local regulation through such measures as licensing of plants, enforcement by
state health agencies of various state standards and inspection of the
facilities. Enforcement actions for violations of federal, state, and local
regulations may include seizure and condemnation of violative products, cease
and desist orders, injunctions and/or monetary penalties. Management believes
that the Company's facilities and practices are sufficient to maintain
compliance with applicable government regulations, although there can be no
assurances in this regard.

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

The Company is subject to certain regulations by the Federal Trade
Commission ("FTC"). Advertising of the Company's products is subject to
regulation by the FTC pursuant to the Federal Trade Commission Act and the
regulations promulgated thereunder.

EMPLOYEE SAFETY REGULATIONS

The Company is subject to certain health and safety regulations including
regulations issued pursuant to the Occupational Safety and Health Act. These
regulations require the Company to comply with certain manufacturing, health,
and safety standards to protect its employees from accidents.

ENVIRONMENTAL

The past and present business operations of, and ownership and operation of
real property by, the Company are subject to extensive and changing federal,
state, local, and foreign environmental laws and regulations pertaining to the
discharge of materials into the environment and the handling and disposition of
wastes (including solid and hazardous wastes) or otherwise relating to
protection of the environment. Compliance with such laws and regulations is not
expected to have a material impact on the Company's capital expenditures,
earnings, or competitive position. No assurance can be given, however, that
additional environmental issues relating to presently known matters or
identified sites or to other matters or sites will not require additional,
currently unanticipated investigation, assessment, or expenditures.

61
<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT

DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

The following table provides information concerning the directors and
executive officers of the Company each of whom has served in the capacities
indicated below since its incorporation on , 1998.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME AGE POSITION(S)
- ----------------------------------------- --- -----------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Ian R. Wilson............................ 68 Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer
James B. Ardrey.......................... 40 Vice Chairman and Director
Ray Chung................................ 50 Executive Vice President
M. Laurie Cummings....................... 34 Chief Financial Officer and Secretary
Thomas O. Ellinwood...................... 44 President, VDK Division
Thomas J. Ferraro........................ 50 President, Aurora Division
Anthony A. Bevilacqua.................... 43 Executive Vice President--Sales and
Marketing, VDK Division
C. Gary Willett.......................... 42 Executive Vice President, Aurora Division
Clive A. Apsey........................... 49 Director
Charles Ayres............................ 38 Director
David E. De Leeuw........................ 53 Director
Charles J. Delaney....................... 37 Director
Richard C. Dresdale...................... 42 Director
Andrea Geisser........................... 55 Director
Peter Lamm............................... 46 Director
Tyler T. Zachem.......................... 32 Director
</TABLE>

Messrs. Wilson, Ardrey, Chung and Ms. Cummings compose the Office of the
Chairman. Each director will hold office until the next annual meeting of
stockholders or until his or her successor has been elected and qualified. See
"Principal Stockholders and Selling Stockholder--Securityholders Agreement" for
a discussion of the election of directors. Executive officers of the Company are
appointed by, and serve at the pleasure of, the Board of Directors. A brief
biography of each director and executive officer follows:

IAN R. WILSON--CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER. Mr. Wilson served as
Chairman of Aurora Foods Inc. since December 1996 and Chairman of Van de Kamp's,
Inc. since September 1995. Mr. Wilson is the Managing Partner of Dartford
Partnership L.L.C., a private partnership focused on the food and beverage
industries. From 1989 through 1995, Mr. Wilson was Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of Windmill Holdings Corporation, a leading specialty miller and
supplier of branded food products. From 1985 through 1989, Mr. Wilson was
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Wyndham Foods, Inc., a major cookie
company he founded and positioned as a leading popular priced cookie company in
the United States. From 1983 to 1984, Mr. Wilson was the Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of Castle & Cooke, Inc. (now known as Dole Food Company,
Inc.), an international food and real estate concern. Prior to Castle & Cooke,
Inc., Mr. Wilson spent 25 years with The Coca-Cola Company, serving in a series
of international operating management positions. Ultimately, Mr. Wilson served
as Vice Chairman of The Coca-Cola Company and President of the Pacific Group.
Mr. Wilson's past service as a director includes membership on the boards of
Novell, Inc., Revlon, Inc., Crown Zellerbach Corporation, and Castle & Cooke,
Inc. Mr. Wilson currently serves as Chairman of Windy Hill Pet Food Company,
Inc.

JAMES B. ARDREY--VICE CHAIRMAN AND DIRECTOR. Mr. Ardrey served as Executive
Vice President and Director of Aurora Foods Inc. since December 1996 and
Executive Vice President and Director of

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<PAGE>
Van de Kamp's, Inc. since September 1995. Mr. Ardrey is a partner of Dartford
Partnership L.L.C. From 1993 to 1995, Mr. Ardrey was a consultant to Windmill
Holdings Corporation, conducting its divestiture program. From 1984 to 1992, Mr.
Ardrey was an investment banker with PaineWebber Incorporated, serving as
Managing Director from 1990 to 1992. Prior to joining PaineWebber, Mr. Ardrey
was a consultant with Booz, Allen & Hamilton. Mr. Ardrey currently serves as
Executive Vice President of Windy Hill Pet Food Company, Inc.

RAY CHUNG--EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT. Mr. Chung served as Executive Vice
President and Director of Aurora Foods Inc. since December 1996 and Executive
Vice President of Van de Kamp's, Inc. and Director of VDK Holdings, Inc. since
September 1995. Mr. Chung is a founding partner of Dartford Partnership L.L.C.
Mr. Chung has previously served as a Director, Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer of Windmill Holdings Corporation from 1989 to 1995 and
as a Director, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Wyndham
Foods, Inc. from 1985 to 1990. From May 1984 to September 1985, Mr. Chung served
as Vice President--Finance for the Kendall Company (Colgate-Palmolive). Between
1981 and 1984, Mr. Chung served as Vice President--Finance for Riviana Foods,
Inc. Mr. Chung currently serves as Executive Vice President and Director of
Windy Hill Pet Food Company, Inc.

M. LAURIE CUMMINGS--CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER. Ms. Cummings served as Vice
President and Secretary of Aurora Foods Inc. since December 1996 and Vice
President and Secretary of Van de Kamp's, Inc. since September 1995. Ms.
Cummings has been a partner in Dartford Partnership L.L.C. since 1994. Ms.
Cummings was Vice President, Controller and Treasurer of Windmill Holdings
Corporation from 1989 to 1995. Between 1987 and 1990, Ms. Cummings was the
Controller and Assistant Treasurer of Wyndham Foods, Inc. Ms. Cummings currently
serves as Vice President and Secretary of Windy Hill Pet Food Company, Inc.

THOMAS O. ELLINWOOD--PRESIDENT OF THE VDK DIVISION. Mr. Ellinwood has been
with Van de Kamp's, Inc. since 1995. Mr. Ellinwood has been responsible for the
management of Van de Kamp's, Inc. since Pet Incorporated acquired VAN DE KAMP'S
from Grand Metropolitan, PLC in October 1989, when he headed the acquisition and
integration team as Director/Marketing Manager. Mr. Ellinwood was Vice President
and General Manager of Pet Incorporated from March 1992 until Van de Kamp's,
Inc. brought the VAN DE KAMP'S business in 1995. Between 1990 and 1992, Mr.
Ellinwood held the position of Vice President, Marketing. Prior to Pet's
acquisition of VAN DE KAMP'S, from 1986 to 1989, Mr. Ellinwood held various
positions of increasing responsibility with Pet's sales and marketing
departments. Mr. Ellinwood served as General Manager of Omar, Inc., a privately
owned aerospace manufacturing company from 1983 to 1986.

THOMAS J. FERRARO--PRESIDENT OF THE AURORA DIVISION. Prior to joining
Aurora Foods in 1996, from September 1994 to June 1996, Mr. Ferraro served as
President of Campfire, Inc., which merged into International Home Foods, Inc.
Prior to joining Campfire, Inc., he was, from 1991 to 1994, Vice President of
Sales for the Niche Grocery division of Borden, Inc. Mr. Ferraro's experience
with niche grocery products extends back to his early career with RJR Nabisco
Inc. and Dracket products, a division of Bristol-Meyers Squibb Company, where he
held a variety of marketing and sales positions.

ANTHONY A. BEVILACQUA--EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, SALES AND MARKETING, VDK
DIVISION. Mr. Bevilacqua joined Van de Kamp's, Inc. in February 1998 and is
responsible for the development, direction and implementation of Van de Kamp's,
Inc. go-to-market strategy across all aspects of the Company's customer and
consumer value strategy. Prior to joining Van de Kamp's, Inc., Mr. Bevilacqua
was Senior Vice President at Aramark's Spectrum Healthcare Services from
September 1994 to December 1997. Between 1980 and 1994, Mr. Bevilacqua held
various positions of increasing responsibilities in sales and marketing with
Ralston Purina Company ("Ralston"). In 1992, he was promoted to Vice President
of Marketing at Ralston's Eveready Battery Canadian division.

63
<PAGE>
C. GARY WILLETT--EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, AURORA DIVISION. Mr. Willett
joined Aurora Foods in December 1996. From August 1995 to September 1996, he
served as Executive Vice President/General Manager of Campfire, Inc., which
merged into International Home Foods, Inc. Prior to joining Campfire, Inc., Mr.
Willett spent 12 years with Borden, Inc., from June 1983 to August 1995, in a
series of marketing and general management positions, most recently as Vice
President/General Manager of Elmer's, a division of Borden, Inc.

CLIVE A. APSEY--DIRECTOR. Mr. Apsey served as a director of Van de Kamp's,
Inc. since September 1995. Mr. Apsey has been an Executive Director of Tiger
Oats Ltd. since 1987 and currently serves as Executive Chairman of the
International Division of Tiger Oats Ltd. Tiger Oats Ltd. is a major public food
company in Southern Africa. Mr. Apsey's past and present service as a director
includes membership on the boards of the following companies: Tiger Milling &
Feeds Ltd., Tiger Foods Ltd., Tiger Oats, Langeberg Foods, Ltd., Langeberg
Holdings Ltd., Beacon Sweets and Chocolates (Pty) Ltd. and Durban Confectionery
Works (Pty) Ltd.

CHARLES AYRES--DIRECTOR. Mr. Ayres served as a director of Aurora Foods
Inc. since December 1996. Mr. Ayres is a managing director of McCown De Leeuw &
Co., Inc. Mr. Ayres has been associated with McCown De Leeuw & Co. since 1991.
Prior to joining McCown De Leeuw & Co., Mr. Ayres was a founding partner of HMA
Investments, Inc., a private investment firm focused on middle market management
buyouts. Mr. Ayres began his career as an investment banker with Lazard Freres &
Co. He currently serves as a director of Nimbus CD International, Inc. and The
Brown Schools, Inc.

DAVID E. DE LEEUW--DIRECTOR. Mr. De Leeuw served as a director of Aurora
Foods Inc. since December 1996. Mr. De Leeuw is a managing director of McCown De
Leeuw & Co., Inc. Prior to founding McCown De Leeuw & Co. with George E. McCown
in 1984, Mr. De Leeuw was Manager of the Leveraged Acquisition Unit and Vice
President in the Capital Markets Group at Citibank, N.A. Mr. De Leeuw also
worked with W.R. Grace & Co. where he was Assistant Treasurer and Manager of
Corporate Finance. Mr. De Leeuw began his career as an investment banker with
Paine Webber Incorporated. He currently serves as a director of Vans, Inc.,
Nimbus CD International, Inc., AmeriComm Holdings, Inc., Outsourcing Solutions
Inc. and American Residential Investment Trust.

CHARLES J. DELANEY--DIRECTOR. Mr. Delaney served as a director of Van de
Kamp's, Inc. since September 1995. Mr. Delaney has been President of UBS Capital
LLC since January 1993 and Managing Director in charge of the Leveraged Finance
Group of the Corporate Banking Division of Union Bank of Switzerland since May
1989. Mr. Delaney is also a director of Cinnabon International, Inc. and Peoples
Telephone Company, Inc.

RICHARD C. DRESDALE--DIRECTOR. Mr. Dresdale served as a director of Aurora
Foods Inc. since December 1996. Mr. Dresdale has been a Managing Director of
Fenway Partners, Inc. since the firm's founding in 1994. Fenway is a New
York-based private equity firm for institutional investors with a primary
objective of acquiring leading middle-market companies. Prior to founding Fenway
with Messrs. Lamm and Geisser, Mr. Dresdale was employed by Clayton, Dubilier
and Rice, Inc. from June 1985 to March 1994, most recently as a Principal. Mr.
Dresdale serves as a director of a number of Fenway's portfolio companies,
including Blue Capital Management, LLC, Central Tractor Farm & Country, Inc. and
Delimex Holdings, Inc. Mr. Dresdale is also a director of Remington Arms
Company, Inc., a designer, manufacturer and seller of sporting goods products
for the hunting, shooting sports and fishing markets.

ANDREA GEISSER--DIRECTOR. Mr. Geisser served as a director of Van de
Kamp's, Inc. since September 1995. Mr. Geisser has been a Managing Director of
Fenway Partners, Inc. since the firm's founding in 1994. Prior to founding
Fenway with Messrs. Lamm and Dresdale, Mr. Geisser was employed by Butler
Capital Corporation ("BCC") from February 1989 to June 1994, most recently as
Managing Director and General Partner of each of the management partnerships of
the investment partnerships sponsored by BCC. From 1986 to 1989, Mr. Geisser was
a Managing Director of Onex Investment Corporation, the

64
<PAGE>
largest Canadian leveraged buyout company, and prior to that started the U.S.
operations of IFINT, a European investment company, where he was a Senior Vice
President and Director. Mr. Geisser serves as a director of a number of Fenway's
portfolio companies, including Decorative Concepts, Inc., Delimex Holdings,
Inc., Iron Age Corporation and Valley Recreation Products, Inc.

PETER LAMM--DIRECTOR. Mr. Lamm served as a director of Van de Kamp's Inc.
since September 1995 and as a director of Aurora Foods Inc. since December 1996.
Mr. Lamm has been President of Fenway Partners, Inc. since the firm's founding
in 1994. Prior to founding Fenway with Messrs. Dresdale and Geisser, Mr. Lamm
was employed by BCC from February 1982 to April 1994, most recently as Managing
Director and General Partner of each of the management partnerships of the
investment partnerships sponsored by BCC. Mr. Lamm serves as a director of a
number of Fenway's portfolio companies, including Blue Capital Management, LLC,
Central Tractor Farm & Country, Inc., Delimex Holdings, Inc., Iron Age
Corporation and National School Supply Company.

TYLER T. ZACHEM--DIRECTOR. Mr. Zachem served as a director of Aurora Foods
Inc. since December 1995. Mr. Zachem is a principal of McCown De Leeuw & Co.,
Inc. Mr. Zachem has been associated with McCown De Leeuw & Co. since July 1993.
Mr. Zachem previously worked as a consultant with McKinsey & Co. and as an
investment banker with McDonald & Company. He currently serves as a director of
Outsourcing Solutions Inc., RSP Manufacturing Corporation, The Brown Schools,
Inc. and Papa Gino's, Inc.

There is no family relationship between any of the executive officers or
directors of the Company.

ELECTION AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The election of directors is effectively governed by the terms of the
Securityholders Agreement. See "Principal Stockholders and Selling
Stockholder--Securityholders Agreement".

The Board of Directors of the Company has two committees: an audit committee
and a compensation committee. The audit committee's functions include
recommending to the Board of Directors the engagement of the Company's
independent public accountants and reviewing with such accountants the plans
for, and the result and scope of, their auditing engagement. The compensation
committee determines the compensation of executive officers, including bonuses,
and administers the Company's 1998 Incentive Plan. The audit committee consists
of , , and . The compensation committee consists of ,
, and . The Chairman of the Board is an ex-officio member of the
audit and compensation committees.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The Company paid Dartford a fee of $768,000 in 1997 for serving in the role
of the Company's executive office. Upon the closing of the Offerings, Mr. Ian R.
Wilson will serve as Chief Executive Officer, Mr. James B. Ardrey will serve as
Vice Chairman, Mr. Ray Chung will serve as Executive Vice President, and Ms. M.
Laurie Cummings will serve as Chief Financial Officer and Secretary of the
Company pursuant to employment agreements. See "Management--Employment
Agreements" and "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions".

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS

Mr. Ian R. Wilson serves as the Chairman of the Board and the Chief
Executive Officer of the Company pursuant to an employment agreement which
becomes effective upon the closing of the Offerings. Mr. Wilson receives an
annual base salary of $1.0 million during the term of the agreement and is
eligible to receive a bonus of up to 80% of his base salary based on certain
earnings criteria. The employment agreement provides for a term of two years and
a non-compete covenant for the term of his employment and thereafter until the
earlier of the second anniversary of the closing of the Offerings or

65
<PAGE>
the first anniversary of employing a Chief Executive Officer other than Mr. Ian
R. Wilson. Upon termination by the Company other than for cause (as defined in
the employment agreement), Mr. Wilson shall receive his salary through the
remaining term of the non-compete period and his bonus pro rated for the year of
termination.

Mr. James B. Ardrey serves as the Vice Chairman of the Company pursuant to
an employment agreement which becomes effective upon the closing of the
Offerings. Mr. Ardrey receives an annual base salary of $600,000 during the term
of the agreement and is eligible to receive a bonus of up to 80% of his base
salary based on certain earnings criteria. The employment agreement provides for
a term of two years and a non-compete covenant for the term of his employment
and thereafter until the earlier of the second anniversary of the closing of the
Offerings or the first anniversary of employing a Chief Executive Officer other
than Mr. Ian R. Wilson. Upon termination by the Company other than for cause (as
defined in the employment agreement), Mr. Ardrey shall receive his salary
through the remaining term of the non-compete period and his bonus pro rated for
the year of termination.

Mr. Ray Chung serves as the Executive Vice President of the Company pursuant
to an employment agreement which becomes effective upon the closing of the
Offerings. Mr. Chung receives an annual base salary of $350,000 during the term
of the agreement and is eligible to receive a bonus of up to 80% of his base
salary based on certain earnings criteria. The employment agreement provides for
a term of two years and a non-compete covenant for the term of his employment
and thereafter until the earlier of the second anniversary of the closing of the
Offerings or the first anniversary of, employing a Chief Executive Officer other
than Mr. Ian R. Wilson. Upon termination by the Company other than for cause (as
defined in the employment agreement), Mr. Chung shall receive his salary through
the remaining term of the non-compete period and his bonus pro rated for the
year of termination.

Ms. M. Laurie Cummings serves as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company
pursuant to an employment agreement which becomes effective upon the closing of
the Offerings. Ms. Cummings receives an annual base salary of $250,000 during
the term of the agreement and is eligible to receive a bonus of up to 80% of her
base salary based on certain earnings criteria. The employment agreement
provides for a term of two years and a non-compete covenant for the term of her
employment and thereafter until the earlier of the second anniversary of the
closing of the Offerings or the first anniversary of employing a Chief Executive
Officer other than Mr. Ian R. Wilson. Upon termination by the Company other than
for cause (as defined in the employment agreement), Ms. Cummings shall receive
her salary through the remaining term of the non-compete period and her bonus
pro rated for the year of termination.

Mr. Thomas J. Ferraro serves as the President of the Aurora Division
pursuant to an employment agreement, dated as of December 31, 1996, as amended
(the "Ferraro Employment Agreement"). He receives a base salary of $275,000 per
year and is eligible to receive a bonus of up to 80% of his base salary based
upon certain earnings criteria. The Ferraro Employment Agreement provides for a
two-year term ending December 31, 1998; however, on each December 31st, the term
automatically extends for one additional year. If the Company terminates Mr.
Ferraro's employment without cause, the Ferraro Employment Agreement requires
the Company to pay him an amount equal to the base salary he would have been
entitled to receive through the end of the current term of his employment
agreement. Mr. Ferraro is also entitled to receive any bonus for the preceding
fiscal year which has not been paid as of the date of his termination plus a pro
rata portion of any base and supplemental bonus with respect to such fiscal year
based upon the actual number of days the Company employed Mr. Ferraro during
such fiscal year. Mr. Ferraro may not compete with or solicit employees from the
Company until the later of the first anniversary of his termination and the end
of the current term of his employment agreement.

Mr. Thomas O. Ellinwood serves as the President of the VDK Division pursuant
to an employment agreement, dated as of March 1, 1997 and amended as of July 1,
1997 (the "Ellinwood Employment Agreement"). The Ellinwood Employment Agreement
provides for a three-year term; however, on each

66
<PAGE>
September 30th, the term automatically extends for one additional year so that
the term ends three years after such September 30th unless notice by either the
Company or Mr. Ellinwood to terminate is given 30 days prior to the automatic
extension. Mr. Ellinwood receives an annual base salary of $275,000 (subject to
annual adjustment) during the term of the agreement and is eligible to receive a
bonus of up to 80% of his base salary based upon certain earnings criteria. If
the Company terminates Mr. Ellinwood's employment without cause before a change
of control (as defined in the agreement), the Company is required to pay him the
greater of (i) 200% of his base salary then in effect or (ii) the base salary he
would have been entitled to receive through the end of the current term of the
employment agreement plus his base bonus pro rated according to the actual
number of days the Company employed him for such fiscal year. If the Company
terminates Mr. Ellinwood's employment without cause after a change of control
(as defined in the agreement) or Mr. Ellinwood terminates his employment with
the Company for "Good Reason" (as defined in the agreement) after a change of
control, the Company must pay him the sum of 200% of his base salary then in
effect plus his bonus pro rated according to the actual number of days the
Company employed him for such fiscal year. The pro rated portion of his bonus is
payable as if the Company's financial results equal exactly 100% of the EBITDA
target for that year. Mr. Ellinwood's employment agreement also provides that
for one year following his termination of employment with the Company (other
than a termination by the Company without cause), Mr. Ellinwood may not compete
with or solicit employees from the Company.

AURORA COMPENSATION PLAN

The Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of MBW
Investors LLC contained a compensation arrangement (the "Aurora Plan") as a
means by which certain key employees and other specifically designated persons
("Key Personnel of Aurora") of Aurora and/or affiliated with Aurora, were given
an opportunity to benefit from appreciation in the value of Aurora. Under the
Aurora Plan, Key Personnel of Aurora were issued a specific class of limited
liability company member units ("Management Units"), at a nominal value, as a
means to participate in the appreciation of the equity value of Aurora. The
Management Units were subject to vesting requirements based on terms of
employment or other factors.

Upon the closing of the Offerings, all unvested Management Units became
fully vested and the final value of all classes of Management Units was
determined, based on the valuation of the shares of the Company held indirectly
by MBW Investors LLC. The aggregate value of all Management Units was $
million. Through December 27, 1997, Aurora had recorded estimated compensation
expense of $2.3 million based on the estimated valuation of the Company at that
time. The additional compensation expense of $ million was recorded in the
first and second quarters of 1998. The compensation expense has been recorded as
a liability of MBW Investors LLC as sponsor of the Aurora Plan. However, because
the Aurora Plan was for the benefit of Key Personnel of Aurora, expense
recognized under the Aurora Plan has been pushed down to the Company as
compensation and as additional paid-in capital from its parent. After the date
of the Offerings no additional compensation expense will be recorded under the
Aurora Plan.

MBW Investors LLC will satisfy its liability under the Aurora Plan by
distributing a fixed number of shares of Common Stock of the Company based on
the valuation of the Management Units at the initial public offering price of
the Company's Common Stock on the dissolution of MBW Investors LLC. See "Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions".

VDK COMPENSATION PLAN

VDK Foods LLC provided a compensation arrangement (the "VDK Plan") as a
means by which certain key employees and other specifically designated persons
("Key Personnel of VDK") of VDK and/ or affiliated with VDK, were given an
opportunity to benefit from appreciation in the equity value of VDK. Under the
VDK Plan, Key Personnel of VDK were issued a specific class of limited liability
member units

67
<PAGE>
("VDK Management Units"), at a nominal value, as a means to participate in the
appreciation of the equity value of VDK. The VDK Management Units were subject
to vesting requirement based on terms of employment or other factors.

Upon the closing of the Offerings, all unvested VDK Management Units became
fully vested and the final value of all classes of VDK Management Units was
determined based on the valuation of the shares of the Company held indirectly
by VDK Foods LLC. The aggregate value of all VDK Management Units was $
million. Through December 31, 1997, no compensation plan expense had been
recorded by VDK based on the estimated valuation of VDK at that time. Therefore,
the entire compensation plan expense of $ million was recorded in the
first and second quarters of 1998. The compensation plan expense has been
recorded as a liability of VDK Foods LLC as sponsor of the VDK Plan. However,
because the VDK Plan was for the benefit of Key Personnel of VDK, expense
recognized under the VDK Plan has been pushed down to the Company as
compensation and as additional paid in capital from its parent. After the date
of the Offerings no additional compensation expense will be recorded under the
VDK Plan.

VDK Foods LLC will satisfy its liability under the VDK Plan by distributing
a fixed number of shares of Common Stock of the Company one year from the date
of the closing of the Offerings, based on the valuation of the VDK Management
Units at the initial public offering price of the Company's Common Stock. See
"Certain Relationships and Related Parties".

The VDK Plan provides for tax gross up payments on certain distributions.
Because the Company will receive the tax benefit of such distributions and
related tax gross up payments, and because the tax benefit will approximate the
amount of the tax gross up payments, the Company will bear the liability for any
such tax gross up payments due. The estimated tax gross up payment is $15.0
million and has been recorded as additional compensation plan expense and other
liabilities. The tax benefit of the tax gross up payment and related
distributions of the like amount of $ million has been recorded to income
tax expense and as a deferred tax asset.

To facilitate payment of the tax gross up obligation and recognition of
related tax benefits, VDK adopted a new compensation plan (the "New VDK Plan"
and together with the VDK Plan, the "VDK Plans"), which was assumed by the
Company upon completion of the Merger. Under the New VDK Plan, the Company is
obligated to issue, one year from the date of the closing of the Offerings,
shares of the Company's Common Stock to Key Personnel of VDK who were
granted certain types of VDK Management Units under the VDK Plan. The issuance
of such shares (the "MC Shares") will not increase the number of outstanding
shares of Common Stock because the Company's obligations to issue the MC Shares
is contingent upon the Company's receiving from VDK Foods LLC, as a
contribution, a number of shares of the Company's Common Stock owned by VDK
Foods LLC equal to the number of MC Shares. The Company will have no obligation
to issue MC Shares unless it receives a contribution of an equal number of
shares from VDK Foods LLC. VDK Foods LLC is obligated to contribute such shares
to the Company after the closing of the Offerings. The Company's obligation to
make the tax gross up payments referred to above is subject to the Company being
allowed a deduction for federal income tax purposes with respect to the payment
of the MC Shares and tax gross up payment.

1998 INCENTIVE PLAN

Prior to the Offerings, the Board of Directors adopted the 1998 Incentive
Plan and the sole stockholder approved such plan. The Company plans to register
with the Securities and Exchange Commission the shares issuable pursuant to the
1998 Incentive Plan.

The following summary of the 1998 Incentive Plan is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the complete text of the 1998 Incentive Plan, which is
filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of

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<PAGE>
which this Prospectus is a part. Capitalized terms not separately defined below
have the meanings set forth in the 1998 Incentive Plan.

The purpose of the 1998 Incentive Plan is to foster and promote the
long-term financial success and interests of the Company and materially increase
the value of equity interests in the Company by: (a) encouraging the long-term
commitment of selected key employees, (b) motivating superior performance of key
employees by means of long-term performance related incentives, (c) encouraging
and providing key employees with a formal program for obtaining an ownership
interest in the Company, (d) attracting and retaining outstanding key employees
by providing incentive compensation opportunities competitive with other major
companies, and (e) enabling participation by key employees in the long-term
growth and financial success of the Company. Under the 1998 Incentive Plan, the
Compensation Committee has the authority to grant to key employees and
consultants of the Company the following types of awards: (i) stock options in
the form of incentive stock options qualified under Section 422 of the Code
("Incentive Options"), or nonqualified stock options ("Nonqualified Options," or
collectively with the Incentive Options "Options"), or both; (ii) stock
appreciation rights ("SARs"); (iii) restricted stock (the "Restricted Stock");
(iv) performance-based awards; and (v) supplemental payments dedicated to
payment of any federal income taxes that may be payable in conjunction with the
1998 Incentive Plan (collectively referred to as "Incentive Awards").
Approximately persons are eligible to participate in the 1998 Incentive
Plan. [Nonemployee directors of the Company are not eligible to participate in
the 1998 Incentive Plan.] shares of Common Stock have been reserved for
grants of Incentive Awards under the 1998 Incentive Plan.

The 1998 Incentive Plan is administered by the Company's Compensation
Committee which must consist of at least two members of the Board of Directors,
each of whom is a nonemployee director. The 1998 Incentive Plan provides that
the Compensation Committee may make adjustments to the number of shares and to
the exercise price of all or any Incentive Awards. The compensation committee's
determinations and interpretations under the 1998 Incentive Plan are final,
binding and conclusive on all participants and need not be uniform and may be
made by the compensation committee selectively among persons who receive, or are
eligible to receive, grants and awards under the 1998 Incentive Plan. No grantee
of an Incentive Award may receive during any fiscal year Incentive Awards
covering an aggregate of more than [200,000] shares of Common Stock.

The Compensation Committee may limit an optionee's right to exercise all or
any portion of an Option until one or more dates subsequent to the date of
grant. The Compensation Committee also has the right, exercisable in its sole
discretion, to accelerate the date on which all or any portion of an Option may
be exercised. The 1998 Incentive Plan also provides that, under certain
circumstances, if any employee is terminated within two years after a "Change of
Control", each Option or SAR then outstanding shall immediately become vested
and be immediately exercisable in full, all restrictions and conditions of all
Restricted Stock then outstanding shall be deemed satisfied and the restriction
period to have expired, and all Performance Shares (as defined below) and
Performance Units (as defined below) shall vest, and be deemed earned in full
and properly paid. In the event of a change of control, however, the
Compensation Committee may, after notice to the Grantee, require the Grantee to
"cash-out" his rights by transferring them to the Company in exchange for their
equivalent "cash value."

If an employee's employment by the Company is terminated for any reason
whatsoever other than death, disability, retirement, involuntary termination or
termination for good reason, any Incentive Award outstanding at the time and all
rights thereunder shall wholly and completely terminate, and unless otherwise
established by the Compensation Committee, no further vesting shall occur and
the Grantee shall be entitled to exercise his rights (if any) with respect to
the portion of the Incentive Award vested as of the date of termination for a
period of 30 calendar days after such termination date; provided, however, that
if an employee is terminated for cause, such employee's right to exercise his
rights (if any) with respect to the vested portion of his or her Incentive Award
shall terminate as of the date of termination of employment. In the event of
termination for death, disability, retirement, or in connection with a change in

69
<PAGE>
control, an Incentive Award may be only exercised as provided in an individual's
incentive agreement, or as determined by the Compensation Committee.

OPTIONS

No Incentive Option may be granted with an exercise price per share less
than the fair market value of the Common Stock at the date of grant.
Nonqualified Options may be granted at any exercise price. The exercise price of
an Option may be paid in cash, by an equivalent method acceptable to the
Compensation Committee, or, at the Compensation Committee's discretion, by
delivery of already owned shares of Common Stock having a fair market value
equal to the exercise price, or, at the Compensation Committee's discretion, by
delivery of a combination of cash and already owned shares of Common Stock.
However, if the optionee acquired the stock to be surrendered directly or
indirectly from the Company, he must have owned the stock to be surrendered for
at least [six months] prior to tendering such stock for the exercise of an
Option.

An eligible employee (a "Grantee") may receive more than one Incentive
Option, but the maximum aggregate fair market value of the Common Stock
(determined when the Incentive Option is granted) with respect to which
Incentive Options are exercisable by such employee in any calendar year cannot
exceed $100,000. In addition, no Incentive Option may be granted to an employee
owning directly or indirectly stock possessing more than 10% of the total
combined voting power of all classes of capital stock of the Company (a
"Ten-Percent Stockholder"), unless the exercise price is not less than 110% of
the fair market value of the shares subject to such Incentive Option on the date
of grant. Awards of Nonqualified Options are not subject to these special
limitations.

Except as otherwise provided by the Compensation Committee, awards under the
1998 Incentive Plan are not transferable other than as designated by the Grantee
by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. The expiration date of an
Incentive Option is determined by the Compensation Committee at the time of the
grant, but in no event may an Incentive Option be exercisable after the
expiration of 10 years from the date of grant of the Incentive Option (five
years in the case of an Incentive Option granted to a Ten-Percent Stockholder).

STOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS

SARs may be granted under the 1998 Incentive Plan in conjunction with all or
part of an Option, or separately. The exercise price of the SAR generally will
not be less than the fair market value of the Common Stock on the date of the
grant. An SAR granted in conjunction with an option will be exercisable only
when the underlying Option is exercisable and once an SAR has been exercised,
the related portion of the Option underlying the SAR will terminate. Upon the
exercise of an SAR, the Company will pay to the Grantee in cash, Common Stock,
or a combination thereof (the method of payment to be at the discretion of the
Compensation Committee), an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value
of the Common Stock on the exercise date over the exercise price, multiplied by
the number of SARs being exercised.

The Compensation Committee, either at the time of grant or at the time of
exercise of any Nonqualified Option or SAR, may provide for a supplemental
payment (a "Supplemental Payment") by the Company to the Grantee with respect to
the exercise of any Nonqualified Option or SAR, in an amount specified by the
Compensation Committee, but which shall not exceed the amount necessary to pay
the federal income tax payable with respect to both the exercise of the
Nonqualified Option and/or SAR and the receipt of the Supplemental Payment,
based on the assumption that the stockholder is taxed at the maximum effective
federal income tax rate on such amounts. The Compensation Committee shall have
the discretion to grant Supplemental Payments that are payable in cash, Common
Stock, or a combination of both, as determined by the Compensation Committee at
the time of payment.

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<PAGE>
RESTRICTED STOCK

Restricted Stock awards may be granted under the 1998 Incentive Plan, and
the provisions attendant to a grant of Restricted Stock may vary among
participants. In making an award of Restricted Stock, the Compensation Committee
will determine the periods during which the Restricted Stock is subject to
forfeiture. During the restriction period, as set forth in the grant of the
Restricted Stock, the Grantee may not sell, transfer, pledge or assign the
Restricted Stock, but will be entitled to vote the Restricted Stock.

The Compensation Committee, at the time of vesting of Restricted Stock, may
provide for a Supplemental Payment by the Company to the Grantee in an amount
specified by the Compensation Committee that shall not exceed the amount
necessary to pay the federal income tax payable with respect to both the vesting
of the Restricted Stock and receipt of the Supplemental Payment, based on the
assumption that the employee is taxed at the maximum effective federal income
tax rate on such amount.

PERFORMANCE UNITS

The Compensation Committee may grant Incentive Awards representing a
contingent right to receive cash ("Performance Units") or shares of Common Stock
("Performance Shares") at the end of a performance period. The Compensation
Committee may grant Performance Units and Performance Shares in such a manner
that more than one performance period is in progress concurrently. For each
performance period, the Compensation Committee shall establish the number of
Performance Units or Performance Shares and the contingent value of any
Performance Units or Performance Shares, which may vary depending on the degree
to which performance objectives established by the Compensation Committee are
met. The Compensation Committee may modify the performance measures and
objectives as it deems appropriate.

The basis for payment of Performance Units or Performance Shares for a given
performance period shall be the achievement of those financial and nonfinancial
performance objectives determined by the Compensation Committee at the beginning
of the performance period. If minimum performance is not achieved for a
performance period, no payment shall be made and all contingent rights shall
cease. If minimum performance is achieved or exceeded, the value of a
Performance Unit or Performance Share shall be based on the degree to which
actual performance exceeded the pre-established minimum performance standards,
as determined by the Compensation Committee. The amount of payment shall be
determined by multiplying the number of Performance Units or Performance Shares
granted at the beginning of the performance period by the final Performance Unit
or Performance Share value. Payments shall be made, in the discretion of the
Compensation Committee, solely in cash or Common Stock, or a combination of cash
and Common Stock, following the close of the applicable performance period.

The Compensation Committee, at the date of payment with respect to such
Performance Units or Performance Shares, may provide for a Supplemental Payment
by the Company to the Grantee in an amount specified by the Compensation
Committee, which shall not exceed the amount necessary to pay the federal income
tax payable with respect to the amount of payment made with respect to such
Performance Units or Performance Shares and receipt of the Supplemental Payment,
based on the assumption that the Grantee is taxed at the maximum effective
federal income tax rate on such amount.

SECTION 162(M) LIMITATIONS

In general, under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the "Code"), compensation expense deductions of publicly-held
corporations may be limited to the extent total compensation (including base
salary, annual bonus, stock option exercises and non-qualified benefits paid)
for certain executive officers exceeds $1.0 million in any one year. However,
under Section 162(m), the deduction limit does not apply to certain
"performance-based compensation" established by an

71
<PAGE>
independent compensation committee which is adequately disclosed to, and
approved by, stockholders. Under a Section 162(m) transition rule for
compensation plans of corporations which are privately held and which become
publicly held in an initial public offering, the individual compensation plan
will not be subject to Section 162(m) until the "Transition Date" which is
defined as the earliest of (i) the expiration of the compensation plan, (ii) the
material modification of the compensation plan; (iii) the issuance of all Common
Stock and other compensation that has been allocated under the compensation
plan; or (iv) the first meeting of stockholders at which directors are to be
elected that occurs after . After the Transition Date,
compensation paid under the compensation plan, will not qualify as
"performance-based compensation" for purposes of Section 162(m) unless such
compensation is based upon preestablished objective performance goals, the
material terms of which are disclosed to and approved by the stockholders of the
Company.

The Company has attempted to structure its executive compensation plan and
its 1998 Incentive Plan in such a manner that, after the Transition Date,
subject to obtaining stockholder approval of the compensation, the remuneration
attributable to such plans which meet the other requirements of Code Section
162(m) will not be subject to the $1.0 million limitation. The Company has not,
however, requested a ruling from the IRS or an opinion of counsel regarding this
issue.

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

Directors who are officers, employees, or otherwise affiliates of the
Company do not receive compensation for their services as directors.
Non-employee directors receive an annual retainer of $ , plus $
for attending each committee meeting of the Board of Directors and $ for
attending each committee meeting. Directors of the Company are entitled to
reimbursement of their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with
their travel to and attendance at meetings of the Board of Directors or
committees thereof.

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION

The Board of Directors has appointed , , and as members of
its Compensation Committee. None of the members of the Compensation Committee is
or has been an officer or employee of the Company.

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<PAGE>
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS AND SELLING STOCKHOLDER

The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial
ownership of the Company's Common Stock (i) immediately prior to the
consummation of the Offerings and (ii) as adjusted to reflect the sale of the
shares of Common Stock pursuant to the Offerings by (a) each person who is known
to the Company to be the beneficial owner of more than five percent of the
Company's Common Stock after the Offerings, (b) each director and executive
officer of the Company, (c) all directors and executive officers of the Company
as a group, and (d) the Selling Stockholder participating in the Offerings.
Except as otherwise indicated, the persons or entities listed below have sole
voting and investment power with respect to all shares of Common Stock
beneficially owned by them, except to the extent such power may be shared with a
spouse.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES BENEFICIALLY SHARES BENEFICIALLY
OWNED PRIOR TO OWNED AFTER
OFFERINGS(1) OFFERINGS(1)(2)
---------------------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NAME AND NUMBER OF
ADDRESS OF OWNER NUMBER PERCENT SHARES OFFERED NUMBER PERCENT
- ------------------------------------ --------- ----------- --------------- --------- ---------
5% STOCKHOLDERS:

Aurora/VDK LLC(2) 100%
VDK Foods LLC(2)
Fenway Partners Capital Fund,
L.P.(3)
McCown De Leeuw & Co. III,
L.P.(4)(5)
McCown De Leeuw & Co. III
(Europe), L.P.(4)
McCown De Leeuw & Co. III
(Asia) L.P.(4)
Gamma Fund LLC(4)
McCown De Leeuw & Co. IV, L.P.(4)
Delta Fund LLC(4)
California Public Employees
Retirement System(5)
Dartford Partnership L.L.C.(6)
Tiger Oats Limited(7)
UBS Capital LLC(8)

OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS:
Ian R. Wilson(6)
James B. Ardrey(6)
Ray Chung(6)
M. Laurie Cummings(6)
Thomas J. Ferraro
Thomas O. Ellinwood(9)
Clive A. Apsey(7)
Charles Ayres(4)
David E. De Leeuw(4)
Charles J. Delaney(8)
Richard C. Dresdale(3)
Andrea Geisser(3)
Peter Lamm(3)
Tyler T. Zachem(4)

All directors and executive officers
of the Company as a group (14
persons)
</TABLE>

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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES BENEFICIALLY SHARES BENEFICIALLY
OWNED PRIOR TO OWNED AFTER
OFFERINGS(1) OFFERINGS(1)(2)
---------------------- --------------------
NAME AND NUMBER OF
ADDRESS OF OWNER NUMBER PERCENT SHARES OFFERED NUMBER PERCENT
- ------------------------------------ --------- ----------- --------------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
SELLING STOCKHOLDER:

Aurora/VDK LLC(2)
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* Less than 1%.

(1) As used in this table, beneficial ownership means the sole or shared power
to vote, or to direct the voting of a security, or the sole or shared power
to dispose, or direct the disposition of, a security.

(2) Immediately prior to the closing of the Offerings, Aurora/VDK LLC will be
the sole stockholder of the Company. As soon as practicable after the
closing and after completion of any required filings under the Hart Scott
Rodino Act and the expiration or termination of any applicable waiting
period, Aurora/ VDK LLC will be dissolved and its shares of Common Stock
will be distributed to MBW Investors LLC and VDK Foods LLC, its sole
members. MBW Investors LLC will also be dissolved soon after the dissolution
of Aurora/VDK LLC and after completion of any required filings under the
Hart Scott Rodino Act and the expiration or termination of any applicable
waiting period, its shares of Common Stock will be distributed to its
members including McCown De Leeuw & Co. III, L.P., McCown De Leeuw & Co. III
(Europe), L.P., McCown De Leeuw & Co. III (Asia), L.P., Gamma Fund LLC,
McCown De Leeuw & Co. IV, L.P., Delta Fund LLC, Fenway Partners Capital
Fund, L.P., Dartford Partnership L.L.C., CALPERS, Sunapee, and certain
divisional management. Each of these beneficial owners is party to the
Securityholders Agreement. See "--Securityholders Agreement". The address of
Aurora/VDK LLC and VDK Foods LLC is c/o Dartford Partnership L.L.C., 456
Montgomery Street, Suite 2200, San Francisco, CA 94104.

(3) Includes , and shares of Common Stock owned directly by
Fenway Partners Capital Fund, L.P. (the "Fenway Fund"), FPIP, LLC and FPIP
Trust, LLC, respectively (assuming the liquidation of Aurora/VDK LLC and MBW
Investors LLC), and shares of Common Stock owned directly by VDK Foods
LLC (assuming the liquidation of Aurora/VDK LLC). The Fenway Fund holds a
majority of the voting interests of VDK Foods LLC, and as such may be deemed
to have the power to vote or dispose of the shares of Common Stock held
directly by VDK Foods LLC. Each of the Fenway Fund, FPIP, LLC and FPIP
Trust, LLC disclaims beneficial ownership of any such shares. FPIP, LLC and
FPIP Trust, LLC are entities formed by the investment professionals of
Fenway Partners, Inc. to make co-investments alongside the Fenway Fund. The
managing member of each of FPIP, LLC, and FPIP Trust, LLC is Fenway
Partners, Inc. The general partner of the Fenway Fund is Fenway Partners,
L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, whose general partner is Fenway
Partners Management Inc., a Delaware corporation. Peter Lamm, Richard
Dresdale, and Andrea Geisser are directors and officers of each of Fenway
Partners Management Inc., and Fenway Partners, Inc. and as such may be
deemed to have or share the power to vote or dispose of the shares of Common
Stock held by the Fenway Fund, FPIP, LLC and FPIP Trust, LLC. Each of
Messrs. Lamm, Dresdale, and Geisser has no direct ownership of any shares of
the Common Stock and disclaims beneficial ownership of any of such shares
except to the extent of their direct or indirect partnership interests in
the Fenway Fund, FPIP, LLC and FPIP Trust, LLC. The address of Fenway is 152
West 57th Street, New York, New York 10019.

(4) Includes shares of Common Stock owned by McCown De Leeuw & Co. III,
L.P., an investment partnership whose general partner is MDC Management
Company III, L.P. ("MDC III"), shares of Common Stock owned by McCown
De Leeuw & Co. III (Europe), L.P., an investment partnership whose general
partner is MDC III, shares of Common Stock owned by McCown De Leeuw &
Co. III (Asia), L.P., an investment partnership whose general partner is MDC
Management Company IIIA, L.P. ("MDC IIIA"), shares of Common Stock
owned by Gamma Fund LLC, a California limited liability company,
shares of Common Stock owned by McCown De

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<PAGE>
Leeuw & Co. IV, L.P., an investment partnership whose general partner is MDC
Management Company IV, L.P. ("MDC IV"), and shares of Common Stock
owned by Delta Fund LLC, a California limited liability company. In
addition, under an irrevocable proxy, McCown De Leeuw & Co. III, L.P. has
the power to vote all of the securities held by California Public Employees
Retirement System. The voting members of Delta Fund LLC and Gamma Fund LLC
are George E. McCown, David E. De Leeuw, David E. King, Robert B. Hellman,
Jr., Charles Ayres, and Steven A. Zuckerman, who are also the only general
partners of MDC III, MDC IIIA and MDC IV. Voting and dispositive decisions
regarding the securities are made by Mr. McCown and Mr. De Leeuw, as
Managing General Partners of each of MDC III, MDC IIIA, and MDC IV, who
together have more than the required two-thirds-in-interest vote of the
Managing General Partners necessary to effect such decision on behalf of
such entity. Voting and dispositive decisions regarding securities owned by
Delta Fund LLC and Gamma Fund LLC are made by a vote or consent of a
majority in number of the voting members of Gamma Fund LLC and Delta Fund
LLC. Messrs. McCown, De Leeuw, King, Hellman, Ayres, and Zuckerman have no
direct ownership of any securities and disclaim beneficial ownership of such
shares except, in the case of Gamma Fund LLC and Delta Fund LLC, to the
extent of their proportionate membership interests. The address of each of
the above referenced entities is c/o McCown De Leeuw & Co., 3000 Sand Hill
Road, Building 3, Suite 290, Menlo Park, CA 94025.

(5) Under an irrevocable proxy, California Public Employees Retirement System
has granted McCown De Leeuw & Co. III, L.P. the right to vote all of the
shares of Common Stock it holds. Includes shares of Common Stock to be
distributed prior to the dissolution of MBW Investors LLC. The address of
California Public Employees Retirement System is Lincoln Plaza, 400 P
Street, Sacramento, CA 95814.

(6) Includes shares of Common Stock owned by Dartford to be distributed
prior to the dissolution of MBW Investors LLC shares owned by VDK Foods
LLC, shares of Common Stock to be issued to Dartford on the first
anniversary of the closing of the Offerings and shares of Common Stock
to be issued to Dartford under the VDK Plan on the first anniversary of the
closing of the Offerings. Also includes 80 voting interests of MBW Investors
LLC and 685.7144 voting interests of VDK Foods LLC transferred to a trust
for the benefit of certain family members of Ian R. Wilson, an aggregate of
200 voting interests of MBW Investors LLC and 400 voting interests of VDK
Foods LLC transferred to trusts for the benefit of certain family members of
Ray Chung, and 84.615 voting interests of MBW Investors LLC and 110 voting
interests of VDK Foods LLC transferred to certain family members and trusts
for the benefit of certain family members of James B. Ardrey. Pursuant to
the Securityholders Agreement, such permitted transferees of Dartford are
included for the purpose of determining the number of persons Dartford may
designate to the Board of Directors of the Company. Mr. Ian R. Wilson is the
managing partner, and Messrs. James B. Ardrey and Ray Chung and Ms. M.
Laurie Cummings are partners, of Dartford and, as such, they may be deemed
to have or share the power to vote or dispose of the Company's Common Stock.
Each of Messrs. Wilson, Ardrey, and Chung and Ms. Cummings has no direct
ownership of any shares of the Company's Common Stock and disclaim
beneficial ownership of any such shares. Dartford is a member manager of VDK
Foods LLC, together with UBS, Gloriande, and Fenway and as such, may be
deemed to have the shared power to vote or dispose of the Company's Common
Stock to be distributed just prior to the dissolution of Aurora/VDK LLC to
VDK Foods LLC. Dartford disclaims beneficial ownership of any such shares.
The address of Dartford is 456 Montgomery Street, Suite 2200, San Francisco,
CA 94104.

(7) Includes shares of Common Stock owned by VDK Foods LLC. Tiger Oats'
shares are held by Gloriande (Luxembourg) SarL, a corporation organized
under the laws of Luxembourg ("Gloriande"), which is the record owner of the
Company's Common Stock. Gloriande is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of
Tiger Oats. The shares of capital stock of Tiger Oats are traded publicly on
the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Mr. Clive A. Apsey is a director of Tiger
Oats and as such may be deemed to have the power to vote or dispose of the
Company's Common Stock held by Tiger Oats. Mr. Apsey disclaims beneficial
ownership of any such shares. Gloriande is a member manager of VDK Foods
LLC, together with Dartford, UBS and Fenway and as such may be deemed to
have or share the power to vote or dispose of the Company's Common Stock to
be distributed just prior to the dissolution of Auroa/VDK LLC to VDK Foods
LLC. Gloriande disclaims beneficial

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ownership of any such shares. The address of Tiger Oats Limited is 85 Bute
Lane, Sandown, Sandton 2196, Republic of South Africa.

(8) Includes shares of Common Stock owned by UBS. UBS is a member manager
of VDK Foods LLC, together with Dartford, Gloriande, and Fenway and as such
may be deemed to have or share the power to vote or dispose of the Company's
Common Stock to be distributed just prior to the dissolution of Aurora/VDK
LLC to VDK Foods LLC. UBS disclaims beneficial ownership of any such shares.
UBS is a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of Union Bank of Switzerland. The
shares of capital stock of Union Bank of Switzerland are publicly held. Mr.
Charles J. Delaney, a director of the Company, is the president of UBS and
disclaims beneficial ownership of the Company's Common Stock held by UBS.
The address of UBS is 299 Park Avenue, 34th Floor, New York, NY 10171.

(9) Includes shares of Common Stock to be issued under the VDK Plan on the
first anniversary of the closing of the Offerings. Mr. Ellinwood disclaims
beneficial ownership as to any such shares.

SECURITYHOLDERS AGREEMENT

In connection with the formation of New LLC and the Contribution, New LLC,
MBW Investors LLC, VDK Foods LLC and substantially all of the members (based on
percentage interests) of MBW Investors LLC and VDK Foods LLC entered into the
Securityholders Agreement, which sets forth certain rights and obligations of
the Stockholders and New LLC and its subsidiaries, including the Company. The
following discussion summarizes the terms of the Securityholders Agreement that
the Company believes are material to holders of Common Stock. This summary is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Securityholders
Agreement, which is filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which
this Prospectus is a part.

The Securityholders Agreement provides that the Board of Directors of the
Company shall initially consist of ten members, of which Fenway will designate
three (each a "Fenway Designee" and collectively, the "Fenway Designees"), MDC
will designate three (each an "MDC Designee" and collectively, the "MDC
Designees"), Dartford will designate two (each a "Dartford Designee" and
collectively, the "Dartford Designees"), UBS will designate one (the "UBS
Designee") and Tiger Oats will designate one (the "Tiger Designee"). For so long
as Ian R. Wilson is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Mr.
Wilson will be one of the Dartford Designees. Upon the election of an
independent director to the Board who is mutually acceptable to two of the three
of Fenway, MDC, and Dartford, the number of directors on the Board will be
increased to 11. Upon the election of a second independent director to the Board
who is mutually acceptable to two of the three of Fenway, MDC, and Dartford, the
UBS Designee will resign from the Board and thereafter UBS will not be entitled
to have any designee elected to the Board. Upon the appointment of a new Chief
Executive Officer other than Ian R. Wilson to the Board, the Tiger Designee will
resign from the Board and thereafter Tiger Oats will not be entitled to have any
designee elected to the Board.

The number of Fenway Designees or MDC Designees will (i) decrease to two
when the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by Fenway or MDC,
as the case may be, is less than 50% of the total number of shares of Common
Stock beneficially owned by MDC on the closing of the Offerings (excluding any
shares held under a proxy), (ii) decrease to one when the number of shares of
Common Stock beneficially owned by Fenway or MDC, as the case may be, is less
than 5% of the total number of shares of Common Stock outstanding at the closing
of the Offerings, and (iii) decrease to zero when the number of shares of Common
Stock beneficially owned by Fenway or MDC, as the case may be, is equal to zero.
The number of Dartford Designees will (i) decrease to one when the number of
shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by Dartford is less than 5% of the
total number of shares of Common Stock outstanding at the closing of the
Offerings and (ii) decrease to zero when the number of shares of Common Stock
beneficially owned by Dartford is equal to zero.

Until the earlier of (i) the date that is 30 months after the closing of the
Offerings or (ii) with respect to either Fenway or MDC, such time as it shall
not beneficially own a number of shares of Common Stock

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equal to at least 50% of the shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by MDC
(excluding any shares held under a proxy) at the closing of the Offerings (the
"Consent Period"), the affirmative consent of Fenway and MDC is required for the
following actions: (a) issuance by the Company or any subsidiary of additional
equity, including by way of a public offering, or the approval or adoption of
any option or equity incentive plan or any material non-equity incentive plan;
(b) merger, consolidation, recapitalization, liquidation or other reorganization
with respect to the Company or any subsidiary, or any sale of any business
representing at least 50% of the pre-transaction consolidated revenues, assets,
or EBITDA of the Company for the most recently completed four fiscal quarters;
(c) acquisition of stock or assets by the Company or a subsidiary where the
revenues, assets or EBITDA of the business to be acquired represents more than
50% of the pre-transaction consolidated revenues, assets or EBITDA of the
Company for the most recently completed four fiscal quarters; and (d) removal or
termination of Ian R. Wilson as Chief Executive Officer or the hiring or
termination of any subsequent Chief Executive Officer.

The Securityholders Agreement prohibits the Stockholders from transferring
their shares of Common Stock prior to the second anniversary of the Offerings
without the consent of MDC and Fenway except transfers (i) to permitted
transferees (including certain family members, affiliates and in the case of a
partnership or limited liability company, to their respective partners in such
partnership or members of such limited liability company), (ii) pursuant to the
demand and piggyback registration rights described below and (iii) by UBS,
CALPERS, Tiger Oats, and Sunapee pursuant to Rule 144 after the first
anniversary of the closing of the Offerings. After the second anniversary of the
closing of the Offerings, each Stockholder has the right to sell its shares of
Common Stock privately or under Rule 144 to the extent permitted by applicable
law but subject to certain lock-up periods relating to any underwritten
offerings by the Company.

The Securityholders Agreement provides for the following demand registration
rights ("Demand Rights"): (a) prior to the second anniversary of the closing of
the Offerings, MDC and Fenway, acting together, will have demand registration
rights with respect to their Registrable Securities (as defined below) in the
Company; (b) from and after the second anniversary of the closing of the
Offerings, MDC, Fenway and Dartford will each have four demand registration
rights with respect to their Registrable Securities in the Company; (c) after
the resignation of the UBS Designee from the Board of the Company and prior to
the second anniversary of the closing of the Offerings, each of UBS and CALPERS
will have one individual right to request a demand registration with respect to
its Registrable Securities in the Company; (d) after the resignation of the
Tiger Designee from the Board of the Company and prior to the second anniversary
of the closing of the Offerings, Tiger Oats will have one individual right to
request a demand registration with respect to its Registrable Securities in the
Company; and (e) from and after the second anniversary of the closing of the
Offerings, each of UBS and CALPERS will have individual rights to request a
demand registration (two for UBS and one for CALPERS) with respect to their
Registrable Securities in the Company. The Company shall not be required to
effect more than two demand registrations on behalf of Stockholders prior to the
second anniversary of the closing of the Offerings without the approval of the
Board. The Company's obligations to effect a registration will include an
obligation to use its best efforts to cause such shares to be so registered,
subject to the following: (i) no demand registration may be required unless the
gross proceeds of the offering to which such registration statement applies are
reasonably expected to exceed $25 million, (ii) no registration may be required
within 180 days immediately following the effective date of a registration
statement for an underwritten public offering of securities of the Company
(other than a registration on Form S-4 pursuant to Rule 145 or related solely to
employee benefit plans) and (iii) the Board can postpone a demand registration
for not more than 120 days if, in the good faith judgment of the Board, the
registration would be detrimental to the Company or its stockholders. There can
only be one such postponement with respect to any demanding Stockholder in any
nine-month period. The Company's obligations to effect demand registrations
terminates on the date ten years after the closing of the Offerings.

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Pursuant to the Securityholders Agreement, upon certain proposed
registrations of equity securities by the Company for sale to the public
(whether for the account of the Company or any Stockholder, and including
without limitation upon the exercise of a demand registration right), parties to
the Securityholders Agreement who hold Registrable Securities will have the
right to elect to request that all or a specified portion of their Registrable
Securities be included in such registration ("Piggyback Rights"). No Stockholder
will have Piggyback Rights on a registration of equity securities by the Company
relating to the acquisition or merger by the Company or its Subsidiaries of or
with any other business or solely relating to employee benefit plans or in the
Offerings.

"Registrable Securities" that a Stockholder may elect to include in a
registration by exercise of Demand Rights or Piggyback Rights are any shares of
Common Stock in the Company that have been received as a result of holding an
interest in MBW Investors LLC or VDK Foods LLC (except that, with respect to
shares of Common Stock held by stockholders who are employees of the Company
other than Messrs. Wilson, Chung, and Ardrey and Ms. Cummings, Registrable
Securities are any shares of Common Stock received as a result of holding an
interest in MBW Investors LLC or VDK Foods LLC held by such stockholders so long
as they remain employees of the Company) and that are not then eligible to be
sold without restriction pursuant to Rule 144(k), provided that the limitation
regarding Rule 144(k) shall not be applicable to holdings of more than 2% of the
outstanding Common Stock of the Company.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

Pursuant to an agreement, dated September 19, 1995 and terminated on the
effective date of the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a
part, Dartford, a beneficial owner of the Company, provided management oversight
on financial and operational matters to the Company with respect to Van de
Kamp's, Inc. Dartford received $631,000, and $1,800,000 for 1996 and 1997,
respectively, under such agreement.

Pursuant to an agreement with the Company, dated December 31, 1996 and
terminated on the effective date of the Registration Statement of which this
Prospectus forms a part, Dartford, a beneficial owner of the Company, provided
management oversight to the Company with respect to Aurora Foods. Dartford
received $768,000 for 1997 under such agreement.

Pursuant to an agreement, dated December 31, 1996 and terminated on the
effective date of the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a
part, MDC Management Company III, L.P., an affiliate of MDC, a beneficial owner
of the Company, advised the Company as to the structuring of the Company's bank
financing and the capital structure of the Company, identification and financing
of future acquisitions, and general management advice relating to the overall
strategy and positioning of the Company. MDC received $293,000 for 1997, under
such agreement.

From December 31, 1996 through January 16, 1998, the Company paid the
following fees for services rendered in connection with the acquisitions of the
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S business, the LOG CABIN business, and the DUNCAN HINES
business: $1,250,000 to Dartford, whose partners, Messrs. Wilson, Ardrey, and
Chung, and Ms. Cummings are executive officers and directors of the Company;
$184,000 to Mr. Thomas J. Ferraro (President of the Aurora Division) and $75,000
to Mr. C. Gary Willett (Executive Vice President of the Aurora Division);
$5,700,000 to MDC, whose general partners and principal include Mr. David E. De
Leeuw, Mr. Charles Ayres and Mr. Tyler T. Zachem (all directors of the Company);
and $1,500,000 was paid to Fenway, whose partners include Messrs. Lamm,
Dresdale, and Geisser (all directors of the Company).

Also, from September 1995 through July 9, 1996, the Company paid the
following fees for services rendered in connection with acquisitions and related
financings of VDK's acquisitions: $1,950,000 to Dartford; $1,474,000 to Fenway;
$294,000 to National Sun Industries Inc., an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of
Tiger Oats, whose director is Mr. Clive A. Apsey (a director of the Company);
and $294,000 to UBS, whose president is Mr. Charles J. Delaney (a director of
the Company).

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Pursuant to an agreement with Windy Hill, dated as of September 5, 1995, the
Company paid $198,000 in 1996 and 1997 for computer support services. Dartford
(of which Mr. Ian R. Wilson is the managing partner) and its partners own 14.2%
of Windy Hill. Mr. Wilson is the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company and Windy Hall.

Each of Fenway, MDC, and Dartford earned $1,500,000, UBS earned $150,000,
and each of Tiger Oats and CALPERS earned $75,000 in fees in connection with the
Contribution Transaction.

The Company has entered into an agreement, dated just prior to the
Offerings, pursuant to which it agreed to pay transaction fees to each of
Fenway, MDC, and Dartford of 0.333% of the transaction value for acquisitions by
the Company.

The Company has agreed to pay Dartford $800,000 per year as reimbursement of
corporate headquarters expenses which include staff salaries, miscellaneous
office expenses related to the administration of the Company's corporate
headquarters, and rent for the space leased by Dartford and used by the Company
as its corporate headquarters for a term ending the earlier of the second
anniversary of the closing of the Offerings and the date that Mr. Wilson is no
longer Chairman or Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

The Company and the Stockholders have entered into the Securityholders
Agreement which provides for certain rights including registration rights of the
Stockholders. See "Principal Stockholders and Selling
Stockholder--Securityholders Agreement".

On September 19, 1995, Mr. Thomas O. Ellinwood, the President of the VDK
Division, executed a promissory note in favor of the Company to evidence monies
borrowed to assist in the capitalization of his limited liability company
interests held in VDK Foods LLC. The promissory note matures September 30, 1998
with required annual payments. Interest is due and payable quarterly at the rate
of 8.5% per annum. The balance outstanding of his promissory note as of fiscal
year end June 30, 1996 was $125,000, $83,333 as of June 30, 1997, and $41,666 as
of March 31, 1998.

On December 31, 1996 and January 16, 1998, Mr. Thomas J. Ferraro, the
President of the Aurora Division, executed promissory notes in favor of the
Company to evidence monies borrowed to assist in the capitalization of his
limited liability company interests held in MBW Investors LLC. The promissory
notes mature December 31, 1999 and January 16, 2001. Interest is due and payable
quarterly at the rate of 8% per annum and there are required annual principal
payments. The balance outstanding on his promissory note as of fiscal year end
December 27, 1997 was $40,000 and as of March 31, 1998 was $171,000.

Pursuant to the Aurora Plan, Dartford, Thomas J. Ferraro, and C. Gary
Willett are entitled to receive , , and shares of Common Stock
effective on the closing of the Offerings. See "Management--Aurora Compensation
Plan."

Pursuant to the VDK Plan, Dartford, Thomas O. Ellinwood, and Anthony A.
Bevilacqua are entitled to receive , and shares of Common Stock,
respectively, on the first anniversary of the closing of the Offerings. See
"Management--VDK Compensation Plan."

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DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

The following description of the capital stock of the Company and certain
provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws is a summary and is
qualified in its entirety by the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation
and By-Laws, copies of which have been filed as exhibits to the Registration
Statement of which this Prospectus is a part.

Upon completion of the Offerings, the authorized capital stock of the
Company will consist of (i) shares of Common Stock, par value per
share, of which shares will be outstanding, and (ii) shares of
Preferred Stock, of which no shares will be outstanding.

COMMON STOCK

Holders of Common Stock are entitled to one vote per share on all matters to
be voted on by the stockholders of the Company and do not have cumulative voting
rights and the rights of holders of Common Stock are identical in all respects.
Pursuant to the Securityholders Agreement, the affirmative consent of Fenway and
MDC is required for certain actions by the Company which could otherwise be
approved by a majority of the directors including acquisitions of a certain size
by the Company and the removal or termination of Ian R. Wilson as Chief
Executive Officer of the Company or of his successor. In addition, Fenway, MDC,
Dartford, UBS, and Tiger Oats and the Company have agreed to elect a certain
number of directors designated by each of them, including the initial Board of
Directors, subject to certain conditions. See "Principal Stockholders and
Selling Stockholder--Securityholders Agreement" and "Certain Relationships and
Related Transactions".

Subject to preferences that may be applicable to any Preferred Stock
outstanding at the time, holders of Common Stock are entitled to receive ratably
such dividends, if any, as may be declared, from time to time by the Board of
Directors out of funds legally available therefor. In the event of liquidation,
dissolution, or winding up of the Company, holders of Common Stock are entitled
to share ratably in all assets remaining after payment of the Company's
liabilities and the liquidation preference, if any, of any outstanding Preferred
Stock. Holders of shares of Common Stock have no preemptive, subscription,
redemption, or conversion rights. There are no redemption or sinking fund
provisions applicable to the Common Stock. All of the outstanding shares of
Common Stock are, and the shares offered by the Company and the Selling
Stockholder in the Offerings will be, when issued and paid for as provided
herein, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable. The rights, preferences,
and privileges of holders of Common Stock are subject to, and may be adversely
affected by, the rights of the holders of shares of any series of Preferred
Stock which the Company may designate and issue in the future.

At present, there is no established trading market for the Common Stock. An
application will be made for listing of the Common Stock on the NYSE under the
symbol " ".

PREFERRED STOCK

The Board of Directors is authorized to issue from time to time shares
of Preferred Stock in one or more series, and to fix the rights, designations,
powers, preferences, qualifications, limitations and restrictions thereof,
including dividend rights, dividend rates, conversion rights, voting rights,
terms of redemption, redemption prices, liquidation preferences and the number
of shares constituting any series, all without stockholder approval. The ability
of the Board of Directors to issue Preferred Stock could have the effect of
making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or of discouraging a
third party from acquiring or making a proposal to acquire, the Company or the
majority of the outstanding stock of the Company. The rights of the holders of
Common Stock will be subject to, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of
holders of Preferred Stock that may be issued in the future. see "Risk Factors--
Anti-Takeover Effects of Certain Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws
Provisions".

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SECTION 203 OF THE DELAWARE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW

The Company has elected in the Certificate of Incorporation to not be
subject to the provisions of section 203 ("Section 203") of the Delaware General
Corporation Law. In general, Section 203 prohibits a publicly held Delaware
corporation from engaging in a "business combination" with an "interested
stockholder" for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in
which the person became an interested stockholder, unless the business
combination is approved in a prescribed manner. A "business combination"
includes a merger, asset sale or other transaction resulting in a financial
benefit to the interested stockholder. An "interested stockholder" is a person
who, together with affiliates and associates, owns (or, in certain cases, within
three years prior, did own) 15% or more of the corporation's voting stock.

TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR

The transfer agent and registrar for the Common Stock is .

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DESCRIPTION OF INDEBTEDNESS

SENIOR CREDIT FACILITIES

The description set forth below is qualified in its entirety by reference to
certain agreements setting forth the principal terms and conditions of the
Company's Senior Credit Facilities, copies of which are filed as exhibits to the
Registration Statement of which this Prospectus is a part. Capitalized terms
used herein and not otherwise defined have the meanings set forth in the Senior
Credit Facilities.

Just prior to the Offerings, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement
with The Chase Manhattan Bank ("Chase") and various lenders providing for senior
secured credit facilities. In connection with such financing, Chase acts as
Administrative Agent and Chase Securities Inc. acted as Arranging Agent. The
Senior Credit Facilities provide as follows:

The Senior Credit Facilities consist of (i) a senior secured Term Facility
in a principal amount of $ million and (ii) a senior secured Revolving
Facility providing for revolving loans to the Company and the issuance of
letters of credit for the account of the Company, in an aggregate principal and
stated amount at any time not to exceed $ million (of which not more than
$ million may be represented by letters of credit).

Loans and letters of credit under the Revolving Facility will be available
at any time through the final maturity date on , . The Term
Facility will have a final maturity date of , , and will
amortize in quarterly payments of $ million through ,
with such quarterly payments increasing annually in the amount of $ per
payment for each year thereafter until the final maturity date.

The Company is required to make mandatory prepayments on the Senior Credit
Facilities under certain circumstances, including upon certain asset sales,
issuance of debt securities or issuance of equity securities to persons. The
Company will also be required to make prepayments on the Senior Credit
Facilities and permanently reduce commitments under the Revolving Facility in an
amount equal to % of the Company's annual trailing Consolidated Excess
Cash Flow commencing with the fiscal year ending in December and
thereafter and upon receipt of cash proceeds from property and casualty
insurance or condemnation awards. At the Company's option, subject to certain
requirements, loans may be prepaid, and revolving credit commitments or letters
of credit may be permanently reduced, in whole or in part at any time without
premium or penalty.

At the Company's option the interest rate per annum applicable to the
Revolving Facility will be either the rate (grossed-up for maximum statutory
reserve requirements for eurocurrency liabilities) at which eurodollar deposits
for one, two, three or six months (as selected by the Company) are offered to
Chase in the interbank eurodollar market in the approximate amount of Chase's
share of the relevant Loan (the "Adjusted Eurodollar Rate") plus a margin of
% (the "Applicable Eurodollar Rate Margin") or the Base Rate plus a margin
of %. The margin is based upon the Company's ratio of consolidated total
debt to consolidated EBITDA. The Base Rate is the higher of (i) the rate of
interest publicly announced by Chase as its prime rate in effect at its
principal office in New York City and (ii) the federal funds effective rate plus
%.

At the Company's option, the interest rate per annum applicable to loans
under the Term Facility will be either the Adjusted Eurodollar Rate plus a
margin of % or the Base Rate plus a margin of %. The Base Rate is
the higher of (i) the rate of interest publicly announced by Chase Manhattan as
its prime rate in effect at its principal office in New York City, (ii) the
federal funds effective rate plus %, and (iii) the secondary market rate
for certificates of deposit (grossed-up for maximum statutory reserve
requirements) plus %.

The Company pays a per annum fee equal to % on the undrawn portion of
the commitments in respect of the Revolving Facility and a per annum fee on the
face amount of all outstanding letters of credit equal to the Applicable
Eurodollar Rate Margin then in effect with respect to loans under the

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Revolving Facility bearing interest based upon the Eurodollar Rate. The per
annum fee is also based upon the Company's ratio of consolidated total debt to
consolidated EBITDA.

The Senior Credit Facilities contain a number of significant covenants that,
among other things, restrict the ability of the Company to dispose of assets,
incur additional indebtedness, repay other indebtedness or amend other debt
instruments, pay dividends, create liens on assets, enter into leases,
guarantees, investments or acquisitions, engage in mergers or consolidations,
make capital expenditures, or engage in certain transactions with subsidiaries
and affiliates and otherwise restrict corporate activities. In addition, under
the Senior Credit Facilities, the Company is required to comply with specified
ratios and tests, including minimum interest coverage, minimum fixed charge
coverage and maximum leverage ratios and a limitation on capital expenditures.

An event of default under the Senior Credit Facilities will occur (i) if the
Company fails to make payments under the Senior Credit Facilities or, in certain
circumstances, under other outstanding indebtedness; (ii) if the Company
breaches the financial covenants contained in the Senior Credit Facilities;
(iii) if the Company breaches the warranties contained in the Senior Credit
Facilities; (iv) in the event of the bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of
the Company; (v) if any judgment or attachment involving, in an individual case
an amount in excess of $ or, in the aggregate in excess of $ , shall
be entered against the Company and shall remain undischarged on unstayed for a
period of [ ] days; (vi) if any judgment or decree of dissolution is entered
against the Company; (vii) if there occurs certain specified ERISA events;
(viii) if the Company undergoes a "change in control" as described below; (ix)
if the co-pack agreements between the Company and P&G, Kraft, or Red Wing or the
flavor supply agreement between the Company and Quest International Flavor &
Food Ingredients Company are terminated, and the Company fails to make alternate
arrangements satisfactory to the Lenders; (x) if there is a failure to comply
with the subordination provisions contained in the Senior Credit Facilities; or
(xi) under certain other circumstances customary for a transaction of this type.
An Event of Default under the Indentures will occur if any of the above occur
and an amount in excess of $5 million is accelerated under the terms of the
Senior Credit Facilities and such default is not cured or rescinded within a 10
day period. As noted above, an event of default under the Senior Credit
Facilities will occur if there is a change in control in the Company.

A change in control will be deemed to have occured if

The Senior Credit Facilities also contain provisions that prohibit any
modification of the Indentures in any manner adverse to the banks, financial
institutions and other entities under the Senior Credit Facilities and that
limit the Company's ability to refinance the VDK Notes or the Aurora Notes
without the consent of such Lenders.

SENIOR SUBORDINATED FACILITY COMMITMENT

Pursuant to a commitment letter (the "Commitment Letter"), dated April 8,
1998, Chase and Chase Securities Inc. have agreed, subject to customary
conditions, to provide the Company with a $101 million senior subordinated
facility (the "Senior Subordinated Facility"), the proceeds of which will be
used to purchase any VDK Notes which the Company may be required to repurchase
pursuant to the Change of Control provisions of the VDK Indenture and to pay
related costs and expenses. See "-- Senior Subordinated Notes--The VDK
Notes--Change of Control". The Senior Subordinated Facility will be subordinated
to the Company's Senior Credit Facilities and will rank PARI PASSU with the VDK
Notes. On or prior to July 6, 1998, the Company may make a single draw on the
Senior Subordinated Facility. Any loans thereunder will mature one year later.

Loans under the Senior Subordinated Facility will bear interest at the
higher of (i) Chase's prime rate and (ii) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus
0.5% plus a spread, which will be 5% for the first six months, increasing by
0.5% at such time and at the end of each three month period thereafter until the
maturity date. The maximum interest rate under the Senior Subordinated Facility
is 14%. Loans under the Senior Subordinated Facility may be prepaid without
penalty. If the Company has not repaid the

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loans under the Senior Subordinated Facility on or prior to the maturity date,
at the option of the lenders thereunder, the loans will either be extended or
exchanged for notes ("Exchange Notes") which will mature on September 15, 2005
and bear interest at a rate not to exceed 14%. The Senior Subordinated Facility
and Exchange Notes will contain covenants and events of default substantially
similar to those in the VDK Indenture.

SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES

The description set forth below does not purport to be complete and is
qualified in its entirety by reference to certain agreements setting forth the
principal terms and conditions of the Aurora Series B Notes and the Aurora
Series D Notes and the VDK Notes.

THE VDK NOTES

The VDK Notes were issued under an Indenture, dated as of September 15, 1995
(the "VDK Indenture"), between the Company and Harris Trust and Savings Bank, as
Trustee (the "VDK Trustee"). The terms and conditions of the VDK Notes include
those stated in the VDK Indenture and those made part of the VDK Indenture by
reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939. Capitalized terms used in this
"The VDK Notes" section and not otherwise defined have the meanings set forth in
the VDK Indenture.

The VDK Notes are unsecured senior subordinated obligations of the Company,
limited to $100.0 million aggregate principal amount, and will mature on
September 15, 2005. Each VDK Note bears interest at the rate of 12% per annum,
payable semiannually on March 15 and September 15 of each year which commenced
March 15, 1996 to holders of record at the close of business on the February 28
or August 31 immediately preceding the interest payment date.

OPTIONAL REDEMPTION. Except as set forth below, the VDK Notes are not
redeemable at the option of the Company prior to September 15, 2000. On and
after such date, the VDK Notes will be redeemable, at the Company's option, in
whole or in part, at any time upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior
notice mailed by first-class mail to the registered address of each holder of
the VDK Notes to be redeemed, at the following redemption prices (expressed in
percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid interest to the
redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant
record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date):

If redeemed during the 12 month period commencing on September 15 of the
years set forth below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PERIOD REDEMPTION PRICE
- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------
<S> <C>

2000.................................... 106%

2001.................................... 104%

2002.................................... 102%

2003 and thereafter..................... 100%
</TABLE>

In addition, at any time and from time to time prior to September 15, 1998,
the Company may redeem up to $35.0 million of the aggregate principal amount of
the VDK Notes with the proceeds of one or more Public Equity Offerings following
which there is a Public Market at the time of such redemption, at a redemption
price (expressed as a percentage of principal amount) of 110%, plus accrued and
unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders
of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant
interest payment date); PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that at least $65.0 million of the
aggregate principal amount of the VDK Notes remain outstanding after each such
redemption. The Offerings constitute a Public Equity Offering under the VDK
Indenture and the Company plans to redeem $35.0 million of principal of the VDK
Notes pursuant to the Optional Redemption provisions of the VDK Indenture.

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At any time on or prior to September 15, 2000, the VDK Notes may also be
redeemed as a whole at the option of the Company upon the occurrence of a Change
of Control upon not less than 30 days or no more than 60 days prior notice (but
in no event more than 90 days after the occurence of such Change of Control)
mailed by first-class mail to each holder's registered address, at a redemption
price equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof plus the Applicable Premium
as of, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, the date of redemption (the
"Redemption Date") (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant
record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

RANKING. The payment of the principal of, premium (if any), and interest
on, the VDK Notes is subordinated in right of payment, as set forth in the VDK
Indenture, to the payment when due of all Senior Indebtedness of the Company. As
of December 27, 1997 on a pro forma adjusted basis, the outstanding senior
indebtedness of the Company would have been $ (exclusive of unused
commitment). Although the VDK Indenture contains limitations on the amount of
additional Indebtedness that the Company may Incur, under certain circumstances
the amount of such Indebtedness could be substantial and, in any case, such
Indebtedness may be Senior Indebtedness.

Only Indebtedness of the Company that is Senior Indebtedness ranks senior to
the VDK Notes in accordance with the provisions of the VDK Indenture. The VDK
Notes in all respects rank PARI PASSU with all other Senior Subordinated
Indebtedness of the Company. The Company has agreed in the Indenture that it
will not Incur, directly or indirectly, any Indebtedness that is subordinate or
junior in ranking in any respect to Senior Indebtedness unless such Indebtedness
is Senior Subordinated Indebtedness or is expressly subordinated in right of
payment to Senior Subordinated Indebtedness.

CHANGE OF CONTROL. Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, each holder
of the VDK Notes will have the right to require the Company to repurchase all or
any part of such holder's VDK Notes at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of
the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the
date of purchase (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant
record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

The Contribution, effective April 8, 1998, resulted in a "Change of Control"
under the VDK Indenture. Under the terms of the VDK Indenture, within 30 days
after a Change of Control, unless the Company has mailed a redemption notice
with respect to all of the outstanding VDK Notes, the Company is required to
mail a notice to each holder of record of the VDK Notes stating, among other
things, that the Company is required to offer to purchase the VDK Notes at 101%
of their principal amount plus accrued interest at the repurchase date (which
cannot be earlier than 30 days nor later than 60 days from the date such notice
is mailed).

CERTAIN COVENANTS. The VDK Indenture imposes certain affirmative covenants
and other requirements on the Company, including mandatory reporting of
financial and other information to the VDK Trustee.

The VDK Indenture also contains certain negative covenants that include,
among other things: (i) limitations on the amount of Indebtedness the Company
and its Subsidiaries may Incur, (ii) limitations on certain payments the Company
and its Subsidiaries may make, (iii) limitations on restrictions on
distributions from Subsidiaries, (iv) limitations on sales of assets by the
Company and its Subsidiaries, (v) limitations on Affiliate Transactions, (vi)
limitations on the sale of Subsidiary Capital Stock, (vii) limitations on the
lines of business the Company may engage in, and (vii) limitations on the
Company's ability to merge or consolidate or transfer all or substantially all
of the assets of the Company.

EVENT OF DEFAULTS. An event of default under the VDK Indenture includes
among other things, (i) a default in any payment of interest on any VDK Note
when due, continued for 30 days, (ii) a default in the payment of principal of
any VDK Note when due at its Stated Maturity, upon optional redemption, upon
required repurchase, upon declaration or otherwise, (iii) the failure by the
Company to comply with its obligations with respect to merger, consolidations,
and transfers of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company under
"--Certain Covenants" above, (iv) the failure by the Company to comply for 30
days

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<PAGE>
after notice with any of its obligations under the change of control provisions
contained in the VDK Indenture or under covenants described under "Certain
Covenants" above (in each case, other than a failure to purchase VDK Notes which
shall constitute an event of default under clause (ii) above), (v) the failure
by the Company to comply for 60 days after notice with its other agreements
contained in the VDK Indenture, (vi) Indebtedness of the Company or any
Subsidiary is not paid within any applicable grace period after final maturity
or is accelerated by the holders thereof because of a default and the total
amount of such Indebtedness unpaid or accelerated exceeds $5 million and such
default shall not have been cured or such acceleration rescinded within a 10-day
period, (vii) certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of the
Company or a subsidiary, (viii) any judgment or decree for the payment of money
in excess of $5 million (to the extent not covered by insurance) is rendered
against the Company or a Subsidiary and such judgment or decree shall remain
undischarged or unstayed for a period of 60 days after such judgment becomes
final and nonappealable or (ix) the failure of any Security Guarantee to be in
full force and effect (except as contemplated by the terms thereof) or the
denial or disaffirmation by any Security Guarantor of its obligations under the
VDK Indenture or any Security Guarantee if such default continues for 10 days.
However, a default under clauses (iv) and (v) will not constitute an Event of
Default until the VDK Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in principal amount
of the outstanding VDK Notes notify the Company of the default and the Company
does not cure such default within the time specified in clauses (iv) and (v)
hereof after receipt of such notice.

If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the VDK Trustee or the
holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the outstanding VDK Notes by
notice to the Company may declare the principal of and accrued and unpaid
interest on all the VDK Notes to be due and payable. Upon such a declaration,
such principal and accrued and unpaid interest shall be due and payable
immediately. If an Event of Default relating to certain events of bankruptcy,
insolvency or reorganization of the Company occurs and is continuing, the
principal of and accrued and unpaid interest on all the VDK Notes will become
and be immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the
part of the VDK Trustee or any holders. Under certain circumstances, the holders
of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding VDK Notes may rescind any
such acceleration with respect to the VDK Notes and its consequences.

THE AURORA NOTES

In addition to the VDK Notes the Company has outstanding: (i) the 9 7/8%
Series B Senior Subordinated Notes due 2007 (the "Aurora Series B Notes") issued
under an Indenture, dated as of February 10, 1997 (the "Series B Indenture")
between the Company and Wilmington Trust Company, as Trustee (the "Trustee"), in
connection with the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S acquisition and (ii) the 9 7/8% Series D
Senior Subordinated Notes due 2007 (the "Aurora Series D Notes", together with
the Aurora Series B Notes, the "Aurora Notes") issued under an Indenture dated
as of July 1, 1997 (the "Series D Indenture", together with the Series B
Indenture, the "Aurora Indentures") between the Company and the Trustee in
connection with the LOG CABIN acquisition. The terms and conditions of the
Aurora Notes include those stated in each of the Aurora Indentures and those
made part of the Aurora Indentures by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of
1939 as in effect on the date of each of the Aurora Indentures. Capitalized
terms used in this "The Aurora Notes" section and not otherwise defined have the
meanings set forth in the Aurora Indentures.

The Aurora Notes are unsecured senior subordinated obligations of the
Company, limited to $200.0 million aggregate principal amount, and will mature
on February 15, 2007. Each Note bears interest at the rate of 9 7/8% per annum
from the date of issuance, or from the most recent date to which interest has
been paid or provided for, payable semi-annually on February 15 and August 15 of
each year which commenced February 15, 1998 to holders of record at the close of
business on the February 1 or August 1 immediately preceding the interest
payment date.

OPTIONAL REDEMPTION. Except as set forth below, the Aurora Notes are not
redeemable at the option of the Company prior to February 15, 2002. On and after
such date, the Aurora Notes will be redeemable, at the Company's option, in
whole or in part, at any time upon not less than 30 nor more

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<PAGE>
than 60 days prior notice mailed by first-class mail to the registered address
of each holder of Aurora Notes to be redeemed, at the following redemption
prices (expressed in percentages of principal amount), plus accrued and unpaid
interest to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on
the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest
payment date):

If redeemed during the 12-month period commencing on February 15 of the
years set forth below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PERIOD REDEMPTION PRICE
- ---------------------------------------- ------------------
<S> <C>

2002.................................... 104.9375%

2003.................................... 103.2917%

2004.................................... 101.6458%

2005 and thereafter..................... 100.0000%
</TABLE>

In addition, at any time and from time to time prior to February 15, 2000,
the Company may redeem up to $35.0 million of the aggregate principal amount of
the Aurora Series B Notes and up to $35.0 million of the aggregate principal
amount of the Aurora Series D Notes with the cash proceeds of one or more Equity
Offerings received by, or invested in, the Company at a redemption price
(expressed as a percentage of principal amount) of 109.875%, plus accrued and
unpaid interest, if any, to the redemption date (subject to the right of holders
of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant
interest payment date); PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that at least $65.0 million of the
aggregate principal amount of each of the Aurora Series B Notes and Aurora
Series D Notes remain outstanding after each such redemption.

At any time on or prior to February 15, 2002, each of the Aurora Series B
Notes and Aurora Series D Notes may also be redeemed as a whole at the option of
the Company upon the occurrence of a Change of Control upon not less than 30
days or no more than 60 days prior notice (but in no event more than 90 days
after the occurance of such Change of Control) mailed by first-class mail to
each holder's registered address, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the
principal amount thereof plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and
unpaid interest, if any, to, the date of redemption (subject to the right of
holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the
relevant interest payment date).

RANKING. The payment of Indebtedness evidenced by, and all other
obligations in respect of, the Aurora Notes is subordinated in right of payment,
as set forth in the Aurora Indentures, to the prior payment in full in cash or
Cash Equivalents when due of all Senior Indebtedness of the Company. The
provisions of the Aurora Indentures, provide that in the event of an Asset
Disposition by the Company, the proceeds of the Asset Disposition will be
applied to repurchase the Aurora Series B Notes prior to any repurchase of the
Aurora Series D Notes. Although the Aurora Indentures contain limitations on the
amount of additional Indebtedness that the Company may incur, under certain
circumstances the amount of such Indebtedness could be substantial and, in any
case, such Indebtedness may be Senior Indebtedness.

Only Indebtedness of the Company that is Senior Indebtedness will rank
senior to the Aurora Notes in accordance with the provisions of the Aurora
Indentures. The Aurora Notes will in all respects rank PARI PASSU with all other
Senior Subordinated Indebtedness of the Company. The Company has agreed in the
Aurora Indentures that it will not Incur, directly or indirectly, any
indebtedness, that is subordinate or junior in ranking in any respect to Senior
Indebtedness, unless such Indebtedness is Senior Subordinated Indebtedness, or
is expressly subordinated in right of payment to Senior Subordinated
Indebtedness.

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<PAGE>
CHANGE OF CONTROL. Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control each holder
of the Aurora Notes will have the right to require the Company to repurchase all
or any part of such holder's Aurora Notes at a purchase price in cash equal to
101% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any,
to the date of purchase (subject to the right of holders of record on the
relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment
date).

CERTAIN COVENANTS. The Aurora Indentures impose certain affirmative
covenants and other requirements on the Company, including the reporting of
financial and other information to the Trustee.

The Aurora Indentures also contain certain negative covenants that include,
among others things: (i) limitations on the amount of Indebtedness the Company
and its Subsidiaries may incur; (ii) limitations on certain payments the Company
and its Subsidiaries may make, (iii) limitations on restrictions on
distributions from Subsidiaries, (iv) limitations on sales of assets by the
Company and its Subsidiaries, (v) limitations on Affiliate Transactions, (vi)
limitations on the sale of Subsidiary Capital Stock, (vii) limitations on the
lines of business the Company and its Subsidiaries may engage in, and (viii)
limitations on the Company's ability to merge or consolidate or transfer all or
substantially all of the assets of the Company.

EVENTS OF DEFAULT. An Event of Default under the Aurora Indentures includes
among other things (i) a default in any payment of interest on any Note when
due, continued for 30 days, (ii) a default in the payment of principal of any
Note when due at its Stated Maturity, upon optional redemption, upon required
repurchase, upon declaration or otherwise, (iii) the failure by the Company to
comply with its obligations with respect to mergers, consolidations, and
transfers of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company under
"--Certain Covenants" above (iv) the failure by the Company to comply for 30
days after notice with any of its obligations under the Change of Control
provisions contained in the Aurora Indentures or under covenants described under
"Certain Covenants" above (in each case, other than a failure to purchase Aurora
Notes which shall constitute an Event of Default under clause (ii) above), (v)
the failure by the Company to comply for 60 days after notice with its other
agreements contained in the Aurora Indentures, (vi) Indebtedness of the Company
or any Subsidiary is not paid within any applicable grace period after final
maturity or is accelerated by the holders thereof because of a default and the
total amount of such Indebtedness unpaid or accelerated exceeds $5 million and
such default shall not have been cured or such acceleration rescinded within a
10-day period, (vii) certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization
of the Company or a Significant Subsidiary, (viii) any judgment or decree for
the payment of money in excess of $5 million (to the extent not covered by
insurance) is rendered against the Company or a Significant Subsidiary and such
judgment or decree shall remain undischarged or unstayed for a period of 60 days
after such judgment becomes final and non-appealable or (ix) the failure of any
Security Guarantee to be in full force and effect (except as contemplated by the
terms thereof) or the denial or disaffirmation by any Security Guarantor of its
obligations under the Aurora Indentures or any Security Guarantee if such
default continues for 10 days. However, a default under clauses (iii) and (iv)
will not constitute an Event of Default under the Series B Indenture or the
Series D Indenture until the Trustee or the holders of at least 25% in principal
amount of the outstanding Aurora Series B Notes or Aurora Series D Notes, as the
case may be, notify the Company of the default and the Company does not cure
such default within the time specified in clauses (iv) and (v) hereof after
receipt of such notice.

If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee or the holders
of at least 25% in principal amount of the outstanding Aurora Series B Notes or
Aurora Series D Notes, as the case may be, by notice to the Company may declare
the principal of and accrued and unpaid interest on all the Aurora Series B
Notes or Aurora Series D Notes, as the case may be, to be due and payable. Upon
such a declaration, such principal and accrued and unpaid interest shall be due
and payable immediately. If an Event of Default relating to certain events of
bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of the Company occurs and is
continuing, the principal of and accrued and unpaid interest on all the Aurora
Notes will become and be immediately due and payable without any declaration or
other act on the part of the

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Trustee or any holders. Under certain circumstances, the holders of a majority
in principal amount of the outstanding Aurora Series B Notes or Aurora Series D
Notes, as the case may be, may rescind any such acceleration with respect to the
Aurora Notes and its consequences.

SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

Prior to the Offerings, there has been no market for the Common Stock. The
sale, or availability for sale of substantial amounts of Common Stock in the
public market subsequent to the Offering could adversely affect the prevailing
market price of the shares of Common stock and could impair the Company's
ability to raise additional capital through the sale of equity securities.

Upon completion of the Offerings, the Company will have shares of
Common Stock outstanding ( shares if the Underwriters' over-allotment
option is exercised in full). Of these shares, the shares sold in the
Offerings ( shares if the Underwriters' over-allotment option is exercised
in full) will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration
under the Securities Act, except that any shares purchased by "affiliates" of
the Company, as that term is defined under the Securities Act ("Affiliates"),
may generally only be sold in compliance with the limitations of Rule 144
described below.

The remaining shares of Common Stock are deemed "Restricted Shares"
under Rule 144. The number of shares of Common Stock available for sale in the
public market is limited by restrictions under the Securities Act and lock-up
agreements under which the holder of such shares has agreed not to sell or
otherwise dispose of any of their shares for a period of 180 days after the
effective date of the Offerings (the "Lock-up Period") without the prior written
consent of the representatives of the Underwriters. Because of these
restrictions, on the date of this Prospectus, no shares other than those offered
hereby will be eligible for sale. Upon expiration of the Lock-up Period, all of
the Restricted Shares will become available for sale in the public market,
subject to Rule 144 and Rule 701 of the Securities Act (other than shares which
will become available for sale in ).

In general, under Rule 144 of the Securities Act as currently in effect,
beginning 90 days after the Offerings, a person (or persons whose shares are
aggregated who has beneficially owned "restricted" shares for at least one year,
including a person who may be deemed an affiliate of the Company, is entitled to
sell within any three-month period a number of shares of Common Stock that does
not exceed the greater of 1% of the then-outstanding shares of Common Stock
( shares after giving effect to the Offerings) or the average weekly
trading volume of the Common Stock as reported through the New York Stock
Exchange during the four calendar weeks preceding such sale. Sales under Rule
144 of the Securities Act are subject to certain restrictions relating to manner
of sale, notice, and the availability of current public information about the
Company. In addition, under Rule 144(k) of the Securities Act, a person who is
not an affiliate of the Company at any time 90 days preceding a sale, and who
has beneficially owned shares for at least one year, would be entitled to sell
such shares immediately following the Offerings without regard to the volume
limitations, manner of sale provisions, or notice or other requirements of Rule
144 of the Securities Act.

Rule 701 under the Securities Act provides that shares of Common Stock
acquired on the exercise of outstanding options may be resold by persons other
than affiliates beginning 90 days after the date of this Prospectus, subject
only to manner of sale provisions of Rule 144, and by affiliates, beginning 90
days after the date of this Prospectus, subject to all provisions of Rule 144
except its minimum holding period. The Company intends to register on a
registration statement on Form S-8 shortly after the date of this Prospectus,
for a total of shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance under the 1998
Incentive Plan.

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<PAGE>
CERTAIN UNITED STATES FEDERAL TAX CONSEQUENCES
TO NON-UNITED STATES HOLDERS OF COMMON STOCK

The material federal income tax consequences to Non-U.S. Holders expected to
result from the purchase, ownership and sale or other taxable disposition of the
Common Stock, under currently applicable law, are summarized below. A "Non-U.S.
Holder" is a person or entity purchasing Common Stock in the offering that, for
U.S. federal income tax purposes, is a non-resident alien individual, a foreign
corporation, a foreign estate or trust or a foreign partnership as such terms
are defined in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code").

This summary is based upon the current provisions of the Code, applicable
Treasury Regulations and judicial and administrative decisions and rulings.
There can be no assurance that the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") will not
take a contrary view, and no ruling from the IRS has been or will be sought.
Future legislative, judicial or administrative changes or interpretations could
alter or modify the statements set forth herein, and any such changes or
interpretations could be retroactive and could affect the tax consequences to
Non-U.S. Holders.

The following summary is for general information only and does not purport
to deal with all aspects of federal income taxation that may affect particular
Non-U.S. Holders in light of their individual circumstances and is not intended
for (a) stockholders other than Non-U.S. Holders, (b) Non-U.S. Holders who will
not hold the Common Stock as capital assets or (c) Non-U.S. Holders who are
otherwise subject to special treatment under the Code (including insurance
companies, tax-exempt entities, financial institutions, broker-dealers and
persons who would hold the Common Stock as part of a straddle, hedge or
conversion transaction). In addition, the summary does not consider the effect
of any applicable state, local or foreign tax laws on Non-U.S. Holders. EACH
PROSPECTIVE NON-U.S. HOLDER OF COMMON STOCK SHOULD CONSULT HIS OWN TAX ADVISOR
WITH RESPECT TO THE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE ACQUISITION, OWNERSHIP AND
DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK, INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY AND EFFECT OF STATE,
LOCAL AND FOREIGN TAX LAWS, AND OF CHANGES IN APPLICABLE TAX LAWS.

DIVIDENDS ON COMMON STOCK

Dividends paid to a Non-U.S. Holder of Common Stock that are not effectively
connected with the conduct by the Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or business within
the United States will generally be subject to withholding of United States
federal income tax at the rate of 30% of the gross amount of the dividends
unless the rate is reduced by an applicable income tax treaty. Except to the
extent that an applicable tax treaty otherwise provides, a Non-U.S. Holder will
be taxed in the same manner as United States citizens, resident aliens and
domestic corporations on dividends paid (or deemed paid) that are effectively
connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States by the
Non-U.S. Holder. If such Non-U.S. Holder is a foreign corporation, it may also
be subject to a United States branch profits tax on such effectively connected
income, with certain adjustments at a 30% rate or such lower rate as may be
specified by an applicable income tax treaty. However, a Non-U.S. Holder may
claim exemption from withholding under the effectively connected income
exception by filing Form 4224 (Exemption from Withholding of Tax on Income
Effectively connected with the Conduct of Business in the United States) or a
successor form with the Company or its paying agent.

Under the currently applicable Treasury Regulations, dividends paid to an
address in a country other than the United States are presumed to be paid to a
resident of such country for purposes of the withholding discussed above (unless
the payor has knowledge to the contrary) and, under the current interpretation
of Treasury Regulations, for purposes of determining the applicability of a
reduced rate of withholding under an income tax treaty. However, under certain
recently finalized Treasury Regulations (the "New Withholding Regulations") a
Non-U.S. Holder of Common Stock who wishes to claim the

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benefit of an applicable treaty rate would be required to satisfy certain
certification and other requirements. In addition, under the New Withholding
Regulations, in the case of Common Stock held by a foreign partnership, the
certification requirement would generally be applied to the partners of the
partnership and the partnership may be required to provide certain information,
including a United States taxpayer identification number. The New Withholding
Regulations also provide look-through rules for tiered partnerships. The New
Withholding Regulations are generally effective for payments made after December
31, 1999, subject to certain transition rules. Non-U.S. Holders are encouraged
to consult with their own tax advisors with respect to the application of the
New Withholding Regulations.

Generally, the Company must report to the IRS the amount of dividends paid,
the name and address of the recipient and the amount, if any, of the tax
withheld. A similar report is sent to the holder. Pursuant to income tax
treaties or certain other agreements, the IRS may make its reports available to
tax authorities in the recipient's country of residence.

GAIN ON DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK

A Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to United States federal
income tax or withholding on gain recognized upon the sale or other disposition
of Common Stock unless (i) the gain is effectively connected with the conduct of
a trade or business within the United States by the Non-U.S. Holder, or (ii) in
the case of a Non-U.S. Holder who is a non-resident alien individual and holds
the Common Stock as a capital asset, such holder is present in the United States
for 183 or more days in the taxable year and certain other conditions are met,
or (iii) the Non-U.S. Holder is subject to tax pursuant to the provisions of the
United States federal income tax taw applicable to certain United States
expatriates. If a Non-U.S. Holder falls under clause (i) above, the holder will
be taxed on the net gain derived from the sale at regular graduated United
States federal income tax rates (the branch profits tax also may apply if the
Non-U.S. Holder is a corporation). If a Non-U.S. Holder falls under clause (ii)
above, the holder generally will be subject to a 30% tax on the gain derived
from the sale, which gain may be offset by U.S. capital losses recognized within
the same taxable year of such sale. The foregoing discussion in this paragraph
is based on the Company's conclusion that it is not presently, and has not been
for the past five years, a United States real property holding corporation
("USRPHC") subject to the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980
("FIRPTA"). Different consequences would apply to certain Non-U.S. Holders if
the Company were to become a USRPHC subject to FIRPTA.

FEDERAL ESTATE TAXES

An individual Non-U.S. Holder who owns, or is treated as owning, Common
Stock at the time of his or her death or has made certain lifetime transfers of
an interest in Common Stock will be required to include the value of such Common
Stock in his gross estate for United States federal estate tax purposes, unless
an applicable estate tax treaty provides otherwise.

INFORMATION REPORTING AND BACKUP WITHHOLDING

Information reporting requirements and backup withholding tax will not apply
to any payment of the proceeds of the sale of Common Stock effected outside the
United States by a foreign office of a "broker" (as defined in applicable
Treasury Regulations), unless such broker is (i) a United States person, (ii) a
foreign person that derives 50% or more of its gross income for certain periods
from activities that are effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or
business in the United States, (iii) a controlled foreign corporation for United
States federal income tax purposes or (iv) effective for payments after December
31, 1999, a foreign partnership (a) more than 50% of the income or capital
interests of which are owned by U.S. persons or (b) that is engaged in a United
States trade or business. Payment of the proceeds of any such sale effected
outside the United States by a foreign office of any broker that is described in
(i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) of the preceding sentence will not be subject to backup

91
<PAGE>
withholding tax but will be subject to information reporting requirements unless
such broker has documentary evidence in its records that the beneficial owner is
a Non-U.S. Holder and certain other conditions are met, or the beneficial owner
otherwise establishes an exemption. Payment of the proceeds of any such sale to
or through the United States office of a broker is subject to information
reporting and backup withholding requirements, unless the beneficial owner of
the Common Stock either (a) provides a Form W-8 (or a suitable substitute form)
signed under penalties of perjury that includes its name and address and
certifies as to its Non-U.S. Holder status in compliance with applicable law and
regulations, or (b) otherwise establishes an exemption. Effective for payments
after December 31, 1999 (and subject to certain transition rules), the New
Withholding Regulations unify certain certification procedures and forms and the
reliance standards relating to information reporting and backup withholding.

If paid to an address outside the United States, dividends on Common Stock
held by a Non-U.S. Holder will generally not be subject to backup withholding,
provided that the payor does not have actual knowledge that the holder is a
United States person. However, under the New Withholding Regulations (which are
effective for dividends paid after December 31, 1999), dividend payments may be
subject to backup withholding imposed at a rate of 31% unless applicable
certification requirements are satisfied. See the discussion above with respect
to rules applicable to foreign partnerships under the New Withholding
Regulations.

THE FOREGOING DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES IS FOR
GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND IS NOT TAX ADVICE. ACCORDINGLY, EACH PROSPECTIVE
NON-U.S. HOLDER OF COMMON STOCK SHOULD CONSULT HIS OWN TAX ADVISOR WITH RESPECT
TO THE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE ACQUISITION, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF COMMON
STOCK.

92
<PAGE>
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Company has filed with the Commission a Registration Statement (which
term shall encompass any amendments thereto) under the Securities Act with
respect to the securities offered hereby. This Prospectus does not contain all
the information set forth in the Registration Statement and the exhibits and
schedules thereto, to which reference is hereby made. Statements made in this
Prospectus as to the contents of any contract, agreement or other document
referred to are not necessarily complete; with respect to each such contract,
agreement or other document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement,
reference is made to the exhibit for a more complete description of the matter
involved, and each such statement shall be deemed qualified in its entirety by
such reference.

Upon completion of the Offerings, the Company will be subject to the
informational requirements of the Exchange Act, and, in accordance therewith,
will file reports and other information with the Commission. The Registration
Statement, the exhibits and schedules forming a part thereof and the reports and
other information filed by the Company with the Commission in accordance with
the Exchange Act may be inspected and copied at the public reference facilities
maintained by the Commission at Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549 and will also be available for inspection and
copying at the regional offices of the Commission located at Seven World Trade
Center, 13th Floor, New York, New York 10048 and at Citicorp Center, 500 West
Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60661-2511. Copies of such
material may also be obtained from the Public Reference Section of the
Commission at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549 at prescribed
rates. In addition, the Commission maintains a World Wide Web site on the
Internet at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information
statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically
with the Commission. Copies of such material will also be available for
inspection at the offices of the New York Stock Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New
York, New York 10005.

VALIDITY OF SHARES

The validity of the shares of Common Stock offered hereby will be passed
upon for the Company by Richards & O'Neil, LLP, New York, New York and for the
Underwriters by Sullivan & Cromwell, New York, New York.

EXPERTS

The financial statements of the Company as of December 27, 1997 and December
31, 1996 and for the year ended December 27, 1997 included in this Prospectus
have been so included in reliance on the report of Price Waterhouse LLP,
independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm as experts in
auditing and accounting.

The financial statements of the MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S Business as of December
31, 1996 and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 1996
included in this Prospectus have been so included in reliance on the report of
Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants, given on the authority of said
firm as experts in auditing and accounting.

The financial statements of VDK as of June 30, 1997 and June 29, 1996 and
for the period September 19, 1995 through June 29, 1996 and for the year ended
June 30, 1997 included in this Prospectus have been so included in reliance on
the report of Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants, given on the
authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.

The statements of equipment and goodwill as of June 30, 1997 and 1996 and
the statements of direct revenues and direct expenses of the DUNCAN HINES
Business of The Procter & Gamble Company for each of the three years in the
period ended June 30, 1997, included in this Prospectus have been audited by
Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent auditors, as stated in their report appearing
herein, and have been so included in reliance upon the report of such firm given
upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

93
<PAGE>
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
---------
<S> <C>
AURORA FOODS HOLDINGS INC.
Report of Independent Accountants...................................................................... F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1996, December 27, 1997 and March 28, 1998
(unaudited)........................................................................................... F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the year ended December 27, 1997 and for the three months
ended March 29, 1997 and March 28, 1998 (unaudited)................................................... F-4
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity for the year ended December 27, 1997 and for
the three months ended March 28, 1998 (unaudited)..................................................... F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the year ended December 27, 1997 and for the three months
ended March 29, 1997 and March 28, 1998 (unaudited)................................................... F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements............................................................. F-7

PREDECESSOR BUSINESS

MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S BUSINESS, A COMPONENT OF CONOPCO, INC.
Report of Independent Accountants...................................................................... F-21
Statement of Assets to be Acquired as of December 31, 1996............................................. F-22
Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 1995 and 1996................................ F-23
Notes of Financial Statements.......................................................................... F-24

ACQUIRED BUSINESSES

VDK HOLDINGS, INC.
Report of Independent Accountants...................................................................... F-28
Consolidated Balance Sheet as of June 29, 1996, June 30, 1997 and March 31, 1998 (unaudited)........... F-29
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the operating period September 19, 1995 through June 29,
1996, for the year ended June 30, 1997 and for the nine months ended March 31, 1997 and 1998
(unaudited)........................................................................................... F-30
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity for the period September 19,1995 through
June 29, 1996, for the year ended June 30, 1997 and for the nine months ended March 31, 1998
(unaudited)........................................................................................... F-31
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the operating period September 19, 1995 through June 29,
1996, for the year ended June 30, 1997 and for the nine months ended March 31, 1997 and 1998
(unaudited)........................................................................................... F-32
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements............................................................. F-33

DUNCAN HINES BUSINESS OF THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
Independent Auditors' Report........................................................................... F-47
Statements of Equipment and Goodwill as of June 30, 1996 and 1997, and December 31, 1997 (unaudited)... F-48
Statements of Direct Revenues and Direct Expenses for the years ended June 30, 1997, 1996, and 1995 and
for the six months ended December 31, 1997 and 1996 (unaudited)....................................... F-49
Notes to Financial Statements.......................................................................... F-50
</TABLE>

F-1
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

To the Board of Directors
of Aurora Foods Holdings Inc.

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related
consolidated statement of operations, of changes in stockholder's equity and of
cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
Aurora Foods Holdings Inc. and its subsidiary (the Company) at December 27, 1997
and December 31, 1996 (commencement of operations), and the results of their
operations and their cash flows for the year ended December 27, 1997 in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management; our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with
generally accepted auditing standards which require that 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,
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed
above.

Price Waterhouse LLP

San Francisco, California
March 18, 1998

F-2
<PAGE>
AURORA FOODS HOLDINGS INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMMENCEMENT
OF OPERATIONS
DECEMBER 27, DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996
MARCH 28, -------------- ----------------
1998
-----------
(UNAUDITED)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS

Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents................... $ 23,330 $ 4,717 $ 8,666
Accounts receivable (net of $234 and $140
allowance, respectively).................. 12,271 12,362 --
Accounts receivable--other (Note 4)......... 10,576 1,474 480
Inventories (Note 5)........................ 24,851 6,902 1,182
Prepaid expenses and other assets........... 4,973 1,955 9
Current deferred tax assets (Note 11)....... 8,537 2,966 --
----------- -------------- ----------------
Total current assets...................... 84,538 30,376 10,337

Property, plant and equipment, net (Note 6)... 45,031 14,075 5,206
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net
(Note 7).................................... 717,956 315,241 111,358
Other assets.................................. 22,026 13,047 3,995
----------- -------------- ----------------
Total assets.............................. $ 869,551 $ 372,739 $ 130,896
----------- -------------- ----------------
----------- -------------- ----------------

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY

Current liabilities:
Current portion of long term debt (Note
9)........................................ $ 9,000 $ 4,375 $ --
Accounts payable............................ 26,267 6,443 --
Accrued liabilities (Note 8)................ 29,107 17,409 2,736
----------- -------------- ----------------
Total current liabilities................. 64,374 28,227 2,736

Non-current deferred tax liabilities (Note
11)......................................... 7,771 3,745 --
Senior secured revolving debt facility (Note
9).......................................... -- 37,500 30,000
Senior secured term debt (Note 9)............. 441,000 35,625 15,000
Senior subordinated notes (Note 9)............ 202,377 202,419 50,000
----------- -------------- ----------------
Total liabilities......................... 715,522 307,516 97,736
----------- -------------- ----------------
Stockholder's equity:
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 3,000 shares
authorized; 1,000 shares issued and
outstanding............................... -- -- --
Paid-in capital............................. 218,191 64,203 33,270
Promissory notes (Note 14).................. (565) (215) (110)
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings..... (63,597) 1,235 --
----------- -------------- ----------------
Total stockholder's equity................ 154,029 65,223 33,160
----------- -------------- ----------------

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 12 and
16)

Total liabilities and stockholder's
equity.................................. $ 869,551 $ 372,739 $ 130,896
----------- -------------- ----------------
----------- -------------- ----------------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-3
<PAGE>
AURORA FOODS HOLDINGS INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS ENDED
------------------------ YEAR ENDED
MARCH 28, MARCH 29, DECEMBER 27,
1998 1997 1997
----------- ----------- --------------
(UNAUDITED)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales........................................... $ 89,385 $ 21,253 $ 143,020
Cost of goods sold.................................. 37,734 7,167 45,729
----------- ----------- --------------

Gross profit...................................... 51,651 14,086 97,291
----------- ----------- --------------

Brokerage, distribution and marketing expenses:
Brokerage and distribution........................ 9,355 2,279 17,096
Trade promotions.................................. 15,568 3,643 26,075
Consumer marketing................................ 7,997 1,331 15,142
----------- ----------- --------------
Total brokerage, distribution and marketing
expenses.......................................... 32,920 7,253 58,313

Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles...... 4,597 828 5,938
Selling, general and administrative expenses........ 2,346 1,053 5,229
Compensation plan expense (Note 15)................. 60,000 -- 2,300
Transition expenses (Note 10)....................... 1,926 126 2,113
----------- ----------- --------------
Total operating expenses............................ 101,789 9,260 73,893
----------- ----------- --------------

Operating (loss) income......................... (50,138) 4,826 23,398

Interest income..................................... (223) (32) (151)
Interest expense.................................... 12,837 2,654 18,393
Amortization of deferred financing expense.......... 513 2,313 3,059
Other bank and financing expenses................... 51 9 83
----------- ----------- --------------

(Loss) income before income taxes............... (63,316) (118) 2,014
Income tax (benefit) expense (Note 11).............. (360) (47) 779
----------- ----------- --------------
Net (loss) income before extraordinary item..... (62,956) (71) 1,235
Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt,
net of tax of $1,184.............................. 1,876 -- --
----------- ----------- --------------
Net (loss) income................................... $ (64,832) $ (71) $ 1,235
----------- ----------- --------------
----------- ----------- --------------
Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share before
extraordinary item................................ $ (63) $ -- $ 1
Extraordinary item per share........................ (2) -- --
----------- ----------- --------------
Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share......... $ (65) $ -- $ 1
----------- ----------- --------------
----------- ----------- --------------
Weighted average number of shares outstanding....... 1 1 1
----------- ----------- --------------
----------- ----------- --------------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-4
<PAGE>
AURORA FOODS HOLDINGS INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY

(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RETAINED
COMMON EARNINGS
STOCK PAID-IN PROMISSORY (ACCUMULATED
SHARES CAPITAL NOTES DEFICIT) TOTAL
----------- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at December 31,
1996....................... 1,000 $ 33,270 $ (110) $ -- $ 33,160
Capital contribution......... -- 28,633 (125) -- 28,508
Payments on officer
promissory notes (Note
14)........................ -- -- 20 -- 20
Compensation plan expense
(Note 15).................. -- 2,300 -- -- 2,300
Net income................... -- -- -- 1,235 1,235
----- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------
Balance at December 27,
1997....................... 1,000 64,203 (215) 1,235 65,223
Capital contribution
(unaudited)................ -- 93,988 (366) -- 93,622
Payments on officer
promissory notes (Note 14)
(unaudited)................ -- -- 16 -- 16
Compensation plan expense
(unaudited)................ -- 60,000 -- -- 60,000
Net loss (unaudited)......... -- -- -- (64,832) (64,832)
----- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------
Balance at March 28, 1998
(unaudited)................ 1,000 $ 218,191 $ (565) $ (63,597) $ 154,029
----- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------
----- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-5
<PAGE>
AURORA FOODS HOLDINGS INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS ENDED
------------------------ YEAR ENDED
MARCH 28, MARCH 29, DECEMBER 27,
1998 1997 1997
----------- ----------- --------------
(UNAUDITED)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net (loss) income................................. $ (64,832) $ (71) $ 1,235
Early extinguishment of debt, net of tax.......... 1,876 -- --
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to cash
provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization................... 6,140 3,274 9,976
Deferred income taxes........................... (360) (177) 779
Compensation plan expense (Note 15)............. 60,000 -- 2,300
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects
of businesses acquired:
Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable.... 91 (5,510) (12,362)
Decrease (increase) in accounts
receivable--other............................. 898 (3,183) (994)
(Increase) decrease in inventories............ (17,949) 18 2,975
Increase in prepaid expenses and other
assets........................................ (3,018) (9) (1,946)
Increase in accounts payable.................. 19,824 -- 6,443
Increase in accrued liabilities............... 11,698 5,117 14,624
----------- ----------- --------------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating
activities.......................................... 14,368 (541) 23,030
----------- ----------- --------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment........ (1,511) (96) (2,411)
Asset dispositions................................ 330 -- --
Additions to other non-current assets............. (90) (49) (844)
Payment for acquisition of businesses (Note 3).... (448,121) -- (225,930)
----------- ----------- --------------
Net cash used in investing activities............... (449,392) (145) (229,185)
----------- ----------- --------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from senior secured revolving and term
debt (Note 9)..................................... 450,000 -- 90,000
Proceeds from senior subordinated notes (Note
9)................................................ -- 100,000 202,500
Repayment of borrowings........................... (77,500) (95,000) (107,500)
Capital contributions, net of officer promissory
notes............................................. 93,638 -- 28,500
Debt issuance costs............................... (12,501) (4,951) (11,294)
----------- ----------- --------------
Net cash provided by financing activities........... 453,637 49 202,206
----------- ----------- --------------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents.... 18,613 (637) (3,949)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period...... 4,717 8,666 8,666
----------- ----------- --------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period............ $ 23,330 $ 8,029 $ 4,717
----------- ----------- --------------
----------- ----------- --------------
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosure:
Cash paid for interest............................ $ 11,154 $ 1,211 $ 10,091
----------- ----------- --------------
----------- ----------- --------------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-6
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 1--THE COMPANY

ORGANIZATION

Aurora Foods Holdings Inc. ("Holdings" and together with its subsidiary the
"Company"), a Delaware corporation, is a privately held food company. Holdings
owns 100% of its direct subsidiary, Aurora Foods Inc. ("Foods"), also a Delaware
corporation. Holdings is wholly-owned by MBW Investors LLC ("MBW LLC"), a
Delaware limited liability company. The Company commenced operations on December
31, 1996, when it acquired the Mrs. Butterworth's syrup and pancake business
("MBW") (Note 3) from Conopco, Inc., a subsidiary of Unilever United States,
Inc. ("Conopco" or the "Predecessor"). On July 1, 1997, the Company acquired
substantially all the assets of the Log Cabin syrup business ("LC") from Kraft
Foods, Inc. ("Kraft") (Note 3). Foods holds all of the Company's operations and
debt. Holdings has no assets other than its investment in Foods. See Subsequent
Events (Note 17).

OPERATIONS

The Company produces and markets syrup and pancake mix products that are
sold across the United States. The products are manufactured under temporary
co-packing agreements with Conopco and Kraft and under long-term co-packing
agreements with third parties. The Company's manufacturing equipment has been or
will be installed at certain facilities of these third parties. The principal
trademarks under which the products are sold are Mrs.
Butterworth's-Registered Trademark- and Log Cabin-Registered Trademark-.

NOTE 2--SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Holdings and
its subsidiary. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been
eliminated. The policies utilized by the Company in the preparation of the
financial statements conform to generally accepted accounting principles and
require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported
amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities. Actual amounts could differ from these
estimates and assumptions. The Company uses the accrual basis of accounting in
the preparation of its financial statements.

FISCAL YEAR

The Company's fiscal year ends on the last Saturday of December.Accordingly,
the results of operations reflect activity for the period from December 31, 1996
(commencement of operations) through December 27, 1997. The balance sheet as of
December 31, 1996 reflects the acquisition of the business from Conopco as of
that date but prior to the commencement of operations.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

The Company considers all highly liquid financial instruments with original
maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

INVENTORIES

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is
determined using the first-in first-out (FIFO) method. Inventories include the
cost of contract manufacturers' raw materials, packaging, labor and
manufacturing overhead.

F-7
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 2--SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated
depreciation.Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the
estimated useful lives of the individual assets ranging from three to fifteen
years. Costs which improve an asset or extend its useful life are capitalized,
while repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS

Upon commencement of operations, the Company adopted the provisions of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 121 ("SFAS 121"), "Accounting
for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed
Of". SFAS 121 requires the Company to review long-lived assets and certain
identifiable intangibles for impairment whenever events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be
recoverable. The assessment of impairment is based on the estimated undiscounted
future cash flows from operating activities compared with the carrying value of
the assets. If the undiscounted future cash flows of an asset are less than the
carrying value, a write-down would be recorded, measured by the amount of the
difference between the carrying value of the asset and the fair value of the
asset. Management believes that there has been no impairment at December 27,
1997.

OTHER ASSETS

Other assets consist of deferred loan acquisition costs, systems software,
and other miscellaneous assets. Deferred loan acquisition costs of the senior
subordinated notes and senior secured term debt are being amortized using the
interest method over the terms of the respective notes and debt. Aggregate
amortization of deferred loan acquisition costs and other assets charged against
income in the year ended December 27, 1997 was $3.1 million.

DISCLOSURE ABOUT FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

For purposes of financial reporting, the Company has determined that the
fair value of financial instruments, other than the senior subordinated notes,
approximates book value at December 27, 1997.The fair market value of the senior
subordinated notes at December 27, 1997, based on quoted market prices, was
$210.5 million.

CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK

The Company sells its products to supermarkets and other retail channels.
The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and generally
does not require collateral. The Company maintains reserves for potential credit
losses and had no significant concentration of credit risk at December 27, 1997.

F-8
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 2--SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
INCOME TAXES

The Company records income taxes in accordance with the provisions of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for Income
Taxes". This method of accounting for income taxes uses an asset and liability
approach which requires the recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets
for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the
carrying amounts and the tax bases of assets and liabilities.

ADVERTISING

Costs related to advertising the Company's products are expensed as
incurred, or expensed ratably over the fiscal year in relation to revenues
depending on the nature of such costs. Advertising expense for the year ended
December 27, 1997 was $4.1 million.

UNAUDITED INTERIM INFORMATION

The interim financial data as of March 28, 1998, and for the three months
ended March 28, 1998 and March 29, 1997 is unaudited; however, in the opinion of
the Company, the interim data includes all adjustments, consisting only of
normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial
position and operating results for the interim periods.

NOTE 3--BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS

MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S

At the close of business on December 31, 1996, the Company acquired
substantially all the assets of Mrs. Butterworth's syrup and pancake business
from Conopco.The Company manufactures its products under co-packing agreements
with third parties.

The Company acquired the inventories, manufacturing equipment and intangible
assets of MBW for a purchase price of $114.1 million. The purchase agreement
contains customary representations, warranties and covenants by each of Conopco
and the Company. The acquisition was accounted for by using the purchase method
of accounting.

The acquisition was financed by (i) a net capital contribution from MBW LLC
of approximately $33.2 million, (ii) term loans of $15.0 million and revolving
loans of $30.0 million borrowed under a $60.0 million senior secured debt
facility, and (iii) loans of $50.0 million borrowed under a senior subordinated
debt facility.On February 10, 1997, the senior subordinated debt facility of
$50.0 million and the senior secured facilities of $15.0 million of term debt
and $30.0 million of revolving debt were repaid with proceeds from a $100.0
million senior subordinated note offering.

The cost to acquire MBW has been allocated to tangible and intangible assets
acquired as follows:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cash paid to acquire assets...................................................... $ 114,132
Other acquisition costs.......................................................... 3,663
---------
117,795
Costs assigned to tangible assets................................................ (6,138)
---------
Cost attributable to intangible assets........................................... $ 111,657
---------
---------
</TABLE>

F-9
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 3--BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)
LOG CABIN

On July 1, 1997, the Company acquired substantially all the assets of the LC
syrup business from Kraft.The Company manufactures the products under co-packing
agreements with Kraft and a third party.

The Company acquired the inventories, certain manufacturing equipment and
intangible assets of LC for a purchase price of $222.0 million.The purchase
agreement contains customary representations, warranties and covenants by each
of Kraft and the Company.The acquisition was accounted for by using the purchase
method of accounting.The allocation of purchase price has not been finalized;
however, any changes are not expected to be material.

The acquisition was financed by (i) a capital contribution from MBW LLC of
approximately $28.6 million, (ii) term loans of $40.0 million and revolving
loans of $47.0 million borrowed under a senior secured debt facility, and (iii)
proceeds of $102.5 million received in an additional senior subordinated note
offering.

The cost to acquire LC has been allocated to tangible and intangible assets
acquired, as follows:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cash paid to acquire assets...................................................... $ 221,995
Other acquisition costs.......................................................... 3,636
---------
225,631
Costs assigned to tangible assets................................................ (16,163)
---------
Cost attributable to intangible assets........................................... $ 209,468
---------
---------
</TABLE>

Had the acquisition of LC taken place on January 1, 1997, the unaudited pro
forma net sales and net income for the year ended December 27, 1997 would have
been $194.2 million and $7.0 million, respectively.

NOTE 4--ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE--OTHER

Accounts receivable--other consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 27, DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996
--------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Conopco..................................................... $ 111 $ 480
Kraft....................................................... 1,057 --
Other....................................................... 306 --
------- -----
$ 1,474 $ 480
------- -----
------- -----
</TABLE>

The balances due as of December 27, 1997 from Conopco and Kraft were
comprised of accounts receivable collected by them on behalf of the Company.The
balance due as of December 31, 1996 from Conopco was a purchase price settlement
adjustment owed to the Company.

F-10
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 5--INVENTORIES

Inventories consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 27, DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996
--------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
Raw materials............................................... $ 270 $ 523
Finished goods.............................................. 6,632 659
------- -------
$ 6,902 $ 1,182
------- -------
------- -------
</TABLE>

NOTE 6--PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 27, DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996
--------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
Machinery and equipment..................................... $ 14,357 $ 5,206
Furniture and fixtures...................................... 416 --
Computer equipment.......................................... 313 --
--------------- -------
15,086 5,206
Less accumulated depreciation........................... (1,011) --
--------------- -------
$ 14,075 $ 5,206
--------------- -------
--------------- -------
</TABLE>

NOTE 7--GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill and other intangible assets consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 27, DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996
-------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
Goodwill.................................................... $ 216,485 $ 64,518
Trademarks.................................................. 99,600 44,500
Other intangibles........................................... 5,040 2,340
-------------- --------------
321,125 111,358
Less accumulated amortization........................... (5,884) --
-------------- --------------
$ 315,241 $ 111,358
-------------- --------------
-------------- --------------
</TABLE>

F-11
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 8--ACCRUED LIABILITIES

Accrued liabilities consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 27, DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996
--------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
Accrued interest............................................ $ 8,383 $ --
Accrued trade promotions and consumer marketing............. 5,092 --
Other....................................................... 3,934 2,736
--------------- -------
$ 17,409 $ 2,736
--------------- -------
--------------- -------
</TABLE>

NOTE 9--LONG TERM DEBT

Long term debt consists of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 27, DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996
-------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
SENIOR SECURED DEBT

Senior secured term debt; weighted average interest rate of
8.0% at December 27, 1997; principal due in quarterly
installments through December 31, 2003; floating interest
rate at the prime rate plus 1.25% or, alternatively, the
one, two, three or six month Eurodollar rate plus 2.25%
payable quarterly or at the termination of the Eurodollar
contract interest period.................................. $ 40,000 $ --

Senior secured revolving debt facility; interest rate of
8.0% at December 27, 1997; principal due December 31,
2003; floating interest rate at prime plus 1.25% or,
alternatively, the one, two, three, or six month
Eurodollar rate plus 2.25% payable quarterly or at the
termination of the Eurodollar contract period............. 37,500 --

Senior secured revolving debt; interest rate of 9.50% at
December 31, 1996; principal due in quarterly installments
through December 15, 2001; floating interest rate at the
prime rate plus 1.25% or, alternatively, the one, three,
or sixth month Eurodollar rate plus 2.50% payable
quarterly or at the termination of the Eurodollar contract
interest period........................................... -- 30,000

Senior secured term debt; interest rate of 10.0% at December
31, 1996; principal due in quarterly installments through
December 15, 2002; floating interest rate at the prime
rate plus 1.75% or, alternatively, the one, three, or six
month Eurodollar rate plus 3.00% payable quarterly or at
the termination of the Eurodollar contract interest
period.................................................... -- 15,000
</TABLE>

F-12
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 9--LONG TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 27, DECEMBER 31,
1997 1996
-------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES

Senior subordinated notes issued February 10, 1997 at par
value of $100,000; coupon interest rate of 9.875% with
interest payable each August 15 and February 15; matures
on February 15, 2007...................................... 100,000 --

Senior subordinated notes issued July 1, 1997 at par value
of $100,000 plus premium of $2,500; net of unamortized
premium of $2,419 at December 27, 1997; coupon interest
rate of 9.875% with interest payable each August 15 and
February 15; matures on February 15, 2007................. 100,000 --

Senior subordinated note; interest rate of 12.75% at
December 31, 1996; floating interest rate at the prime
rate plus (i) 4.50% through June 29, 1997, (ii) 5.50% for
the period June 30, 1997 through September 29, 1997, and
(iii) 6.00% for the period September 30, 1997 through
maturity; matures on December 31, 2006.................... -- 50,000
-------------- ---------------

277,500 95,000

Add: unamortized premium on senior subordinated notes....... 2,419 --

Less: current portion of long term debt..................... (4,375) --
-------------- ---------------

Long term debt.............................................. $ 275,544 $ 95,000
-------------- ---------------
-------------- ---------------
</TABLE>

Annual principal payments for the next five years and thereafter consist of
the following:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1998............................................................. $ 4,375
1999............................................................. 4,875
2000............................................................. 5,750
2001............................................................. 6,750
2002............................................................. 7,750
Thereafter....................................................... 248,000
---------
$ 277,500
---------
---------
</TABLE>

SENIOR SECURED DEBT

On December 31, 1996, the Company entered into a Credit Agreement (the
"Agreement") with several banks for $15.0 million of senior secured term debt
and a $45.0 million senior secured revolving debt facility. The proceeds from
the senior secured term debt, a draw of $30.0 million from the senior secured
revolving debt facility, the $50.0 million senior subordinated note and capital
contributed from MBW LLC were used to acquire MBW from Conopco, pay fees and
expenses and fund working capital.

The Company amended the Agreement, dated as of July 1, 1997, to provide for
borrowings of $40.0 million of senior secured term debt and a $60.0 million
senior secured revolving debt facility. Together with a $100.0 million senior
subordinated note offering and capital contributed from MBW LLC,

F-13
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 9--LONG TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)
the Company consummated the LC acquisition, paid fees and expenses and provided
for the working capital requirements related to the acquisition.

The $60.0 million senior secured revolving debt facility is subject to
limitations based on letters of credit. At December 27, 1997, the Company had
unused borrowing availability of $22.5 million. The Agreement requires a
commitment fee of 0.5% per annum payable quarterly on the unused portions of the
revolving debt facility.

The Agreement includes restrictive covenants, which limit additional
borrowing, cash dividends, and capital expenditures while also requiring the
Company to maintain certain financial ratios. The Company was in compliance with
these covenants at December 27, 1997.

SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES

On February 10, 1997, the Company issued $100.0 million of senior
subordinated notes (the "Old Notes"). The proceeds from the Old Notes were
primarily used to retire the $45.0 million of senior secured debt and the $50.0
million senior subordinated note incurred to finance the MBW acquisition. On
July 1, 1997, the Company issued $100.0 million of senior subordinated notes
(the "New Notes"). The New Notes were issued at a premium in the amount of $2.5
million. The unamortized balance of the premium on the New Notes at December 27,
1997 was $2.4 million. The proceeds from the New Notes were primarily used to
fund the acquisition of LC. (Together, the Old Notes and New Notes are the
"Notes".)

The Company may redeem the Notes at any time after February 15, 2002, at the
redemption price together with accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, the
Company may redeem $35.0 million of the Notes at any time prior to February 15,
2000 subject to certain requirements, with the cash proceeds received from one
or more Equity Offerings (as defined), at a redemption price of 109.875%
together with accrued and unpaid interest. Upon a Change in Control (as
defined), the Company has the option at any time prior to February 15, 2002 to
redeem the Notes at a redemption price of 100% plus the Applicable Premium (as
defined), together with accrued and unpaid interest. If the Company does not
redeem the Notes or if the Change of Control occurs after February 15, 2002, the
Company is required to offer to repurchase the Notes at a price equal to 101%
together with accrued and unpaid interest.

The indenture includes restrictive covenants, which limit additional
borrowings, cash dividends, sale of assets, mergers and the sale of stock. The
Company was in compliance with these covenants at December 27, 1997.

NOTE 10--TRANSITION EXPENSES

Transition expenses consist of one-time costs incurred to establish the
Company's operations and integrate the acquired businesses, including relocation
expenses, recruiting fees, sales support and other unique transitional expenses.
Transition expenses for the year ended December 27, 1997 were approximately $2.1
million.

F-14
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 11--INCOME TAXES

The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return. State income tax
returns are filed by the Company and Foods on a separate company basis or on a
combined basis depending on the particular rules in each state.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED
DECEMBER 27,
1997
---------------
<S> <C>
The provision for income taxes is summarized as follows:

Current tax expense:
Federal............................................................. $ --
State............................................................... --
-------
Total current provision..................................................... --
-------
Deferred tax expense:
Federal............................................................. 656
State............................................................... 123
-------
Total deferred provision.................................................... 779
-------
Total provision for income taxes............................................ $ 779
-------
-------

Deferred tax assets (liabilities) consist of the following:

Deferred tax assets--current:
Loss carryforwards.................................................. $ 1,230
Coupon reserves..................................................... 844
Inventory........................................................... 325
Accrued expenses.................................................... 320
Other............................................................... 247
-------
Total deferred tax assets--current.......................................... 2,966
-------
Deferred tax assets--non-current:
Compensation plan expense........................................... 873
Goodwill............................................................ 228
Depreciation........................................................ 20
-------
Total deferred tax assets--non-current...................................... 1,121
-------
Deferred tax liabilities--non-current:
Goodwill............................................................ (4,465)
Depreciation........................................................ (401)
-------
Total deferred tax liabilities--non-current................................. (4,866)
-------
Net deferred tax liability.................................................. $ (779)
-------
-------

Net deferred tax assets current............................................. $ 2,966
Net deferred tax liabilities--non-current................................... (3,745)
-------
Net deferred tax liabilities................................................ $ (779)
-------
-------
</TABLE>

F-15
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 11--INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
The Company has not recorded a valuation allowance for its deferred tax
assets. Management believes the deferred tax assets are more likely than not to
be realized.

At December 27, 1997, the Company generated a federal net operating loss of
approximately $3.1 million. These losses can be used to offset future taxable
income through the year 2017. The Company is a loss corporation as defined in
section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code. Therefore, if certain substantial
changes of the Company's ownership should occur, there could be significant
annual limitations of the amount of net operating loss carryforwards which can
be utilized.

The provision for income taxes differs from the amount of income tax
determined by applying the applicable U.S. statutory federal income tax rate to
pretax income as a result of the following differences:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED
DECEMBER 27,
1997
-----------------
<S> <C>
Provision for income taxes at U.S. statutory rate........................... $ 685
Increase in tax resulting from:
Nondeductible expenses.................................................... 13
State taxes, net of federal benefit....................................... 81
-----
$ 779
-----
-----
</TABLE>

NOTE 12--LEASES

The Company leases certain facilities, machinery and equipment under
operating lease agreements with varying terms and conditions. The leases are
noncancellable operating leases which expire on various dates through 2002.

Future annual minimum lease payments under these leases are summarized as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINIMUM
LEASE
YEARS ENDING DECEMBER 27, PAYMENTS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------
<S> <C>
1998........................................................................... $ 115
1999........................................................................... 114
2000........................................................................... 124
2001........................................................................... 137
2002........................................................................... 59
Thereafter..................................................................... --
-----
$ 549
-----
-----
</TABLE>

Rent expense was $0.1 million for the year ended December 27, 1997.

NOTE 13--SAVINGS AND BENEFIT PLANS

The Company offers a retirement savings plan to employees in the form of
401(k) and profit sharing plans. Under the 401(k) plan, employee contributions
up to 6% of total compensation are matched 50% by the Company, with vesting
occurring ratably over a five year period. Profit sharing contributions of 2%

F-16
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 13--SAVINGS AND BENEFIT PLANS (CONTINUED)
of compensation are made on behalf of all employees on an annual basis. Profit
sharing contributions also vest ratably over a five year period. The Company's
contributions to the 401(k) and profit sharing plans for the fiscal year ending
December 27, 1997 were $0.1 million.

NOTE 14--RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Aurora Foods Inc. maintains business relationships and engages in certain
transactions as described below.

The Company entered into a Management Services Agreement with Dartford
Partnership, L.L.C. ("Dartford") pursuant to which Dartford provides management
oversight on financial and operational matters. The Company paid fees to
Dartford, a member of MBW LLC, in connection with this agreement totaling $768
in fiscal 1997. The annual management fee was $600 prior to the acquisition of
LC and $935 after the acquisition of LC.

The Company entered into an Advisory Services Agreement with McCown De Leeuw
& Co. III, L.P. ("MDC") pursuant to which MDC provides certain advisory
functions. The Company paid fees to MDC, a member of MBW LLC, in connection with
this agreement totaling $293 in fiscal 1997. The annual advisory fee was $250
prior to the acquisition of LC and $336 after the acquisition of LC.

In connection with the acquisitions of MBW and LC, the Company paid to
certain members of MBW LLC, who are also represented on the Board of Directors
or officers of the Company and beneficial owners, fees for services rendered in
connection with the acquisitions and related financings consummated in 1997. The
aggregate amount paid to certain members of MBW LLC was $4.7 million and was
funded by the proceeds of the financings. Of this amount, $1.3 million was paid
to Dartford, whose partners include Mr. Ian R. Wilson, Mr. Ray Chung, Mr. James
B. Ardrey and Ms. M. Laurie Cummings (all are directors and/or executive
officers of the Company); $259 in total was paid to Mr. Thomas J. Ferraro
(director and President of the Company) and Mr. C. Gary Willett (Executive Vice
President of the Company); $2.7 million was paid to MDC, whose general partners
and principal include Mr. David E. De Leeuw, Mr. Charles Ayres and Mr. Tyler T.
Zachem (all directors of the Company); and $481 was paid to Fenway Partners
Capital Fund, L.P., whose partners include Mr. Peter Lamm and Mr. Richard C.
Dresdale (both directors of the Company). The fee amounts were negotiated among
the equity investors.

On December 31, 1996, Mr. Thomas J. Ferraro, the President of the Company,
and Mr. C. Gary Willett, Executive Vice President of the Company and on July 1,
1997, Mr. Alan Mintz, Vice President Sales, and Mr. Dirk C. Grizzle, Chief
Financial Officer of the Company, executed promissory notes in favor of the
Company in exchange for monies borrowed to assist in the capitalization of their
limited liability company interests held in MBW LLC. The promissory notes mature
December 31, 1999 for Mr. Ferraro and Mr. Willett, and June 30, 2000 for Mr.
Mintz and Mr. Grizzle. Interest is due and payable

F-17
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 14--RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
quarterly at the rate of 8.0% per annum and there are required annual principal
payments. The aggregate balances outstanding as of December 27, 1997 on the
promissory notes were $215. The outstanding balances are as follows:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Mr. Ferraro.......................................................................... $ 40
Mr. Willett.......................................................................... 50
Mr. Mintz............................................................................ 50
Mr. Grizzle.......................................................................... 75
---------
$ 215
---------
---------
</TABLE>

NOTE 15--COMPENSATION PLAN EXPENSE

The Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement (the "LLC
Agreement") of MBW LLC contains a management compensation arrangement (the
"Management Plan") as a means by which certain key employees and other
specifically designated persons ("Key Personnel") of the Company, and/or
affiliated with the Company, may be given an opportunity to benefit from
appreciation in the value of the Company. Under the Management Plan, Key
Personnel are issued a specific class of limited liability company member units
("Management Units"), at a nominal value, as a means to participate in the
appreciation of the Company. The Management Units are subject to vesting
requirements based on terms of employment or other factors.

Upon a change of control or initial public offering ("IPO") of the Company's
or Holdings' stock, all Management Units will vest immediately, except for
certain Management Units issued after December 31, 1997, which will remain
subject to normal vesting requirements under the Management Plan. The holders of
vested Management Units will be entitled to certain payments or distributions
based on the amounts paid or distributed to the investors in MBW LLC. In
general, there will be no payments to holders of vested Management Units until
the MBW LLC investors have received a designated return on their investments.
The type of payment will be cash or non-cash consideration, depending on the
type of triggering event and the type of distribution received by MBW LLC
investors.

The total amount due under the Management Plan, if any, is subject to the
vesting factors discussed above. Based on management and the Board of Director's
assessment of the current valuation of the Company, compensation expense for the
year ended December 27, 1997 totaled $2.3 million. Should the Company appreciate
further in value, compensation expense to be recognized in future periods under
the Management Plan could be significant. The fiscal 1997 compensation expense
has been recorded as a liability of MBW LLC as the sponsor of the Management
Plan. However, because the Management Plan is for the benefit of Key Personnel
of the Company, expense recognized under the Management Plan has been pushed
down to the Company, and has been recorded by the Company as expense and as
additional paid in capital from its parent.

NOTE 16--COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

The Company is subject to litigation in the ordinary course of business. In
the opinion of management, the ultimate outcome of any existing litigation would
not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition or
results of operations.

F-18
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 16--COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)

The Company has entered into manufacturing contracts, which require minimum
annual production orders. The minimum annual production orders for all contracts
through the year 2003 are 3.3 million cases of product. This volume represents
substantially less than the Company's current production requirements.

NOTE 17--SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

ACQUISITION

On January 16, 1998, subsequent to the Company's fiscal year end, the
Company acquired all the assets of the Duncan Hines Business from the Procter &
Gamble Company ("P&G"). The assets acquired by the Company include (i) DUNCAN
HINES-REGISTERED TRADEMARK- and associated trademarks, (ii) substantially all of
the equipment for the manufacture of Duncan Hines products currently located in
P&G's Jackson, Tennessee facility, (iii) proprietary formulations for Duncan
Hines products, (iv) other product specifications and customer lists and (v)
rights under certain contracts, licenses, purchase orders and other arrangements
and permits. The Company intends to use the acquired assets in its operations of
the Duncan Hines Business. The purchase price of approximately $445.0 million
was based on an arm's length negotiation between the Company and P&G.

To finance the acquisition of the Duncan Hines Business and related costs,
the Company incurred an early extinguishment of its existing senior secured term
debt and senior secured revolving debt facility, borrowed $450.0 million of
senior secured bank debt under a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement,
and received a capital contribution from MBW LLC of $93.8 million. As a result
of the early extinguishment, the Company will record an extraordinary charge of
$1.8 million, net of income taxes of $1.2 million, for the write-off of deferred
loan acquisition costs in 1998.

The cost to acquire the Duncan Hines Business has been allocated to tangible
and intangible assets acquired as follows:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cash paid to acquire assets...................................................... $ 445,000
Other acquisition costs.......................................................... 3,121
---------
448,121
Costs assigned to tangible assets................................................ (40,953)
---------
Costs attributable to intangible assets.......................................... $ 407,168
---------
---------
</TABLE>

The following unaudited pro forma combined results of operations of the
Company and the Duncan Hines Business, together with the other acquisitions made
by the Company for the year ended December 27, 1997, gives pro forma effect to
the acquisitions as though the acquisitions occurred as of January 1, 1997
(dollars in thousands):

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Net sales........................................................................ $ 460,294
---------
---------
Net income....................................................................... $ 4,260
---------
---------
</TABLE>

The foregoing unaudited pro forma results of operations reflect one year's
amortization of the goodwill and other intangibles resulting from the
acquisition of the assets of the Duncan Hines Business.

F-19
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 17--SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (CONTINUED)
The allocation of purchase price has not been finalized; however, any changes
are not expected to be material.

INTEREST RATE SWAP AGREEMENT

The Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement (the "Swap") on
March 17, 1998, in order to reduce the impact of changes in interest rates on
its floating rate long term debt. The notional principal amount covered under
the Swap is $150.0 million and the term is three years. The effective current
swap rate is 5.81%. The applicable rate is set quarterly with the first reset
date on June 17, 1998. Amounts to be paid or received, if any, under the Swap
will be recognized as an increase or decrease, respectively, in interest
expense. The counterparty to the Company's Swap is a major financial
institution.

Under the Swap, the Company will make payments to the counterparty if the
three-month LIBOR rate is less than the swap rate and receive payments from the
counterparty if the three month LIBOR rate exceeds the swap rate. The payments
will be calculated based upon the notional principal amount. At the time the
Swap was entered into, the three-month LIBOR rate was 5.69%.

Risks associated with the Swap include those associated with changes in the
market value and interest rates. Management considers the potential loss in
future earnings and cash flows attributable to the Swap to not be material.

F-20
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

To the Board of Directors
of CONOPCO, Inc.

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets to be acquired as of
December 31, 1996 and the statements of operations for the years ended December
31, 1996 and 1995 of Mrs. Butterworth's Business, a component of CONOPCO, Inc.
(the "Business"). These financial statements are the responsibility of CONOPCO,
Inc.'s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits 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 that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

The accompanying financial statements were prepared to present the assets to be
acquired and the results of operations of the Business pursuant to the purchase
agreement between CONOPCO, Inc. and MBW Acquisition Corp. (the "Buyer") as
described in Note 1 and are not intended to be a complete presentation of the
Business's financial position and cash flows.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the assets to be acquired of the Business as of December
31, 1996 and the results of its operations for the years ended December 31, 1996
and 1995, pursuant to the purchase agreement referred to in Note 1, in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

Price Waterhouse LLP
San Francisco, California
March 14, 1997

F-21
<PAGE>
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S BUSINESS

(A COMPONENT OF CONOPCO, INC.)

STATEMENT OF ASSETS TO BE ACQUIRED
DECEMBER 31, 1996
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Inventories........................................................................ $ 829
Machinery and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $1,791................. 2,774
---------
Total assets................................................................... $ 3,603
---------
---------
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements

F-22
<PAGE>
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S BUSINESS

(A COMPONENT OF CONOPCO, INC.)

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
1996 1995
------------- ---------------
Net sales..................................................... $ 89,541 $ 91,302
------------- ---------------
Costs and expenses:
Cost of products sold....................................... 28,955 27,743
Brokerage and distribution.................................. 8,140 7,583
Trade promotions............................................ 17,672 19,380
Consumer marketing.......................................... 10,835 13,291
Selling, general and administrative......................... 6,753 6,120
------------- ---------------

Total costs and expenses.................................... 72,355 74,117
------------- ---------------
Income before taxes........................................... 17,186 17,185
Provision for income taxes.................................. 6,616 6,616
------------- ---------------
Net income.................................................... $ 10,570 $ 10,569
------------- ---------------
------------- ---------------
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements

F-23
<PAGE>
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S BUSINESS
(A COMPONENT OF CONOPCO, INC.)

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 1996

(IN THOUSANDS)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

In December 1996, CONOPCO, Inc. ("CONOPCO" or the "Company"), a subsidiary
of Unilever United States, Inc., entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (the
"Agreement") with MBW Acquisition Corp., the predecessor of MBW Foods Inc. (the
"Buyer"). The Agreement provides for the sale of certain assets of CONOPCO
pertaining to its Mrs. Butterworth's Business (the "Business") and the
assumption of certain liabilities relating to future commitments as defined (see
Note 7). The Business was operated as part of Van den Bergh Foods Company ("Van
den Bergh"), a division of the Company. The Business' products, which are
distributed on a national basis, consist of syrup and pancake mix. A significant
portion of the Business' net sales are with major retailers.

The sale was consummated on December 31, 1996, after the close of business
but before the end of the business day. Under the terms of the Agreement,
CONOPCO, Inc. sold to the Buyer certain assets exclusively used in the Business,
as defined in the Agreement, and retains the manufacturing plants, employees and
the retained liabilities of the Business, as defined in the Agreement.

Throughout the periods covered by the financial statements, the Business
operations were conducted and accounted for as a part of the Company. These
financial statements have been carved out from the Company's historical
accounting records.

Under the Company's centralized cash management system, cash requirements of
the Business were generally provided directly by the Company and cash generated
by the Business was generally remitted directly to the Company. Transaction
systems (e.g., payroll, employee benefits, accounts payable), used to record and
account for cash disbursements were provided by centralized company
organizations outside the defined scope of the Business. Most of these corporate
systems are not designed to track assets/liabilities and receipts/payments on a
business specific basis. Given these constraints and the fact that only certain
assets of the Business were sold, statements of financial position and cash
flows could not be prepared.

The manufacturing and distribution operations of the Business are conducted
at sites where other Company manufacturing and distribution not included in the
Business are present. In addition, certain non-manufacturing operations of the
Business share facilities and space with other Company operations. At these
shared sites, only the assets of the Business (inventories and machinery and
equipment) are included in the Statement of Assets to be Acquired. The Statement
of Assets to be Acquired is as of the close of business on December 31, 1996,
immediately prior to the sale.

Net sales in the accompanying Statement of Operations represent net sales
directly attributable to the Business. Costs and expenses in the accompanying
statement of operations represent direct and allocated costs and expenses
related to the Business. Costs for certain functions and services performed by
centralized Company organizations outside the defined scope of the Business have
been allocated to the Business based on usage or sales of the Business, as
appropriate, compared to total Van Den Bergh usage or sales. The results of
operations include expense allocations for (1) costs for administrative
functions and services performed on behalf of the Business by centralized staff
groups within the Company, (2) research and development expense and (3)
CONOPCO's general corporate expenses including pension and certain other
postretirement benefits costs (see Note 2, 3 and 5 for a

F-24
<PAGE>
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S BUSINESS
(A COMPONENT OF CONOPCO, INC.)

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

DECEMBER 31, 1996

(IN THOUSANDS)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS (CONTINUED)
description of the allocation methodologies employed). CONOPCO maintains all
debt and notes payable on a consolidated basis to fund and manage all of its
operations. Debt and related interest expense were not allocated to the
Business.

All of the allocations and estimates in the Statements of Operations are
based on assumptions that Company management believes are reasonable under the
circumstances.However, these allocations and estimates are not necessarily
indicative of the costs and expenses that would have resulted if the Business
had been operated as a separate entity or future results of the Business.

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

INCOME RECOGNITION. Sales and related cost of products sold are included in
income and expense, respectively, when products are shipped to the customer.

INVENTORIES. Inventories are priced at the lower of cost or market with
cost determined by the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method.

MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT ("M&E"). M&E is stated at historical cost.
Alterations and major overhauls which extend the lives of its property or
increase the capacity of M&E are capitalized. The amounts for property disposals
are removed from M&E and accumulated depreciation accounts and any resultant
gain or loss is included in earnings. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are
charged to operating costs.

DEPRECIATION. Van Den Bergh calculates depreciation using the straight-line
method over the useful lives of its property and M&E. Depreciation provided in
costs and expenses is allocated to the Business based on sales of the Business
compared to total Van Den Bergh sales.

COST OF PRODUCTS SOLD. Cost of products sold includes direct costs of
materials, labor, and overhead and allocated costs for facilities, functions and
services used by the Business at shared sites. Overhead allocations are based on
estimated time spent by employees, relative use of facilities, estimated
consumption of supplies, and sales of the Business compared to total Van Den
Bergh sales.

BROKERAGE AND DISTRIBUTION. Brokerage and distribution includes costs of
the outside brokerage network and outbound freight.

TRADE PROMOTIONS. Trade promotions represents promotional incentives
offered to retailers.

CONSUMER MARKETING. Consumer marketing is comprised of all costs associated
with advertising coupons. Advertising expense is accrued as incurred. Production
costs are expensed on the initial use of the advertisement.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE. Selling, general and administrative
consists solely of allocated selling, administration and research and
development expenses. The Business is allocated these expenses based on sales of
the Business compared to total Van den Bergh sales.

F-25
<PAGE>
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S BUSINESS
(A COMPONENT OF CONOPCO, INC.)

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

DECEMBER 31, 1996

(IN THOUSANDS)

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
INCOME TAXES. The taxable income of the Business was included in the tax
returns of CONOPCO. As such, separate income tax returns were not prepared or
filed for the Business. The provision for income taxes included in the
accompanying statement of operations has been determined based upon statutory
rates applied to pre-tax income.

PENSIONS. The Company has noncontributory defined benefit plans covering
substantially all U.S. employees, including the employees of the Business. The
benefits for these plans are based primarily on employees' years of service and
employees' compensation during the last years of employment. It is the Company's
policy to fund at least the minimum amounts required by the Employee Retirement
Income Security Act of 1974. The Company maintains profit-sharing and savings
plans for full-time employees who meet certain eligibility requirements. The
costs allocated to the Business relative to the aforementioned plans are based
on sales of the Business.

OTHER POST RETIREMENT BENEFITS. The Company provides certain health care
and life insurance benefits (post retirement benefits) to substantially all
eligible retired U.S. employees and their dependents. These benefits are
accounted for as they are earned by active employees. The post retirement costs
allocated to the Business are based on sales of the Business.

ESTIMATES. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Also, as
discussed in Note 1, these financial statements include allocations and
estimates that are not necessarily indicative of the costs and expenses that
would have resulted if the Business had been operated as a separate entity or
future results of the Business.

3. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The statement of operations include significant allocations from other
Company organizations involving functions and services (such as finance and
accounting, management informations systems, research and development, legal,
human resources and purchasing) that were provided to the Business by
centralized CONOPCO organizations outside the defined scope of the Business. The
costs of these functions and services have been allocated to the Business using
methods that CONOPCO's management believes are reasonable. Such allocations are
not necessarily indicative of the costs that would have been incurred if the
Business had been a separate entity. Total cost of products sold includes $2,656
and $3,026 in allocated costs for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Selling, general and administrative expenses include $6,753 and
$6,120 of allocated costs for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.

F-26
<PAGE>
MRS. BUTTERWORTH'S BUSINESS
(A COMPONENT OF CONOPCO, INC.)

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

DECEMBER 31, 1996

(IN THOUSANDS)

4. PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

Taxes computed at the U.S. statutory rates are summarized below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1995
---------------------- ----------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
AMOUNT % AMOUNT %
----------- --- ----------- ---
Federal..................................... $ 5,843 34.0 $ 5,843 34.0
State (net of federal tax benefit).......... 773 4.5 773 4.5
----------- --- ----------- ---
Provision for income taxes.................. $ 6,616 38.5 $ 6,616 38.5
----------- --- ----------- ---
----------- --- ----------- ---
</TABLE>

5. INVENTORIES

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996
-----
<S> <C>
Raw materials, packaging and supplies................................ $ 301
Finished products.................................................... 631
-----
932
Adjustment to LIFO basis............................................. (103)
-----
$ 829
</TABLE>

The Company's application of LIFO is not attributable to individual business
units. Accordingly, the results of applying LIFO have been allocated to the
Business based on relative inventory values. Management believes such
allocations are reasonable, but may not necessarily reflect the cost that would
have been incurred if LIFO had been applied on a business specific basis.

6. DEPRECIATION EXPENSE

Depreciation provided in costs and expenses was $277 in 1996 and $311 in
1995.

7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

The Business is currently subject to certain lawsuits and claims with
respect to matters such as product liability and other actions arising in the
normal course of business. Such lawsuits and claims, as defined in the
Agreement, are the responsibility of CONOPCO.

In the normal course of its operations, the Business has informal agreements
with two suppliers to provide the Business with its glass bottle requirements.
These informal agreements contain no specified duration and are subject to price
adjustments. If these agreements were to terminate, the Company expects that the
Business would acquire any on-hand inventory of the suppliers.

F-27
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

To the Board of Directors
of VDK Holdings, Inc.

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related
consolidated statements of operations, of changes in stockholder's equity and of
cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
VDK Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiary (the Company) at June 30, 1997, and June
29, 1996, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the year
ended June 30, 1997 and the period September 19, 1995 through June 29, 1996 in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management; our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with
generally accepted auditing standards which require that 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,
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We
believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed
above.

Price Waterhouse, LLP
San Francisco, California
September 23, 1997

F-28
<PAGE>
VDK HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MARCH 31, JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1998 1997 1996
----------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(UNAUDITED)
ASSETS

Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents................................ $ 53 $ 308 $ 4,040
Accounts receivable (net of $420, $416 and $190
allowance, respectively)............................... 43,350 33,011 16,250
Accounts receivable--other (Note 5)...................... -- 9 506
Inventories (Note 6)..................................... 35,825 33,535 30,202
Prepaid expenses......................................... 1,459 1,208 724
Current deferred tax assets (Note 12).................... 11,989 8,260 3,373
----------- --------- ---------
Total current assets................................... 92,676 76,331 55,095

Property, plant and equipment, net (Note 7)................ 88,240 86,394 35,943
Non-current deferred tax assets............................ 7,171 -- --
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net (Note 8)......... 322,550 331,013 203,736
Other assets............................................... 16,434 15,853 10,725
----------- --------- ---------
Total assets........................................... $ 527,071 $ 509,591 $ 305,499
----------- --------- ---------
----------- --------- ---------

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY

Current liabilities:
Current portion of long term debt (Note 10).............. $ 16,978 $ 13,097 $ 5,000
Senior secured revolving debt facility................... 15,000 5,000 --
Accounts payable......................................... 13,577 13,791 14,144
Accrued liabilities (Note 9)............................. 31,607 24,619 15,789
Current deferred tax liabilities (Note 12)............... -- -- 143
----------- --------- ---------
Total current liabilities.............................. 77,162 56,507 35,076

Non-current deferred tax liabilities (Note 12)............. -- 10,404 2,997
Other liabilities (Note 16)................................ 15,000 -- --
Senior secured term debt (Note 10)......................... 177,781 194,759 83,750
Senior subordinated notes (Note 10)........................ 100,000 100,000 100,000
----------- --------- ---------
Total liabilities...................................... 369,943 361,670 221,823
----------- --------- ---------

Stockholder's equity:
Common stock, $1.00 par value; 3,000 shares authorized;
100 shares issued and outstanding...................... -- -- --
Paid-in capital.......................................... 198,635 144,420 84,420
Promissory notes (Note 15)............................... (107) (213) (305)
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (Note 16)........ (41,400) 3,714 (439)
----------- --------- ---------
Total stockholder's equity............................. 157,128 147,921 83,676
----------- --------- ---------
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 6, 7, 13 and 17)

Total liabilities and stockholder's equity............. $ 527,071 $ 509,591 $ 305,499
----------- --------- ---------
----------- --------- ---------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-29
<PAGE>
VDK HOLDINGS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NINE MONTHS ENDED OPERATING PERIOD
MARCH 31, YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 19,
-------------------- JUNE 30, 1995 THROUGH
1998 1997 1997 JUNE 29, 1996
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(UNAUDITED)
Net sales.............................. $ 348,288 $ 344,113 $ 435,476 $ 143,296
Cost of goods sold..................... 135,777 143,522 180,941 60,367
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------

Gross profit....................... 212,511 200,591 254,535 82,929
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------

Brokerage, distribution and marketing
expenses:
Brokerage and distribution......... 33,765 37,005 45,352 15,901
Trade promotions................... 101,534 83,908 108,925 32,517
Consumer marketing................. 25,151 23,897 29,524 11,336
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
Total brokerage, distribution and
marketing expenses................... 160,450 144,810 183,801 59,754

Amortization of goodwill and other
intangibles.......................... 10,194 9,982 13,142 4,223
Selling, general and administrative
expenses............................. 13,968 9,825 14,270 5,267
Compensation plan expense (Note 16).... 69,000 -- -- --
Transition expenses (Note 11).......... -- 2,073 2,885 1,337
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
Total operating expenses............... 253,612 166,690 214,098 70,581
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------

Operating (loss) income............ (41,101) 33,901 40,437 12,348

Interest income........................ (60) (939) (965) (135)
Interest expense....................... 23,634 24,762 32,499 12,469
Amortization of deferred financing
expense.............................. 1,612 1,573 2,108 607
Other bank and financing expenses...... 131 215 265 79
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------

(Loss) income before income
taxes............................ (66,418) (8,290) 6,530 (672)

Income tax (benefit) expense........... (21,304) (3,316) 2,377 (233)
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
Net (loss) income.................. $ (45,114) $ 4,974 $ 4,153 $ (439)
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per
share................................ $ (451) $ 50 $ 42 $ (4)
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
Weighted average number of shares
outstanding.......................... 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
--------- --------- ----------- -----------------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-30
<PAGE>
VDK HOLDINGS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY

(IN THOUSANDS)

Capital contribution.......... -- 60,000 -- -- 60,000
Officer payments on promissory
notes (Note 15)............. -- -- 92 -- 92
Net income.................... -- -- -- 4,153 4,153
--- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------

Balance at June 30, 1997...... 100 144,420 (213) 3,714 147,921
Capital contribution
(unaudited)................. -- 215 -- -- 215
Payments on officer promissory
notes (Note 15)
(unaudited)................. -- -- 106 -- 106
Compensation plan expense
(unaudited)................. -- 54,000 -- -- 54,000
Net loss (unaudited).......... -- -- -- (45,114) (45,114)
--- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------
Balance at March 31, 1998
(unaudited)................. 100 $ 198,635 $ (107) $ (41,400) $ 157,128
--- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------
--- ----------- ------------- -------------- ---------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-31
<PAGE>
VDK HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NINE MONTHS ENDED OPERATING PERIOD
MARCH 31, YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 19, 1995
-------------------- JUNE 30, THROUGH JUNE 29,
1998 1997 1997 1996
--------- --------- ----------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(UNAUDITED)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net (loss) income............................ $ (45,114) $ 4,974 $ 4,153 $ (439)
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to
cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization.............. 17,483 16,772 22,317 7,454
Deferred income taxes...................... (21,304) 1,808 2,377 (233)
Compensation plan expense.................. 69,000 -- -- --
Change in assets and liabilities, net of
effects of businesses acquired:
Increase in accounts receivable.......... (10,330) (27,950) (16,264) (16,756)
(Increase) decrease in inventories....... (2,290) (2,748) 402 (4,980)
(Increase) in prepaid expenses........... (251) (256) (484) (139)
(Decrease) increase in accounts
payable................................ (214) 2,273 (353) 14,144
Increase in accrued liabilities.......... 6,988 10,895 6,396 13,366
Increase in income taxes payable......... -- 1,456 -- --
Increase in other assets................. (1,296) (484) (984) --
--------- --------- ----------- --------
Net cash provided by operating activities...... 12,672 6,740 17,560 12,417
--------- --------- ----------- --------

Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment... (7,524) (12,717) (14,379) (2,204)
Additions to other non-current assets........ (2,627) (1,267) (1,453) (316)
Proceeds from sale of assets................. -- 6,192 6,192 --
Payment for acquisition of businesses (Note
3)......................................... -- (190,222) (190,226) (268,035)
--------- --------- ----------- --------
Net cash used in investing activities.......... (10,151) (198,014) (199,866) (270,555)
--------- --------- ----------- --------

Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from senior secured revolving and
term debt.................................. 31,000 188,000 188,000 97,150
Proceeds from senior subordinated notes...... -- -- -- 100,000
Repayment of borrowings...................... (34,097) (54,894) (63,894) (8,400)
Capital contributions, net of officer
promissory notes (Note 17)................. 321 60,092 60,092 84,115
Debt issuance costs.......................... -- (5,631) (5,624) (10,687)
--------- --------- ----------- --------
Net cash (used in) provided by financing
activities................................... (2,776) 187,567 178,574 262,178
--------- --------- ----------- --------

(Decrease) increase in cash and cash
equivalents.................................. (255) (3,707) (3,732) 4,040

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of
period....................................... 308 4,040 4,040 --
--------- --------- ----------- --------

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period....... $ 53 $ 333 $ 308 $ 4,040
--------- --------- ----------- --------
--------- --------- ----------- --------

Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosure:

Cash paid for interest....................... $ 11,096 $ 11,229 $ 32,805 $ 7,738
--------- --------- ----------- --------
--------- --------- ----------- --------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-32
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 1--THE COMPANY

ORGANIZATION

VDK Holdings, Inc. ("Holdings" and together with its subsidiary the
"Company"), a Delaware corporation, is a privately held frozen food company.
Holdings owns 100% of its direct subsidiary, Van de Kamp's, Inc. ("VDK, Inc."),
also a Delaware corporation. Holdings is wholly owned by VDK Foods LLC ("VDK
LLC"), a Delaware limited liability company. The Company commenced operations on
September 19, 1995, when it acquired the frozen seafood and frozen dessert
businesses of The Pillsbury Company and PET Incorporated. On May 6, 1996, the
Company acquired substantially all the assets of the Mrs. Paul's frozen food
business from Campbell Soup Company ("CSC") (Note 3). On July 9, 1996,
substantially all of the assets of the frozen food division of The Quaker Oats
Company ("Quaker") were purchased by the Company (Note 3). VDK Inc. holds all of
the Company's operations and debt. Holdings has no assets other than its
investment in VDK Inc..

OPERATIONS

The Company produces and markets frozen seafood, frozen dessert products,
frozen vegetables, frozen pizza and frozen breakfast products which are sold
across the United States. The products are manufactured out of three
manufacturing facilities in Erie and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania and in Jackson,
Tennessee. The principal trademarks under which the products are sold are Van de
Kamp's-Registered Trademark-, Pet-Ritz-Registered Trademark-, Oronoque
Orchards-Registered Trademark-, Mrs. Paul's-Registered Trademark-,
Celeste-Registered Trademark-, and Aunt Jemima-Registered Trademark-.

NOTE 2--SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

FISCAL YEAR

The Company's fiscal year ended June 30, 1997. The Company's prior fiscal
year ended on the last Saturday of June. Accordingly, the results of operations
reflect activity for the year ended June 30, 1997 and the period from September
19, 1995 (commencement of operations) through June 29, 1996. The Company has
presented balance sheets as of June 30, 1997 and June 29, 1996. The Company's
cash flows reflect activity for the year ended June 30, 1997 and the period from
September 19, 1995 to June 29, 1996. Certain prior year amounts have been
reclassified to conform with the current year's presentation.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

The Company considers all highly liquid financial instruments with a
maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

F-33
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 2--SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
INVENTORIES

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Cost is
determined using the first-in first-out (FIFO) method. Inventories include the
cost of raw materials, packaging, labor and manufacturing overhead.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated
depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the
estimated useful lives of the individual assets ranging from five to thirty
years. Costs which improve an asset or extend its useful life are capitalized,
while repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill and other intangible assets include goodwill, trademarks and
various identifiable intangible assets purchased by the Company. Goodwill is
being amortized over forty years using the straight-line method. Other
intangible assets are being amortized using the straight-line method over
periods ranging from five to forty years. Amortization of goodwill and other
intangible assets charged against income during the year ended June 30, 1997 was
$12,301 and for the period ended June 29, 1996 was $4,152.

IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS

OTHER ASSETS

Other assets consist of deferred loan acquisition costs, systems development
costs, and other miscellaneous assets. Deferred loan acquisition costs of the
senior subordinated notes are being amortized using the interest method over the
term of the respective notes. Deferred loan acquisition costs of the senior
secured debt are being amortized using the straight-line method over the terms
of the related debt tranches. Aggregate amortization of deferred loan
acquisition costs and other assets charged against income in the year ended June
30, 1997 was $2,949 and in the period ended June 29, 1996 was $678.

F-34
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 2--SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
DISCLOSURE ABOUT FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

For purposes of financial reporting, the Company has determined that the
fair value of financial instruments approximates book value at June 30, 1997,
based on terms currently available to the Company in financial markets.

CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK

INCOME TAXES

The Company records income taxes in accordance with the provisions of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109 "Accounting for Income
Taxes". This method of accounting for income taxes uses an asset and liability
approach which requires the recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets
for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the
carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities.

UNAUDITED INTERIM INFORMATION

The interim financial data as of December 31, 1997, and for the six months
ended December 31, 1997 and 1996 is unaudited; however, in the opinion of the
Company, the interim data includes all adjustments, consisting only of normal
recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial
position and operating results for the interim periods.

NOTE 3--BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS

VAN DE KAMP'S AND FROZEN DESSERT PRODUCT LINES

On September 19, 1995 (commencement of operations), the Company acquired the
assets of the frozen seafood business (which operated as Van de Kamp's) and the
frozen dessert product lines (together, the "Businesses") from The Pillsbury
Company and PET Incorporated (collectively, the "Sellers"). The Company
manufactures frozen seafood products out of its Erie, Pennsylvania production
facility and its frozen dessert product line is produced out of its
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania manufacturing facility.

The Company acquired the inventories, property, plant and equipment and
intangible assets of the Businesses for a purchase price of $190.0 million. The
Company paid The Pillsbury Company $2.0 million, a contractually agreed upon
amount, to retain all of the current liabilities of the Businesses. The purchase
agreement contains customary representations, warranties and covenants by each
of the Sellers and the Company. The acquisition was accounted for by using the
purchase method of accounting and the allocation of the purchase price has been
finalized.

The acquisition was financed by (i) an equity capital contribution from VDK
LLC of approximately $70.0 million, (ii) the proceeds from the issuance of
$100.0 million of senior subordinated notes (Note

F-35
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 3--BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)
10), and (iii) the borrowing by the Company of $30.0 million and $2.0 million of
senior secured tranche A debt and senior secured revolving debt, respectively,
under the senior secured bank facilities (Note 10).

The cost to acquire the Businesses has been allocated to tangible and
intangible assets acquired as follows:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cash paid to acquire Businesses.................................................. $ 190,000
Cash paid for disposition of current liabilities................................. 2,000
Other acquisition costs.......................................................... 2,543
---------
194,543
Costs assigned to tangible assets................................................ (50,407)
---------
Cost attributable to intangible assets........................................... $ 144,136
---------
---------
</TABLE>

MRS. PAUL'S

On May 6, 1996, the Company acquired substantially all the assets of the
Mrs. Paul's frozen food business from CSC. Mrs. Paul's frozen food business
includes frozen seafood and frozen vegetable products which are manufactured at
both of the Company's Pennsylvania production facilities.

The Company acquired the inventories, certain manufacturing equipment and
intangible assets from CSC. The manufacturing equipment was removed from a CSC
facility with certain production lines installed in each of the Company's Erie
and Chambersburg production plants. The purchase price was $73.2 million which
included a contractually agreed upon payment related to inventories. The
purchase agreement contains customary representations, warranties and covenants
by each of CSC and the Company. The acquisition was accounted for by using the
purchase method of accounting and the allocation of the purchase price has been
finalized.

The acquisition was financed by (i) an equity capital contribution from VDK
LLC of $15.0 million, and (ii) the borrowing by the Company of $20.0 million and
$40.0 million of senior secured tranche A debt and senior secured tranche B
debt, respectively, under the senior secured bank facilities (Note 10).

The cost to acquire Mrs. Paul's has been allocated to tangible and
intangible assets acquired, as follows:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cash paid to acquire Businesses................................... $ 73,203
Cash paid for disposition of current liabilities.................. 3,326
---------
Other acquisition costs........................................... 76,529
Costs assigned to tangible assets................................. (11,716)
---------
Cost attributable to intangible assets............................ $ 64,813
---------
---------
</TABLE>

QUAKER FROZEN FOOD BUSINESS

On July 9, 1996, substantially all of the assets of the frozen food division
of Quaker were purchased by the Company for $185.8 million. The Company
purchased the Celeste-Registered Trademark- trademark and was granted an
exclusive perpetual, transferable, royalty-free license of the Aunt
Jemima-Registered Trademark- trademark for use in the

F-36
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 3--BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)
frozen breakfast products business. Also included in the acquisition were
inventories and the manufacturing facility located in Jackson, Tennessee, where
the Company produces both product lines. The purchase agreement contains
customary representations, warranties and covenants by each of Quaker and the
Company. The acquisition was accounted for by using the purchase method of
accounting and the allocation of the purchase price has been finalized.

The acquisition was financed by (i) an equity capital contribution from VDK
LLC of $60.0 million, and (ii) the borrowing by the Company of $45.0 million,
$40.0 million and $50.0 million of senior secured tranche A debt, senior secured
tranche B debt and senior secured tranche C debt, respectively, under the senior
secured bank facilities (Note 10).

The cost to acquire the Quaker Frozen Food Business has been allocated to
tangible and intangible assets acquired as follows:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cash paid to acquire assets...................................... $ 185,800
Other acquisition costs.......................................... 3,492
---------
189,292
Costs assigned to tangible assets................................ (49,356)
---------
Cost attributable to intangible assets........................... $ 139,936
---------
---------
</TABLE>

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The unaudited pro forma combined financial information reflects the
historical net sales and income before income taxes of the Company as if all
acquisitions had occurred on July 1, 1995. Had the acquisitions described in
this Note 3 taken place July 1, 1995, the unaudited pro forma net sales and
income before income taxes for the year ended June 30, 1997 would not have been
significantly different from those reflected in the Statement of Operations. For
the period ended June 29, 1996 the pro forma net sales were $401,522 and the
income before income taxes was $11,651.

NOTE 4--SALE OF ASSETS

On February 3, 1997, the Company sold substantially all of the assets of its
whipped topping product line, which was part of the frozen desserts business,
including inventory, certain manufacturing equipment, and intangible assets for
approximately $6.2 million in cash. The impact of the sale on current results
was not material, and the sale will not significantly impact future results. The
net proceeds from the sale, $5.5 million, were used to repay a portion of the
Company's senior secured term debt.

F-37
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 5--ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE--OTHER

Accounts Receivable--Other consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1997 1996
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
The Pillsbury Company.................................. $ -- $ 320
Miscellaneous.......................................... 9 186
----------- -----------
$ 9 $ 506
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
</TABLE>

The balance due from The Pillsbury Company was comprised of accounts
receivable collected by them on behalf of the Company.

NOTE 6--INVENTORIES

Inventories consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1996 1996
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Raw materials.......................................... $ 12,556 $ 6,856
Packaging supplies..................................... 3,178 2,022
Finished goods......................................... 17,801 21,324
----------- -----------
$ 33,535 $ 30,202
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
</TABLE>

At June 30, 1997 and June 29, 1996, the Company had commitments to purchase
raw materials aggregating approximately $7.0 million and $3.2 million,
respectively.

NOTE 7--PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1997 1996
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Land................................................... $ 2,342 $ 700
Machinery and equipment................................ 73,514 31,105
Buildings and improvements............................. 18,637 5,155
Construction-in-progress............................... 1,241 1,607
----------- -----------
95,734 38,567
Less accumulated depreciation........................ (9,340) (2,624)
----------- -----------
$ 86,394 $ 35,943
----------- -----------
----------- -----------
</TABLE>

At June 30, 1997 and June 29, 1996, the Company had commitments for facility
construction and related machinery and equipment purchases aggregating
approximately $2.3 million and $0.5 million, respectively.

F-38
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 8--GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill and other intangible assets consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1997 1996
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Goodwill.............................................. $ 163,599 $ 103,553
Trademarks............................................ 151,600 84,200
Other intangibles..................................... 32,105 20,135
--------- ---------
347,304 207,888
Less accumulated amortization....................... (16,291) (4,152)
--------- ---------
$ 331,013 $ 203,736
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>

NOTE 9--ACCRUED LIABILITIES

Accrued liabilities consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1997 1996
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Interest.............................................. $ 4,425 $ 4,732
Trade promotion accruals.............................. 12,478 4,781
Other................................................. 7,716 6,276
--------- ---------
$ 24,619 $ 15,789
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>

F-39
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 10--LONG TERM DEBT

Long term debt consists of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1997 1996
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
SENIOR SECURED DEBT

Senior secured tranche A debt--interest rate of 8.3% at June 30, 1997;
principal due in semi-annual installments through September 19,
2001; floating interest rate at the prime rate plus 1.5%, or
alternatively, the one, three or six month Euro dollar rate plus
2.5% payable quarterly or at the termination of the Euro dollar
contract interest period............................................ $ 83,192 $ 48,750

Senior secured tranche B debt--interest rate of 8.8% at June 30, 1997;
principal due in semi-annual installments through April 30, 2003;
floating interest rate at the prime rate plus 2.0% or,
alternatively, the one, three or six month Euro dollar rate plus
3.0% payable quarterly or at the termination of the Euro dollar
contract interest period............................................ 76,640 40,000

Senior secured tranche C debt--interest rate of 9.0% at June 30, 1997;
principal due in semi-annual installments through September 30,
2003; floating interest rate at the prime rate plus 2.25% or,
alternatively, the one, three or six month Euro dollar rate plus
3.25% payable quarterly or at the termination of the Euro dollar
contract interest period............................................ 48,024 --

Revolving credit facility--interest rate of 10.0% at June 30, 1997;
principal due September 19, 2001; floating interest rate at the
prime rate plus 1.50% or, alternatively, the one, three, or six
month Euro dollar rate plus 2.50% payable quarterly or at the
termination of the Euro dollar contract period...................... 5,000 --

SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES

Senior subordinated notes issued September 15, 1995 at par value of
$100,000,000; coupon interest rate of 12.0% with interest payable
each March 15 and September 15; matures on September 15, 2005....... 100,000 100,000
--------- ---------
312,856 188,750
Less: current portion of long term debt (13,097) (5,000)
current portion of revolving credit facility........................ (5,000) --
--------- ---------
Long term debt........................................................ $ 294,759 $ 183,750
--------- ---------
--------- ---------
</TABLE>

Annual principal payments for the next five years and thereafter consist of
the following:

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
1998............................................. $ 18,097
1999............................................. 16,978
2000............................................. 22,071
2001............................................. 24,497
2002............................................. 33,227
Thereafter....................................... 197,986
---------
$ 312,856
---------
---------
</TABLE>

F-40
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 10--LONG TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)
SENIOR SECURED DEBT

On September 19, 1995, the Company entered into the VDK Holdings, Inc.
Credit and Guarantee Agreement (the "Agreement") with several banks for $30.0
million of senior secured term and revolving debt. The proceeds from the debt
were used to acquire the Businesses, pay fees and expenses and fund working
capital. The debt is guaranteed by the Company and its subsidiary. The Agreement
contains optional prepayment provisions with no premium. Substantially all
assets of the Company are pledged as collateral for the debt.

In conjunction with the Mrs. Paul's acquisition, the Company amended the
Agreement, dated as of May 6, 1996, to provide for additional borrowings of
$20.0 million under senior secured tranche A debt and $40.0 million of senior
secured tranche B debt. Proceeds from the additional borrowings were used to
acquire the Mrs. Paul's business, pay fees and expenses and to provide the
working capital requirements related to the Mrs. Paul's acquisition.

In conjunction with the acquisition of the Quaker Frozen Food Business, the
Company amended the Agreement, dated as of July 9, 1996 to provide for
additional borrowings of $45.0 million under senior secured tranche A debt, an
increase of $40.0 million to the senior secured tranche B debt and an increase
of $50.0 million to the senior secured tranche C debt. Proceeds from the
additional borrowings were used to acquire the business from Quaker, pay fees
and expenses and to provide the working capital requirements related to the
Celeste/Aunt Jemima acquisition.

The Agreement includes $25.0 million of available borrowing under a
revolving debt facility, subject to limitations based on letters of credit. At
June 30, 1997, the Company had unused borrowing availability of $19.6 million
after adjustment for previously issued letters of credit and an outstanding
balance of $5.0 million. The interest rate on the outstanding balance was 10.0%.
The Agreement requires a commitment fee of 0.5% per annum payable quarterly on
the unused portions of the revolving debt facility.

The Agreement includes restrictive covenants which limit additional
borrowing, cash dividends, and capital expenditures while also requiring the
Company to maintain certain financial ratios. The Company was in compliance with
these covenants at June 30, 1997.

SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES

On September 19, 1995, the Company issued $100.0 million of senior
subordinated notes (the "Notes") registered under the Securities Act of 1933.
The proceeds were used to fund the acquisition of the Businesses. The Notes may
be redeemed at any time prior to September 15, 2000. The prepayment redemption
price would be equal to 100% of the principal plus a premium equal to the
greater of (i) 1% of the principal amount or (ii) the excess of (a) present
value at time of redemption plus required interest payments due on the Notes
through September 15, 2000 over (b) principal amount of Notes. The indenture
includes restrictive covenants which limit additional borrowing, cash dividends,
the sale of assets, mergers and the sale of stock. The Company was in compliance
with these covenants at June 30, 1997.

F-41
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 10--LONG TERM DEBT (CONTINUED)
INTEREST RATE COLLAR AGREEMENTS

The Company uses interest rate collar agreements (the "Agreements") to
reduce the impact of changes in interest rates on its floating rate term debt.
Premiums paid for such Agreements are being amortized to interest expense over
the terms of the Agreements. Unamortized premiums are included in Other assets
in the balance sheet. Amounts to be paid or received, if any, under the
Agreements are recognized as an increase or decrease, respectively, in interest
expense. The counterparty to the Company's Agreements is a major financial
institution.

At June 30, 1997, the Company was party to two Agreements. On August 22,
1996, the Company entered into a three year interest rate collar agreement with
a notional principal amount of $70.0 million, a cap rate of 7.5% (plus the
applicable margin) and a floor rate of 5.5% (plus the applicable margin). On
November 26, 1996, the Company entered into a three year interest rate collar
agreement with a notional principal amount of $50.0 million, a cap of 6.5% (plus
the applicable margin) and a floor rate of 5.75% (plus the applicable margin).
The aggregate premiums paid for the two Agreements was $0.1 million.

Under the Agreements, the Company would receive payments from the
counterparty if the three-month LIBOR rate exceeds the cap rates and make
payments to the counterparties if the three-month LIBOR rate falls below the
floor rates. The payments would be calculated based upon the respective notional
principal amount. During fiscal 1997 the Company made payments aggregating $0.1
million under the Agreements. At June 30, 1997, the three-month LIBOR rate was
5.94%.

Risk associated with the Agreements include those associated with changes in
market value and interest rates. At June 30, 1997, the fair value of the
Company's interest rate collars was immaterial and management considers the
potential loss in future earnings and cash flows attributable to such collars to
be immaterial.

NOTE 11--TRANSITION EXPENSES

Transition related costs consist of what management believes are one-time
costs incurred to establish the Company's operations, including expenditures to
regain distribution of products that had been discontinued during the transition
of the acquired Businesses, relocation expenses, recruiting fees, sales
training, computer systems training and other one-time transitional expenses.
Transition related costs for the year ended June 30, 1997 and the period ended
June 29, 1996 were approximately $2.9 million and $1.3 million, respectively.

F-42
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 12--INCOME TAXES

The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return. State income tax
returns are filed by the Company and VDK Inc. on a separate company basis or on
a combined basis depending on the particular rules in each state.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED PERIOD ENDED
JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1997 1996
----------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
The provision (benefit) for income taxes is summarized as
follows:

Current tax expense:
Federal...................................................... $ -- $ --
State........................................................ -- --
----------- -------
Total current provision........................................ -- --
----------- -------
Deferred tax expense:
Federal...................................................... 1,989 (196)
State........................................................ 388 (37)
----------- -------
Total deferred provision....................................... 2,377 (233)
----------- -------
Total provision (benefit) for income taxes..................... $ 2,377 $ (233)
----------- -------
----------- -------

Deferred tax assets (liabilities) consist of the following:

Deferred tax assets--current:
Loss carryforwards........................................... $ 5,679 $ 1,697
Promotion reserves........................................... 1,658 1,305
Other........................................................ 923 371
----------- -------
Total deferred tax assets--current......................... 8,260 3,373
----------- -------
Deferred tax liabilities--current:
Inventory reserves........................................... -- (130)
Deferred state taxes......................................... -- (13)
----------- -------
Total deferred tax liabilities--current.................... -- (143)
----------- -------
Deferred tax liabilities--non-current:
Goodwill..................................................... (7,043) (1,961)
Depreciation................................................. (3,361) (1,036)
----------- -------
Total deferred tax liabilities--non-current................ (10,404) (2,997)
----------- -------
Total deferred tax liabilities........................... (10,404) (3,140)
----------- -------
Net deferred tax asset (liability)....................... $ (2,144) $ 233
----------- -------
----------- -------
</TABLE>

The Company has not recorded a valuation allowance for its deferred tax
assets. Management believes the deferred tax assets are more likely than not to
be realized.

At June 30, 1997, the Company has federal net operating loss carryforwards
of approximately $14.2 million. These losses can be used to offset future
taxable income through the year 2011. The Company is

F-43
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 12--INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
a loss corporation as defined in section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Therefore, if certain substantial changes of the Company's ownership should
occur, there could be significant annual limitations of the amount of net
operating loss carryforwards which can be utilized.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED PERIOD ENDED
JUNE 30, JUNE 29,
1997 1996
------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
Provision for income taxes at U.S. statutory rate.............. $ 2,220 $ (229)
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from:
Nondeductible expenses......................................... 36 20
State taxes, net of federal benefit............................ 121 (24)
------------- ------
$ 2,377 $ (233)
------------- ------
------------- ------
</TABLE>

NOTE 13--LEASES

Future annual minimum lease payments under these leases are summarized as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINIMUM
LEASE
YEARS ENDING JUNE 30, PAYMENTS
- ----------------------------------------------- -------------
<S> <C>
1998........................................... $ 753
1999........................................... 758
2000........................................... 728
2001........................................... 574
2002........................................... 143
Thereafter..................................... --
-------------
$ 2,956
-------------
-------------
</TABLE>

Rent expense was $0.5 million for the year ended June 30, 1997 and $0.2
million for the period ended June 29, 1996.

NOTE 14--SAVINGS AND BENEFIT PLANS

The Company offers a retirement savings plan to its nonunion employees in
the form of 401(k) and profit sharing plans. Under the 401(k) plan, employee
contributions up to 3% of total compensation are matched by the Company, with
vesting occurring ratably over a five year period. Profit sharing contributions
of 2% of compensation are made on behalf of all nonunion employees on an annual
basis. Profit sharing contributions also vest ratably over a five year period.
The Company's contributions to the 401(k) plan for the year ended June 30, 1997
and the period ended June 29, 1996 were $0.6 million and

F-44
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 14--SAVINGS AND BENEFIT PLANS (CONTINUED)
$0.1 million, respectively. The Company's contributions to the profit sharing
plan for the year ended June 30, 1997 and the period ended June 29, 1996 were
$0.5 million and $0.1 million, respectively.

The Company also has a defined benefit retirement plan for unionized
employees in the Chambersburg plant. Benefits are based on years of credited
service and average compensation or stated amounts for each year of service. Net
pension expense for the defined benefit retirement plan totaled $0.1 million and
$0 for the year ended June 30, 1997 and the period ended June 29, 1996,
respectively. The funding policy is consistent with the requirements of federal
law and regulations.

NOTE 15--RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Company has a Management Services Agreement with Dartford Partnership,
LLC ("Dartford") to provide consulting services and management oversight on
financial and operational matters. The Company paid fees totaling $1.8 million
to Dartford, a member of Foods, during the year ended June 30, 1997 and $0.6
million during the period ended June 29, 1996. The annual management fee was
$0.7 million prior to the acquisition of Mrs. Paul's and $1.2 million prior to
the acquisition of the Quaker Frozen Food Business. The charge is included in
general and administrative expenses in the Statement of Operations.

The Company paid certain members of Foods fees totaling $2.1 million during
the year ended June 30, 1997 and $2.0 million during the period ended June 29,
1996. The fees were paid for services provided in identifying, negotiating and
consummating the Company's acquisitions. The fees were included in the costs of
the acquisitions.

On September 19, 1995, Mr. Thomas O. Ellinwood, the President of the
Company, and Mr. Thomas J. Youngerman, Mr. Olafur Gudmundsson and Ms. C. Renee
Sloan, Vice Presidents of the Company, executed promissory notes in favor of the
Company in exchange for monies borrowed to assist in the capitalization of their
limited liability company interests held with VDK LLC. The promissory notes
mature September 30, 1998 with required annual payments. Interest is due and
payable quarterly at the rate of 8.5% per annum. The aggregate balance
outstanding on the promissory notes was $213.3 and $305.0 at June 30, 1997 and
June 29, 1996, respectively. The net outstanding balance has been recorded as a
reduction to paid-in capital and is reflected as such on the Statement of
Changes in Stockholder's Equity.

NOTE 16--COMPENSATION PLAN EXPENSE

Foods has implemented a Management Compensation Plan ("the Plan") as a means
by which Key Personnel (defined as employees and other specific designated
persons) of the Company, and/or affiliated with the Company, may be given an
opportunity to benefit from the appreciation in the value of the Company. The
Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of VDK LLC, dated as of
September 19, 1995, was amended and restated as of May 22, 1997 to approve and
adopt the Plan. The effective date of the Plan is as of September 19, 1995.

Under the Plan, Key Personnel are issued various types of management
compensation units (the "Units") in the Plan as a means to participate in the
valuation of the Company, as determined based on certain formulae in the Plan
document. The Units are subject to forfeiture based on the failure to meet
vesting requirements, specified earnings targets, and/or rates of return targets
for certain investors in

F-45
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

NOTE 16--COMPENSATION PLAN EXPENSE (CONTINUED)
Foods. Pursuant to the Plan document, the Units will have special valuation and
payment provisions upon a change of control or initial public offering of the
Company's stock (an "IPO").

Upon a change of control or IPO, the Units will be valued and amounts will
be paid to Unit holders according to various factors, such as the type of
triggering event and the amount of proceeds paid to the VDK LLC's investors. In
general, there will be no payment on the Units until the VDK LLC's investors
have received a designated return on their investments. The payment to Unit
holders may be cash and/or non-cash securities, depending on the triggering
event and the type of distribution received by VDK LLC's investors. In addition,
the Plan will gross-up payments to the Unit holders in certain events relating
to (i) any excise tax due under federal income tax rules, and (ii) any tax on
the Units in excess of capital gains tax rates.

The total amount due under the Plan, if any, is subject to the rates of
return and forfeiture factors discussed above. Based on management and the Board
of Director's assessment of the current valuation of the Company, there is no
basis to record an accrual for compensation expense at this time. Should the
Company appreciate further in value, compensation expense to be recognized in
future periods could be significant. To the extent any amounts are deemed
accruable under the Plan in the future, such amounts will be a liability of VDK
LLC as the sponsor of the Plan. However, because the Plan is for the benefit of
Key Personnel of the Company, any expense to be recognized under the Plan will
be pushed down to the Company, and will be recorded by the Company as expense
and as additional paid in capital from its parent over the applicable vesting
periods.

NOTE 17--COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

NOTE 18--SUBSEQUENT EVENT--SALE OF COMPANY (UNAUDITED)

On April 8, 1998, VDK LLC sold all of the outstanding common stock of the
Company to Aurora/VDK LLC, a newly formed limited liability company, in exchange
for an interest in Aurora/VDK LLC. Following the sale transaction, Aurora/VDK
LLC is owned 44.5% by VDK LLC and 55.5% by MBW Investors LLC.

F-46
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

To the Board of Directors and Management of
The Procter & Gamble Company:

We have audited the accompanying statements of equipment and goodwill as of
June 30, 1997 and 1996 and statements of direct revenues and direct expenses of
the Duncan Hines Business of The Procter & Gamble Company ("Procter & Gamble")
for the years ended June 30, 1997, 1996, and 1995 (collectively, the
"statements"). These statements are the responsibility of Procter & Gamble's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these statements
based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the statements referred to above are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the statements referred to above. An
audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of
the statements referred to above. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.

The assets and operations covered by the statements referred to above are a
part of The Procter & Gamble Company and have no separate legal status or
existence. As described in Notes 1 and 2 to the statements, the statements
referred to above have been prepared from Procter & Gamble's consolidated
financial records and allocations of certain costs and expenses have been made.
These allocations are not necessarily indicative of the costs and expenses that
would have been incurred by the Duncan Hines Business on a stand-alone basis.

In our opinion, the statements referred to above present fairly, in all
material respects, the equipment and goodwill as of June 30, 1997 and 1996 and
the direct revenues and direct expenses of the Duncan Hines Business of The
Procter & Gamble Company for the years ended June 30, 1997, 1996, and 1995 in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.

March 20, 1998

F-47
<PAGE>
THE DUNCAN HINES BUSINESS OF
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY

STATEMENTS OF EQUIPMENT AND GOODWILL
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1997 AND JUNE 30, 1997 AND 1996

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31, JUNE 30, JUNE 30,
(IN THOUSANDS) 1997 1997 1996
-------------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(UNAUDITED)
EQUIPMENT--NET............................................................ $ 18,065 $ 19,349 $ 20,502
GOODWILL.................................................................. 3,914 3,914 3,914
-------------- --------- ---------
TOTAL..................................................................... $ 21,979 $ 23,263 $ 24,416
-------------- --------- ---------
-------------- --------- ---------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to the financial statements.

F-48
<PAGE>
THE DUNCAN HINES BUSINESS OF
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY

STATEMENTS OF DIRECT REVENUES AND DIRECT EXPENSES
FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997, 1996, AND 1995, AND FOR
THE SIX-MONTH PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 AND 1996

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX-MONTH PERIOD ENDED
DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
------------------------ -------------------------------------
1997 1996 1997 1996 1995
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(IN THOUSANDS) (UNAUDITED)
DIRECT REVENUES:
Gross revenues................................ $ 154,519 $ 146,124 $ 253,548 $ 277,721 $ 281,303
Less:
Trade spending.............................. (15,822) (9,659) (19,646) (16,357) (14,775)
Coupon expense.............................. (2,194) (2,110) (2,900) (3,378) (5,388)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net direct revenues....................... 136,503 134,355 231,002 257,986 261,140
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------

COSTS OF PRODUCTS SOLD:
Product costs................................. 85,139 80,361 144,261 153,791 153,015
Delivery costs................................ 6,398 6,647 11,787 13,388 14,267
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total costs of products sold.............. 91,537 87,008 156,048 167,179 167,282
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------

GROSS MARGIN.................................... 44,966 47,347 74,954 90,807 93,858
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------

DIRECT MARKETING:
Consumer promotional expense.................. 1,184 1,226 3,376 5,186 4,498
Advertising expense........................... 6,549 5,576 9,957 13,798 12,276
Other marketing expenses...................... 1,119 1,453 2,520 4,049 3,245
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total direct marketing expenses........... 8,852 8,255 15,853 23,033 20,019
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------

DIRECT SELLING, ADMINISTRATIVE AND OTHER........ 4,131 6,177 10,041 10,791 9,962
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
EXCESS OF DIRECT REVENUES OVER DIRECT
EXPENSES...................................... $ 31,983 $ 32,915 $ 49,060 $ 56,983 $ 63,877
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to the financial statements.

F-49
<PAGE>
THE DUNCAN HINES BUSINESS OF

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(IN THOUSANDS)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION

On January 16, 1998, The Procter & Gamble Company (Procter & Gamble) sold
certain assets and the related business of the Duncan Hines brand ("Duncan Hines
Business"). The Duncan Hines Business produces baking goods which are
manufactured at Procter & Gamble's Jackson, TN. plant, which also produces other
food products for Procter & Gamble that are unrelated to the Duncan Hines
Business. The accompanying statements present the equipment and goodwill that
Procter & Gamble sold as of December 31, 1997 and June 30, 1997 and 1996 and
direct revenues, costs of products sold, direct marketing expenses and direct
selling, administrative and other expenses for the years ended June 30, 1997,
1996, and 1995, the six-month periods ended December 31, 1997 and 1996 for the
Duncan Hines Business. Results of operations for interim periods are not
necessarily indicative of results to be expected for an entire year.

Procter & Gamble did not account for the Duncan Hines Business as a separate
entity. Accordingly, the information included in the accompanying statements of
direct revenues and direct expenses has been obtained from Procter & Gamble's
consolidated financial records. The statements of direct revenues and direct
expenses include allocations of certain Procter & Gamble selling,
administrative, and other expenses, as discussed in Note 2. Procter & Gamble
management believes the allocations are reasonable; however, these allocated
expenses are not necessarily indicative of expenses that would have been
incurred by the Duncan Hines Business on a stand-alone basis, since certain
other selling, administrative, and other expenses are provided to the Duncan
Hines Business that are not included in the accompanying statements as discussed
in Note 2.

In addition, the statements of direct revenues and direct expenses include
allocations of certain Jackson Plant costs, as discussed in Note 2. Procter &
Gamble management believes these allocations are reasonable; however, these
allocated costs may not necessarily be indicative of costs that would have been
incurred by the Duncan Hines Business on a stand-alone basis, since these
allocated costs are based on the structure of the Jackson Plant operations and
related activities, as managed and operated by Procter & Gamble.

Equipment and goodwill and direct revenues and direct expenses are presented
in the accompanying statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. The unaudited information for the six-month periods ended December
31, 1997 and 1996 contain all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring
accruals, necessary for a consistent presentation of the direct revenues and
direct expenses for the six-month periods.

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

REVENUE RECOGNITION--Revenue from the sale of products is recognized at the
time the products are shipped.

USE OF ESTIMATES--The preparation of financial statements in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and
accompanying disclosures. Although these estimates are based on management's
best knowledge of current events and actions Procter & Gamble may undertake in
the future, actual results ultimately may differ from the estimates.

F-50
<PAGE>
THE DUNCAN HINES BUSINESS OF

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
EQUIPMENT--Equipment cost and the related accumulated depreciation were as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
1997 JUNE 30, JUNE 30,
(UNAUDITED) 1997 1996
-------------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Equipment cost............................................................ $ 51,604 $ 51,793 $ 50,038
Accumulated depreciation.................................................. 33,539 32,444 29,536
-------------- --------- ---------
Net book value............................................................ $ 18,065 $ 19,349 $ 20,502
-------------- --------- ---------
-------------- --------- ---------
</TABLE>

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated
useful lives of the assets which primarily range from 4 to 19 years.

GOODWILL--Goodwill represents the cost of acquisition in excess of tangible
assets and identifiable intangible assets received. Since the goodwill was
acquired prior to November 1970 it is not being amortized.

COUPON EXPENSE--Coupon expense represents deductions from direct revenues
for coupons related to Duncan Hines products. The expense is based on expected
redemption rates of issued coupons based on historical data.

COSTS OF PRODUCTS SOLD--Inventories are valued at cost, which is not in
excess of current market. Cost is primarily determined by the average cost
method. The cost of products sold include allocations of costs to the Duncan
Hines Business activities, including warehousing, utilities, insurance, and
employee costs. These plant costs are allocated between the Duncan Hines
Business and other food products that are produced at the Jackson Plant based
primarily on number of employees, usage, and square footage.

DIRECT MARKETING--Direct marketing represents specifically identified
promotional, advertising, and other marketing expenses related to the Duncan
Hines Business.

DIRECT SELLING, ADMINISTRATIVE & OTHER--Certain selling, administrative and
other direct expenses are specifically identifiable and others are allocated to
the Duncan Hines Brand based primarily on an estimate of actual time and effort
spent, number of employees, and square footage. Such allocated expenses
represent those charges that are attributable to the Duncan Hines Business and
include Procter & Gamble's Food and Beverage Sector and the Duncan Hines
Category related expenses such as human resources, public affairs, research and
development, finance and accounting, selling, and other general administrative
expenses. Certain other selling, administrative, and other expenses are
allocated to the Duncan Hines Business by Procter & Gamble that are not directly
attributable or specifically identifiable to the Business and, therefore, are
excluded from direct selling, administrative, and other expenses in the
accompanying statements. Such expenses primarily include Procter & Gamble's
Corporate and North American region related expenses such as selling, human
resources, executive compensation, management systems, finance and accounting,
research and development, and general corporate expenses.

F-51
<PAGE>
THE DUNCAN HINES BUSINESS OF

THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

(IN THOUSANDS)

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
UNAUDITED INTERIM INFORMATION The interim financial data as of December 31,
1997, and for the six months ended December 31, 1997 and 1996 is unaudited;
however, in the opinion of the Company, the interim data includes all
adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a
fair statement of the results for the interim periods.

* * * * * *

F-52
<PAGE>
UNDERWRITING

Subject to the terms and conditions of the Underwriting Agreement, the
Company and the Selling Stockholders have agreed to sell to each of the U.S.
Underwriters named below, and each of such U.S. Underwriters, for whom Goldman,
Sachs & Co., BT Alex. Brown Incorporated, Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette
Securities Corporation, Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation, SBC Warburg
Dillon Read Inc., and Chase Securities Inc. are acting as representatives, has
severally agreed to purchase from the Company and the Selling Stockholder the
respective number of shares of Common Stock set forth opposite its name below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF SHARES
UNDERWRITER OF COMMON STOCK
- -------------------------------------------------------- ------------------
<S> <C>
Goldman, Sachs & Co.....................................
BT Alex. Brown Incorporated.............................
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation.....
Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation..................
SBC Warburg Dillon Read Inc.............................
Chase Securities Inc....................................

------------------
Total.............................................
------------------
------------------
</TABLE>

Under the terms and conditions of the Underwriting Agreement, the U.S.
Underwriters are committed to take and pay for all of the shares offered hereby,
if any are taken.

The U.S. Underwriters propose to offer the shares of Common Stock in part
directly to the public at the initial public offering price set forth on the
cover page of this Prospectus, and in part to certain securities dealers at such
price less a concession of $ per share. The U.S. Underwriters may allow,
and such dealers may reallow, a concession not in excess of $ per share
to certain brokers and dealers. After the shares of Common Stock are released
for sale to the public, the offering price and other selling terms may from time
to time be varied by the representatives.

The Company and the Selling Stockholder have entered into an underwriting
agreement (the "International Underwriting Agreement") with the underwriters of
the international offering (the "International Underwriters") providing for the
concurrent offer and sale of shares of Common Stock in an international
offering outside the United States. The offering price and aggregate
underwriting discounts and commissions per share for the two offerings are
identical. The closing of the offering made hereby is a condition to the closing
of the International Offering, and vice versa. The representatives of the
International Underwriters are Goldman Sachs International, BT Alex. Brown
International, Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette International, Credit Suisse First
Boston (Europe) Limited, Swiss Bank Corporation acting through its division, SBC
Warburg Dillon Read, and Chase Manhattan International Limited.

U-1
<PAGE>
Pursuant to an Agreement between the U.S. and International Underwriting
Syndicates (the "Agreement Between") relating to the two offerings, each of the
U.S. Underwriters named herein has agreed that, as part of the distribution of
the shares offered hereby and subject to certain exceptions, it will offer, sell
or deliver the shares of Common Stock, directly or indirectly, only in the
United States of America (including the States and the District of Columbia),
its territories, its possessions and other areas subject to its jurisdiction
(the "United States") and to U.S. persons, which term shall mean, for purposes
of this paragraph: (a) any individual who is a resident of the United States or
(b) any corporation, partnership or other entity organized in or under the laws
of the United States or any political subdivision thereof and whose office most
directly involved with the purchase is located in the United States. Each of the
International Underwriters has agreed pursuant to the Agreement Between that, as
a part of the distribution of the shares offered as part of the international
offering, and subject to certain exceptions, it will (i) not, directly or
indirectly, offer, sell or deliver shares of Common Stock (a) in the United
States or to any U.S. persons or (b) to any person who it believes intends to
reoffer, resell or deliver the shares in the United States or to any U.S.
persons, and (ii) cause any dealer to whom it may sell such shares at any
concession to agree to observe a similar restriction.

Pursuant to the Agreement Between, sales may be made between the U.S.
Underwriters and the International Underwriters of such number of shares of
Common Stock as may be mutually agreed. The price of any shares so sold shall be
the initial public offering price, less an amount not greater than the selling
concession.

In connection with the offering, the Underwriters may purchase and sell the
Common Stock in the open market. These transactions may include over-allotment
and stabilizing transactions and purchases to cover short positions created by
the Underwriters in connection with the Offerings. Stabilizing transactions
consist of certain bids or purchases for the purpose of preventing or retarding
a decline in the market price of the Common Stock; and short positions created
by the Underwriters involve the sale by the Underwriters of a greater number of
shares of Common Stock than they are required to purchase from the Company and
the Selling Stockholder in the Offerings. The Underwriters also may impose a
penalty bid, whereby selling concessions allowed to broker-dealers in respect of
the securities sold in the offering may be reclaimed by the Underwriters if such
Common Stock is repurchased by the syndicate in stabilizing or covering
transactions. These activities may stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the
market price of the Common Stock, which may be higher than the price that might
otherwise prevail in the open market; and these activities, if commenced, may be
discontinued at any time. These transactions may be effected on the New York
Stock Exchange, in the over-the-counter market or otherwise.

The Company granted the U.S. Underwriters an option exercisable for 30 days
after the date of this Prospectus to purchase up to an aggregate of
additional shares of Common Stock solely to cover over-allotments, if any. If
the U.S. Underwriters exercise their over-allotment option, the U.S.
Underwriters have severally agreed, subject to certain conditions, to purchase
approximately the same percentage thereof that the number of shares to be
purchased by each of them, as show in the foregoing table, bears to the
shares of Common Stock offered. The Company has granted the International
Underwriters a similar option exercisable up to an aggregate of additional
shares of Common Stock.

The Company and the Selling Stockholder have agreed that, during the period
beginning from the date of this Prospectus and continuing to and including the
date 180 days after the date of this Prospectus, they will not offer, sell,
contract to sell or otherwise dispose of or file a registration statement (other
than, in the case of the Company, a registration statement on Form S-8 with
respect to an employee benefit plan) with respect to any Common Stock, or any
securities of the Company (other than pursuant to [ ] employee stock
option and incentive plans and agreements, upon conversion of convertible
securities or grants of options to directors outstanding as of the date of the
Underwriting Agreement) which are substantially similar to the Common Stock or
any other securities which are

U-2
<PAGE>
exercisable or exchangeable for, convertible into or whose exercise or
settlement price is derived from the price of Common Stock or any such
securities substantially similar to the Common Stock, without the prior written
consent of the representatives of the Underwriters.

The representatives of the Underwriters have informed the Company that they
do not expect sales to discretionary accounts by the U.S. Underwriters to exceed
five percent of the total number of shares of Common Stock offered by them.

Prior to the Offerings, there has been no public market for the shares of
Common Stock. The initial public offering price has been negotiated among the
Company, the Selling Stockholder and the representatives of the U.S.
Underwriters and the International Underwriters. Among the factors considered in
determining the initial public offering price of the Common Stock, in addition
to prevailing market conditions, were the Company's historical performance,
estimates of the business potential and earnings prospects of the Company, an
assessment of the Company's management and the consideration of the above
factors in relation to the market valuation of companies in related businesses.

Application will be made to list the Common Stock on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol " ". In order to meet one of the requirements for
listing the Common Stock on the New York Stock Exchange, the U.S. Underwriters
have undertaken to sell lots of 100 or more shares to a minimum of 2,000
beneficial holders.

In addition to acting as a U.S. Underwriter in connection with the Offering,
Chase Securities Inc. ("CSI") and its affiliates have certain other
relationships with the Company. Chase and CSI have agreed to provide VDK with a
$101 million senior subordinated credit facility and will receive customary fees
in connection therewith and Chase is the Administrative Agent and CSI is the
Arranging Agent under the Company's Senior Credit Facilities. See
"Indebtedness--Senior Credit Facilities" and "Senior Subordinated Facility
Commitment".

As a result of the repayment of the between the Company and Chase,
an affiliate of CSI, this offering is being conducted in accordance with Rule
2720 of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (the "NASD"), which
provides that, among other things, when an NASD member participates in the
underwriting of an affiliate's equity securities, the initial public offering
price can be no higher than that recommended by a "qualified independent
underwriter" meeting certain standards. In accordance with this requirement,
Goldman, Sachs & Co. has served in such role and has recommended a price in
compliance with the requirements of Rule 2720. Goldman, Sachs & Co. will receive
compensation from the Company in the amount of $10,000 for serving in such role.
In connection with the offering, Goldman, Sachs & Co. in its role as qualified
independent underwriter has performed due diligence investigations and reviewed
and participated in the preparation of this Prospectus and the Registration
Statement of which this Prospectus forms a part. In addition, the Underwriters
may not confirm sales to any discretionary account without the prior specific
written approval of the customer.

The Company and the Selling Stockholder have agreed to indemnify the several
Underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the
Securities Act.

This Prospectus may be used by underwriters and dealers in connection with
offers and sales of the shares of Common Stock, including shares initially sold
in the International Offering, to persons located in the United States.

U-3
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATIONS OTHER THAN THOSE CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS, AND, IF GIVEN OR
MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN
AUTHORIZED. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE
SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITIES OTHER THAN THE SECURITIES TO
WHICH IT RELATES OR ANY OFFER TO SELL OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY
SUCH SECURITIES IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION IS
UNLAWFUL. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS NOR ANY SALE MADE HEREUNDER
SHALL, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, CREATE ANY IMPLICATION THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO
CHANGE IN THE AFFAIRS OF THE COMPANY SINCE THE DATE HEREOF OR THAT THE
INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS CORRECT AS OF ANY TIME SUBSEQUENT TO ITS DATE.
--------------------------

TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
-----
<S> <C>
Prospectus Summary.................... 3
Risk Factors.......................... 10
Use of Proceeds....................... 13
Dividend Policy....................... 14
Forward-Looking Statements............ 14
Background............................ 14
Dilution.............................. 15
Capitalization........................ 17
Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Information......................... 18
Selected Historical Financial Data.... 33
Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations....................... 36
Business.............................. 50
Management............................ 62
Principal Stockholders and Selling
Stockholder......................... 73
Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions........................ 78
Description of Capital Stock.......... 80
Description of Indebtedness........... 82
Shares Eligible for Future Sale....... 89
Certain United States Federal Tax
Consequences to Non-United States
Holders of Common Stock............. 90
Additional Information................ 93
Validity of Shares.................... 93
Experts............................... 93
Index to Financial Statements......... F-1
Underwriting.......................... U-1
</TABLE>

--------------------------

THROUGH AND INCLUDING ,1998 (THE 25TH DAY AFTER THE DATE OF
THIS PROSPECTUS) ALL DEALERS EFFECTING TRANSACTIONS IN THE COMMON STOCK, WHETHER
OR NOT PARTICIPATING IN THIS DISTRIBUTION, MAY BE REQUIRED TO DELIVER A
PROSPECTUS. THIS IS IN ADDITION TO THE OBLIGATION OF DEALERS TO DELIVER A
PROSPECTUS WHEN ACTING AS UNDERWRITERS AND WITH RESPECT TO THEIR UNSOLD
ALLOTMENTS OR SUBSCRIPTIONS.

AURORA FOODS INC.

COMMON STOCK
(PAR VALUE $.01 PER SHARE)

--------------------------

(LOGO)

------------------

GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.
BT ALEX. BROWN
DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
SECURITIES CORPORATION
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON
SBC WARBURG DILLON READ INC.
CHASE SECURITIES INC.

REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNDERWRITERS

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

ITEM 13. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION

The following table sets forth those expenses to be incurred by the Company in
connection with the issuance and distribution of the Common Stock being
registered. All amounts shown except Securities and Exchange Commission filing
fee are estimates.

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Securities and Exchange Commission filing fee........ $ 79,650
NASD filing fee...................................... 27,500
NYSE listing fee..................................... *
Printing and engraving fees.......................... *
Accountants' fees and expenses....................... *
Legal fees and expenses.............................. *
Miscellaneous expenses............................... *
--------
Total.............................................. $
--------
--------
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission.

ITEM 14. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the
"DGCL") grants each corporation organized thereunder, such as the registrant,
the power to indemnify its directors and officers against liabilities for
certain of their acts. Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL permits a provision in the
certificate of incorporation of each corporation organized thereunder, such as
the registrant, eliminating or limiting the personal liability of a director to
the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for certain breaches of
fiduciary duty as a director except (i) for any breach of the director's duty of
loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not
in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of
law, (iii) pursuant to Section 174 of the DGCL (providing for liability of
directors for unlawful payment of dividends or unlawful stock purchases or
redemptions)or (iv) for any transaction from which a director derived an
improper personal benefit. Article Eighth of the Company's Certificate of
Incorporation has eliminated the personal liability of directors to the fullest
extent permitted by Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL.

Article VI of the Company's By-Laws provides, among other things that the
Company shall indemnify, in the manner and to the fullest extent permitted by
applicable law, any person (or the estate of any person) who was or is a party
to, or is threatened to be made a party to, any threatened, pending or completed
action, suit or proceeding, whether or not by or in the right of the Company,
and whether civil, criminal, administrative, investigative or otherwise, by
reason of the fact that such person is or was or has agreed to be a director,
officer, employee, or agent of the Company, or is or was serving at the request
of the Company as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses
(including attorneys' fees and expenses), judgments, fines, penalties and
amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred (and not otherwise
recovered) by such person in connection with the investigation, preparation to
defend or defense of such action, suit, claim or proceeding. To the extent and
in the manner provided by applicable law, any such expenses may be paid by the
Company in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding
even if such director, officer, employee or agent is alleged to have not met the
applicable standard of conduct required under Article VI or is alleged to have
committed conduct so that, if true, such director, officer, employee or agent
would not be entitled to indemnification under Article VI, upon receipt of an
undertaking, which need not be secured, by or on behalf of the director,
officer, employee or agent to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be
determined that he is not entitled to be indemnified by the Company as
authorized in Article VI, PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the foregoing shall not
require the

II-1
<PAGE>
PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

ITEM 14. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS (CONTINUED)

Company to indemnify or advance expenses to any person in connection with any
action, suit, proceeding, claim or counterclaim initiated by or on behalf of
such person. Unless otherwise permitted by applicable law, the indemnification
provided for in Article VI shall be made only as authorized in the specific case
upon a determination, made in the manner provided by applicable law, that
indemnification of such director, officer, employee or agent is proper in the
circumstances. The By-Laws also allow the Company, to the fullest extent
permitted by applicable law, to purchase and maintain insurance for any such
person indemnified by Article VI.

The foregoing statements are subject to the detailed provisions of Section
102(b)(7) of the DGCL, Article Eighth of the Certificate of Incorporation of the
Company and Article VI of the By-Laws of the Company, as applicable.

ITEM 15. RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES

None

ITEM 16. EXHIBITS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION
- ----------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<C> <S>
1.1 Underwriting Agreement among Aurora Foods Inc., Aurora/VDK LLC, Goldman, Sachs & Co., BT Alex. Brown
Incorporated, Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation, Credit Suisse First Boston
Corporation, SBC Warburg Dillon Read Inc. and Chase Securities Inc.*
2.1 Merger Agreement between Aurora Foods Inc. and A Foods Inc.*
2.2 Merger Agreement among Aurora Foods Holdings Inc., Aurora Foods Inc., VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's,
Inc. and A Foods Inc.*
2.3 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 26, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and The
Procter & Gamble Company. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Aurora Foods Inc.'s Form 8-K
filed on January 30, 1998).**
2.4 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 7, 1997 by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and Kraft Foods,
Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to Aurora Foods Inc.'s Form S-4 filed on August 21, 1997
(the "Aurora S-4").**
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission.

II-2
<PAGE>
PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

ITEM 16. EXHIBITS (CONTINUED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION
- ----------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<C> <S>
2.5 Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 13, 1997, between Van
de Kamp's, Inc. and Morningstar Foods, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
2.2 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1997).**
2.6 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 3, 1997, between Van de Kamp's, Inc.
and Morningstar Foods, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended March 31, 1997).**
2.7 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 18, 1996, by and between MBW Foods
Inc. (as successor-in-interest to MBW Acquisition Corp.) and Conopco, Inc., as
amended. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Aurora S-4).**
2.8 Supplement No. 1 to Asset Purchase and Sales Agreement, dated as of July 9, 1996,
between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and the Quaker Oats Company ("Quaker Oats").
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 8-K dated
July 9, 1996).**
2.9 Asset Purchase and Sales Agreement, dated as of May 15, 1996 between Van de Kamp's,
Inc. and Quaker Oats. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Van de Kamp's,
Inc.'s Form 8-K dated July 9, 1996).**
2.10 Asset Purchase and Sales Agreement, dated as of January 17, 1996, between Shellfish
Acquisition Company, LLC ("Shellfish") and Campbell Soup Company ("Campbell") (the
text of which and Exhibits to which are Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to
Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 30, 1996 and a list of
the contents of the schedules of which is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1
to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 8-K dated May 6, 1996).**
2.11 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of January 17, 1996, between Van de Kamp's, Inc.
and Shellfish. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 30, 1996).**
2.12 Agreement and Amendment No. 1, dated September 19, 1995, to the Asset Purchase
Agreement among Van de Kamp's, Inc., the Pillsbury Company and PET Incorporated.
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form S-4 filed
on October 4, 1995 (the "Van de Kamp's S-4").**
2.13 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of July 7, 1995 among Van de Kamp's, Inc., the
Pillsbury Company and PET Incorporated. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1
to the Van de Kamp's S-4).**
3.1 Certificate of Incorporation of Aurora Foods Inc., as amended to date, filed with
the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.*
3.2 Amended and Restated By-laws of Aurora Foods Inc.*
4.1 Specimen Certificate of the Common Stock.*
4.2 Securityholders Agreement, dated as of April 8, 1998, among the parties listed on
Schedule A attached thereto.**
4.3 Indenture, dated as of February 10, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and
Wilmington Trust Company (the "Series B Indenture"). (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.1 to the Aurora S-4).**
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission.

II-3
<PAGE>
PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

ITEM 16. EXHIBITS (CONTINUED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION
- ----------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<C> <S>
4.4 Specimen Certificate of 9 7/8% Series B Senior Subordinated Note due 2007 (included
in Exhibit 4.2 hereto). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Aurora
S-4).**
4.5 Form of Note Guarantee to be issued by future subsidiaries of Aurora Foods Inc.
pursuant to the Series B Indenture (included in Exhibit 4.1 hereto). (Incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Aurora S-4).**
4.6 Indenture, dated as of July 1, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and
Wilmington Trust Company (the "Series D Indenture"). (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.6 to the Aurora S-4).**
4.7 Specimen Certificate of 9 7/8% Series D Senior Subordinated Note, due 2007
(included in Exhibit 4.5 hereto).**
4.8 Form of Note Guarantee to be issued by future subsidiaries of Aurora Foods Inc.
pursuant to the Series D Indenture (included in Exhibit 4.6 hereto). (Incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to the Aurora S-4).**
4.9 Indenture, dated as of September 15, 1995, between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and Harris
Trust and Savings Bank (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Van de
Kamp's S-4).**
4.10 Global Note, dated September 19, 1995, issued by Van de Kamp's, Inc. to the
Depository Trust Company and registered in the name of Cede & Co. in the principal
amount of $100,000,000 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Van de
Kamp's S-4).**
5.1 Opinion of Richards & O'Neil, LLP regarding the validity of the Common Stock.*
10.1 VDK Holdings, Inc. Incentive Compensation Plan.*
10.2 1998 Incentive Plan.*
10.3 Purchase Agreement, dated June 18, 1997, by and among Aurora Foods Inc., Chase
Securities, Inc. and Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation. (Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the Aurora S-4).**
10.4 Purchase Agreement, dated February 5, 1997 by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and
Chase Securities Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Aurora
S-4).**
10.5 Purchase Agreement, dated September 14, 1995, between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and
Chemical Securities Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the Van de
Kamp's S-4).**
10.6 Employment Agreement between Ian R. Wilson and Aurora Foods Inc.*
10.7 Employment Agreement between James B. Ardrey and Aurora Foods Inc.*
10.8 Employment Agreement between Ray Chung and Aurora Foods Inc.*
10.9 Employment Agreement between M. Laurie Cummings and Aurora Foods Inc.*
10.10 Amendment No. 1 to Ferraro Employment Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1998,
between Aurora Foods Inc. and Thomas S. Ferraro.**
10.11 Employment Agreement, dated as of December 31, 1996, by and between Aurora Foods
Inc. and Thomas J. Ferraro (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Aurora
S-4).**
10.12 Amendment No. 1 to Willett Employment Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1998,
between C. Gary Willett and Aurora Foods Inc.**
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission.

II-4
<PAGE>
PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

ITEM 16. EXHIBITS (CONTINUED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION
- ----------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<C> <S>
10.13 Employment Agreement, dated as of December 31, 1996, by and between Aurora Foods
Inc. and C. Gary Willett. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Aurora
S-4).**
10.14 Amendment No. 1 to Ellinwood Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of
January 1, 1998, between Thomas 0. Ellinwood and Van de Kamp's, Inc.**
10.15 Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of March 11, 1997, by and
between Thomas 0. Ellinwood and Van de Kamp's, Inc.**
10.16 Employment Agreement, dated as of February 16, 1998, by and between Van de Kamp's,
Inc. and Anthony A. Bevilacqua.**
10.17 Security Agreement, dated as of September 19, 1995, made by Van de Kamp's, Inc., in
favor of Chemical Bank (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Van de
Kamp's S-4).**
10.18 Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of January 16, 1998, by and
among Aurora Foods Inc., as Borrower, Aurora Foods Holdings Inc., as Guarantor, the
Lenders listed therein, The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent, The
National Westminster Bank PLC, as Syndication Agent and Swiss Bank Corporation, as
Documentation Agent (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-K, filed
on March 27, 1998 (the "Aurora 10-K")).**
10.19 Second Amendment to Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated July 9, 1996, between
Van de Kamp's, Inc. and VDK Holdings, Inc. in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank,
NA, as agent for the several banks and other financial institutions (Incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.23 of the Van de Kamp's, Inc. Form 10-K filed on
September 27, 1996 (the "1996 Van de Kamp's 10-K").**
10.20 First Amendment to Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated May 6, 1996 between
Van de Kamp's, Inc. and VDK Holdings, Inc. in favor of Chemical Bank, as agent for
the several banks and other financial institutions from time to time parties to the
Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement. (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.20 to the 1996 Van de Kamp's 10-K.)**
10.21 Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated September 19, 1995, among VDK Holdings,
Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the subsidiary grantors named therein and Chemical Bank
as agent (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the 1996 Van de Kamp's
S-4).**
10.22 Third Amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement,
dated as of September 25, 1997, among VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the
banks, and other financial institutions named as parties thereto and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.32 to Van de
Kamp's Inc.'s Form 10-K filed on September 29, 1997 (the "1997 Van de Kamp's
10-K").**
10.23 Second Amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement,
dated as of March 27, 1997, among VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the
banks, and other financial institutions named as parties thereto and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Van de
Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1997).**
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission.

II-5
<PAGE>
PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

ITEM 16. EXHIBITS (CONTINUED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION
- ----------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<C> <S>
10.24 First Amendment, dated as of August 28, 1996, to the Second Amended and Restated
Credit and Guarantee Agreement among VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the
banks and other financial institutions named as parties thereto and the Chase
Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the
1996 Van de Kamp's 10-K).**
10.25 Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement, dated as of July 9,
1996 among VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the banks and other financial
institutions named as parties thereto and The Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the 1996 Van de Kamp's 10-K).**
10.26 Cash Collateral Agreement, dated July 9, 1996, between VDK Holdings, Inc. and The
Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to
the 1996 Van de Kamp's 10-K).**
10.27 First Amended and Restated Red Wing Co-Pack Agreement, dated as of November 19,
1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and The Red Wing Company, Inc. (Confidential
treatment for a portion of this document has been requested by Aurora Foods Inc.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the Aurora 10-K).**
10.28 Production Agreement, dated November 19, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and
The Red Wing Company, Inc. (Confidential treatment for a portion of this document
has been requested by Aurora Foods Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18
to the Aurora 10-K).
10.29 Transitional Supply Agreement, dated November 26, 1997, by and between Aurora
Foods, Inc. and The Procter & Gamble Distributing Company. (Confidential treatment
for a portion of this document has been requested by Aurora Foods Inc. Incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Aurora 10-K).**
10.30 Agreement between Aurora Foods Inc. and Dartford Partnership L.L.C.*
10.31 Agreement between McCown De Leeuw & Co., Inc. and Aurora Foods Inc.*
10.32 Agreement between Fenway Partners, Inc. and Aurora Foods Inc.*
10.33 Agreement, dated March 31, 1994, between Van de Kamp's, Seafood and Ore-Ida Foods,
Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to the Van de Kamp's S-4).**
10.34 Flavor Supply Agreement, dated as of December 31, 1996, by and between Quest
International Flavors & Food Ingredients Company and MBW Foods Inc. (Incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Aurora S-4).**
10.35 License Agreement, dated as of February 21, 1979, between General Host Corporation
and VDK Acquisition Corporation (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the
Van de Kamp's S-4).**
10.36 License Agreement, dated as of October 14, 1978, between General Host Corporation
and Van de Kamp's Dutch Bakeries (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.28 to the
Van de Kamp's S-4).**
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission.

II-6
<PAGE>
PART II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

ITEM 16. EXHIBITS (CONTINUED)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION
- ----------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<C> <S>
10.37 Trademark License Agreement, dated July 9, 1996 among Quaker Oats, The Quaker Oats
Company of Canada Limited and Van de Kamp's, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit H to Exhibit 2.1 to Van de Kamp's Inc.'s Form 8-K dated July 9, 1996 (the
"Van de Kamp's 8-K")).
10.38 Patent License Agreement, dated July 9, 1996, between Quaker Oats and Van de
Kamp's, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit K to Exhibit 2.1 to the Van de
Kamp's 8-K).**
23.1 Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP.
23.2 Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP.
23.3 Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP.
23.4 Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
27.1 Financial Data Schedule.**
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission.

ITEM 17. UNDERTAKINGS

(a) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities
Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") may be permitted to directors, officers and
controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or
otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities
and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as
expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event
that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the
payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or
controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action,
suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person
in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless
in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether
such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the
Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

(b) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the
underwriters at the closing specified in the underwriting agreement,
certificates in such denominations and registered in such names as required by
the underwriters to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.

(1) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act,
the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this
registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of
prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or
497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this
registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.

(2) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities
Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall
be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities
offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be
deemed to be the initial BONA FIDE offering thereof.

II-7
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant
certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all the
requirements for filing on Form S-1 and has duly caused this Amendment No. 1 to
the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned,
thereunto duly authorized, in the City of San Francisco, California, on May 15,
1998.

<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
AURORA FOODS INC.

BY: /S/ IAN R. WILSON
-----------------------------------------
Ian R. Wilson
Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer
</TABLE>

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Amendment
No. 1 to the Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in
the capacities and on the dates indicated:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
- ------------------------------ --------------------------- -------------------

<C> <S> <C>
Chairman of the Board and
/s/ IAN R. WILSON Chief Executive Officer
- ------------------------------ (Principal Executive May 15, 1998
Ian R. Wilson Officer)

/s/ JAMES B. ARDREY Vice Chairman and Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
James B. Ardrey

Chief Financial Officer
/s/ M. LAURIE CUMMINGS and Secretary
- ------------------------------ (Principal Financial May 15, 1998
M. Laurie Cummings Officer and Principal
Accounting Officer)

/s/ CLIVE APSEY Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
Clive Apsey

/s/ CHARLES AYRES Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
Charles Ayres

/s/ DAVID E. DE LEEUW Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
David E. De Leeuw
</TABLE>

II-8
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
- ------------------------------ --------------------------- -------------------

<C> <S> <C>
/s/ CHARLES J. DELANEY Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
Charles J. Delaney

/s/ RICHARD C. DRESDALE Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
Richard C. Dresdale

/s/ ANDREA GEISSER Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
Andrea Geisser

/s/ PETER LAMM Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
Peter Lamm

/s/ TYLER T. ZACHEM Director
- ------------------------------ May 15, 1998
Tyler T. Zachem
</TABLE>

II-9
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT INDEX

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION PAGE
- ----------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------
<C> <S> <C>
1.1 Underwriting Agreement among Aurora Foods Inc., Aurora/VDK LLC, Goldman, Sachs & Co., BT Alex.
Brown Incorporated, Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation, Credit Suisse First
Boston Corporation, SBC Warburg Dillon Read Inc. and Chase Securities Inc.*....................
2.1 Merger Agreement between Aurora Foods Inc. and A Foods Inc.*...................................
2.2 Merger Agreement among Aurora Foods Holdings Inc., Aurora Foods Inc., VDK Holdings, Inc., Van
de Kamp's, Inc. and A Foods Inc.*..............................................................
2.3 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 26, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and
The Procter & Gamble Company. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Aurora Foods Inc.'s
Form 8-K filed on January 30, 1998)**..........................................................
2.4 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of March 7, 1997 by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and Kraft
Foods, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to Aurora Foods Inc.'s Form S-4 filed on
August 21, 1997 (the "Aurora S-4")**...........................................................
2.5 Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 13, 1997, between Van de Kamp's,
Inc. and Morningstar Foods, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended March 31, 1997)**................................................................
2.6 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 3, 1997, between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and
Morningstar Foods, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended March 31, 1997)**........................................................................
2.7 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 18, 1996, by and between MBW Foods Inc. (as
successor-in-interest to MBW Acquisition Corp.) and Conopco, Inc., as amended. (Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Aurora S-4)**..................................................
2.8 Supplement No. 1 to Asset Purchase and Sales Agreement, dated as of July 9, 1996, between Van
de Kamp's, Inc. and the Quaker Oats Company ("Quaker Oats"). (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 2.2 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 8-K dated July 9, 1996)**............................
2.9 Asset Purchase and Sales Agreement, dated as of May 15, 1996 between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and
Quaker Oats. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 8-K dated
July 9, 1996)**................................................................................
2.10 Asset Purchase and Sales Agreement, dated as of January 17, 1996, between Shellfish Acquisition
Company, LLC ("Shellfish") and Campbell Soup Company ("Campbell") (the text of which and
Exhibits to which are Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form
10-Q for the quarter ended March 30, 1996 and a list of the contents of the schedules of which
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 8-K dated May 6,
1996)**........................................................................................
2.11 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of January 17, 1996, between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and
Shellfish. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.2 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended March 30, 1996)**................................................................
2.12 Agreement and Amendment No. 1, dated September 19, 1995, to the Asset Purchase Agreement among
Van de Kamp's, Inc., the Pillsbury Company and PET Incorporated. (Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 2.2 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form S-4 filed on October 4, 1995 (the "Van de Kamp's
S-4")**........................................................................................
2.13 Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of July 7, 1995 among Van de Kamp's, Inc., the Pillsbury
Company and PET Incorporated. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Van de Kamp's
S-4)**.........................................................................................
3.1 Certificate of Incorporation of Aurora Foods Inc., as amended to date, filed with the Secretary
of State of the State of Delaware.*............................................................
3.2 Amended and Restated By-laws of Aurora Foods Inc.*.............................................
4.1 Specimen Certificate of the Common Stock.*.....................................................
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission

<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION PAGE
- ----------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------
<C> <S> <C>
4.2 Securityholders Agreement, dated as of April 8, 1998, among the parties listed on Schedule A
attached thereto**.............................................................................
4.3 Indenture, dated as of February 10, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and Wilmington Trust
Company (the "Series B Indenture"). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Aurora
S-4)**.........................................................................................
4.4 Specimen Certificate of 9 7/8% Series B Senior Subordinated Note due 2007 (included in Exhibit
4.2 hereto). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Aurora S-4)**....................
4.5 Form of Note Guarantee to be issued by future subsidiaries of Aurora Foods Inc. pursuant to the
Series B Indenture (included in Exhibit 4.1 hereto). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4
to the Aurora S-4)**...........................................................................
4.6 Indenture, dated as of July 1, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and Wilmington Trust
Company (the "Series D Indenture"). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the Aurora
S-4)**.........................................................................................
4.7 Specimen Certificate of 9 7/8% Series D Senior Subordinated Note, due 2007 (included in Exhibit
4.5 hereto)**..................................................................................
4.8 Form of Note Guarantee to be issued by future subsidiaries of Aurora Foods Inc. pursuant to the
Series D Indenture (included in Exhibit 4.6 hereto). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8
to the Aurora S-4)**...........................................................................
4.9 Indenture, dated as of September 15, 1995, between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and Harris Trust and
Savings Bank (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Van de Kamp's S-4)**.............
4.10 Global Note, dated September 19, 1995, issued by Van de Kamp's, Inc. to the Depository Trust
Company and registered in the name of Cede & Co. in the principal amount of $100,000,000
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Van de Kamp's S-4)**..........................
5.1 Opinion of Richards & O'Neil, LLP regarding the validity of the Common Stock.*.................
10.1 VDK Holdings, Inc. Incentive Compensation Plan.*...............................................
10.2 1998 Incentive Plan.*..........................................................................
10.3 Purchase Agreement, dated June 18, 1997, by and among Aurora Foods Inc., Chase Securities, Inc.
and Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the
Aurora S-4)**..................................................................................
10.4 Purchase Agreement, dated February 5, 1997 by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and Chase
Securities Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Aurora S-4)**.................
10.5 Purchase Agreement, dated September 14, 1995, between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and Chemical
Securities Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 to the Van de Kamp's S-4)**........
10.6 Employment Agreement between Ian R. Wilson and Aurora Foods Inc.*..............................
10.7 Employment Agreement between James B. Ardrey and Aurora Foods Inc.*............................
10.8 Employment Agreement between Ray Chung and Aurora Foods Inc.*..................................
10.9 Employment Agreement between M. Laurie Cummings and Aurora Foods Inc.*.........................
10.10 Amendment No. 1 to Ferraro Employment Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1998, between Aurora
Foods Inc. and Thomas S. Ferraro**.............................................................
10.11 Employment Agreement, dated as of December 31, 1996, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and
Thomas J. Ferraro (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Aurora S-4)**..............
10.12 Amendment No. 1 to Willett Employment Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1998, between C. Gary
Willett and Aurora Foods Inc.**................................................................
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission

<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION PAGE
- ----------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------
<C> <S> <C>
10.13 Employment Agreement, dated as of December 31, 1996, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and C.
Gary Willett. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to the Aurora S-4)**..................
10.14 Amendment No. 1 to Ellinwood Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of January 1,
1998, between Thomas 0. Ellinwood and Van de Kamp's, Inc.......................................
10.15 Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of March 11, 1997, by and between Thomas 0.
Ellinwood and Van de Kamp's, Inc.**............................................................
10.16 Employment Agreement, dated as of February 16, 1998, by and between Van de Kamp's, Inc. and
Anthony A. Bevilacqua**........................................................................
10.17 Security Agreement, dated as of September 19, 1995, made by Van de Kamp's, Inc., in favor of
Chemical Bank (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Van de Kamp's S-4)**..........
10.18 Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of January 16, 1998, by and among Aurora
Foods Inc., as Borrower, Aurora Foods Holdings Inc., as Guarantor, the Lenders listed therein,
The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Administrative Agent, The National Westminster Bank PLC, as
Syndication Agent and Swiss Bank Corporation, as Documentation Agent (Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-K, filed on March 27, 1998 (the "Aurora 10-K"))**...................
10.19 Second Amendment to Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated July 9, 1996, between Van de
Kamp's, Inc. and VDK Holdings, Inc. in favor of The Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent for the
several banks and other financial institutions (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 of
the Van de Kamp's, Inc. Form 10-K filed on September 27, 1996 (the "1996 Van de Kamp's
10-K")**.......................................................................................
10.20 First Amendment to Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated May 6, 1996 between Van de Kamp's,
Inc. and VDK Holdings, Inc. in favor of Chemical Bank, as agent for the several banks and other
financial institutions from time to time parties to the Amended and Restated Credit and
Guarantee Agreement. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the 1996 Van de Kamp's
10-K.)**.......................................................................................
10.21 Guarantee and Collateral Agreement, dated September 19, 1995, among VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de
Kamp's, Inc., the subsidiary grantors named therein and Chemical Bank as agent (Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the 1996 Van de Kamp's S-4)**....................................
10.22 Third Amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement, dated as of
September 25, 1997, among VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the banks, and other
financial institutions named as parties thereto and The Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.32 to Van de Kamp's Inc.'s Form 10-K filed on
September 29, 1997 (the "1997 Van de Kamp's 10-K")**...........................................
10.23 Second Amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement, dated as of
March 27, 1997, among VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the banks, and other financial
institutions named as parties thereto and The Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent (Incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Van de Kamp's, Inc.'s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31,
1997)**........................................................................................
10.24 First Amendment, dated as of August 28, 1996, to the Second Amended and Restated Credit and
Guarantee Agreement among VDK Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the banks and other
financial institutions named as parties thereto and the Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the 1996 Van de Kamp's 10-K)**..................
10.25 Second Amended and Restated Credit and Guarantee Agreement, dated as of July 9, 1996 among VDK
Holdings, Inc., Van de Kamp's, Inc., the banks and other financial
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission

<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NUMBER EXHIBIT DESCRIPTION PAGE
- ----------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------
institutions named as parties thereto and The Chase Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent (Incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the 1996 Van de Kamp's 10-K)**................................
<C> <S> <C>
10.26 Cash Collateral Agreement, dated July 9, 1996, between VDK Holdings, Inc. and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, NA, as agent (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to the 1996 Van de
Kamp's 10-K)**.................................................................................
10.27 First Amended and Restated Red Wing Co-Pack Agreement, dated as of November 19, 1997, by and
between Aurora Foods Inc. and The Red Wing Company, Inc. (Confidential treatment for a portion
of this document has been requested by Aurora Foods Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.16 to the Aurora 10-K)**....................................................................
10.28 Production Agreement, dated November 19, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods Inc. and The Red
Wing Company, Inc. (Confidential treatment for a portion of this document has been requested by
Aurora Foods Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Aurora 10-K)**.............
10.29 Transitional Supply Agreement, dated November 26, 1997, by and between Aurora Foods, Inc. and
The Procter & Gamble Distributing Company. (Confidential treatment for a portion of this
document has been requested by Aurora Foods Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to
the Aurora 10-K)**.............................................................................
10.30 Agreement between Aurora Foods Inc. and Dartford Partnership L.L.C.*...........................
10.31 Agreement between McCown De Leeuw & Co., Inc. and Aurora Foods Inc.*...........................
10.32 Agreement between Fenway Partners Inc. and Aurora Foods Inc.*..................................
10.33 Agreement, dated March 31, 1994, between Van de Kamp's, Seafood and Ore-Ida Foods, Inc.
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to the Van de Kamp's S-4)..........................
10.34 Flavor Supply Agreement, dated as of December 31, 1996, by and between Quest International
Flavors & Food Ingredients Company and MBW Foods Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.8 to the Aurora S-4)**......................................................................
10.35 License Agreement, dated as of February 21, 1979, between General Host Corporation and VDK
Acquisition Corporation (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Van de Kamp's
S-4)**.........................................................................................
10.36 License Agreement, dated as of October 14, 1978, between General Host Corporation and Van de
Kamp's Dutch Bakeries (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.28 to the Van de Kamp's
S-4)**.........................................................................................
10.37 Trademark License Agreement, dated July 9, 1996 among Quaker Oats, The Quaker Oats Company of
Canada Limited and Van de Kamp's, Inc. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit H to Exhibit 2.1
to Van de Kamp's Inc.'s Form 8-K dated July 9, 1996 (the "Van de Kamp's 8-K"))**...............
10.38 Patent License Agreement, dated July 9, 1996, between Quaker Oats and Van de Kamp's, Inc.
(Incorporated by reference to Exhibit K to Exhibit 2.1 to the Van de Kamp's 8-K)**.............
23.1 Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP................................................................
23.2 Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP................................................................
23.3 Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP................................................................
23.4 Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP...............................................................
27.1 Financial Data Schedule**......................................................................
</TABLE>

- ------------------------

* To be filed by amendment.

** Previously filed with the Commission

<PAGE>

Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We hereby consent to the use in the Prospectus constituting part of Amendment
No. 1 to this Registration Statement on Form S-1 of our report dated March
18, 1998, relating to the financial statements of Aurora Foods Holdings Inc.,
which appears in such Prospectus. We also consent to the reference to us
under the headings "Experts" in such Prospectus.

/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP

Price Waterhouse LLP
San Francisco, California
May 14, 1998

<PAGE>

Exhibit 23.2

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We hereby consent to the use in the Prospectus constituting part of Amendment
No. 1 to this Registration Statement on Form S-1 of our report dated
September 23, 1997, relating to the financial statements of VDK Holdings,
Inc., which appears in such Prospectus. We also consent to the reference to
us under the headings "Experts" in such Prospectus.

/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP

Price Waterhouse LLP
San Francisco, California
May 14, 1998

<PAGE>

Exhibit 23.3

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We hereby consent to the use in the Prospectus constituting part of Amendment
No. 1 to this Registration Statement on Form S-1 of our report dated March 14,
1997, relating to the financial statements of the Mrs. Butterworth's
Business, a component of CONCOPCO, Inc., which appears in such Prospectus. We
also consent to the reference to us under the headings "Experts" in such
Prospectus.

/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP

Price Waterhouse LLP
San Francisco, California
May 14, 1998

<PAGE>

Exhibit 23.4

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT

We consent to the use in this Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement No.
333-50681 of Aurora Foods, Inc. on Form S-1 of our report dated March 20,
1998, on the Duncan Hines Business of The Procter & Gamble Company, appearing
in the Prospectus, which is a part of this Registration Statement. We also
consent to the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in such Prospectus.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

May 12, 1998