DEL MONTE FOODS CO
S-1/A, 1998-07-28
CANNED, FRUITS, VEG, PRESERVES, JAMS & JELLIES
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<PAGE>   1
 
   
     AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON JULY 28, 1998
    
                                                      REGISTRATION NO. 333-48235
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
                            ------------------------
 
   
                                AMENDMENT NO. 5
    
                                       TO
 
                                    FORM S-1
                             REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                     UNDER
                           THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
                            ------------------------
 
                            DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY
             (EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
 
<TABLE>
<S>                               <C>                               <C>
            DELAWARE                            6719                           13-3542950
(STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF     (PRIMARY STANDARD INDUSTRIAL            (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
 INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)     CLASSIFICATION CODE NUMBER)          IDENTIFICATION NUMBER)
</TABLE>
 
                                   ONE MARKET
                        SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94105
                           TELEPHONE: (415) 247-3000
  (ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF
                   REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
 
                            WILLIAM R. SAWYERS, ESQ.
                 VICE PRESIDENT, GENERAL COUNSEL AND SECRETARY
                            DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY
                                   ONE MARKET
                        SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94105
                           TELEPHONE: (415) 247-3000
 (NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE,
                             OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)
 
                                   COPIES TO:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                 <C>
              JANET L. FISHER, ESQ.                               PAUL C. PRINGLE, ESQ.
        CLEARY, GOTTLIEB, STEEN & HAMILTON                           BROWN & WOOD LLP
                ONE LIBERTY PLAZA                                 555 CALIFORNIA STREET
             NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10006                        SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA 94104
            TELEPHONE: (212) 225-2000                           TELEPHONE: (415) 772-1200
</TABLE>
 
                            ------------------------
 
        APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC:
As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.
 
    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, check the following box and
list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective
registration statement for the same offering. [ ]
 
    If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d)
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 delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434,
please check the following box: [ ]
 
   
                        CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<S>                                       <C>                  <C>                  <C>                  <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    PROPOSED             PROPOSED
                                                AMOUNT               MAXIMUM              MAXIMUM
TITLE OF EACH CLASS OF                           TO BE           OFFERING PRICE          AGGREGATE            AMOUNT OF
SECURITIES TO BE REGISTERED                   REGISTERED            PER UNIT         OFFERING PRICE(1)   REGISTRATION FEE(2)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Common Stock, $0.01 par value                     (3)                  (3)             $304,414,200            $89,802
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
(1) Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee
pursuant to Rule 457(a) under the Securities Act of 1933.
    
   
(2) A registration fee of $110,258 was paid upon the previous filings of this
Registration Statement.
    
   
(3) Not applicable pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933.
    
 
     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 OR UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME
EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(a),
MAY DETERMINE.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>   2
 
                            DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY
 
                       REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-1
  (Cross Reference Sheet Furnished Pursuant to Item 501(b) of Regulation S-K)
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
     ITEM NUMBER AND CAPTION IN FORM S-1                  LOCATION IN PROSPECTUS
     -----------------------------------                  ----------------------
<S>                                            <C>
 1. Forepart of the Registration Statement
    and Outside Front Cover Page of
    Prospectus...............................  Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus
 2. Inside Front Cover Page of Prospectus....  Inside Front Cover Page of Prospectus;
                                               Additional Information
 3. Summary Information, Risk Factors and
    Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.......  Prospectus Summary; Risk Factors; Selected
                                               Consolidated Financial Data
 4. Use of Proceeds..........................  Use of Proceeds
 5. Determination of Offering Price..........  Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus;
                                               Underwriters
 6. Dilution.................................  Risk Factors; Dilution
 7. Selling Security Holders.................  Not Applicable
 8. Plan of Distribution.....................  Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus;
                                               Underwriters
 9. Description of Securities to be
  Registered.................................  Description of Capital Stock
10. Interest of Named Experts and Counsel....  Legal Matters; Experts
11. Information with Respect to the
  Registrant.................................  Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus;
                                               Prospectus Summary; Risk Factors; Use of
                                               Proceeds; Dividend Policy; Capitalization;
                                               Dilution; Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data;
                                               Selected Consolidated Financial Data;
                                               Management's Discussion and Analysis of
                                               Financial Condition and Results of
                                               Operations; Business; Corporate History;
                                               Management; Principal Stockholders; Certain
                                               Relationships and Related Transactions;
                                               Description of Capital Stock; Description of
                                               Certain Indebtedness; Shares Eligible for
                                               Future Sale; Consolidated Financial
                                               Statements
12. Disclosure of Commission Position on
    Indemnification for Securities Act
    Liabilities..............................  Not Applicable
</TABLE>
    
 
                                EXPLANATORY NOTE
 
     This Registration Statement contains two separate prospectuses, one to be
used in connection with an offering of Common Stock in the United States and
Canada (the "U.S. Prospectus") and one to be used in a concurrent offering of
Common Stock outside the United States and Canada (the "International
Prospectus"). The U.S. Prospectus and the International Prospectus will be
identical in all respects except for the front cover page.
 
     The form of the U.S. Prospectus is included herein and the form of the
front cover page of the International Prospectus follows the back cover page of
the U.S. Prospectus.
<PAGE>   3
 
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.
 
PROSPECTUS (Subject to Completion)
   
Issued July 28, 1998
    
   
                               14,706,000 Shares
    
 
                            DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY
 
                                  COMMON STOCK
[DEL MONTE LOGO]
 
                            ------------------------
 
   
OF THE 14,706,000 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK BEING OFFERED HEREBY, 11,765,000 SHARES
    ARE BEING OFFERED INITIALLY IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA BY THE U.S.
UNDERWRITERS AND 2,941,000 SHARES ARE BEING OFFERED INITIALLY OUTSIDE THE UNITED
STATES AND CANADA BY THE INTERNATIONAL UNDERWRITERS. SEE "UNDERWRITERS." ALL OF
 THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK BEING OFFERED HEREBY ARE BEING SOLD BY THE COMPANY.
 AT THE REQUEST OF THE COMPANY, THE UNDERWRITERS HAVE RESERVED FOR SALE, AT THE
 INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE, UP TO 735,300 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK, WHICH MAY
 BE OFFERED TO DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, RETIREES AND RELATED PERSONS OF
 THE COMPANY. ANY RESERVED SHARES THAT ARE NOT SO PURCHASED WILL BE OFFERED BY
THE UNDERWRITERS TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC ON THE SAME BASIS AS THE OTHER SHARES OF
 COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY. PRIOR TO THIS OFFERING, THERE HAS BEEN NO PUBLIC
MARKET FOR THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OF THE COMPANY. IT IS CURRENTLY ESTIMATED
 THAT THE INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE PER SHARE WILL BE BETWEEN $16 AND $18.
     SEE "UNDERWRITERS" FOR A DISCUSSION OF THE FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN
                 DETERMINING THE INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE.
    
                            ------------------------
 
   
 THE COMMON STOCK HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR LISTING, SUBJECT TO OFFICIAL NOTICE OF
  ISSUANCE, ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE AND THE PACIFIC EXCHANGE UNDER THE
                                 SYMBOL "DLM."
    
                            ------------------------
 
         SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 11 OF THIS PROSPECTUS FOR
           RISKS THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS.
                            ------------------------
 
  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.
                            ------------------------
 
                            PRICE $          A SHARE
                            ------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    UNDERWRITING
                                                     PRICE TO      DISCOUNTS AND       PROCEEDS TO
                                                      PUBLIC       COMMISSIONS(1)       COMPANY(2)
                                                     --------      --------------      ------------
<S>                                                  <C>           <C>                 <C>
Per Share..........................................     $               $                  $
Total(3)...........................................     $               $                  $
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
 
   
    (1) The Company has agreed to indemnify the Underwriters against certain
        liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as
        amended. See "Underwriters."
    
 
    (2) Before deducting expenses of the offering payable by the Company
estimated at $6,200,000.
 
   
    (3) The Company has granted the U.S. Underwriters an option, exercisable
        within 30 days of the date hereof, to purchase up to an aggregate of
        2,205,900 additional shares of Common Stock at the price to public, less
        underwriting discounts and commissions, solely for the purpose of
        covering overallotments, if any. If the U.S. Underwriters exercise such
        option in full, the total price to public, underwriting discounts and
        commissions and proceeds to Company will be $        , $        and
        $        , respectively. See "Underwriters."
    
                            ------------------------
 
     The shares of Common Stock are offered, subject to prior sale, when, as and
if accepted by the Underwriters named herein and subject to the approval of
certain legal matters by Brown & Wood LLP, counsel for the Underwriters. It is
expected that delivery of the shares of Common Stock will be made on or about
            , 1998 at the office of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, New York,
N.Y. against payment therefor in immediately available funds.
 
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER
        BANCAMERICA ROBERTSON STEPHENS
                  BEAR, STEARNS & CO. INC.
                           BT ALEXS BROWN
                                   DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
                                             Securities Corporation
 
                 , 1998
<PAGE>   4
 
     [PHOTOGRAPHS DEPICTING COLLAGES OF COMPANY PRODUCTS TO BE INSERTED ON
                INSIDE FRONT COVER AND INSIDE BACK COVER PAGES]
 
     CERTAIN PERSONS PARTICIPATING IN THIS OFFERING MAY ENGAGE IN TRANSACTIONS
THAT STABILIZE, MAINTAIN, OR OTHERWISE AFFECT THE MARKET PRICE OF THE SHARES OF
COMMON STOCK. SPECIFICALLY, THE UNDERWRITERS MAY OVERALLOT IN CONNECTION WITH
THE OFFERING, AND MAY BID FOR, AND PURCHASE, THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK IN THE
OPEN MARKET. FOR A DESCRIPTION OF THESE ACTIVITIES, SEE "UNDERWRITERS."
<PAGE>   5
 
     NO PERSON IS AUTHORIZED IN CONNECTION WITH ANY OFFERING MADE HEREBY TO GIVE
ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATION NOT CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS,
AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATION MUST NOT BE RELIED
UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE COMPANY OR ANY UNDERWRITER. THIS
PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO
BUY ANY SECURITY OTHER THAN THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY, NOR DOES
IT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY OF THE
SECURITIES OFFERED HEREBY TO ANY PERSON IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH IT IS
UNLAWFUL TO MAKE SUCH AN OFFER OR SOLICITATION. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS
PROSPECTUS NOR ANY SALE MADE HEREUNDER SHALL UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES IMPLY THAT
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS CORRECT AS OF ANY DATE SUBSEQUENT TO THE
DATE HEREOF.
 
     FOR INVESTORS OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES: NO ACTION HAS BEEN OR WILL BE
TAKEN IN ANY JURISDICTION BY THE COMPANY OR BY ANY UNDERWRITER THAT WOULD PERMIT
A PUBLIC OFFERING OF THE COMMON STOCK OR POSSESSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF THIS
PROSPECTUS IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE ACTION FOR THAT PURPOSE IS REQUIRED, OTHER
THAN IN THE UNITED STATES. PERSONS INTO WHOSE POSSESSION THIS PROSPECTUS COMES
ARE REQUIRED BY THE COMPANY AND THE UNDERWRITERS TO INFORM THEMSELVES ABOUT AND
TO OBSERVE ANY RESTRICTIONS AS TO THE OFFERING OF THE COMMON STOCK AND THE
DISTRIBUTION OF THIS PROSPECTUS.
                            ------------------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PAGE
                                        ----
<S>                                     <C>
Available Information.................    ii
Forward-Looking Statements............    ii
Prospectus Summary....................     1
Risk Factors..........................    11
Recent Developments...................    17
Use of Proceeds.......................    17
Dividend Policy.......................    17
Capitalization........................    18
Dilution..............................    19
Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data....    20
Selected Consolidated Financial
  Data................................    26
Management's Discussion and Analysis
  of Financial Condition and Results
  of Operations.......................    30
Business..............................    42
</TABLE>
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        PAGE
                                        ----
<S>                                     <C>
Corporate History.....................    58
Management............................    60
Principal Stockholders................    69
Certain Relationships and Related
  Transactions........................    71
Description of Capital Stock..........    73
Description of Certain Indebtedness...    75
Certain U.S. Tax Consequences to
  Non-U.S. Holders....................    78
Shares Eligible for Future Sale.......    79
Underwriters..........................    81
Legal Matters.........................    84
Experts...............................    84
Index to Financial Statements.........   F-1
</TABLE>
    
 
                            ------------------------
 
     Del Monte(R) and Contadina(R) are the principal registered trademarks of
the Company. The Company's other trademarks include Fruit Cup(R), FreshCut(TM),
Snack Cups(R), Fruit Naturals(R), Orchard Select(R), Fruit Smoothie Blenders(TM)
and Del Monte Lite(R).
                            ------------------------
 
     Unless otherwise indicated, references herein to U.S. market share data are
to case volume sold through retail grocery stores (excluding warehouse clubs and
supercenters) with at least $2 million in sales and are based upon data provided
to the Company by A.C. Nielsen Company ("ACNielsen"), an independent market
research firm. Such data is made publicly available by ACNielsen at prescribed
rates. Market share data for canned vegetables and solid tomato products include
only those categories in which the Company competes. Such data for canned fruit
include those categories in which the Company competes other than the
"specialty" category, which has been an insignificant portion of the Company's
operations. Market share data for canned solid tomato products is pro forma for
both Del Monte (as defined herein) and Contadina (as defined herein) sales.
 
                                        i
<PAGE>   6
 
                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION
 
     Del Monte is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and in accordance
therewith files reports, proxy statements and other information with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). Del Monte has filed with
the Commission a Registration Statement on Form S-1 (the "Registration
Statement," which term shall encompass all amendments, exhibits, annexes and
schedules thereto) pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"Securities Act"), and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder,
covering the shares of Common Stock being offered hereby (the "Offering"). This
Prospectus does not contain all the information set forth in the Registration
Statement. For further information with respect to Del Monte and the Offering,
reference is made to the Registration Statement. Statements made in this
Prospectus as to the contents of any contract, agreement or other document
referred to herein 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 document or matter involved, and each such statement shall be deemed
qualified in its entirety by such reference. The Registration Statement,
including the exhibits thereto, and the reports, proxy statements and other
information filed by Del Monte with the Commission can be inspected and copied
at the public reference facilities maintained by the Commission at Room 1024,
450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, at the Regional Offices of the
Commission at 7 World Trade Center, 14th Floor, New York, New York 10048 and 500
West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60661. Copies of such
materials can be obtained from the Public Reference Section of the Commission at
450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates. The
Commission maintains a Web site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains reports,
proxy and information statements and other information regarding registrants
that file electronically with the Commission.
 
     Del Monte will furnish its stockholders with annual reports that include a
description of operations and annual audited consolidated financial statements
prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles
("GAAP"). The financial statements included in the annual reports will be
examined and reported upon, with an opinion expressed, by Del Monte's
independent auditors. Del Monte will also furnish quarterly reports for the
first three quarters of each fiscal year containing unaudited consolidated
financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP.
 
                           FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
     Certain statements in this Prospectus 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 constitute "forward-looking statements" within the
meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such
forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and
other important factors that could cause the actual results, performance or
achievements of the Company, or industry results, to differ materially from any
future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by such
forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other important
factors include, among others: general economic and business conditions; weather
conditions; crop yields; industry trends; competition; raw material costs and
availability; the loss of significant customers; changes in business strategy or
development plans; availability, terms and deployment of capital; Year 2000
compliance; changes in, or the failure or inability to comply with, governmental
regulations, including, without limitation, environmental regulations; industry
trends and capacity and other factors referenced in this Prospectus. See "Risk
Factors." These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this
Prospectus. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to
disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained
herein to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with regard thereto
or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement
is based.
 
                                       ii
<PAGE>   7
 
                               PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
 
     The following summary is qualified in its entirety by the more detailed
information appearing elsewhere in this Prospectus. Unless the context otherwise
requires, "Del Monte" means Del Monte Foods Company, a Delaware corporation, and
the "Company" means Del Monte and its consolidated subsidiaries. References
herein to fiscal years and quarters are to the Company's fiscal year (which ends
on June 30) and related fiscal quarters (which end on the last Sunday of
September, December and March). References to the "Contadina Acquisition" are to
the Company's acquisition of certain assets comprising Nestle USA, Inc.'s
("Nestle") U.S. business of manufacturing and marketing certain canned tomato
products ("Contadina"). Unless otherwise indicated, all information in this
Prospectus reflects (i) an increase in the number of authorized shares to 500
million shares of Common Stock and to 2 million shares of preferred stock and
(ii) a 191.542-for-one stock split of the existing shares of Common Stock and
assumes no exercise of the U.S. Underwriters' overallotment option. See
"Description of Capital Stock."
 
                                  THE COMPANY
 
GENERAL
 
     The Company, a branded marketer of premium quality, nutritious food
products, is the largest producer and distributor of canned vegetables and
canned fruit in the United States, with pro forma net sales of $1.1 billion and
$1.4 billion for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 and the fiscal year ended
June 30, 1997, respectively. Management believes that the Company's principal
brand, Del Monte, which has been in existence since 1892, has the highest
unaided brand awareness of any canned food brand in the United States. Del Monte
brand products are found in substantially all national grocery chains and
independent grocery stores throughout the United States. As the brand leader in
three major processed food categories (canned vegetables, fruit and solid tomato
products), the Company has a full-line, multi-category presence that management
believes provides it with a substantial competitive advantage in selling to the
retail grocery industry. The Contadina Acquisition contributes another
established brand and positions the Company as the branded market leader in the
high margin canned solid tomato products category and establishes a strong
presence for the Company in the branded paste-based tomato products category.
See "Business -- Company Products."
 
     The Company sells its products to national grocery chains and wholesalers
through a nationwide sales network consisting primarily of independent food
brokers. The Company's direct sales force also sells to warehouse club stores,
selected mass merchandisers, such as Wal-Mart and Kmart, and larger mass
merchandising outlets that include full grocery sections, such as Wal-Mart
Supercenters and Kmart's SuperKs. In addition, the Company sells its products to
the foodservice industry, food processors and the military through different
independent food brokers. The Company also exports a small percentage of its
products to certain foreign countries directly and through independent exporters
based in the United States. See "Business -- Sales, Marketing and Distribution."
 
     The Company operates 15 production facilities in California, the Midwest,
Washington and Texas, as well as six strategically located distribution centers.
The Company has over 2,500 contracts to purchase vegetables and fruit from
individual growers and cooperatives located in various geographic regions of the
United States, principally California, the Midwest, the Northwest and Texas.
This diversity of sourcing helps insulate the Company from localized disruptions
during the growing season, such as weather conditions, that can affect the price
and supply of vegetables, fruit and tomatoes. See "Business -- Supply and
Production."
 
     In April 1997, the Company completed a recapitalization (the
"Recapitalization") as a result of which Texas Pacific Group, a private
investment group, obtained a controlling interest in the Company. Under a new
senior management team introduced in connection with the Recapitalization, the
Company began implementing a new business strategy designed to increase sales
and improve operating margins by: (i) increasing market share and distribution
of high margin value-added products; (ii) introducing product and packaging
innovations; (iii) increasing penetration of high growth distribution channels,
such as supercenters and
 
                                        1
<PAGE>   8
 
warehouse clubs; (iv) achieving cost savings through investments in new and
upgraded production equipment and plant consolidations; and (v) completing
strategic acquisitions.
 
COMPETITIVE STRENGTHS
 
     Management believes that the following elements contribute to the Company's
position as a leading branded producer, marketer and distributor of canned
vegetables, fruit and tomato products in the United States and provide a solid
foundation for the Company's business strategy.
 
- - STRONG BRAND NAME RECOGNITION AND LEADING MARKET SHARES -- The Del Monte brand
  name, which has been in existence since 1892, is one of the leading brand
  names in the food industry. Based on the ability of consumers to name the Del
  Monte brand when asked to identify companies that manufacture canned foods,
  management believes that the Del Monte brand has the highest unaided brand
  awareness of any canned food brand in the United States. The Company recently
  acquired the Contadina brand, an established national brand with a strong
  reputation for quality. For the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998, the Company's
  19.5% market share of canned vegetables was larger than the combined market
  shares of the Company's two largest branded competitors, and its 41.9% market
  share of canned fruit was larger than the combined market shares of all other
  branded competitors. The Company, including its Contadina business, had a pro
  forma 16.3% market share in the high margin solid segment of the canned tomato
  market for the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998. See "Business -- Company
  Products."
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               MARKET SHARE FOR THE 52 WEEKS ENDED MARCH 28, 1998
                                            --------------------------------------------------------
                                               MARKET                       NEXT LEADING BRANDED
                 CATEGORY                    POSITION(A)    PERCENTAGE   Competitor's Percentage(a)
                 --------                   -------------   ----------   ---------------------------
<S>                                         <C>             <C>          <C>
Canned vegetables.........................       #1            19.5%     13.2% (Green Giant)
Canned fruit..............................       #1            41.9%     11.4% (Libby's)
Canned solid tomato products(b)...........       #1            16.3%     11.2% (Hunt's)
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
 
(a) Excludes private label.
(b) Pro forma to include Contadina sales.
 
- - TECHNICAL EXPERTISE AND LOW COST PRODUCTION ADVANTAGES -- The Company has
  significant experience in developing new products and packaging alternatives
  and in engineering efficient food processing operations. These capabilities
  are leveragable across many food categories. The Company has developed
  proprietary vegetable seed varieties, which increase harvest and cannery
  recoveries and improve flavor and quality. The Company benefits from many
  long-term relationships with experienced, geographically diverse growers who
  work with the Company to maximize yields of raw product. These relationships
  also help to ensure a consistent supply of raw product. As a result of its
  technical expertise, proprietary seed varieties and raw product sourcing
  diversity, as well as its modern processing equipment and labeling, packaging,
  warehousing and distribution efficiencies, management believes that the
  Company is one of the lowest cost producers of canned vegetables, fruit and
  tomatoes in the United States. See "Business -- Company Products" and
  "Business -- Supply and Production."
 
- - PREFERRED SUPPLIER STATUS -- Competitive pressures in the retail food industry
  are causing many retailers to prefer large suppliers such as the Company that
  are able to provide consumer-favored brands, full product lines and
  sophisticated inventory and category management programs. Del Monte
  anticipated this trend and has developed proprietary software tools to assist
  its customers and promote sales of its products. Del Monte's proprietary
  category management system is designed to address retailers' efforts to
  maximize profitability of shelf space dedicated to canned food categories. A
  substantial majority of the Company's customers that have employed Del Monte's
  category management system have increased the relative amount of shelf space
  dedicated to the Company's products as compared to competing products. The
  Company's proprietary vendor-managed inventory software allows Del Monte to
  manage directly its customers' inventories of the Company's products. This
  inventory management software is designed to reduce customers' overhead costs
  and to enable them to achieve lower average inventory levels while enhancing
  the Company's opportunities to sell its products. Retailers also rely on Del
  Monte's in-depth knowledge as the leading branded marketer in the canned
  fruit, vegetable and tomato categories, and they
 
                                        2
<PAGE>   9
 
  seek the Company's advice on marketing and promoting these categories.
  Finally, Del Monte has strong, well-developed relationships with all major
  participants in the retail grocery trade. The Company believes that these
  relationships will become increasingly important as consolidation among
  grocery retailers continues. The Company is seeking to use its category
  knowledge, customer relationships and software tools, along with its
  multi-category product line that can readily be ordered and shipped on a full
  truck-load basis, in order to become the preferred supplier in its product
  categories. See "Business -- Sales, Marketing and Distribution."
 
- - EXTENSIVE NATIONAL SALES AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM -- The Company's extensive
  sales and distribution network is responsible for the distribution of finished
  goods to over 2,400 customer destinations nationwide. This network enables the
  Company to compete with other national brands and regional competitors, and to
  introduce new products on a regional or national basis. The Company operates
  six strategically located distribution centers offering customers a variety of
  services, including electronic data interchange and direct store shipments.
  Management believes that the Company's distribution system makes an important
  contribution to the Company's success and provides the Company with a
  competitive advantage over regional and private label competitors. See
  "Business -- Sales, Marketing and Distribution."
 
- - EXPERIENCED MANAGEMENT TEAM -- Richard G. Wolford and Wesley J. Smith, the
  Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, respectively,
  are veteran senior managers with extensive food industry experience. Mr.
  Wolford has 30 years of experience in the food industry, 20 of which were with
  Dole. He was president of Dole Packaged Foods from 1982 to 1987, and during
  Mr. Wolford's tenure at Dole, Dole experienced increased profitability, sales
  volume and market share. Mr. Wolford played a key role in redefining the Dole
  brand and expanding the range of products sold under the brand. From 1988 to
  1996, he was Chief Executive Officer of HK Acquisition Corp. where he
  developed food industry investments with venture capital investors and managed
  the investor-owned companies. Mr. Smith has 25 years of experience in the food
  industry, 23 of which were at Dole, where he oversaw the building of Dole's
  domestic fresh pineapple business and the restructuring of Dole's sizable
  Hawaiian operations. In addition, Mr. Smith was responsible for establishing
  Dole's juice business with minimal capital investment. See "Management."
 
BUSINESS STRATEGY
 
     Following the consummation of the Recapitalization in 1997, the Company
implemented a new business strategy designed to increase sales and improve
operating margins. The key elements of this new business strategy are discussed
below.
 
- - LEVERAGE BRAND EQUITY TO INCREASE SALES AND MARKET SHARE OF HIGH MARGIN
  PRODUCTS -- The Company plans to leverage the Del Monte and Contadina brand
  names and its strong relationships with customers to increase sales of its
  existing product lines, focusing specifically on high margin products, such as
  its specialty fruits and vegetables, diced tomatoes and its Fruit Cup line,
  where the Company has historically had either low market share or low
  household penetration relative to its overall category position.
 
- - FOCUS ON CONSUMPTION-DRIVEN MARKETING STRATEGY -- To enhance its ability to
  leverage its brand equity, the Company has refocused its marketing efforts and
  promotional strategy. To leverage its brand strength, the Company has
  increased consumer-targeted marketing programs, primarily through the
  distribution of free-standing coupon inserts, and has established clearly
  differentiated product positioning that emphasizes the Company's premium
  quality. The Company increased spending on consumer promotions from $12
  million in fiscal 1996 to $46 million in fiscal 1997 and anticipates that its
  consumer spending in fiscal 1998 and 1999 will be generally consistent with
  levels of consumer spending in fiscal 1997. The Company has also improved the
  effectiveness of its trade promotion strategy. The Company has implemented
  performance-based programs under which trade spending, which consists of the
  costs of promotional activities with grocery chains and other customers, such
  as special displays, discounts and advertisements, is managed based on
  retailers' sales of the Company's products to consumers rather than on
  purchases from the Company. The Company believes that this performance-based
  strategy, coupled with the Company's category management capabilities, will
  continue to increase sales and reduce costs.
 
                                        3
<PAGE>   10
 
- - IMPROVE PROFITABILITY THROUGH NEW PRODUCTS AND PACKAGING -- The Company is
  emphasizing new higher margin products and line extensions designed to
  leverage the Company's presence in its current product categories and to
  capitalize on its food technology expertise. The Company has successfully
  introduced flavored diced tomatoes, two lines of flavored canned fruit,
  Orchard Select, a premium fruit product packaged in glass, and Fruit Smoothie
  Blenders, a flavored fruit drink. These products extend the Company's
  traditional product lines and appeal to consumers' demands for high quality,
  convenient and nutritious food products. The Company is evaluating
  introductions of other new products packaged in glass and plastic to further
  expand its presence in the market beyond the processed food aisle.
 
- - INCREASE PENETRATION OF HIGH-GROWTH DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS -- Changes in the
  retail grocery environment have resulted in substantial growth of alternative
  retailers such as warehouse clubs, mass merchandisers and supercenters. The
  Company believes it is well-positioned to benefit from these changes because
  these vendors generally seek leading brand name products that generate high
  inventory turnover. In addition, vendors in this category generally are
  attracted to large, technologically sophisticated suppliers such as the
  Company that have the ability to meet their stringent inventory and shelf
  management requirements. Based on internal estimates and the broad range of
  products supplied by the Company to such retailers, the Company believes it is
  currently the leading supplier of canned vegetables and fruit to Wal-Mart's
  Sam's Club, and is a major supplier to PriceCostco. Based on such estimates,
  the Company also believes it is currently the leading supplier of canned
  vegetables, fruit and solid tomato products as a group to Wal-Mart
  Supercenters.
 
- - IMPLEMENT FURTHER COST SAVINGS -- The Company is aggressively pursuing cost
  reduction opportunities, which have already contributed to an increase in
  Adjusted EBITDA margins (excluding the results of Divested Operations (as
  defined below)) from 6.9% in 1995 to 10.2% in 1997 and 10.0% for the nine
  months ended March 31, 1998. Management's strategy is to improve profitability
  through the implementation of capital projects that offer rapid returns on
  investment, and through plant consolidations and increased operating
  efficiencies. The Company has announced plans to consolidate, over the next
  three fiscal years, six existing fruit and tomato operations in California
  into four facilities, including one large state-of-the-art facility acquired
  as part of the Contadina Acquisition. The Company continually evaluates its
  production facilities and believes that further consolidations may be
  warranted in the future. In addition, the Company plans to continue to invest
  in new, state-of-the-art production equipment to increase production
  efficiencies and strengthen its position as a low cost producer.
 
- - COMPLETE STRATEGIC ACQUISITIONS -- The Company will pursue strategic
  acquisitions when there are opportunities to leverage the Company's key
  strengths in product development, food processing, marketing, sales and
  distribution. In evaluating potential acquisition candidates, the Company
  seeks, among other things: (i) strong brands, including those in new product
  lines, that can be expanded by leveraging the Company's technical and
  manufacturing expertise and/or its sales and distribution systems; (ii) new
  products that can achieve growth through re-branding; and (iii) economies of
  scale in manufacturing, distribution and capacity utilization. The Contadina
  Acquisition, for example, adds a leading national brand which strengthens the
  Company's market share in key tomato segments and allows the Company to
  realize cost savings through plant consolidations. The Contadina Acquisition
  also allows the Company to introduce new branded retail products and to
  increase sales to the branded foodservice market. The Company also recently
  announced an agreement with Nabisco, Inc. ("Nabisco") to reacquire rights to
  the Del Monte brand in South America and to purchase Nabisco's canned fruits
  and vegetables business in Venezuela (the "Del Monte South America
  Acquisition"). See "Recent Developments." The Company continuously reviews
  acquisition opportunities and at any time may be engaged in discussions with
  respect to an acquisition that may be material to its operations. With the
  exception of the Del Monte South America Acquisition, no agreement,
  understanding or arrangement has been reached, however, with respect to any
  such acquisition. The Company believes that any acquisition would likely
  require the incurrence of additional debt, which could exceed amounts
  available under the Bank Financing (as defined herein). As a result,
  completion of an acquisition could require the consent of the lenders under
  the Bank Financing and the amendment of the terms thereof, including for
  purposes of permitting the Company's compliance with its covenants thereunder.
 
                                        4
<PAGE>   11
 
   
     Following the Offering, TPG Partners, L.P. ("TPG Partners") and certain of
its affiliates (with TPG Partners, "TPG") will own approximately 54.1% of the
Common Stock (approximately 51.8% if the U.S. Underwriters' overallotment option
is exercised in full) and will continue to have the power to control the
management and policies of the Company and matters requiring stockholder
approval. TPG is part of Texas Pacific Group, which was founded by David
Bonderman, James G. Coulter and William S. Price, III in 1992 to pursue public
and private investment opportunities. Texas Pacific Group's other investments
include such branded consumer products companies as Beringer Wine Estates
Holdings, Inc., Ducati Motors S.p.A., Favorite Brands International, Inc. and J.
Crew Group, Inc.
    
 
     Del Monte, a Delaware corporation, maintains its principal executive office
at One Market, San Francisco, California 94105, and its telephone number is
(415) 247-3000.
 
                                  THE OFFERING
 
   
<TABLE>
  <S>                                                            <C>
  Common Stock offered in:
    United States offering...................................    11,765,000 shares
    International offering...................................    2,941,000 shares
       Total.................................................    14,706,000 shares(1)
  Common Stock to be outstanding after the Offering..........    50,196,461 shares(1)
  Use of proceeds............................................    Del Monte intends to use the net
                                                                 proceeds from the Offering to repay or
                                                                   redeem certain outstanding
                                                                   indebtedness and preferred stock.
                                                                   See "Use of Proceeds."
  Proposed New York Stock Exchange and Pacific Exchange
    symbol...................................................    DLM
  Risk factors...............................................    For a discussion of certain risks that
                                                                 should be considered by prospective
                                                                   investors, see "Risk Factors." These
                                                                   risks include, among others, the
                                                                   Company's substantial leverage and
                                                                   risks relating to competition in the
                                                                   processed food industry, the
                                                                   implementation of the Company's
                                                                   business strategy and the effects of
                                                                   severe weather conditions, as well
                                                                   as risks and considerations relating
                                                                   to the Common Stock, such as the
                                                                   lack of a prior trading market and
                                                                   the dilution that purchasers will
                                                                   experience upon completion of the
                                                                   Offering.
</TABLE>
    
 
- ---------------
 
(1) Assumes the U.S. Underwriters' overallotment option is not exercised.
 
                                        5
<PAGE>   12
 
                SUMMARY HISTORICAL AND PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA
 
     In April 1997, the Company completed the Recapitalization. The cash funding
requirements for the Recapitalization aggregated $809 million and were funded
primarily through a combination of an equity investment by TPG and certain other
investors, bank financing and other indebtedness. See "Description of Certain
Indebtedness" and Notes D and E to the audited consolidated financial statements
of the Company as of and for the year ended June 30, 1997 appearing elsewhere
herein.
 
     In December 1997, the Company completed the Contadina Acquisition for a
total purchase price of $197 million, comprised of a base price of $177 million
and an estimated net working capital adjustment of $20 million. The
consideration was paid solely in cash. The purchase price was subject to
adjustment based on the final calculation of net working capital as of the
closing date. Nestle provided its estimate of the net working capital, which
resulted in a payment to the Company of $2 million, and therefore a reduction in
the purchase price to a total of $195 million. The Contadina Acquisition also
included the assumption of certain liabilities of approximately $5 million,
consisting primarily of liabilities in respect of reusable packaging materials,
employee benefits and product claims. The Contadina Acquisition was accounted
for using the purchase method of accounting.
 
     The following table presents summary historical and pro forma financial
data of the Company. The summary historical consolidated financial data
presented below as of June 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997 and for the years then ended
and as of March 31, 1998 and for the nine months then ended were derived from
the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company. The summary
historical consolidated financial data presented below as of March 31, 1997 and
for the nine months then ended was derived from the unaudited interim financial
statements of the Company. Such historical financial information should be read
in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company and the
related notes thereto included elsewhere in this Prospectus. The unaudited pro
forma statements of operations information was prepared by the Company as if the
Contadina Acquisition, the Recapitalization and related financings had occurred
as of July 1, 1996 and should be read in conjunction with the pro forma
financial information set forth under "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data." The
unaudited pro forma statements of operations information does not purport to
represent what the Company's results of operations actually would have been if
the Contadina Acquisition and the Recapitalization had occurred as of the date
indicated or what such results will be for any future periods.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,                  NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31,
                                           ----------------------------------------------   -------------------------------------
                                                        ACTUAL                 PRO FORMA            ACTUAL             PRO FORMA
                                           --------------------------------   -----------   -----------------------   -----------
                                            1995       1996         1997         1997          1997         1998         1998
                                           ------   ----------   ----------   -----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
<S>                                        <C>      <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>
                                                    (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)                 (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                      (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                        <C>      <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales(a).............................  $1,527     $1,305       $1,217     $    1,373       $936      $      968   $    1,060
Cost of products sold(a).................   1,183        984          819            953(b)     634             655(b)        726(b)
                                           ------     ------       ------     ----------       ----      ----------   ----------
Gross profit.............................     344        321          398            420        302             313          334
Selling, advertising, administrative and
  general expense(a).....................     264        239          327(c)         361        235             249          274
Acquisition expenses.....................      --         --           --             --         --               7            7
                                           ------     ------       ------     ----------       ----      ----------   ----------
Operating income.........................      80         82           71             59         67              57           53
Interest expense.........................      76         67           52             93         37              58           72
Loss (gain) on sale of divested
  assets(d)..............................      --       (123)           5              5          5              --           --
Other (income) expense(e)................     (11)         3           30             30         --              (1)          (1)
                                           ------     ------       ------     ----------       ----      ----------   ----------
Income (loss) before income taxes,
  minority interest, extraordinary item
  and cumulative effect of accounting
  change.................................      15        135          (16)           (69)        25              --          (18)
Provision for income taxes...............       2         11           --             --          2              --           --
Minority interest in earnings of
  subsidiary.............................       1          3           --             --         --              --           --
                                           ------     ------       ------     ----------       ----      ----------   ----------
Net income (loss) before extraordinary
  item and cumulative effect of
  accounting change......................      12        121          (16)           (69)        23              --          (18)
Extraordinary loss(f)....................       7         10           42             42          4              --           --
Cumulative effect of accounting
  change(g)..............................      --          7           --             --         --              --           --
                                           ------     ------       ------     ----------       ----      ----------   ----------
Net income (loss)........................       5        104          (58)          (111)        19              --          (18)
Preferred stock dividends................      71         82           70              5         70               4            4
                                           ------     ------       ------     ----------       ----      ----------   ----------
Net income (loss) attributable to common
  shares(h)..............................  $  (66)    $   22       $ (128)    $     (116)      $(51)     $       (4)  $      (22)
                                           ======     ======       ======     ==========       ====      ==========   ==========
Net loss per common share................                                     $    (3.37)                $    (0.12)  $    (0.65)
Weighted average number of shares
  outstanding............................                                     34,477,560                 30,389,671   34,646,160
</TABLE>
 
                                        6
<PAGE>   13
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,                  NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31,
                                           ----------------------------------------------   -------------------------------------
                                                        ACTUAL                 PRO FORMA            ACTUAL             PRO FORMA
                                           --------------------------------   -----------   -----------------------   -----------
                                            1995       1996         1997         1997          1997         1998         1998
                                           ------   ----------   ----------   -----------   ----------   ----------   -----------
<S>                                        <C>      <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>
                                                    (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)                 (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                      (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                        <C>      <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>          <C>
CERTAIN DATA AS ADJUSTED FOR THE
  OFFERING:(I)
Interest expense(j)......................                                     $       71                              $       54
Net income (loss)........................                                            (89)                                     --
Net income (loss) per common share.......                                          (1.77)                                   0.00
Weighted average number of shares
  outstanding............................                                     50,196,461                              50,196,461
OTHER DATA:
Adjusted EBITDA (k)......................  $   76     $   92       $  119                      $ 85      $       97
Adjusted EBITDA margin (k)...............     6.9%       8.6%        10.2%                      9.5%           10.0%
Cash flows provided by operating
  activities.............................  $   63     $   60       $   25                      $ 26      $        9
Cash flows provided by (used in)
  investing activities...................     (21)       170           37                        39            (205)
Cash flows provided by (used in)
  financing activities...................     (44)      (224)         (63)                      (65)            195
Depreciation and amortization(l).........      35         26           24     $       30         18              20   $       23
Capital expenditures.....................      24         16           20             30         12              15           20
SELECTED RATIOS:
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges(m)....     1.2x       2.8x          --             --        1.5x            1.0x          --
Deficiency of earnings to cover fixed
  charges(m).............................      --         --       $   16     $       69         --              --   $       18
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  JUNE 30,                              MARCH 31,
                                                      --------------------------------   ----------------------------------------
                                                                                                                         AS
                                                                   ACTUAL                        ACTUAL             ADJUSTED(I)
                                                      --------------------------------   -----------------------   --------------
                                                       1995       1996         1997         1997         1998           1998
                                                      ------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   --------------
<S>                                                   <C>      <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
                                                               (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                                     (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                   <C>      <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Working capital.....................................  $   99     $  209       $  118       $ 186        $  220         $  168
Total assets........................................     960        736          667         739           928            914
Total debt, including current maturities............     576        373          610         310           770            608
Redeemable preferred stock..........................     215        213           32         213            32             --
Stockholders' deficit...............................    (393)      (288)        (398)       (243)         (354)          (163)
</TABLE>
 
Note: Financial data under the columns marked "restated" reflect the information
      from the Company's restated financial statements.
- ---------------
(a)   In fiscal 1997, merchandising allowances primarily relating to in-store
      displays, store advertising and store coupons, which previously were
      recorded as cost of products sold, have been reclassified to selling
      expense. Such merchandising allowances totaled $106 million, $100 million,
      $143 million and $101 million in the fiscal years ended June 30, 1995,
      1996 and 1997 and the nine months ended March 31, 1997, respectively. In
      addition, certain military distributor allowances, which previously were
      treated as a reduction in net sales, have been reclassified to selling
      expense. Such military distributor allowances amounted to $1 million, $1
      million, $2 million and $2 million in fiscal years ended June 30, 1995,
      1996 and 1997 and the nine months ended March 31, 1997, respectively. All
      financial information has been restated to conform to this presentation.
(b)   For the pro forma fiscal year ended June 30, 1997 and the historical nine
      months ended March 31, 1998, includes $4 million and $2 million,
      respectively, of inventory step-up as part of the purchase price
      allocation relating to the Contadina Acquisition. For the pro forma nine
      months ended March 31, 1998, excludes $2 million of inventory step-up as
      part of the purchase price allocation relating to the Contadina
      Acquisition.
(c)   In connection with the Recapitalization, which was consummated on April
      18, 1997, expenses of approximately $25 million were incurred primarily
      for management incentive payments and, in part, for severance payments.
(d)   In November 1995, the Company sold its pudding business for $89 million,
      net of $4 million of related transaction fees. The sale resulted in a gain
      of $71 million. In March 1996, the Company sold its 50.1% ownership
      interest in Del Monte Pacific Resources Limited ("Del Monte Philippines")
      for $100 million, net of $2 million of related transaction fees. The sale
      resulted in a gain of $52 million. In the fiscal quarter ended December
      1996, the Company sold its Mexican, Central American and Carribean
      subsidiaries (collectively "Del Monte Latin America"). The combined sales
      price of $50 million,
 
                                        7
<PAGE>   14
 
      reduced by $2 million of related transaction expenses, resulted in a loss
      of $5 million. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
      Condition and Results of Operations -- General."
(e)   In fiscal 1995, other income includes the Company's receipt of proceeds of
      a $30 million letter of credit, reduced by $4 million of related
      transaction expenses, as a result of the termination of a merger agreement
      with Grupo Empacador de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. In fiscal 1997, $22 million
      of expenses were incurred in conjunction with the Recapitalization,
      primarily for legal, investment advisory and management fees.
(f)    In June 1995, the Company refinanced its then-outstanding revolving
       credit facility, term loan and senior secured floating rate notes. In
       conjunction with this debt retirement, capitalized debt issue costs of $7
       million were written off and accounted for as an extraordinary loss. In
       December 1995 and April 1996, the Company prepaid part of its term loan
       and senior secured notes. In conjunction with the early debt retirement,
       the Company recorded an extraordinary loss of $10 million for the early
       retirement of debt. The extraordinary loss consisted of a $5 million
       prepayment premium and a $5 million write-off of capitalized debt issue
       costs related to the early retirement of debt. In fiscal 1997, $42
       million of expenses related to the early retirement of debt and to the
       Recapitalization was charged to net income. In September 1996, the
       Company repurchased outstanding debt, in conjunction with which
       capitalized debt issue costs of $4 million, net of a discount on such
       debt, were written off and accounted for as an extraordinary loss. In
       conjunction with the refinancing of debt that occurred at the time of the
       Recapitalization, the Company recorded a $38 million extraordinary loss
       related to the early retirement of debt. The $38 million extraordinary
       loss consisted of previously capitalized debt issue costs of
       approximately $19 million and a premium payment and a term loan
       make-whole payment aggregating to $19 million.
(g)   Effective July 1, 1995, the Company adopted Statement of Financial
      Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of
      Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of." The
      cumulative effect of adopting SFAS No. 121 resulted in a charge to fiscal
      1996 net earnings of $7 million.
(h)   Net income (loss) attributable to the shares of Common Stock is computed
      as net income (loss) reduced by the cash and in-kind dividends for the
      period on redeemable preferred stock.
(i)    Adjusted to give effect to the issuance by the Company of 14,706,000
       shares offered hereby assuming an initial public offering price of $17.00
       per share, the use of net proceeds therefrom and the Refinancing (as
       defined herein) to fund the repayment of $257 million of long-term debt
       and the redemption of preferred stock and a corresponding reduction in
       fixed charges at the beginning of the respective periods.
(j)    The table below presents as adjusted interest expense, including the
       respective interest rates and related fees, and as adjusted amortization
       of deferred financing costs after giving effect to the Offering and the
       Refinancing.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             YEAR ENDED                          NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                           JUNE 30, 1997                           MARCH 31, 1998
                                                ------------------------------------    ------------------------------------
                                                INTEREST    PRINCIPAL      INTEREST     INTEREST    PRINCIPAL      INTEREST
                                                RATE(1)     BALANCE(2)    EXPENSE(3)    RATE(1)     BALANCE(2)    EXPENSE(3)
                                                --------    ----------    ----------    --------    ----------    ----------
                                                                     (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PERCENTAGES)
<S>                                             <C>         <C>           <C>           <C>         <C>           <C>
Revolving Credit Facility.....................    7.82%        $267          $20          7.68%        $262          $15
Tranche A of Term Loan Facility...............    7.82          150           12          8.13          135            9
Tranche B of Term Loan Facility...............    8.57          150           13          8.61          149           10
DMC Notes.....................................   12.25           98           12         12.25           98            9
Del Monte Notes...............................   12.50           84           11         12.50           94            9
                                                                             ---                                     ---
  Pro forma interest expense..................                                68                                      52
Pro forma amortization of deferred financing
  costs.......................................                                 3                                       2
                                                                             ---                                     ---
  Total pro forma interest expense............                               $71                                     $54
                                                                             ===                                     ===
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
 
(1) Average of month-end interest rates.
(2) Average of month-end principal balances.
(3) Represents product of average month-end interest rate and average month-end
    principal balance for the applicable period.
 
(k)   Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA (income (loss) before provision for
      income taxes, minority interest, extraordinary item, cumulative effect of
      accounting change and depreciation and amortization
 
                                        8
<PAGE>   15
 
      expense, plus interest expense) before special charges and other one-time
      and non-cash charges, less gains (losses) on sales of assets and the
      results of the Divested Operations. Adjusted EBITDA should not be
      considered in isolation from, and is not presented as an alternative
      measure of, operating income or cash flow from operations (as determined
      in accordance with GAAP). Adjusted EBITDA as presented may not be
      comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Since
      the Company has undergone significant structural changes during the
      periods presented, management believes that this measure provides a
      meaningful measure of operating cash flow (without the effects of working
      capital changes) for the core and continuing business of the Company by
      normalizing the effects of operations that have been divested and of
      one-time charges or credits. For fiscal 1995, Adjusted EBITDA excludes $26
      million received in connection with a terminated transaction, $4 million
      paid by the Company to terminate its alliance with PCP (as defined herein)
      and $7 million related to the termination of a management equity plan. For
      fiscal 1996, other one-time charges include $3 million for relocation
      costs and $6 million of costs associated with a significant headcount
      reduction. For fiscal 1997, Adjusted EBITDA excludes $47 million of
      expenses incurred in connection with the Recapitalization and $7 million
      related to the recognition of an other than temporary impairment of a
      long-term equity investment. For the nine months ended March 31, 1998,
      historical and pro forma one-time and non-cash charges consist of $7
      million of severance accruals and $3 million of stock compensation
      expense. Historical one-time charges for the nine months ended March 31,
      1998 also include $7 million of expenses incurred in connection with the
      Contadina Acquisition and $2 million of inventory step-up due to the
      purchase price allocation related to the Contadina Acquisition. Adjusted
      EBITDA margin is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net
      sales (excluding net sales of Divested Operations of $417 million, $233
      million and $48 million for the years ended June 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997,
      respectively, and $43 million for the nine months ended March 31, 1997).
      See tabular presentation under "Selected Consolidated Financial Data."
 
(l)    Depreciation and amortization exclude amortization of $5 million of
       deferred debt issuance costs in each of fiscal 1995, 1996 and 1997.
       Depreciation and amortization exclude amortization of $4 million and $3
       million of deferred debt issuance costs in the nine-month periods ended
       March 31, 1997 and 1998, respectively. Pro forma depreciation and
       amortization exclude amortization of $5 million and $3 million of pro
       forma deferred debt issuance costs for fiscal 1997 and for the nine-month
       period ended March 31, 1998, respectively.
 
(m)  For purposes of determining the ratio of earnings to fixed charges and the
     deficiency of earnings to cover fixed charges, earnings are defined as
     income (loss) before extraordinary item, cumulative effect of accounting
     change and provision for income taxes plus fixed charges. Fixed charges
     consist of interest expense on all indebtedness (including amortization of
     deferred debt issuance costs) and the interest component of rent expense.
 
                                        9
<PAGE>   16
 
                 SUMMARY HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA OF CONTADINA
 
     The following table presents summary historical financial data of Contadina
for purchased product lines for the year ended December 31, 1996 and the period
from January 1, 1997 through December 18, 1997 derived from the audited
financial statements for those periods, and summary financial data for the nine
months ended September 30, 1996 and 1997.
 
     Contadina was not operated as a separate business unit and, as such, it did
not have regularly prepared financial statements. The Company has obtained and
prepared financial information of Contadina for the year ended December 31,
1996, the period ended December 18, 1997, and the nine-month periods ended
September 30, 1996 and 1997.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        NINE MONTHS
                                                                                           ENDED
                                                                   JANUARY 1, 1997     SEPTEMBER 30,
                                                YEAR ENDED             THROUGH         --------------
                                             DECEMBER 31, 1996    DECEMBER 18, 1997    1996     1997
                                             -----------------    -----------------    -----    -----
                                                                  (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                          <C>                  <C>                  <C>      <C>
Net sales..................................        $160                 $162           $112     $108
Cost of products sold(a)...................         151                  163            108      112
                                                   ----                 ----           ----     ----
     Gross margin..........................           9                   (1)             4       (4)
Selling, advertising, administrative
  and general expense(b)...................          20                   26             19       19
                                                   ----                 ----           ----     ----
Operating loss.............................         (11)                 (27)           (15)     (23)
Interest expense(c)........................           6                    6              4        4
                                                   ----                 ----           ----     ----
     Net loss before taxes.................        $(17)                $(33)          $(19)    $(27)
                                                   ====                 ====           ====     ====
OTHER DATA:
Depreciation and amortization..............        $ 12                 $ 13           $  8     $  8
Capital expenditures.......................          10                    8              7        7
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
(a)  Cost of products sold includes royalty expense of $5 million for both the
     year ended December 31, 1996 and the period ended December 18, 1997 and $3
     million for each of the nine-month periods ended September 30, 1996 and
     1997. Under a royalty agreement with Nestle S.A., royalties were charged
     for the license of the Contadina trademarks. This expense will not be
     incurred as part of the on-going operations of Contadina subsequent to the
     date of the Contadina Acquisition. Cost of products sold also includes an
     allocation by Nestle for certain fixed distribution costs which included,
     without limitation, costs of utilizing outside storage facilities and costs
     for utilizing centralized distribution and storage facilities of $5
     million, $7 million, $5 million and $5 million for the year ended December
     31, 1996, the period ended December 18, 1997, and the nine-month periods
     ended September 30, 1996 and 1997, respectively. The Company believes that,
     as part of on-going operations of Contadina subsequent to the Contadina
     Acquisition, it will experience distribution costs of a similar nature to
     those allocated by Nestle in its cost allocation but at a significantly
     reduced level; however, no assurances can be given in this regard.
 
(b)  Selling, advertising, administrative and general expense included an
     allocation by Nestle for marketing and other general expenses which
     include, without limitation, all selling costs, including direct sales
     force and brokerage expenses; costs for utilizing centralized distribution
     and storage facilities; costs associated with marketing services; and
     general and administrative costs associated with support services such as
     finance, legal, human resources and information systems. For the year ended
     December 31, 1996, the period ended December 18, 1997, and the nine-month
     periods ended September 30, 1996 and 1997, allocated marketing expense was
     $8 million, $10 million, $7 million and $8 million, respectively. The
     Company believes that it will experience operating costs of a similar
     nature to those charged by Nestle in its cost allocations, but at a
     significantly reduced level; however, no assurances can be given in this
     regard. Other general expenses allocated by Nestle were $4 million, $10
     million, $7 million and $8 million for the year ended December 31, 1996,
     the period ended December 18, 1997, and the nine-month periods ended
     September 30, 1996 and 1997, respectively.
 
(c)  Represents an allocation charged to Contadina by Nestle based on the
     end-of-month working capital balance at an intercompany rate equal to 7%
     for all periods.
 
                                       10
<PAGE>   17
 
                                  RISK FACTORS
 
     Before purchasing the shares of Common Stock offered hereby, a prospective
investor should carefully consider all of the information in this Prospectus,
including the risk factors set forth below.
 
CONSEQUENCES TO HOLDERS OF COMMON STOCK OF COMPANY'S SUBSTANTIAL LEVERAGE
 
     The Company is highly leveraged. On a pro forma basis, as of March 31,
1998, after giving effect to the application of the net proceeds of the Offering
and the Refinancing, the Company had approximately $1.1 billion of indebtedness
(including trade payables), and its stockholders' deficit was $163 million. This
amount includes, after giving effect to the application of the net proceeds of
the Offering, $82 million of notes issued in December 1997 in connection with
the Contadina Acquisition as to which the Company is concurrently making a
public exchange offer in which holders may exchange such notes for registered
debt securities with substantially identical terms. In addition, subject to the
restrictions contained in the Company's indebtedness, the Company and its
subsidiaries may incur additional senior or other indebtedness from time to time
to finance acquisitions or capital expenditures or for other general corporate
purposes. As a result of seasonal working capital requirements, the Company's
borrowings fluctuate significantly during the year, generally peaking in
September and October. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
 
     The degree to which the Company is leveraged could have important
consequences to the holders of the Common Stock, including, but not limited to,
the following: (i) the Company's ability to obtain additional financing in the
future for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, general
corporate or other purposes may be impaired; (ii) a significant portion of the
Company's cash flow from operations must be dedicated to the payment of
principal and interest on its indebtedness, thereby reducing the funds available
to the Company for its operations; (iii) significant amounts of the Company's
borrowings will be at variable rates of interest, which could result in higher
interest expense; (iv) the terms of the Company's indebtedness contain financial
and/or restrictive covenants, the failure to comply with which may result in an
event of default which, if not cured or waived, could have a material adverse
effect on the Company; (v) the Company may be substantially more leveraged than
certain of its competitors, which may place the Company at a competitive
disadvantage; and (vi) the Company's substantial degree of leverage may limit
its flexibility to adjust to changing market conditions, reduce its ability to
withstand competitive pressures and make it more vulnerable to a downturn in
general economic conditions or its business. See "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations -- Liquidity and
Capital Resources" and "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
 
     The Company's ability to make scheduled payments or to refinance its debt
obligations will depend upon its future financial and operating performance,
which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions and financial, business
and other factors, certain of which are beyond its control. There can be no
assurance that the Company's operating results, cash flow and capital resources
will be sufficient for payment of its indebtedness in the future. In the absence
of such operating results and resources, the Company could face substantial
liquidity problems and might be required to dispose of material assets or
operations to meet its debt service and other obligations, and there can be no
assurance as to the timing of such sales or the proceeds that the Company could
realize therefrom. In addition, because the Company pays interest on certain of
its indebtedness at floating rates, an increase in interest rates could
adversely affect, among other things, the Company's ability to meet its debt
service obligations. If the Company is unable to service its indebtedness, it
will be forced to adopt an alternative strategy that may include actions such as
reducing or delaying planned expansion and capital expenditures, selling assets,
restructuring or refinancing its indebtedness or seeking additional equity
capital. There can be no assurance that any of these strategies could be
effected on satisfactory terms, if at all.
 
COMPETITION
 
     While many companies compete in the domestic canned vegetable, fruit and
tomato product categories, only a small number of well-established companies
operate on both a national and a regional basis with single
 
                                       11
<PAGE>   18
 
or multiple branded product lines. The Company faces substantial competition
throughout its product lines from these and other companies. Certain of these
competitors have greater financial resources and flexibility than the Company.
Several of the Company's product lines are sensitive to competition from
regional brands, and many of the Company's product lines compete with imports,
private label products and fresh alternatives. While no single private label
competitor has greater market share than the Company in its principal product
categories, for the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998, private label competition as
a group represented 43.8%, 39.7% and 30.7% of canned vegetable, fruit and solid
tomato product sales, respectively. Furthermore, the Company cannot predict the
pricing or promotional actions by its competitors or their effects on the
Company's ability to market and sell its products. There can be no assurance
that the Company's sales volume or market shares would not be adversely affected
by negative consumer reaction to its higher prices. The categories of the canned
food industry in which the Company competes have in the past been affected by
processing over-capacity. Although the Company believes that recent
consolidation among certain participants in those categories may result in
capacity rationalization, there can be no assurance that the Company's results
will not be adversely affected by industry over-capacity in the future or that
crop supply levels will not change so as to create an imbalance of supply and
demand in future periods.
 
RISKS RELATING TO IMPLEMENTATION OF BUSINESS STRATEGY
 
     The Company's ability to implement its business strategy and improve its
operating results will depend in part on its ability to realize substantial cost
savings through operating efficiencies and to achieve additional penetration and
market share for its high margin products. No assurance can be given that the
Company will be able to achieve such goals or that, in implementing cost saving
measures, it will not impair its ability to respond rapidly or efficiently to
changes in the competitive environment. In such circumstances, the Company's
results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely
affected.
 
     The Company's strategy also depends on its ability to increase distribution
of its products through warehouse clubs, such as Wal-Mart's Sam's Clubs and
PriceCostco, and mass merchandisers, such as Wal-Mart Supercenters. The Company
does not enter into long-term agreements with these entities, which make
purchases depending on their inventory levels. If the Company's relationship
with any of these entities should deteriorate, such entity could immediately
cease purchases of the Company's products. The loss of such sales and resulting
possible adverse market perception could materially adversely affect the
Company's results of operations and financial condition.
 
     Although the Company intends to pursue strategic acquisitions, completion
of any acquisition could require the consent of the lenders under the Bank
Financing and the amendment of the terms thereof, including for purposes of
permitting the Company's compliance with its covenants thereunder. There can be
no assurance as to whether, or the terms on which, the lenders under the Bank
Financing would grant such consent. In addition, to the extent that the Company
completes strategic acquisitions, it will be subject to risks associated with
the integration of the acquired businesses into the Company's operations,
including the integration of personnel, production and financial and information
systems. The timing and number of acquisitions could increase the difficulty in
addressing these risks. Failure of the Company to integrate any acquired
business adequately could adversely affect the Company's results of operations
and financial condition.
 
RISKS RELATING TO CONTADINA
 
     Contadina was not operated as a separate business unit and, as such, it did
not have regularly prepared financial statements. Contadina's books and records
have been audited only for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 and the
period ended December 18, 1997. Financial information presented herein
concerning Contadina has of necessity required estimation by the Company, and no
assurance can be given that results of the acquired business for these periods,
if the business had been operated as an independent entity, would not vary
materially.
 
     The Contadina Acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method.
This accounting treatment requires all purchased assets to be recorded on the
Company's books based upon their fair value.
 
                                       12
<PAGE>   19
 
Accordingly, the inventory of Contadina acquired in the Contadina Acquisition
was recorded on the Company's books at fair value (generally higher than the
recorded cost). The Company expects to report a lower gross margin upon future
sales of the revalued inventory.
 
     The full benefits of the acquisition of Contadina's assets will require
coordination of operations, the implementation of appropriate operational,
financial and management systems and controls in order to operate effectively
and efficiently, and the integration of the Contadina business into the
Company's administrative, finance and marketing organizations. This will require
substantial attention from the Company's management team. The diversion of
management attention, as well as any other difficulties which may be encountered
in the transition and integration process, could have an adverse impact on the
revenue and operating results of the Company. In addition, there can be no
assurance that the Company will be successful in integrating the operations of
Contadina, or that any planned benefits will be realized.
 
SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS AND NATURAL DISASTERS
 
     Severe weather conditions and natural disasters, such as floods, droughts,
frosts, earthquakes or pestilence, may affect the supply of one or more of the
Company's products. For example, the Company's peach and pear growing regions
experienced a compressed summer 1997 harvesting season due to adverse weather.
This shortened time frame for harvesting caused an increase in the use of cold
storage for peaches and pears until processing capacity became available. In
addition, smaller fruit size lowered raw product recoveries and cooler weather
than normal resulted in late plantings for some vegetables, lower field yields
and lower recoveries. Furthermore, competing manufacturers of canned vegetable,
fruit or tomato products may be affected differently depending on the location
of their principal sources of supply. If the supply of any of the Company's
products is adversely affected by weather conditions, there can be no assurance
that the Company will be able to obtain sufficient supplies from other sources.
In particular, the Company's tomato and fruit production is concentrated in the
San Joaquin Valley of California. In the winter and spring of 1997-98, certain
areas in California, including some of the Company's growing regions, have
experienced substantial rainfall as a result of the "El Nino" phenomenon. The
Company believes that the 1998 California fruit and tomato harvests and raw
product recoveries are likely to be somewhat reduced as a result of these
weather conditions and that the Company is likely to incur increased cost of
products sold. Such circumstances may also adversely affect the Company's sales
volumes and inventory levels. Historically, significant weather-related
shortages in fruit, vegetable and tomato harvests have resulted in price
increases that have offset increases in raw product costs and reductions in
sales volumes. While the Company believes that the overall effects of the El
Nino phenomenon will not be material to its financial condition and results of
operations, no assurance can be given that the Company will be able to achieve
price increases sufficient to offset any reduction in sales volume or increase
in its cost of products sold.
 
SEASONALITY OF PRODUCTION AND SALES
 
     The Company is not a continuous manufacturer, but has a production period
that is limited to approximately three to four months during the summer each
year. As a result, the Company's working capital requirements are also seasonal
and are most significant in the first and second fiscal quarters. If the Company
were to experience an unexpected plant shutdown or any other interference with
its production schedule, the Company's results of operations and financial
condition could be materially adversely affected.
 
     The Company's historical net sales have exhibited seasonality, with the
second and third fiscal quarters having the highest net sales, principally due
to increased sales during the holiday period in the United States extending from
November through December, as well as in anticipation of the Easter holiday. Net
sales in the first fiscal quarter have historically been affected principally by
lower levels of promotional activity and the availability of fresh produce.
Although the Company believes that these seasonal fluctuations are relatively
predictable and that the Company's sources of liquidity are adequate to ensure
the availability of working capital, there can be no assurance that seasonal
trends in the Company's business will not adversely affect the Company's results
of operations or financial condition in the future.
 
                                       13
<PAGE>   20
 
DIFFICULTY IN COMPLYING WITH GOVERNMENTAL REGULATIONS; LIABILITIES ASSOCIATED
WITH ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE
 
     As a result of its agricultural, food processing and canning activities,
the Company is subject to certain environmental laws and regulations. Many of
these laws and regulations are becoming increasingly stringent and compliance
with them is becoming increasingly expensive. The Company has been named as a
potentially responsible party ("PRP") and may be liable for environmental
investigation and remediation costs at certain designated "Superfund Sites"
under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act of 1980, as amended ("CERCLA"), or under similar state laws. Based
on available information, the Company is defending itself in these actions as
appropriate, and believes that none of the matters will have a material adverse
impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations. There can
be no assurance that such will be the case or that the Company will not be
identified as a PRP at additional sites in the future or that additional
remediation requirements will not be imposed on properties currently or
previously owned or operated by the Company. In addition, there can be no
assurance that other sites to which the Company has sent waste will not be
identified for investigation or proposed for listing under CERCLA or similar
state laws. In addition, under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and the
Food Quality Protection Act of 1996, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(the "EPA") is involved in a series of regulatory actions relating to the
evaluation and use of pesticides in the food industry, and there can be no
assurance that the effect of such actions and any future actions on the
availability and use of pesticides would not have a material adverse impact on
the Company's financial position or results of operations. See
"Business -- Governmental Regulation" and "-- Environmental Compliance."
 
CONTROL BY TPG
 
   
     After giving effect to the Offering, TPG will own approximately 54.1%
(approximately 51.8% if the U.S. Underwriters' overallotment option is exercised
in full) of the outstanding Common Stock. Following the Offering, it is expected
that TPG will continue to use its majority interest in the Common Stock to
control the management and policies of the Company and matters requiring
stockholder approval. See "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" and
"Description of Capital Stock." The concentration of beneficial ownership of Del
Monte may also have the effect of delaying, deterring or preventing a change in
control of Del Monte, may discourage bids for the Common Stock at a premium over
the market price of the Common Stock and may otherwise adversely affect the
market price of the Common Stock. See "-- Anti-Takeover Provisions."
    
 
     The Company currently has, and will continue to have, contractual
relationships with TPG, including a Transaction Advisory Agreement (as defined
herein) and a Management Advisory Agreement (as defined herein), each relating
to certain services to be provided by TPG to the Company. See "Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions."
 
RESTRICTIVE DEBT COVENANTS
 
   
     The Company is subject to a number of significant covenants under its
indebtedness that, among other things, restrict the ability of the Company to
dispose of assets, incur additional indebtedness, incur guarantee obligations,
repay other indebtedness or amend other debt instruments, pay dividends, create
liens on assets, enter into capital leases, make investments, loans or advances,
make acquisitions, engage in mergers or consolidations, make capital
expenditures, engage in certain transactions with subsidiaries and affiliates
and otherwise restrict corporate activities. In addition, under the terms of the
proposed amendment and restatement of the Bank Financing, the Company will be
required to comply with specified financial ratios and tests, minimum net worth,
minimum fixed charge coverage and maximum leverage ratios. Substantially all of
the assets of the Company have been pledged to secure the indebtedness of the
Company. See "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
    
 
     Compliance with such restrictions could impair the Company's ability to
fund its capital expenditures on a timely basis. Moreover, the Company's ability
to comply with such covenants may be affected by events beyond its control,
including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. The breach of
any of such
 
                                       14
<PAGE>   21
 
covenants could result in a default, which would permit the acceleration of such
indebtedness and the termination of the commitments of the Company's senior
lenders to make further extensions of credit. Such senior lenders could also
foreclose against collateral securing indebtedness owed them. If the Company's
obligations under the Bank Financing were accelerated and the lenders'
commitments terminated, the Company would be required to repay all amounts
outstanding under the Bank Financing and would have no credit facility available
to finance its seasonal working capital or other cash requirements. As a result,
particularly if lenders were to foreclose on the Company's assets, the Company's
business prospects, results of operations and financial condition would be
materially and adversely affected.
 
BRAND RISK
 
     The Company has licensed the Del Monte brand name to various unaffiliated
companies internationally and, for certain products, within the United States.
The common stock and certain debt securities of one licensee, Fresh Del Monte
Produce N.V., are publicly traded in the United States. Acts or omissions by
these unaffiliated companies may adversely affect the value of the Del Monte
brand name or the trading prices for the Common Stock. In addition, press and
other third party announcements or rumors relating to any of these licensees may
adversely affect the market prices for the Common Stock and demand for the
Company's products, even though the events announced or rumored may not relate
to the Company, which in turn could materially adversely affect the Company's
results of operations and financial condition. See "Business -- Intellectual
Property."
 
LACK OF DIVIDENDS
 
     Del Monte has not declared or paid any cash or other dividends on its
shares of Common Stock and does not expect to pay dividends for the foreseeable
future. Del Monte is a holding company with no substantial business operations
or assets of its own. The terms of the Company's indebtedness limit the ability
of the Company's subsidiaries to distribute to the Company any cash or other
assets, which could limit the ability of Del Monte to pay dividends to holders
of Common Stock. In addition, future borrowings by the Company's subsidiaries
can be expected to contain further restrictions or prohibitions on the payment
of dividends by such subsidiaries to Del Monte. See "Dividend Policy" and
"Description of Certain Indebtedness."
 
ABSENCE OF PRIOR PUBLIC MARKET; POSSIBLE VOLATILITY OF STOCK PRICE
 
   
     Prior to the Offering, there has been no public market for the Common
Stock, and although the Common Stock has been approved for listing, subject to
official notice of issuance, on the New York Stock Exchange, there can be no
assurance that an active trading market for the Common Stock will develop or be
sustained if it develops or that the market price for the Common Stock will not
decline below the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this
Prospectus. The initial public offering price of the Common Stock will be
determined by negotiation between the Company and the Underwriters and may not
be indicative of the market price of the Common Stock following the Offering.
See "Underwriters." The market price of the Common Stock could be subject to
significant fluctuations in response to various factors and events, including
the liquidity of the market for the Common Stock, differences between the
Company's actual financial or operating results and those expected by investors
and analysts, changes in analysts' recommendations or projections, pricing and
competition in the canned fruit and vegetable industry, new statutes or
regulations or changes in interpretations of existing statutes and regulations
affecting the Company's business, changes in general market conditions and broad
market fluctuations.
    
 
DILUTION; BENEFIT TO EXISTING STOCKHOLDERS
 
     The assumed initial public offering per share price of the Common Stock is
$17.00 (the midpoint of the range specified on the cover page of this
Prospectus), and the deficit in net tangible book value per share of Common
Stock at March 31, 1998 was $(10.43). Purchasers of Common Stock in the Offering
will experience immediate and substantial dilution of $20.27 per share of Common
Stock from the initial public offering price, and the deficit in net tangible
book value per share of Common Stock after the Offering will be $(3.27) per
share. See "Dilution."
                                       15
<PAGE>   22
 
     As part of its business strategy, the Company continuously reviews
acquisition opportunities. Although the Company anticipates that any acquisition
would be funded with debt, the Company could elect to pay a portion of the
consideration for an acquisition in shares of the Common Stock. Depending on the
terms of the transaction, the issuance of additional Common Stock could result
in dilution to existing holders of the Common Stock, including purchasers of the
Common Stock in the Offering.
 
POTENTIAL ADVERSE IMPACT ON STOCK PRICE OF SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
 
   
     Following the Offering, Del Monte will have outstanding 50,196,461 shares
of Common Stock (assuming no exercise of the U.S. Underwriters' overallotment
option). Of these, the 14,706,000 shares offered hereby will be freely
transferable by persons other than "affiliates" of the Company without
restriction or further registration under the Securities Act. Substantially all
of the remaining 35,490,461 outstanding shares of Common Stock will be owned by
TPG and certain other current stockholders of Del Monte and will be "restricted
securities." These "restricted" shares of Common Stock will be eligible for sale
in the public market without registration under the Securities Act, subject to
compliance with the resale volume limitations and other restrictions of Rule 144
under the Securities Act, or in the private institutional market, subject to
compliance with the requirements of Rule 144A under the Securities Act. Future
sales of shares of Common Stock by TPG or such other stockholders or the
perception that such sales could occur, could adversely affect prevailing market
prices for the shares of Common Stock. See "Shares Eligible for Future Sale."
    
 
ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS
 
     Certain provisions of Del Monte's Certificate of Incorporation (the
"Certificate of Incorporation") and bylaws, including the provisions providing
for (i) the issuance of blank check preferred stock by the Board of Directors
without stockholder approval; (ii) classification of the Board of Directors;
(iii) a requirement that general meetings of stockholders be called only by a
majority of the Board of Directors or by the Chairman of the Board; (iv) a
prohibition on stockholder action through written consents; and (v) advance
notice requirements for stockholder proposals and nominations, may have the
effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change of control of Del Monte
without further action by the stockholders, may discourage bids for the Common
Stock at a premium over the market price of the Common Stock and may adversely
affect the market price of, and the voting and other rights of the holders of,
the Common Stock. See "Description of Capital Stock -- Certain Certificate of
Incorporation and Bylaw Provisions."
 
     In addition, the indentures relating to certain indebtedness of the Company
provide that upon the occurrence of a change of control (in each case, as
defined therein), each holder of such notes will, under certain circumstances,
have the right to require that the Company repurchase all of such holder's notes
in cash at a premium to the principal amount thereof, together with accrued and
unpaid interest, if any, to the date of such repurchase. In addition, a change
of control would constitute an event of default under the Company's proposed
amendment and restatement of the Bank Financing, which could have a material
adverse effect on the Company. These provisions could delay, deter or prevent a
takeover attempt. See "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
 
                                       16
<PAGE>   23
 
                              RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
 
     On July 14, 1998, the Company announced an agreement with Nabisco to
reacquire rights to the Del Monte brand in South America and to purchase
Nabisco's canned fruits and vegetables business in Venezuela. The Venezuela
business, with 1997 sales of $17 million, includes Venezuela's largest processed
fruit, vegetable and specialty products operation. Nabisco had retained
ownership of the Del Monte brand in South America and the Venezuela Del Monte
business when it sold other Del Monte businesses in 1989. See "Corporate
History."
 
                                USE OF PROCEEDS
 
   
     Assuming an initial public offering price of $17.00 per share, the net
proceeds to Del Monte from its sale of shares of Common Stock in the Offering
(after deducting applicable underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated
offering expenses payable by Del Monte) are estimated to be approximately $230
million (approximately $252 million if the U.S. Underwriters' overallotment
option is exercised in full). Del Monte intends to use the net proceeds of the
Offering and $60 million from its Revolving Credit Facility (as defined herein)
as follows: (i) approximately $129 million to repay indebtedness under its
senior secured term loan facility (the "Term Loan Facility"); (ii) $46 million
to redeem a portion of its senior discount notes (the "Del Monte Notes"),
including $2 million of accrued interest; (iii) $61 million to redeem a portion
of its senior subordinated notes (the "DMC Notes"), including $9 million of
accrued interest; (iv) $41 million to redeem its Series A Redeemable Preferred
Stock (the "Series A Preferred Stock"), including $3 million of unamortized
discount, $5 million of accreted dividends and $1 million of redemption premium;
and (v) $13 million to pay certain repayment and redemption premiums in
connection with the redemption of the Del Monte Notes and the DMC Notes. The
Term Loan Facility, the Del Monte Notes and the DMC Notes mature and bear
interest at the rates specified under the headings "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations -- Liquidity and
Capital Resources -- Financing Activities -- 1997 Activity -- Bank Financing"
and "Description of Certain Indebtedness." The net proceeds from the issuance of
the Del Monte Notes were used by the Company to finance a portion of the
Contadina Acquisition.
    
 
                                DIVIDEND POLICY
 
     Holders of the Common Stock are entitled to receive dividends pro rata on a
per share basis when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors of Del Monte
out of funds legally available therefor. Del Monte has not declared or paid any
cash or other dividends on its shares of Common Stock and does not expect to pay
dividends for the foreseeable future. Future dividend policy will be determined
periodically by the Board of Directors based upon conditions then existing,
including the Company's earnings and financial condition, capital requirements,
including debt service obligations, and other relevant factors.
 
     As a holding company, the ability of Del Monte to pay dividends in the
future is dependent upon the receipt of dividends or other payments from its
subsidiaries. In addition, the terms of the Company's indebtedness limit the
ability of Del Monte's subsidiaries to pay dividends to Del Monte. See "Risk
Factors -- Lack of Dividends" and "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
 
                                       17
<PAGE>   24
 
                                 CAPITALIZATION
 
     The following table sets forth the actual unaudited capitalization of the
Company at March 31, 1998 and as adjusted to give effect to the sale of
14,706,000 shares of Common Stock by the Company, assuming an initial public
offering price of $17.00 per share, and the application of the estimated net
proceeds to be received by the Company. The following table should be read in
conjunction with "Use of Proceeds," "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data,"
"Selected Consolidated Financial Data," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the consolidated financial
statements and the notes thereto of the Company included herein.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   MARCH 31, 1998
                                                              ------------------------
                                                              ACTUAL     AS ADJUSTED
                                                              ------    --------------
                                                                   (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                           <C>       <C>
Total debt:
  Revolving Credit Facility(1)..............................   $ 68          $131
  Term Loan Facility........................................    429           300
  12 1/4% Senior Subordinated Notes of DMC(2)...............    147            95
  12 1/2% Senior Discount Notes of Del Monte(3).............    126            82
                                                               ----          ----
     Total debt.............................................    770           608
                                                               ----          ----
Redeemable Preferred Stock(4)...............................     32            --
Stockholders' equity:
  Common Stock, $.01 par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized
     and 182,431 shares issued and outstanding, actual; and
     500,000,000 shares authorized and 50,196,461 shares
     issued and outstanding, as adjusted(5)(6)..............     --            --
  Paid-in capital...........................................    173           403
  Retained deficit(7).......................................   (527)         (566)
                                                               ----          ----
     Total stockholders' deficit............................   (354)         (163)
                                                               ----          ----
          Total capitalization..............................   $448          $445
                                                               ====          ====
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
 
(1) The total capacity under the Revolving Credit Facility as of March 31, 1998
    was $350 million. See "Description of Certain Indebtedness." The amount, as
    adjusted, reflects $63 million of additional borrowings under the Revolving
    Credit Facility, including $3 million to pay fees incurred in connection
    with the Refinancing.
 
(2) Excludes $9 million of accrued interest payable.
 
(3) Excludes $2 million of accrued interest payable.
 
(4) Net of unamortized discount of $3 million and excludes accreted dividends
    aggregating approximately $5 million as of March 31, 1998.
 
(5) Excludes 1,838,995 shares reserved for issuance pursuant to the Company's
    management share option plan. See "Management" and "Description of Capital
    Stock."
 
(6) The actual number of shares of Common Stock at March 31, 1998 does not
    reflect the 191.542-for-one stock split of the existing shares of Common
    Stock or the increase in the number of authorized shares of Common Stock to
    500 million shares.
 
(7) As adjusted reflects a $16 million write-off of a pro rata share of deferred
    financing costs associated with the repayment of the Company's indebtedness,
    as well as $14 million of repayment and redemption premiums, $5 million in
    dividends paid, $3 million write-off of unamortized discount relating to the
    preferred shares redeemed and $1 million in other expenses incurred in the
    Refinancing.
 
                                       18
<PAGE>   25
 
                                    DILUTION
 
     The deficit in net tangible book value of the Company at March 31, 1998 was
approximately $(370) million or $(10.43) per share of Common Stock. Without
taking into account any changes in the deficit in net tangible book value
attributable to operations after March 31, 1998, after giving effect to the sale
of the shares of Common Stock offered by the Company hereby at an assumed
initial public offering price of $17.00 per share and the application of the
estimated net proceeds as described under "Use of Proceeds," the pro forma
deficit in net tangible book value of the Company as adjusted at March 31, 1998
would have been $(164) million, or $(3.27) per share of Common Stock (assuming
no exercise of the U.S. Underwriters' overallotment option). This represents an
immediate reduction in the deficit in net tangible book value of $7.16 per share
of Common Stock to the existing stockholders, including TPG, and an immediate
dilution of $20.27 per share of Common Stock to new investors in shares of
Common Stock in the Offering. The following table illustrates such per share
dilution:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>        <C>
Assumed initial public offering price per share.............             $17.00
Deficit in net tangible book value per share of Common Stock
  before the Offering(1)....................................   (10.43)
Reduction in deficit in net tangible book value per share of
  Common Stock attributable to new investors(2).............     7.16
                                                              -------
Pro forma deficit in net tangible book value per share of
  Common Stock after the Offering...........................              (3.27)
                                                                         ------
Dilution per share to new investors(3)......................             $20.27
                                                                         ======
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
 
(1) Deficit in net tangible book value per share is determined by dividing the
    Company's audited net deficit in tangible book value (total tangible assets
    less total liabilities) of approximately $(370) million at March 31, 1998 by
    the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock outstanding at March 31,
    1998.
 
(2) After deduction of underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated
    offering expenses payable by the Company.
 
(3) Dilution is determined by subtracting pro forma deficit in net tangible book
    value per share of Common Stock after the Offering from the assumed initial
    public offering price paid by a new investor for a share of Common Stock.
 
                                       19
<PAGE>   26
 
                       UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA
 
     On April 18, 1997, the Company completed the Recapitalization. In
connection with the Recapitalization, the Company repaid substantially all of
its funded debt obligations existing immediately before the Recapitalization. On
December 19, 1997, the Company acquired Contadina for $177 million, plus an
estimated working capital adjustment of approximately $20 million. The
consideration was paid solely in cash. The purchase price was subject to
adjustment based on the final calculation of net working capital as of the
closing date. Nestle provided its calculation of the net working capital, which
resulted in a payment to the Company of $2 million, and therefore a reduction in
the purchase price to a total of $195 million. The following Unaudited Pro Forma
Statements of Operations were prepared by the Company as if the Contadina
Acquisition, the Recapitalization and related financings had occurred as of July
1, 1996. The Unaudited Pro Forma Statements of Operations do not purport to
represent what the Company's results of operations actually would have been if
the Contadina Acquisition and the Recapitalization had occurred as of the dates
indicated or what such results will be for any future periods.
 
     The unaudited pro forma financial data are based on the historical
financial statements of the Company and the assumptions and adjustments
described in the accompanying notes. The Company believes that such assumptions
are reasonable. The unaudited pro forma financial data should be read in
conjunction with the consolidated financial statements of the Company and the
accompanying notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Prospectus.
 
     Contadina was not operated as a separate business unit and, as such, it did
not have regularly prepared financial statements. The Company has obtained and
prepared financial information of Contadina for the year ended December 31,
1996, the period ended December 18, 1997 and the nine-month periods ended
September 30, 1996 and 1997. Due to the limited information available to the
Company, the Company has prepared the Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of
Operations for the year ended June 30, 1997 using Contadina historical financial
information for the 12-month period ended September 30, 1997 derived from the
audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 1996 appearing
elsewhere in this Prospectus and unaudited financial data for the nine-month
periods ended September 30, 1996 and 1997 appearing under "Summary Historical
Financial Data of Contadina." The Unaudited Pro Forma Statement of Operations
for the nine-month period ended March 31, 1998 includes the historical revenues
and expenses of Contadina from July 1, 1997 through December 18, 1997 (the
results of operations of Contadina since the date of acquisition have been
included in the historical Company revenues and expenses for the nine-month
period ended March 31, 1998). Such historical financial information includes
allocations by Nestle for certain operating costs including, without limitation,
costs of utilizing outside storage facilities; all selling costs including,
without limitation, direct sales force and brokerage expenses; costs for
utilizing centralized distribution and storage facilities; costs associated with
marketing services; and general and administrative costs associated with support
services such as finance, legal, human resources and information systems. The
Company believes that it will experience operating costs of a similar nature to
those charged by Nestle in its cost allocations but at a significantly reduced
level; however, no assurances can be given in this regard. See "Risk
Factors -- Risks Relating to Contadina."
 
                                       20
<PAGE>   27
 
                  UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                            YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 HISTORICAL
                                       ------------------------------     PRO FORMA
                                        DEL MONTE     CONTADINA(A)(B)    ADJUSTMENTS     PRO FORMA
                                       -----------    ---------------    -----------    -----------
                                       (RESTATED)
                                                     (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                    <C>            <C>                <C>            <C>
Net sales............................  $     1,217         $156             $ --        $     1,373
Cost of products sold (excluding               819          155              (25)(c)            949
  inventory step-up).................
Inventory step-up (d)................           --           --                4                  4
                                       -----------         ----             ----        -----------
  Gross profit.......................          398            1               21                420
Selling, advertising, administrative           327(e)        20               14(e)             361
  and general expense................
                                       -----------         ----             ----        -----------
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)..............           71          (19)               7                 59
Interest expense.....................           52            6               35(f)              93
Loss on sale of divested assets......            5           --               --                  5
Other expense........................           30(g)        --               --                 30
                                       -----------         ----             ----        -----------
LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND                   (16)         (25)             (28)               (69)
  EXTRAORDINARY ITEM.................
Provision for income taxes...........           --           --               --                 --
                                       -----------         ----             ----        -----------
LOSS BEFORE EXTRAORDINARY ITEM.......          (16)        $(25)            $(28)               (69)
                                                           ====             ====
Preferred stock dividends............           70                                                5
                                       -----------                                      -----------
Loss before extraordinary item         $       (86)                                     $       (74)
  attributable to common shares(h)...
                                       ===========                                      ===========
Loss before extraordinary item per     $     (1.40)                                     $     (2.16)
  common share.......................
Weighted average number of shares       61,703,436                                       34,477,560
  outstanding (i)....................
OTHER DATA:
Depreciation and amortization (j)....  $        24                                      $        30
Capital expenditures.................           20                                               30
</TABLE>
 
                            See accompanying notes.
                                       21
<PAGE>   28
 
                  UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
                        NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1998
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         HISTORICAL
                                                ----------------------------    PRO FORMA
                                                DEL MONTE    CONTADINA(A)(B)   ADJUSTMENTS    PRO FORMA
                                                ----------   ---------------   -----------   -----------
                                                (RESTATED)
                                                            (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                             <C>          <C>               <C>           <C>
Net sales.....................................  $      968        $ 92            $ --       $     1,060
Cost of products sold.........................         655          91             (18)(c)           728
Inventory step-up(d)..........................          --          --              (2)               (2)
                                                ----------        ----            ----       -----------
     Gross profit.............................         313           1              20               334
Selling, advertising, administrative and               249          13              12(e)            274
  general expense.............................
Acquisition expenses..........................           7          --              --                 7
                                                ----------        ----            ----       -----------
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS).......................          57         (12)              8                53
Interest expense..............................          58           3              11(f)             72
Other income..................................          (1)         --              --                (1)
                                                ----------        ----            ----       -----------
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES.............          --         (15)             (3)              (18)
Provision for income taxes....................          --          --              --                --
                                                ----------        ----            ----       -----------
INCOME (LOSS).................................          --        $(15)           $ (3)              (18)
                                                                  ====            ====
Preferred stock dividends.....................           4                                             4
                                                ----------                                   -----------
Loss attributable to common shares (h)........  $       (4)                                  $       (22)
                                                ==========                                   ===========
Loss per common share.........................  $    (0.12)                                  $     (0.65)
Weighted average number of shares               30,389,671                                    34,646,160
  outstanding (i).............................
 
OTHER DATA:
Depreciation and amortization (j).............  $       20                                   $        23
Capital expenditures..........................          15                                            20
</TABLE>
 
                            See accompanying notes.
                                       22
<PAGE>   29
 
             NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
 
     The Unaudited Pro Forma Statements of Operations reflect the adjustments
for the Contadina Acquisition, the Recapitalization and related financings as if
such events had occurred as of July 1, 1996.
 
     On December 19, 1997, the Company acquired the Contadina canned tomato
business, including the Contadina trademark worldwide, capital assets and
inventory, from Nestle and Contadina Services, Inc. for a total purchase price
of $197 million, comprised of a base price of $177 million and an estimated net
working capital adjustment of $20 million. The consideration was paid solely in
cash. The purchase price was subject to adjustment based on the final
calculation of net working capital as of the closing date. Nestle provided its
calculation of the net working capital, which resulted in a payment to the
Company of $2 million, and therefore a reduction in the purchase price to a
total of $195 million. The Contadina Acquisition also included the assumption of
certain liabilities of approximately $5 million, consisting primarily of
liabilities in respect of reusable packaging materials, employee benefits and
product claims. In connection with the Contadina Acquisition, approximately $7
million of acquisition-related expenses were incurred.
 
     The Contadina Acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting. The allocation of purchase price to the assets acquired and
liabilities assumed has been made using estimated fair values that include
values based on independent appraisals and management estimates. These estimates
may be subject to adjustment to reflect actual amounts, primarily in the case of
accrued liabilities. Any subsequent adjustments are expected to occur by the
1998 fiscal year-end and are not expected to be material. Allocation of the $195
million purchase price is as follows: inventory $95 million, prepaid expenses $5
million, property, plant and equipment $84 million, intangibles $16 million and
accrued liabilities $5 million.
 
(a) The historical financial information for Contadina for the 12-month period
    ended September 30, 1997 was derived from the audited financial statements
    appearing elsewhere in this Prospectus and unaudited financial data
    appearing under "Summary Historical and Financial Data of Contadina." The
    historical financial data provided to the Company includes certain allocated
    expenses for functions and services provided by Nestle. Such allocated
    expenses are comprised of, without limitation, costs of utilizing outside
    storage facilities; all selling costs including, without limitation, direct
    sales force and brokerage expenses; costs for utilizing centralized
    distribution and storage facilities; costs associated with marketing
    services; and general and administrative costs associated with support
    services such as finance, legal, human resources and information systems and
    interest expense. The additional operating cost allocations were $25 million
    and $17 million, and the interest allocations were $6 million and $3 million
    for the 12-month period ended September 30, 1997 and the nine-month period
    ended March 31, 1998, respectively.
 
(b) Represents the historical revenue and expenses of Contadina from October 1,
    1996 through September 30, 1997 and July 1, 1997 through December 18, 1997
    for the Unaudited Pro Forma Statements of Operations for the year ended June
    30, 1997 and the nine months ended March 31, 1998, respectively. As
    described in note (a) above, pro forma statement of operations data for the
    12-month period ending September 30, 1997 for Contadina has been derived
    using Contadina's results of operations for the nine-month periods ended
    September 30, 1996 and 1997 and the year ended December 31, 1996.
    Contadina's results of operations for the period from July 1, 1997 to
    September 30, 1997 are accordingly presented in both the pro forma statement
    of operations for the year ended June 30, 1997 and the pro forma statement
    of operations for the nine months ended March 31, 1998. Net sales included
    in both periods amount to $37 million, and the net loss included in both
    periods is $8 million. There were no significant transactions or unusual
    events occurring during the three-month period ended September 30, 1997, nor
    were there any significant transactions or unusual events omitted by not
    including the period from July 1, 1996 to September 30, 1996.
 
                                       23
<PAGE>   30
 
(c) Adjustment to cost of products sold reflects the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    NINE MONTHS
                                                      YEAR ENDED       ENDED
                                                       JUNE 30,      MARCH 31,
                                                         1997           1998
                                                      ----------    ------------
                                                            (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                   <C>           <C>
Reclassification of Contadina trade promotion
  costs.............................................     $(14)          $(13)
Reduction in depreciation expense arising from fair
  value adjustment for property, plant and equipment
  acquired..........................................       (6)            (2)
Elimination of royalties to Nestle S.A. for
  trademark license.................................       (5)            (3)
                                                         ----           ----
                                                         $(25)          $(18)
                                                         ====           ====
</TABLE>
 
     Trade promotion costs for Contadina were reclassified from cost of products
     sold to selling, advertising, general and administrative expense to conform
     with Del Monte's classification of such costs.
 
     The expense represented by Contadina's historical charge to cost of
     products sold for royalties due to Nestle S.A. has been replaced by
     amortization of trademark recorded as selling, advertising, general and
     administrative expense which treatment is more representative of the
     continuing costs associated with the use of the Contadina trademark.
 
(d) Represents the cost of products sold related to the sales of the inventory
    acquired from Contadina which was written-up by the Company to estimated
    fair value as part of the preliminary purchase price allocation relating to
    the Contadina Acquisition.
 
(e) Adjustment to selling, advertising, administrative and general expense
    reflects the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    NINE MONTHS
                                                      YEAR ENDED       ENDED
                                                       JUNE 30,      MARCH 31,
                                                         1997           1998
                                                      ----------    ------------
                                                            (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                   <C>           <C>
Reclassification of Contadina trade promotion
  costs.............................................     $ 14           $ 13
Elimination of amortization of Nestle goodwill......       (1)            (1)
Amortization of intangible acquired.................        1             --
                                                         ----           ----
                                                         $ 14           $ 12
                                                         ====           ====
</TABLE>
 
     Selling, advertising, administrative and general expense for the year ended
     June 30, 1997 includes $25 million of one-time charges incurred in
     connection with the Recapitalization primarily for management incentive
     payments and, in part, for severance payments.
 
                                       24
<PAGE>   31
 
(f) Represents adjustments necessary to reflect pro forma interest expense and
    amortization of deferred financing expense as shown below based upon pro
    forma debt levels and applicable interest rates. The table below presents
    pro forma interest expense, including the respective interest rates and
    related fees and pro forma amortization of deferred financing costs.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                YEAR ENDED                         NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                               JUNE 30, 1997                        MARCH 31, 1998
                                    -----------------------------------   -----------------------------------
                                    INTEREST    PRINCIPAL     INTEREST    INTEREST    PRINCIPAL     INTEREST
                                     RATE(1)    BALANCE(2)   EXPENSE(3)    RATE(1)    BALANCE(2)   EXPENSE(3)
                                    ---------   ----------   ----------   ---------   ----------   ----------
                                                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PERCENTAGES)
<S>                                 <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>          <C>
Revolving Credit Facility.........     7.82%      $  220        $18          7.68%      $ 228         $13
Tranche A of Term Loan Facility...     7.82          200         16          8.13         197          12
Tranche B of Term Loan Facility...     8.57          230         20          8.61         249          15
DMC Notes.........................    12.25          150         18         12.25         150          15
Del Monte Notes...................    12.50          129         16         12.50         145          14
                                                                ---                                   ---
  Pro forma interest expense......                               88                                    69
Pro forma amortization of deferred
  financing costs.................                                5                                     3
                                                                ---                                   ---
  Total pro forma interest
    expense.......................                              $93                                   $72
                                                                ===                                   ===
</TABLE>
 
    -------------------
 
    (1) Average of month-end interest rates.
 
    (2) Average of month-end principal balances.
 
    (3) Represents product of average month-end interest rate and average
        month-end principal balance for the applicable period.
 
(g) For the year ended June 30, 1997, includes $22 million of one-time expenses
    incurred in connection with the Recapitalization.
 
(h) Loss before extraordinary items attributable to common shares for the year
    ended June 30, 1997, and loss attributable to common shares for the
    nine-month period ended March 31, 1998, reflect the deduction for the cash
    and in-kind dividends for the period on redeemable preferred stock.
 
(i) The weighted average number of shares outstanding reflects the
    191.542-for-one stock split of the shares of Common Stock, which was
    declared by Del Monte on July 22, 1998.
 
(j) Historical depreciation and amortization exclude amortization of $5 million
    and $3 million of deferred debt issue costs for fiscal 1997 and for the
    nine-month period ended March 31, 1998, respectively. Pro forma depreciation
    and amortization excludes amortization of $5 million and $3 million of pro
    forma deferred debt issue costs for fiscal 1997 and for the nine-month
    period ended March 31, 1998, respectively.
 
                                       25
<PAGE>   32
 
                      SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
 
     The following table sets forth historical consolidated financial
information of the Company. The statement of operations data for each of the
fiscal years in the four-year period ended June 30, 1996 and the balance sheet
data as of June 30, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996 have been derived from
consolidated financial statements of the Company audited by Ernst & Young LLP,
independent auditors. The statement of operations data for the year ended June
30, 1997 and the nine months ended March 31, 1998, and the balance sheet data as
of June 30, 1997 and March 31, 1998, have been derived from consolidated
financial statements of the Company audited by KPMG Peat Marwick LLP,
independent auditors. The selected consolidated financial data presented below
as of March 31, 1997 and the nine months then ended was derived from the
unaudited interim financial statements of the Company. The financial data
presented below as of March 31, 1997 and for the nine months then ended, in the
opinion of management, reflect all adjustments, consisting of only normal,
recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of such data and which
have been prepared in accordance with the same accounting principles followed in
the presentation of the Company's audited financial statements for the fiscal
year ended June 30, 1997. Operating results for the nine months ended March 31,
1998 are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full
fiscal year. The table should be read in conjunction with "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," the
consolidated financial statements of the Company and related notes and other
financial information included elsewhere in this Prospectus.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                               NINE MONTHS
                                                                                                                  ENDED
                                                          FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,                            MARCH 31,
                                        --------------------------------------------------------------   -----------------------
                                           1993         1994         1995         1996         1997         1997         1998
                                        ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
                                                                               (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)
                                                                    (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
<S>                                     <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Net sales(a)..........................  $    1,556   $    1,500   $    1,527   $    1,305   $    1,217   $      936   $      968
Cost of products sold(a)..............       1,213        1,208        1,183          984          819          634          655
                                        ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
Gross profit..........................         343          292          344          321          398          302          313
Selling, advertising, administrative
  and general expense(a)..............         286          225          264          239          327(b)        235         249
Special charges(c)....................         140           --           --           --           --           --           --
Acquisition expenses..................          --           --           --           --           --           --            7
                                        ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
Operating income (loss)...............         (83)          67           80           82           71           67           57
Interest expense......................          68           61           76           67           52           37           58
Loss (gain) on sale of divested
  assets(d)...........................         (13)         (13)          --         (123)           5            5           --
Other (income) expense(e).............           4            8          (11)           3           30           --           (1)
                                        ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
Income (loss) before income taxes,
  minority interest, extraordinary
  item and cumulative effect of
  accounting change...................        (142)          11           15          135          (16)          25           --
Provision for income taxes............          10            3            2           11           --            2           --
Minority interest in earnings of
  subsidiary..........................           8            5            1            3           --           --           --
                                        ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
Net income (loss) before extraordinary
  item and cumulative effect of
  accounting change...................        (160)           3           12          121          (16)          23           --
Extraordinary loss(f).................          --           --            7           10           42            4           --
Cumulative effect of accounting
  change(g)...........................          28           --           --            7           --           --           --
                                        ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
Net income (loss).....................        (188)           3            5          104          (58)          19           --
Preferred stock dividends.............          52           61           71           82           70           70            4
                                        ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
Net income (loss) attributable to
  common shares(h)....................  $     (240)  $      (58)  $      (66)  $       22   $     (128)  $      (51)  $       (4)
                                        ==========   ==========   ==========   ==========   ==========   ==========   ==========
Net income (loss) per common share....  $    (2.99)  $    (0.75)  $    (0.85)  $     0.29   $    (2.07)  $    (0.69)  $    (0.12)
Weighted average number of shares
  outstanding(i)......................  80,370,353   77,915,263   76,671,294   75,047,353   61,703,436   73,332,621   30,389,671
</TABLE>
 
                                       26
<PAGE>   33
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                                NINE MONTHS
                                                                                                                   ENDED
                                                            FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,                           MARCH 31,
                                            -----------------------------------------------------------   -----------------------
                                              1993        1994        1995         1996         1997         1997         1998
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
                                                                                (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)
                                                                                (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                         <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
OTHER DATA:
Gross margin(a)...........................       22.0%       19.5%       22.5%       24.6%        32.7%        32.3%         32.3%
Adjusted EBITDA:(j)
  EBIT....................................  $     (74)  $      72   $      91   $     202    $      36     $     62    $       58
  Depreciation and amortization(k)........         59          35          35          26           24           18            20
  EBITDA of Divested Operations...........        (50)        (39)        (35)        (22)          --           --            --
  Special charges(c)......................        140          --          --          --           --           --            --
  Asset write-down/impairment(l)..........         --           1          --          --            7           --            --
  Loss (gain) on sale of Divested
    Operations(d).........................        (13)        (13)         --        (123)           5            5            --
  Terminated transactions(m)..............         --           1         (22)         --           --           --            --
  Benefit costs(n)........................         --           6           7          --           --           --            10
  Headcount reduction and relocation(o)...         --          --          --           9           --           --            --
  Recapitalization
    expenses(b)(e)........................         --          --          --          --           47           --            --
  Expenses of Contadina Acquisition(p)....         --          --          --          --           --           --             7
  Contadina inventory
    write-up(p)...........................         --          --          --          --           --           --             2
                                            ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------    ---------     --------    ----------
    Adjusted EBITDA.......................  $      62   $      63   $      76   $      92    $     119     $     85    $       97
                                            =========   =========   =========   =========    =========     ========    ==========
Adjusted EBITDA margin(j).................        5.4%        5.7%        6.9%        8.6%        10.2%         9.5%         10.0%
Cash flows provided by operating
  activities..............................  $      61   $      28   $      63   $      60    $      25     $     26    $        9
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing
  activities..............................         (2)         55         (21)        170           37           39          (205)
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing
  activities..............................        (55)        (83)        (44)       (224)         (63)         (65)          195
Capital expenditures......................         34          36          24          16           20           12            15
SELECTED RATIOS:
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges(q).....         --         1.2x        1.2x        2.8x          --          1.5x          1.0x
Deficiency of earnings to cover fixed
  charges(q)..............................  $     142          --          --          --    $      16           --            --
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     JUNE 30,                               MARCH 31,
                                                --------------------------------------------------   -----------------------
                                                 1993     1994     1995       1996         1997         1997         1998
                                                ------   ------   ------   ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
                                                                           (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)   (RESTATED)
                                                                               (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                             <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Working capital...............................  $   92   $   88   $   99     $  209       $  118       $ 186        $  220
Total assets..................................   1,066      936      960        736          667         739           928
Total debt, including current maturities......     624      569      576        373          610         310           770
Redeemable preferred stock....................     216      215      215        213           32         213            32
Stockholders' deficit.........................    (385)    (384)    (393)      (288)        (398)       (243)         (354)
</TABLE>
 
Note: Financial data under the columns marked "restated" reflect the information
      from the Company's restated financial statements.
- ---------------
(a)  In fiscal 1997, merchandising allowances primarily relating to in-store
     displays, store advertising and store coupons, which previously were
     recorded as a cost of products sold, have been reclassified to selling
     expense. Such merchandising allowances totaled $113 million, $67 million,
     $106 million, $100 million, $143 million and $101 million in the fiscal
     years ended June 30, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997, and the nine months
     ended March 31, 1997, respectively. In addition, certain military
     distributor allowances, which previously were treated as a reduction in net
     sales, have been reclassified to selling expense. Such military distributor
     allowances amounted to $1 million, $1 million, $1 million, $1 million, $2
     million and $2 million in fiscal years ended June 30, 1993, 1994, 1995,
     1996 and 1997, and the nine months ended March 31, 1997, respectively. All
     financial information has been restated to conform to this presentation.
 
(b)  In connection with the Recapitalization, which was consummated on April 18,
     1997, expenses of approximately $25 million were incurred primarily for
     management incentive payments and, in part, for severance payments.
 
                                       27
<PAGE>   34
 
(c)  In June 1993, the Company recorded special charges of $140 million, which
     included $115 million for permanent impairment of acquisition-related
     intangible assets, including goodwill, and $25 million for facility
     consolidations.
 
(d)  The Company sold its equity investment in Del Monte International in the
     fiscal quarter ended March 31, 1993 and recognized a $13 million gain. The
     Company sold its can manufacturing operations in the fiscal quarter ended
     December 31, 1993 and recognized a $13 million gain. In November 1995, the
     Company sold its pudding business for $89 million, net of $4 million of
     related transaction fees. The sale resulted in a gain of $71 million. In
     March 1996, the Company sold its 50.1% ownership interest in Del Monte
     Philippines for $100 million, net of $2 million of related transaction
     fees. The sale resulted in a gain of $52 million. In the fiscal quarter
     ended December 1996, the Company sold Del Monte Latin America. The combined
     sales price of $50 million, reduced by $2 million of related transaction
     expenses, resulted in a loss of $5 million.
 
(e)  In fiscal 1995, other income includes the Company's receipt of proceeds of
     a $30 million letter of credit, reduced by $4 million of related
     transaction expenses, as a result of the termination of a merger agreement
     with Grupo Empacador de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. In fiscal 1997, $22 million of
     expenses were incurred in conjunction with the Recapitalization, primarily
     for legal, investment advisory and management fees.
 
(f)  In June 1995, the Company refinanced its then-outstanding revolving credit
     facility, term loan and senior secured floating rate notes. In conjunction
     with this debt retirement, capitalized debt issue costs of $7 million were
     written off and accounted for as an extraordinary loss. In December 1995
     and April 1996, the Company prepaid part of its term loan and senior
     secured notes. In conjunction with the early debt retirement, the Company
     recorded an extraordinary loss of $10 million for the early retirement of
     debt. The extraordinary loss consisted of a $5 million prepayment premium
     and a $5 million write-off of capitalized debt issue costs related to the
     early retirement of debt. In fiscal 1997, $42 million of expenses related
     to the early retirement of debt and to the Recapitalization was charged to
     net income. In September 1996, the Company repurchased outstanding debt, in
     conjunction with which capitalized debt issue costs of $4 million, net of a
     discount on such debt, were written off and accounted for as an
     extraordinary loss. In conjunction with the refinancing of debt that
     occurred at the time of the Recapitalization, the Company recorded a $38
     million extraordinary loss related to the early retirement of debt. The $38
     million extraordinary loss consisted of previously capitalized debt issue
     costs of approximately $19 million and a premium payment and a term loan
     make-whole payment aggregating $19 million.
 
(g)  Effective July 1, 1992, the Company adopted SFAS No. 106, "Employers'
     Accounting for Post-Retirement Benefits Other Than Pensions." The Company
     elected to recognize this change in accounting on the immediate recognition
     basis. The cumulative effect of adopting SFAS No. 106 resulted in a charge
     to fiscal 1993 net earnings of $28 million. Effective July 1, 1995, the
     Company adopted SFAS No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived
     Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of." The cumulative effect
     of adopting SFAS No. 121 resulted in a charge to fiscal 1996 net earnings
     of $7 million.
 
(h)  Net income (loss) attributable to the shares of Common Stock is computed as
     net income (loss) reduced by the cash and in-kind dividends for the period
     on redeemable preferred stock.
 
(i)  For each period, the weighted average number of shares outstanding reflects
     the 191.542-for-one stock split, which was declared by Del Monte on July
     22, 1998.
 
(j)  Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA (income (loss) before provision for
     income taxes, minority interest, extraordinary item, cumulative effect of
     accounting change and depreciation and amortization expense, plus interest
     expense) before special charges and other one-time and non-cash charges,
     less gains (losses) on sales of assets and the results of the Divested
     Operations. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation from, and
     is not presented as an alternative measure of, operating income or cash
     flow from operations (as determined in accordance with GAAP). Adjusted
     EBITDA as presented may not be comparable to similarly titled measures
     reported by other companies. Since the Company has undergone significant
     structural changes during the periods presented, management believes that
     this measure provides a meaningful measure of operating cash flow (without
     the effects of working capital changes) for the core and continuing
     business of the Company by normalizing the
 
                                       28
<PAGE>   35
 
     effects of operations that have been divested and one-time charges or
     credits. Adjusted EBITDA margin is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA as a
     percentage of net sales (excluding net sales of Divested Operations of $402
     million, $399 million, $417 million, $233 million and $48 million for the
     years ended June 30, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively, and $43
     million for the nine months ended March 31, 1997).
 
(k)  Depreciation and amortization exclude amortization of $8 million, $5
     million, $5 million, $5 million and $5 million of deferred debt issuance
     costs for fiscal 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively.
     Depreciation and amortization exclude amortization of $4 million and $3
     million of deferred debt issuance costs in the nine-month periods ended
     March 31, 1997 and 1998, respectively.
 
(l)  In fiscal 1994 and fiscal 1997, non-cash charges include $1 million related
     to write-offs of labels due to new labeling laws and $7 million related to
     the recognition of an other than temporary impairment of a long-term equity
     investment, respectively.
 
(m)  In fiscal 1994, one-time charges of $1 million relate to a terminated
     transaction. In fiscal 1995, one-time charges and credits include $26
     million received in connection with a terminated transaction and $4 million
     paid by the Company to terminate its alliance with PCP.
 
(n)  In fiscal 1994 and 1995, one-time and non-cash charges include $6 million
     of benefit plan charges and $7 million related to the termination of a
     management equity plan, respectively. In the nine months ended March 31,
     1998, one-time and non-cash charges include $3 million of stock
     compensation and related benefit expense and $7 million of severance and
     benefit costs.
 
(o)  In fiscal 1996, other one-time charges include $3 million for relocation
     costs and $6 million of costs associated with a significant headcount
     reduction.
 
(p)  For the nine months ended March 31, 1998, one-time charges include of $7
     million of acquisition-related expenses incurred in connection with the
     Contadina Acquisition and $2 million of inventory step-up due to the
     purchase price allocation related to the Contadina Acquisition.
 
(q)  For purposes of determining the ratio of earnings to fixed charges and the
     deficiency of earnings to cover fixed charges, earnings are defined as
     income (loss) before extraordinary item, cumulative effect of accounting
     change and provision for income taxes plus fixed charges. Fixed charges
     consist of interest expense on all indebtedness (including amortization of
     deferred debt issuance costs) and the interest component of rent expense.
 
                                       29
<PAGE>   36
 
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
     This discussion summarizes the significant factors affecting the
consolidated operating results, financial condition and liquidity of the Company
during the nine-month periods ended March 31, 1997 and 1998, and the three-year
period ended June 30, 1997. This discussion should be read in conjunction with
the unaudited consolidated financial statements for the nine-month period ended
March 31, 1997 and the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company
for the nine-month period ended March 31, 1998 and for the three-year period
ended June 30, 1997, including the notes thereto, appearing elsewhere in this
Prospectus.
 
GENERAL
 
     The Company reports its financial results on a July 1 to June 30 fiscal
year basis to coincide with its inventory production cycle, which is highly
seasonal. Raw product is harvested and packed primarily in the months of June
through October, during which time inventories rise to their highest levels. At
the same time, consumption of canned products drops, reflecting, in part, the
availability of fresh alternatives. This situation affects operating results as
sales volumes, revenues and profitability decline during this period. Results
over the remainder of the fiscal year are affected by many factors including
industry supply and the Company's share of that supply. See "-- Seasonality."
 
     Consistent with the Company's strategy to generate growth through
acquisitions, the Company consummated the Contadina Acquisition in December
1997. The Contadina Acquisition contributes another established brand and
positions the Company as the branded market leader in the high margin canned
solid tomato category. The Contadina Acquisition also establishes a strong
presence for the Company in the branded paste-based tomato products category,
which includes tomato paste, tomato sauce and pizza sauce. The Company believes
that Contadina's strong brand recognition, particularly in paste-based tomato
products, complements the Company's brand leadership in canned solid tomato
products and will enhance the Company's market share and household penetration.
See "Prospectus Summary -- Summary Historical Financial Data of Contadina" and
"Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data." The Company also recently announced an
agreement with Nabisco to reacquire rights to the Del Monte brand in South
America and to purchase Nabisco's canned fruits and vegetables business in
Venezuela. See "Recent Developments."
 
     In addition to diversifying further the Company's revenue base, the
Contadina Acquisition will expand the Company's processing scale, which the
Company believes will result in production cost efficiencies. Moreover, among
the facilities acquired by the Company is a state-of-the-art manufacturing
facility at Hanford, California. As part of its efforts to consolidate
production, tomato production at the Company's Modesto, California facility is
expected to be transferred to Hanford following the summer 1998 pack. The
Modesto facility would then be converted to a fruit processing facility and
would assume the production currently conducted at the Company's San Jose and
Stockton facilities in California, which are expected to be closed after the
summer 1999 and 2000 packs, respectively. It is anticipated that these
properties will be sold in the year following closure. In connection with these
actions, the Company recorded charges of $7 million in the third quarter of
fiscal 1998, principally relating to severance. The Company anticipates that it
will incur material additional charges as a result of these plant closures,
including the effects of adjusting the assets' remaining useful lives to
accelerate the depreciation thereof, the costs to remove and dispose of those
assets and ongoing fixed costs to be incurred during the Modesto plant
reconfiguration and until the sale of the San Jose and Stockton properties. See
Note N to the consolidated financial statements for the nine-month period ended
March 31, 1998. The Company is continuing to evaluate its production facilities
and believes that further consolidations may be appropriate. In conjunction with
the purchase price allocation relating to the Contadina Acquisition, the Company
has stepped up the value of the purchased inventory. Such step-up is estimated
to be $4 million.
 
     Commencing in 1996, the Company has sought to leverage its brand and price
leadership to improve sales and operating margins and, to that end, increased
prices for many of its fruit and vegetable products in that year. As a result,
the Company experienced an anticipated volume loss and market share decline. In
the case of its fruit operations, the Company lost 3.3 percentage points of
market share during fiscal 1996. However,
 
                                       30
<PAGE>   37
 
the Company's significantly improved margins generally offset the effects of the
lower volume, and the Company's market share recovered by year-end 1997 to
achieve an increase of 5.1 percentage points of market share during 1997, a
level higher than that experienced prior to the price increases. In the case of
its vegetable operations, the Company lost 3.8 percentage points of market share
during fiscal 1996 and 0.1 of a percentage point of market share during fiscal
1997. The Company coupled these price increases with a new marketing strategy
that emphasizes consumption-driven trade promotion programs, as well as
consumer-targeted promotions such as advertising and coupons, to encourage
retailers to use store advertisements, displays and consumer-targeted
promotions, rather than periodic price-only promotions. The Company plans to
continue to emphasize its status as a price leader and, in 1997, in connection
with the Recapitalization, began implementing a new business strategy designed
to improve sales and operating margins by: (i) increasing market share and
household penetration of high margin value-added products; (ii) introducing
product and packaging innovations; (iii) increasing penetration of high growth
distribution channels, such as supercenters and warehouse clubs; (iv) achieving
cost savings through operating efficiencies, plant consolidations and
investments in new and upgraded production equipment; and (v) completing
strategic acquisitions.
 
     In fiscal 1995, Del Monte terminated an exclusive supply agreement with
Pacific Coast Producers, an unaffiliated grower co-operative ("PCP"), to
purchase substantially all of PCP's tomato and fruit production. Since
terminating its agreement with PCP, the Company on occasion buys from and sells
to PCP a limited amount of product on a spot basis. During fiscal 1996 and the
first half of fiscal 1997, the Company sold its pudding business, its 50.1%
interest in Del Monte Philippines and all of its interest in Del Monte Latin
America. At the end of fiscal 1997, a distribution agreement expired under which
Del Monte sold certain products for Yorkshire Dried Fruits and Nuts, Inc.
("Yorkshire") at cost. These events are collectively referred to as the
"Divested Operations."
 
     The following table sets forth the net proceeds received by the Company in
connection with the sale of the Divested Operations and, for the periods
indicated, the net sales generated by the Divested Operations prior to
disposition by the Company:
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            NET PROCEEDS      NET SALES FROM DIVESTED
                                          FISCAL YEAR     FROM DISPOSITION/     OPERATIONS PRIOR TO
          DIVESTED OPERATION             ENDED JUNE 30,      TERMINATION      DISPOSITION/TERMINATION
          ------------------             --------------   -----------------   -----------------------
                                                                         (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                      <C>              <C>                 <C>
Del Monte pudding business.............       1996              $  89(a)               $  15(a)
                                              1995                 --                     47
Del Monte Philippines .................       1996                100(b)                 102(b)
                                              1995                 --                    142
Del Monte Latin America................       1997                 48(c)                  17(c)
                                              1996                 --                     55
                                              1995                 --                     65
PCP....................................       1996                 --                     26(d)
                                              1995                 --(d)                 124(d)
Yorkshire..............................       1997                 --(e)                  31(e)
                                              1996                 --                     35
                                              1995                 --                     39
</TABLE>
    
 
- ---------------
 
(a) The Company divested its pudding business in November 1995.
(b) In connection with the sale, which was consummated in March 1996, the
    Company entered into an eight-year supply agreement with the acquiror.
(c) The Company divested its Latin American operations in the second quarter of
    fiscal 1997.
(d) The Company entered into a consent decree with the U.S. Federal Trade
    Commission (the "FTC") pursuant to which the Company agreed to terminate its
    supply agreement with PCP. The Company terminated that supply agreement in
    June 1995. The Company sold the remaining inventory during fiscal 1996.
(e) The Company's distribution agreement with Yorkshire expired in June 1997.
 
                                       31
<PAGE>   38
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
     The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain items
from the Company's consolidated statements of operations, expressed as
percentages of the Company's net sales for such periods:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             FISCAL YEAR                    NINE MONTHS
                                            ENDED JUNE 30,                ENDED MARCH 31,
                                    ------------------------------    ------------------------
                                     1995      1996        1997          1997          1998
                                    ------    ------    ----------    ----------    ----------
                                                        (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)
<S>                                 <C>       <C>       <C>           <C>           <C>
Net sales.......................       100%      100%        100%         100%          100%
Cost of products sold...........        78        76          67           68            68
                                       ---       ---       -----       ------        ------
Gross profit....................        22        24          33           32            32
Selling, advertising,
  administrative and general
  expense and other expense.....        17        18          27           25            26
                                       ---       ---       -----       ------        ------
Operating income................         5%        6%          6%           7%            6%
                                       ---       ---       -----       ------        ------
                                       ---       ---       -----       ------        ------
Interest expense................         5%        5%          4%           4%            6%
                                       ---       ---       -----       ------        ------
                                       ---       ---       -----       ------        ------
</TABLE>
 
     The following tables set forth, for the periods indicated, the Company's
net sales by product category, expressed in dollar amounts and as percentages of
the Company's total net sales for such periods:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  FISCAL YEAR              NINE MONTHS
                                                 ENDED JUNE 30,          ENDED MARCH 31,
                                           --------------------------    ----------------
                                            1995      1996      1997      1997      1998
                                           ------    ------    ------    ------    ------
                                                           (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                        <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
NET SALES:
Canned vegetables(a)...................    $  441    $  402    $  437     $336      $358
Canned fruit(a)........................       394       367       431      335       343
Tomato products(a).....................       211       217       229      168       211
Canned pineapple(a)....................        66        72        65       50        50
Other(b)...............................       219        89        41       33         6
                                           ------    ------    ------     ----      ----
          Subtotal domestic............     1,331     1,147     1,203      922       968
Latin America..........................        65        55        17       17        --
Philippines............................       180       142        --       --        --
Intercompany sales.....................       (49)      (39)       (3)      (3)       --
                                           ------    ------    ------     ----      ----
          Total net sales..............    $1,527    $1,305    $1,217     $936      $968
                                           ======    ======    ======     ====      ====
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  FISCAL YEAR              NINE MONTHS
                                                 ENDED JUNE 30,          ENDED MARCH 31,
                                           --------------------------    ----------------
                                            1995      1996      1997      1997      1998
                                           ------    ------    ------    ------    ------
<S>                                        <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
AS A PERCENTAGE OF NET SALES:
Canned vegetables(a)...................        29%       31%       36%      36%       37%
Canned fruit(a)........................        26        28        35       36        35
Tomato products(a).....................        14        16        19       18        22
Canned pineapple(a)....................         4         6         5        5         5
Other(b)...............................        14         7         4        3         1
                                              ---       ---       ---     ----      ----
          Subtotal domestic............        87        88        99       98       100
Latin America..........................         4         4         1        2        --
Philippines............................        12        11        --       --        --
Intercompany sales.....................        (3)       (3)       --       --        --
                                              ---       ---       ---     ----      ----
          Total........................       100%      100%      100%     100%      100%
                                              ---       ---       ---     ----      ----
                                              ---       ---       ---     ----      ----
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
(a) Includes sales of the entire product line across each channel of
    distribution, including sales to grocery chains, warehouse clubs,
    supercenters, mass merchandisers and other grocery retailers, as well as the
    Company's foodservice, food ingredients, export and vegetable private label
    businesses and military sales.
 
                                       32
<PAGE>   39
 
(b) Includes dried fruit, gel and pudding cups and certain other retail
    products, as well as the Company's private label fruit and tomato
    businesses, which were discontinued in fiscal 1995 with the termination of
    the alliance with PCP.
 
SEASONALITY
 
     The Company's quarterly operating results have varied in the past and are
likely to vary in the future based upon a number of factors. The Company's
historical net sales have exhibited seasonality, with the second and third
fiscal quarters having the highest net sales. These two quarters reflect
increased sales of the Company's products during the holiday period in the
United States extending from late November through December, as well as sales
associated with the Easter holiday. Net sales in the first fiscal quarter have
historically been affected by lower levels of promotional activity, the
availability of fresh produce and other factors. Quarterly gross profit
primarily reflects fluctuations in sales volumes and is also affected by the
overall product mix. The Company's fruit operations have a greater percentage of
annual sales and cost of sales in the first fiscal quarter, as compared to its
vegetable and tomato operations, due principally to increased sales of fruit
cups during the "back to school" period. The Company's vegetable and fruit
operations have a greater percentage of annual sales and cost of sales in the
second and third fiscal quarters, principally due to the year-end holiday season
in the United States, and sales of ketchup and related cost of sales typically
increase in the fourth fiscal quarter. Selling, advertising, general and
administrative expenses tend to be greater in the first half of the fiscal year,
reflecting promotional expenses relating to the "back to school" period and the
year-end holiday season, while Easter is the only major holiday in the second
half of the fiscal year.
 
     During the early 1990s, the markets for the Company's principal canned
vegetable and fruit products were in a position of stable demand and excess
supply. This excess supply primarily resulted from overplanting and abundant
harvests of raw product, combined with processing over-capacity. During such
periods of industry oversupply, pressure was placed on absolute volumes and
gross margins. The Company, as well as certain of its competitors, implemented
vegetable plant closures in an attempt to reduce processing over-capacity. The
summer 1995 pack was below average for both vegetables and fruit due to flooding
in the Midwest and heavy rains in California during the winter and spring of
1995. As a result, inventory levels during fiscal 1996 were lower than in
previous years, leaving industry supply for vegetables and fruit in a
balanced-to-tight position. The summer 1996 pack was slightly below average for
fruit, while tomato production was slightly higher than expected. Vegetable
production during the summer of 1996 was above average. This, coupled with an
industry decrease in sales, resulted in higher than expected carry-in
inventories (inventories on hand at the start of a packing season) of
vegetables. In response, planned vegetable plantings were decreased for summer
1997 which resulted in higher vegetable costs. In addition, cooler weather than
normal resulted in late plantings for some vegetables causing lower recoveries,
while smaller fruit size lowered raw product fruit recoveries. These conditions
have had very little impact on the Company's supply of product available for
sale, however, since carry-in inventories were adequate to cover shortfalls from
the summer 1997 harvest.
 
     The weather conditions which existed during the summer of 1995 resulted in
reduced acreage yields and production recoveries of fruits and vegetables which
negatively impacted the Company's production costs in fiscal 1996. During fiscal
1996, the Company's management developed a strategy to increase prices. These
price increases resulted in volume and market share decreases for the Company
during fiscal 1996 as competitors sold greater volume because their prices
remained below the Company's. Despite the reduced market share, the Company's
profitability was significantly higher in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1996 as a
result of higher net selling prices. These price increases were applied to all
product lines in fiscal 1997. Although the Company's aggregate volumes decreased
in fiscal 1997 as compared to fiscal 1996, the Company regained and exceeded
prior year fruit market share while vegetable market share was maintained and
profitability growth continued due to these higher net selling prices.
Profitability growth and market share may be unfavorably affected in the future
due to the market dynamics of available supply and competitors' pricing.
 
     In the winter and spring of 1997-98, certain areas in California, one of
the Company's principal growing regions for tomatoes and fruit, experienced
substantial rainfall as a result of the "El Nino" phenomenon. The Company
believes that the 1998 California fruit and tomato harvests and raw product
recoveries are likely to
                                       33
<PAGE>   40
 
be somewhat reduced as a result of these weather conditions and that the Company
is likely to incur increased cost of products sold. Such circumstances may also
adversely affect the Company's sales volumes and inventory levels. Historically,
significant weather-related shortages in fruit, vegetable and tomato harvests
have resulted in price increases that have offset increases in raw product costs
and reductions in sales volumes. While the Company believes that the overall
effects of the El Nino phenomenon will not be material to its financial
condition and results of operations, no assurance can be given that the Company
will be able to achieve price increases sufficient to offset any reduction in
sales volume or increase in its cost of products sold.
 
NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1998 VS. NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1997
 
  Contadina Acquisition
 
     On December 19, 1997, the Company completed the Contadina Acquisition for a
total of $197 million, comprised of a base price of $177 million and an
estimated working capital adjustment of approximately $20 million. The
consideration was paid solely in cash. The purchase price was subject to
adjustment based on the final calculation of net working capital as of the
closing date. Nestle provided its calculation of the net working capital, which
resulted in a payment to the Company of $2 million, and therefore a reduction in
the purchase price to a total of $195 million. The Contadina Acquisition also
included the assumption of certain liabilities of approximately $5 million,
consisting principally of liabilities in respect of reusable packaging
materials, employee benefits and product claims. Results of operations for the
nine months ended March 31, 1998 include $7 million of acquisition expenses
related to the Contadina Acquisition. The Contadina Acquisition was accounted
for using the purchase method of accounting. See "Prospectus Summary -- Summary
Historical Financial Data of Contadina," "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data"
and "-- Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Financing Activities -- 1998
Activity -- Contadina Acquisition."
 
  Net Sales
 
     Consolidated net sales for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 increased
by $32 million, or 3.4%, from the nine months ended March 31, 1997 due to higher
sales across all businesses and the Contadina Acquisition. Net sales, after
adjusting for the effect of the Divested Operations, were $968 million for the
nine months ended March 31, 1998 as compared to $893 million for the nine months
ended March 31, 1997, an increase of $75 million or 8.4%. Fruit volume and net
sales increased slightly for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 as compared to
the nine months ended March 31, 1997, primarily due to an increase in retail
fruit cup sales and sales of flavored fruits, which were introduced in 1997. Due
to competitive pricing pressures in the fruit foodservice market, the gains in
retail fruit sales in the nine months ended March 31, 1998 were partially offset
by volume and sales declines in the foodservice business. The vegetable business
experienced an increase of 6.3% and 6.5% in sales volumes and net sales,
respectively, for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 as compared to the nine
months ended March 31, 1997. The increase in sales volumes and net sales for the
vegetable business has been affected by the Company's use of an effective mix of
targeted trade and consumer promotions in addressing competitive discounting by
other manufacturers. The tomato business also experienced an increase in sales
volumes and net sales for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 as compared to
the nine months ended March 31, 1997, primarily due to the Contadina
Acquisition.
 
  Cost of Products Sold and Gross Profit
 
     Gross margin was 32.3% for both of the nine-month periods ended March 31,
1997 and 1998. Gross margin (excluding the Divested Operations) was 32.3% and
33.5% for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Costs
increased for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 as compared to the comparable
prior period. However, these increased costs were offset in part by a favorable
sales mix of higher margin products. Increased costs for the nine months ended
March 31, 1998 reflect primarily an increase in processing costs caused by a
compressed harvesting season for fruit which resulted in the increased use of
cold storage until processing capacity became available. Also affecting costs
were reduced plantings for some vegetables and lower fruit raw product
recoveries due to adverse weather conditions. Adverse harvesting conditions did
not materially affect the Company's supply of product available for sale,
however, since inventory balances at the end of fiscal 1997 were adequate to
cover shortfalls in production in fiscal 1998. In
 
                                       34
<PAGE>   41
 
addition, $2 million of inventory step-up resulting from the purchase price
allocation related to the Contadina Acquisition has been included in cost of
products sold.
 
  Selling, Advertising, Administrative and General Expense
 
     Selling, advertising, administrative and general expense as a percentage of
net sales (excluding the Divested Operations) was 25.7% and 26.0% for the nine
months ended March 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Selling, advertising,
administrative and general expense for the nine months ended March 31, 1998
increased to $249 million from $235 million for the nine months ended March 31,
1997. The Company addressed competitive discounting in the marketplace in its
vegetable and tomato businesses by increasing spending on an effective mix of
targeted trade and consumer promotions. In addition, in the third quarter of
fiscal 1998, the Company recorded accruals of $7 million for severance and
related benefit costs of employees to be terminated in connection with a plant
consolidation plan. As previously disclosed, management has implemented a plan
to consolidate the Company's manufacturing operations.
 
  Interest Expense
 
     The 56.8% increase in interest expense for the nine months ended March 31,
1998 as compared to the nine months ended March 31, 1997 was due primarily to
higher outstanding debt balances resulting from the Recapitalization, which
occurred in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1997.
 
  Provision for Income Taxes
 
     There was no provision for income taxes for the nine months ended March 31,
1998 as compared to a provision of $2 million for the nine months ended March
31, 1997 because of the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards for
which no benefit has been recognized and because of a change in the valuation
allowance.
 
  Net Income
 
     Net income for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 decreased by $19
million as compared to the nine months ended March 31, 1997. The decrease in net
income was primarily due to the plant consolidation severance accrual of $7
million and the increase in interest expense over the comparable prior period.
 
THREE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 1997
 
  Net Sales
 
     Consolidated net sales for fiscal 1996 decreased $222 million or 15% from
the prior year due to lower volumes in domestic operations. Net sales for the
domestic operations, (excluding the Divested Operations) were $1,072 million for
fiscal 1996 as compared to $1,110 million for fiscal 1995, a decrease of $38
million or 3%. The Company increased retail fruit and vegetable prices; however,
these price increases were not immediately followed by the competition and
resulted in lower sales volumes as compared to the prior year. In fiscal 1996,
the Company's market share for Del Monte brand vegetables was 20.4% versus 24.1%
for the previous year, and the Company's market share for Del Monte brand fruit
was 35.5% versus 38.8% for the previous year. Consolidated net sales for fiscal
1997 decreased by $88 million or 7% from \fiscal 1996. This decrease was
attributable to the absence of the Divested Operations. Net sales for the
domestic operations, after adjusting for the effect of Divested Operations,
increased by $97 million from $1,072 million in fiscal 1996 to $1,169 million in
fiscal 1997 due to higher prices across all product lines. The retail vegetable
and fruit businesses increased prices in the second half of fiscal 1996. The
export and foodservice businesses each increased fruit prices at the beginning
of fiscal 1997. Generally balanced industry supplies of fruit and the Company's
emphasis on consumer promotions were contributing factors towards realizing the
higher prices. Volume increases in the fruit business were more than offset by
volume decreases in the vegetable and tomato businesses. The volume decrease in
the Company's vegetable business reflects, in part, an overall decline in canned
vegetable consumption. In fiscal 1997, the Company's market share for Del Monte
brand vegetable
 
                                       35
<PAGE>   42
 
products was 20.3% versus 20.4% in the previous year, while the Company's market
share for Del Monte brand fruit products was 40.5% compared to 35.5% for the
previous year.
 
     Del Monte Philippines' net sales for the first nine months of fiscal 1996,
until the Company's sale of its interest in this joint venture, accounted for 8%
of consolidated net sales for the year ended June 30, 1996. Del Monte Latin
America's net sales for fiscal 1996 (4% of consolidated sales in fiscal 1996)
decreased $10 million or 15% even though volumes were at approximately the same
level as the prior year period. This decrease was primarily due to the
significant Mexican peso devaluation.
 
  Cost of Products Sold and Gross Profit
 
     Gross margin was 22.5%, 24.6% and 32.7% in fiscal 1995, 1996 and 1997,
respectively. Domestic gross margin (excluding the Divested Operations) was
26.4%, 26.4% and 33.8% in fiscal 1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively. Higher
selling prices, changes in marketing strategy and relatively stable costs
resulted in significantly higher gross profit margin than in prior years. In
fiscal 1996, higher manufacturing costs were offset by price increases across
all major product lines.
 
     Del Monte Philippines' gross margins were 11.8% and 17.4% in fiscal 1995
and 1996, respectively. Gross margins for Del Monte Latin America were 23.8% and
24.3% in fiscal 1995 and 1996, respectively. The increases in fiscal 1996
resulted primarily from opportunistic price increases due to inflationary
conditions in Mexico with a lag in increases of cost of goods sold due to
seasonal packing.
 
  Selling, Advertising, Administrative and General Expense
 
     Selling, advertising, administrative and general expense as a percentage of
net sales (excluding the Divested Operations) was 21.2%, 19.8% and 27.5% in
fiscal 1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively. Selling, advertising, administrative
and general expense for fiscal 1997 increased significantly due to the
Recapitalization and the change in marketing strategy. Expenses incurred
primarily for management incentive payments and, in part, for severance payments
incurred related to the Recapitalization were approximately $25 million.
Marketing spending increased as the Company placed more emphasis on consumer
promotion programs versus discounts from retailers' list prices than in the
prior year.
 
     Included in general and administrative expenses are research and
development costs of $6 million, $6 million and $5 million for fiscal 1995, 1996
and 1997, respectively. Research and development spending in fiscal 1995, 1996
and 1997 remained focused on strategic spending to maintain the existing
business and to develop product line extensions.
 
  Interest Expense
 
     The 12% decrease in interest expense for fiscal 1996 compared to fiscal
1995 resulted from lower net borrowings under the Company's revolving credit
facility and lower outstanding debt balances resulting in part from the sale of
the Divested Operations. Interest expense decreased 22% in fiscal 1997 compared
to fiscal 1996. This decrease was due to the lower outstanding debt balances
during the first nine months of fiscal 1997 (before the Recapitalization).
 
  Other (Income) Expense
 
     Other income for fiscal 1995 reflects the Company's receipt of the proceeds
of a $30 million letter of credit (reduced by $4 million of related transaction
expenses) as a result of the termination of the merger agreement with Grupo
Empacador de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. in September 1994. Other expense for fiscal
1997 increased due to $22 million of expenses incurred in the Recapitalization
(primarily legal, investment advisory and management fees). Also included in
fiscal 1997 other expense is $7 million relating to the recognition of an other
than temporary impairment of a long-term equity investment. Such impairment was
recognized as a result of the deteriorating financial condition of the investee
company, the lack of payment of dividends by such company over a 15-month period
and the planned sale of such company in connection with which its majority
investors ascribed no value to the Company's equity investment.
 
                                       36
<PAGE>   43
 
  Provision for Income Taxes
 
     The tax provision increased to $11 million in fiscal 1996 from $2 million
in fiscal 1995 primarily due to alternative minimum tax and state income tax as
a result of the sales of divested assets in fiscal 1996. There was no tax
provision in fiscal 1997 compared to a provision of $11 million in fiscal 1996.
This decrease was primarily due to the expenses of the Recapitalization. As of
June 30, 1997, the Company had $84 million in net operating loss carryforwards
for tax purposes, which will expire between 2008 and 2012.
 
  Extraordinary Loss
 
     In June 1995, the Company refinanced its then-outstanding revolving credit
facility, term loan and senior notes. The net proceeds of the pudding business
sale and proceeds of the Del Monte Philippines sale were used for the early
retirement of debt. In conjunction with this early debt retirement, in the
second and fourth quarters of fiscal 1996, $5 million in capitalized debt issue
costs were written off and $5 million primarily related to a prepayment premium
were charged to income, both of which have been accounted for as an
extraordinary item. In conjunction with the debt retirement, capitalized debt
issue costs of $7 million were written off and accounted for as an extraordinary
loss as required by generally accepted accounting principles. In conjunction
with an exchange offer, capitalized debt issue costs of approximately $4
million, net of a discount, were charged to net income in fiscal 1997 and
accounted for as an extraordinary loss. In conjunction with the refinancing of
debt that occurred at the time of the Recapitalization, previously capitalized
debt issue costs of approximately $19 million and a note premium and a term loan
make-whole aggregating $19 million were charged to fiscal 1997 net income and
accounted for as an extraordinary loss.
 
  Cumulative Effect of Accounting Change
 
     Effective July 1, 1995, the Company adopted SFAS No. 121, "Accounting for
the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed
Of." The cumulative effect of adopting SFAS No. 121 resulted in a charge to
fiscal 1996 net earnings of $7 million.
 
  Net Income
 
     Net income for fiscal 1996 increased by $99 million from fiscal 1995 due to
the $123 million gain on sale of the Company's pudding business and Del Monte
Philippines in fiscal 1996. Net income for fiscal 1997 decreased by $162 million
as compared to fiscal 1996 primarily due to expenses associated with the
Recapitalization of $85 million and loss on the sale of Del Monte Latin America
of $5 million in fiscal 1997.
 
RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
 
     In October 1996, the AICPA Accounting Standards Executive Committee issued
Statement of Position ("SOP") No. 96-1 "Environmental Remediation Liabilities."
The SOP provides guidance with respect to the recognition, measurement and
disclosure of environmental remediation liabilities. SOP No. 96-1 is required to
be adopted for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1996. The Company has
adopted SOP 96-1 for the first quarter of fiscal year 1998 and, based on current
circumstances, does not believe the effect of adoption will be material.
 
     The Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") recently issued SFAS
No. 129, "Disclosure of Information about Capital Structure"; SFAS No. 130,
"Reporting Comprehensive Income"; SFAS No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of
an Enterprise and Related Information"; and SFAS No. 132 "Employers' Disclosures
about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits." The Company believes the
effect of adoption of these statements will not be material.
 
YEAR 2000
 
     In the first quarter of fiscal 1998, the Company contracted with its
information services outsourcing provider, Electronic Data Systems Corporation
("EDS"), to implement substantially all of the Company's Year 2000 compliance
project. EDS maintains and operates most of the Company's software applications
and
 
                                       37
<PAGE>   44
 
also owns and operates a significant portion of the related hardware. The
Company's compliance project is expected to be completed by June 1999. The total
cost of the project is not material to the Company's expected cash outlays and
is being funded through operating cash flow. The Company is expensing all costs
associated with these system changes as the costs are incurred. The Company is
also conducting inquiries regarding the Year 2000 compliance programs of its key
suppliers and selected customers. No assurance can be given that the Company's
suppliers and customers will all be Year 2000 compliant. The Company cannot
predict to what extent its operations may be adversely affected if they are not
compliant.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
   
     The Company's primary cash requirements are to fund debt service, finance
seasonal working capital needs and make capital expenditures. Internally
generated funds and amounts available under the Revolving Credit Facility are
the Company's primary sources of liquidity. See Note D to the Company's
consolidated financial statements as of and for the nine months ended March 31,
1998. In connection with the Offering, the Company plans to amend and restate
the terms of the Bank Financing, including the Revolving Credit Facility, as
described under "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
    
 
     Management believes that cash flow from operations and availability under
the Revolving Credit Facility will provide adequate funds for the Company's
working capital needs, planned capital expenditures and debt service obligations
for at least the next 12 months. The Revolving Credit Facility is the Company's
only revolving credit facility. See "-- Financing Activities -- 1997
Activity -- Bank Financing" and "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
 
     The Company's ability to fund its cash requirements and to remain in
compliance with all of the financial covenants under its debt agreements depends
on its future operating performance and cash flow, which, in turn, are subject
to prevailing economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors,
some of which are beyond its control. The Company actively considers various
means of reducing inventory levels to improve cash flow.
 
   
     As part of its business strategy, the Company continuously reviews
acquisition opportunities. The Company believes that any acquisition would
likely require the incurrence of additional debt, which could exceed amounts
available under the Bank Financing. As a result, completion of any such
acquisition could require the consent of the lenders under the Bank Financing
and the amendment and restatement of the terms thereof, including for purposes
of permitting the Company's compliance with its covenants thereunder. There can
be no assurance as to whether, or the terms on which, the lenders under the Bank
Financing would grant such consent.
    
 
  Operating Activities
 
     The working capital position of the Company is seasonally affected by the
growing cycle of the vegetables, fruit and tomatoes it processes. Substantially
all inventories are produced during the harvesting and packing months of June
through October and depleted through the remaining seven months. Accordingly,
working capital requirements fluctuate significantly. The Company uses funds
from its Revolving Credit Facility, which currently provides for a $350 million
line of credit, to finance the seasonal working capital needs of its operations.
See "Description of Certain Indebtedness -- Bank Financing."
 
     Cash provided by operating activities in the nine months ended March 31,
1998 was $9 million as compared to $26 million for the same period in fiscal
1997. The increase in inventories (excluding the acquired Contadina inventory)
at March 31, 1998 from June 30, 1997 reflects the seasonal inventory buildup.
The increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses from June 30, 1997 to
March 31, 1998 primarily reflects accrued expenses resulting from higher levels
of trade and consumer promotions and accruals remaining from the peak production
period. As of March 31, 1998, $68 million was outstanding under the Revolving
Credit Facility, compared to $82 million at June 30, 1997.
 
     Cash provided by operating activities decreased by $3 million in fiscal
1996 over fiscal 1995 primarily due to a decrease in inventories and in accounts
receivable offset by a decrease in accounts payable and accrued
 
                                       38
<PAGE>   45
 
expenses. The decrease in inventories resulted from high carry-over inventories
from fiscal 1995 versus low inventory levels at the end of fiscal 1996 due to a
tight industry supply of certain inventory items. The decrease in accounts
receivable resulted primarily from a decrease in sales activity during June 1996
as compared to June 1995. The decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses
was due primarily to a decrease in amounts payable to PCP due to the termination
of a joint venture at the end of fiscal 1995 and a decrease in marketing
accruals due to a change in marketing strategy during fiscal 1996. Also
affecting accrued expenses in fiscal 1996 was a charge to an accrual established
in fiscal 1993 to implement multi-year cost savings measures. The decrease
occurred as costs associated with fiscal 1996 consolidation efforts were charged
to this accrual. In fiscal 1997, cash provided by operations decreased by $35
million over fiscal 1996 primarily due to various expenses associated with the
Recapitalization, as well as an increase in inventories due to lower sales
volume during the year than anticipated.
 
  Investing Activities
 
     The increase of $191 million in cash provided by investing activities in
fiscal 1996 versus fiscal 1995 and the decrease of $133 million in cash provided
by investing activities in fiscal 1997 versus fiscal 1996 was principally due to
net cash proceeds from the sale of the Company's pudding business ($85 million)
and the sale of the Company's interest in Del Monte Philippines ($98 million) in
fiscal 1996. The effect of the fiscal 1996 divested asset sales was partially
offset in fiscal 1997 by the sale of Del Monte Latin America ($48 million).
 
     Capital expenditures for fiscal 1997 were $20 million including
approximately $1 million for environmental compliance. The Company expects that
capital expenditures during fiscal 1998 will be approximately $35 million as the
Company implements a new program which is intended to generate cost savings by
introducing new equipment that would result in general production efficiencies.
Approximately $15 million of such amount had been spent through March 1998. The
Company also plans an aggregate of approximately $136 million of additional
capital expenditures through 2001, of which $54 million, $58 million and $24
million is expected to be spent in fiscal 1999, 2000 and 2001, respectively. In
fiscal 1999, the Company intends to spend approximately $28 million in
connection with its plans to consolidate processing operations and $6 million
for general manufacturing improvements. Of the anticipated capital expenditures
for fiscal 2000, the Company plans to spend approximately $32 million in
connection with its plans to consolidate processing operations. In addition to
the foregoing, the Company budgets certain amounts for ordinary repairs and
maintenance. The Company continually evaluates its capital expenditure
requirements, and such plans are subject to change depending on market
conditions, the Company's cash position, the availability of alternate means of
financing and other factors. Capital expenditures are expected to be funded from
internally generated cash flows and by borrowing from available financing
sources.
 
  Financing Activities -- 1998 Activity
 
   
     The Refinancing. In connection with the Offering, the Company plans to
amend and restate the terms of the Bank Financing (the "Refinancing"). A copy of
the proposed form of the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement is filed
as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a
part. For a description of the terms of the Bank Financing, as it is proposed to
be amended and restated, see "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
    
 
     Contadina Acquisition. In connection with the $195 million Contadina
Acquisition, Del Monte issued the Del Monte Notes with an aggregate principal
amount at maturity of $230 million and received gross proceeds of approximately
$126 million. The Del Monte Notes accrue interest at 12.50% payable on each June
15 and December 15, which will be accreted through December 15, 2002, after
which time interest is required to be paid in cash until maturity. The Del Monte
Notes mature on December 15, 2007.
 
     In connection with the Contadina Acquisition, the Company also amended the
Bank Financing and certain related debt covenants to permit additional funding
under the existing Term B loan in an amount of $50 million, thus increasing the
aggregate amount outstanding under the Term Loan Facility to $430 million.
Amortization of such additional Term B loan amount is incremental to the
scheduled amortization of the
 
                                       39
<PAGE>   46
 
previously existing Term B loan. Such additional amortization will begin on a
quarterly basis in the second quarter of fiscal 1999 in the amount of $0.5
million on an annual basis with such amortization increasing in the fourth
quarter of fiscal 2004, through the third quarter of fiscal 2005, to
approximately $12 million per quarter.
 
  Financing Activities -- 1997 Activity
 
     The Recapitalization. On February 21, 1997, Del Monte entered into a merger
agreement (the "Merger Agreement"), which was amended and restated as of April
14, 1997, with TPG and a newly created merger vehicle ("Shield"). On April 18,
1997, Del Monte was recapitalized through the merger of Shield with and into Del
Monte, with Del Monte being the surviving corporation. By virtue of the
Recapitalization, shares of Del Monte's preferred stock having an implied value
of approximately $14 million held by certain of Del Monte's stockholders who
remained investors were cancelled and were converted into the right to receive
new Del Monte Common Stock. All other shares of Del Monte stock were cancelled
and were converted into the right to receive cash consideration. In connection
with the Recapitalization, the Company repaid substantially all of its funded
debt obligations existing immediately before the Recapitalization. In the
Recapitalization, the common stock and preferred stock of Shield was converted
into new shares of Common Stock and preferred stock, respectively, of Del Monte.
 
     Cash funding requirements for the Recapitalization totaled $809 million and
included repayment of $158 million of then outstanding notes, $113 million of
the then-existing term loan, and $30 million of the then-existing revolving
credit facility. In addition, $422 million was paid to former shareholders as
cash consideration for their shares and approximately $86 million was paid in
other fees and expenses. These cash funding requirements were satisfied through
the following: (i) a cash equity investment by TPG and other investors of $126
million in Common Stock; (ii) a cash equity investment by TPG and other
investors of $35 million in shares of redeemable preferred stock and warrants to
purchase Common Stock; (iii) $380 million of borrowings under the Term Loan
Facility; (iv) $119 million of borrowings under the revolving credit facility
(the "Revolving Credit Facility" and, together with the Term Loan Facility, the
"Bank Financing"); (v) $147 million from the net proceeds of the offering of the
DMC Notes; and (vi) $2 million of proceeds from the sale of a surplus property.
 
     Bank Financing. Concurrent with the Recapitalization, the Company entered
into the Bank Financing. The Term Loan Facility provides for term loans in the
aggregate amount of $380 million, consisting of Term Loan A of $200 million and
Term Loan B of $180 million. The Revolving Credit Facility provides for
revolving loans in an aggregate amount of $350 million, including a $70 million
Letter of Credit subfacility. The Revolving Credit Facility terminates in fiscal
2003, the Term Loan A will mature in fiscal 2003, and the Term Loan B will
mature in fiscal 2005. Scheduled principal payments on the Term Loan A begin in
the first quarter of fiscal 1999 and continue quarterly through maturity.
Initial quarterly amortization is approximately $8 million per quarter, rising
periodically at approximately $1 million per quarter to a final quarterly
amortization, beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2003, of approximately
$17 million through maturity. Scheduled principal payments on the Term Loan B
begin in the third quarter of fiscal 1998 and continue quarterly through
maturity. Initial quarterly amortization amounts to approximately $2 million per
year. Substantial amortization begins in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2004, with
quarterly amortization of approximately $42 million. The interest rates
applicable to amounts outstanding under the Term Loan A and the Revolving Credit
Facility are currently, at the Company's option, either (i) the base rate (the
higher of .50% above the Federal Funds Rate and the bank's reference rate) plus
1.00% or (ii) the reserve adjusted offshore rate plus 2.00%. Interest rates on
Term Loan B are, at the Company's option, either (i) the base rate plus 2.00% or
(ii) the offshore rate plus 3.00%. The Bank Financing is the Company's only
syndicated bank loan.
 
     Senior Subordinated Notes. In connection with the Recapitalization, on
April 18, 1997, Del Monte Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Del Monte
("DMC"), issued the DMC Notes with an aggregate principal amount of $150 million
and received gross proceeds of $147 million. The DMC Notes accrue interest at
12.25% per year, payable semiannually in cash on each April 15 and October 15.
The DMC Notes are guaranteed by Del Monte and mature on April 15, 2007. Del
Monte's guarantee is secured by a pledge of the stock of DMC.
 
                                       40
<PAGE>   47
 
     The terms of the Company's indebtedness contain restrictive covenants. See
"Description of Certain Indebtedness." The Company is in compliance with all
such covenants.
 
  Financing Activities -- 1996 Activity
 
     The increase in net cash used in financing activities of $180 million in
fiscal 1996 as compared to fiscal 1995 reflects a lower balance under the
Revolving Credit Facility at year-end 1996 versus 1995 and higher net pay-down
of long-term debt. The higher payments on the Revolving Credit Facility and
long-term debt were due to cash available from the Company's sales of the
pudding business and Del Monte Philippines. In connection with the early debt
repayment a prepayment penalty of $5 million was charged to income and recorded
as an extraordinary loss. Included in other financing activities in fiscal 1996
was a deposit of $30 million of Del Monte Philippines sale proceeds into a
collateral account until agreement was reached with the term lenders as to final
application.
 
PENSION FUNDING
 
     As described more fully in Note F to the audited consolidated financial
statements of the Company as of and for the year ended June 30, 1997, the
Company's defined benefit pension plans were determined to be underfunded. It
had been the Company's policy to fund the Company's retirement plans in an
amount consistent with the funding requirements of federal law and regulations
and not to exceed an amount that would be deductible for federal income tax
purposes. In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company has entered into
an agreement with the U.S. Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation dated April 7,
1997 whereby the Company contributed $15 million within 30 days after the
consummation of the Recapitalization to its defined benefit pension plans. The
Company will also contribute a minimum of $15 million in calendar 1998, of which
$10 million has been paid, $9 million in calendar 1999, $8 million in calendar
2000 and $8 million in calendar 2001, for a total of $55 million. The agreement
provides that the contributions required to be made in 1999, 2000 and 2001 will
be secured by a $20 million letter of credit to be obtained by the Company prior
to August 31, 1998, which date will be extended until June 15, 1999 upon the
consummation of the Refinancing. The contribution required to be made in 1998
will be paid prior to any scheduled amortization under the Bank Financing in
excess of $1 million, and the Company has agreed not to make voluntary
prepayments of the loans under the Bank Financing prior to making the
contribution required to be made in 1998 or prior to obtaining the letter of
credit.
 
TAX NET OPERATING LOSS CARRYFORWARDS
 
     As of June 30, 1997, the Company had $84 million in net operating loss
carryforwards, which will expire between 2008 and 2012. The Company's use of
these net operating loss carryforwards in any year may be limited by applicable
law.
 
INFLATION
 
     The Company's costs are affected by inflation and the effects of inflation
may be experienced by the Company in future periods. However, the Company has
historically mitigated the inflationary impact of increases in its costs by
controlling its overall cost structure.
 
                                       41
<PAGE>   48
 
                                    BUSINESS
 
GENERAL
 
     The Company was originally incorporated in 1916 and remained a publicly
traded company until its acquisition in 1979 by the predecessor of RJR Nabisco.
In December 1989, RJR Nabisco sold the Company's fresh produce operations
("Fresh Del Monte"), to Polly Peck International PLC ("Polly Peck"). In January
1990, an investor group led by Merrill Lynch & Co. ("ML&Co.") purchased the
Company and certain of its subsidiaries from RJR Nabisco for $1.5 billion (the
"RJR Nabisco Sale"). Following such sale, the Company divested several of its
non-core businesses and all of its foreign operations.
 
     The Company, a branded marketer of premium quality, nutritious food
products, is the largest producer and distributor of canned vegetables and
canned fruit in the United States, with pro forma net sales of $1.1 billion and
$1.4 billion for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 and the fiscal year ended
June 30, 1997, respectively. Management believes that the Company's principal
brand, Del Monte, which has been in existence since 1892, has the highest
unaided brand awareness of any canned food brand in the United States. Del Monte
brand products are found in substantially all national grocery chains and
independent grocery stores throughout the United States. As the brand leader in
three major processed food categories (canned vegetables, fruit and solid tomato
products), the Company has a full-line multi-category presence that management
believes provides it with a substantial competitive advantage in selling to the
retail grocery industry. The Contadina Acquisition contributes another
established brand and positions the Company as the branded market leader in the
high margin canned solid tomato category and establishes a strong presence for
the Company in the branded paste-based tomato products category. See "-- Company
Products."
 
     The Company sells its products to national grocery chains and wholesalers
through a nationwide sales network consisting primarily of independent food
brokers. The Company's direct sales force also sells to warehouse club stores,
selected mass merchandisers, such as Wal-Mart and Kmart, and larger mass
merchandising outlets that include full grocery sections, such as Wal-Mart
Supercenters and Kmart's SuperKs. In addition, the Company sells its products to
the foodservice industry, food processors and the military through different
independent food brokers. The Company also exports a small percentage of its
products to certain foreign countries directly and through independent exporters
based in the United States. See "-- Sales, Marketing and Distribution."
 
     The Company operates 15 production facilities in California, the Midwest,
Washington and Texas, as well as six strategically located distribution centers.
The Company has over 2,500 contracts to purchase vegetables and fruit from
individual growers and cooperatives located in various geographic regions of the
United States, principally California, the Midwest, the Northwest and Texas.
This diversity of sourcing helps insulate the Company from localized disruptions
during the growing season, such as weather conditions, that can affect the price
and supply of vegetables, fruit and tomatoes. See "-- Supply and Production."
 
     The Company owns a number of registered and unregistered trademarks that it
uses in conjunction with its business, including the trademarks Del Monte, Fruit
Cup, FreshCut, Snack Cups, Fruit Naturals, Orchard Select, Fruit Smoothie
Blenders, Del Monte Lite and Contadina. In connection with and subsequent to the
RJR Nabisco Sale, the Company granted various perpetual, exclusive royalty-free
licenses for the use of the Del Monte name and trademark, as well as the use of
certain copyrights, patents, and trade secrets, generally outside of the United
States. The licensees include Fresh Del Monte and its affiliates (which
succeeded to Polly Peck as the owner of the Company's former fresh produce
operations), Del Monte International, Kikkoman Corporation ("Kikkoman"),
affiliates of RJR Nabisco, and Yorkshire. None of the licensees is an affiliate
of the Company, other than Yorkshire with respect to which the Company owns 20%
of the common stock. See "Risk Factors -- Brand Risk" and "-- Intellectual
Property."
 
     In April 1997, the Company completed the Recapitalization as a result of
which Texas Pacific Group, a private investment group, obtained a controlling
interest in the Company. Under a new senior management team introduced in
connection with the Recapitalization, the Company began implementing a new
business strategy designed to increase sales and improve operating margins, by:
(i) increasing market share and distribution of high margin value-added
products; (ii) introducing product and packaging innovations;
                                       42
<PAGE>   49
 
(iii) increasing penetration of high growth distribution channels, such as
supercenters and warehouse clubs; (iv) achieving cost savings through
investments in new and upgraded production equipment and plant consolidations;
and (v) completing strategic acquisitions.
 
COMPETITIVE STRENGTHS
 
     Management believes that the following elements contribute to the Company's
position as a leading branded producer, marketer and distributor of canned
vegetables, fruit and tomato products in the United States and provide a solid
foundation for the Company's business strategy.
 
- -  STRONG BRAND NAME RECOGNITION AND LEADING MARKET SHARES -- The Del Monte
   brand name, which has been in existence since 1892, is one of the leading
   brand names in the food industry. Based on the ability of consumers to name
   the Del Monte brand when asked to identify companies that manufacture canned
   foods, management believes that the Del Monte brand has the highest unaided
   brand awareness of any canned food brand in the United States. The Company
   recently acquired the Contadina brand, an established national brand with a
   strong reputation for quality. For the 52 weeks ended March 31, 1998, the
   Company's 19.5% market share of canned vegetables was larger than the
   combined market shares of the Company's two largest branded competitors, and
   its 41.9% market share of canned fruit was larger than the combined market
   shares of all other branded competitors. The Company, including its Contadina
   business had a pro forma 16.3% market share in the high margin solid segment
   of the canned tomato market for the 52 weeks ended March 31, 1998. See
   "-- Company Products."
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      MARKET SHARE FOR 52 WEEKS ENDED
                                                               MARCH 28, 1998
                                           ------------------------------------------------------
                                             MARKET                       NEXT LEADING BRANDED
                CATEGORY                   POSITION(A)   PERCENTAGE    COMPETITOR'S PERCENTAGE(A)
                --------                   -----------   ----------    --------------------------
<S>                                        <C>           <C>           <C>
Canned vegetables........................      #1          19.5%       13.2% (Green Giant)
Canned fruit.............................      #1          41.9%       11.4% (Libby's)
Canned solid tomato products(b)..........      #1          16.3%       11.2% (Hunt's)
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
(a) Excludes private label.
(b) Pro forma to include Contadina sales.
 
- -  TECHNICAL EXPERTISE AND LOW COST PRODUCTION ADVANTAGES -- The Company has
   significant experience in developing new products and packaging alternatives
   and in engineering efficient food processing operations. These capabilities
   are leveragable across many food categories. The Company has developed
   proprietary vegetable seed varieties, which increase harvest and cannery
   recoveries and improve flavor and quality. The Company also benefits from
   many long-term relationships with experienced, geographically diverse growers
   who work with the Company to maximize yields of raw product. These
   relationships also help to ensure a consistent supply of raw product. As a
   result of its technical expertise, proprietary seed varieties and raw product
   sourcing diversity, as well as its modern processing equipment and labeling,
   packaging, warehousing and distribution efficiencies, management believes
   that the Company is one of the lowest cost producers of canned vegetables,
   fruit and tomatoes in the United States. See "-- Company Products" and
   "-- Supply and Production."
 
- -  PREFERRED SUPPLIER STATUS -- Competitive pressures in the retail food
   industry are causing many retailers to prefer large suppliers such as the
   Company that are able to provide consumer-favored brands, full product lines
   and sophisticated inventory and category management programs. Del Monte
   anticipated this trend and has developed proprietary software tools to assist
   its customers and promote sales of its products. Del Monte's proprietary
   category management system is designed to address retailers' efforts to
   maximize profitability of shelf space dedicated to canned food categories. A
   substantial majority of the Company's customers that have employed Del
   Monte's category management system have increased the relative amount of
   shelf space dedicated to the Company's products as compared to competing
   products. The Company's proprietary vendor-managed inventory software allows
   Del Monte to manage directly its customers' inventories of the Company's
   products. This inventory management software is designed to reduce customers'
   overhead costs and to enable them to achieve lower average inventory levels
   while
 
                                       43
<PAGE>   50
 
   enhancing the Company's opportunities to sell its products. Retailers also
   rely on Del Monte's in-depth knowledge as the leading branded marketer in the
   canned fruit, vegetable and tomato categories, and they seek the Company's
   advice on marketing and promoting these categories. Finally, Del Monte has
   strong, well-developed relationships with all major participants in the
   retail grocery trade. The Company believes that these relationships will
   become increasingly important as consolidation among grocery retailers
   continues. The Company is seeking to use its category knowledge, customer
   relationships and software tools, along with its multi-category product line
   that can readily be ordered and shipped on a full truck-load basis, to become
   the preferred supplier in its product categories. See "-- Sales, Marketing
   and Distribution."
 
- -  EXTENSIVE NATIONAL SALES AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM -- The Company's extensive
   sales and distribution network is responsible for the distribution of
   finished goods to over 2,400 customer destinations nationwide. This network
   enables the Company to compete with other national brands and regional
   competitors, and to introduce new products on a regional or national basis.
   The Company operates six strategically located distribution centers offering
   customers a variety of services, including electronic data interchange and
   direct store shipments. Management believes that the Company's distribution
   system makes an important contribution to the Company's success and provides
   the Company with a competitive advantage over regional and private label
   competitors. See "-- Sales, Marketing and Distribution."
 
- -  EXPERIENCED MANAGEMENT TEAM -- Richard G. Wolford and Wesley J. Smith, the
   Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, respectively,
   are veteran managers with extensive food industry experience. Mr. Wolford has
   30 years of experience in the food industry, 20 of which were with Dole. He
   was president of Dole Packaged Foods from 1982 to 1987, and during Mr.
   Wolford's tenure at Dole, Dole experienced increased profitability, sales
   volume and market share. Mr. Wolford played a key role in redefining the Dole
   brand and expanding the range of products sold under the brand. From 1988 to
   1996, he was Chief Executive Officer of HK Acquisition Corp. where he
   developed food industry investments with venture capital investors and
   managed the investor-owned companies. Mr. Smith has 25 years of experience,
   23 of which were with Dole, where he oversaw the building of Dole's domestic
   fresh pineapple business and the restructuring of Dole's sizable Hawaiian
   operations. In addition, Mr. Smith was responsible for establishing Dole's
   juice business at Dole with minimal capital investment. See "Management."
 
BUSINESS STRATEGY
 
     Following the consummation of the Recapitalization in 1997, the Company
implemented a new business strategy designed to increase sales and improve
operating margins. The key elements of this new business strategy are discussed
below.
 
- -  LEVERAGE BRAND EQUITY TO INCREASE SALES AND MARKET SHARE OF HIGH MARGIN
   PRODUCTS -- The Company plans to leverage the Del Monte and Contadina brand
   names and its strong relationships with customers to increase sales of its
   existing product lines, focusing specifically on high margin products, such
   as its specialty fruits and vegetables, diced tomatoes and its Fruit Cup
   line, where the Company has historically had either low market share or low
   household penetration relative to its overall category position.
 
- -  FOCUS ON CONSUMPTION-DRIVEN MARKETING STRATEGY -- To enhance its ability to
   leverage its brand equity, the Company has refocused its marketing efforts
   and promotional strategy. To leverage its brand strength, the Company has
   increased consumer-targeted marketing programs, primarily through the
   distribution of free-standing coupon inserts, and has established clearly
   differentiated product positioning that emphasizes the Company's premium
   quality. The Company increased spending on consumer promotions from $12
   million in fiscal 1996 to $46 million in fiscal 1997 and anticipates that its
   consumer spending in fiscal 1998 and 1999 will be generally consistent with
   levels of consumer spending in fiscal 1997. The Company has also improved the
   effectiveness of its trade promotion strategy. The Company has implemented
   performance-based programs under which trade spending, which consists of the
   costs of promotional activities with grocery chains and other customers, such
   as special displays, discounts and advertisements, is managed based on
   retailers' sales of the Company's products to consumers rather than on
   purchases
 
                                       44
<PAGE>   51
 
   from the Company. The Company believes that this performance-based strategy,
   coupled with the Company's category management capabilities, will continue to
   increase sales and reduce costs.
 
- -  IMPROVE PROFITABILITY THROUGH NEW PRODUCTS AND PACKAGING -- The Company is
   emphasizing new higher margin products and line extensions designed to
   leverage the Company's presence in its current product categories and to
   capitalize on its food technology expertise. The Company has successfully
   introduced flavored diced tomatoes, two lines of flavored canned fruit,
   Orchard Select, a premium fruit product packaged in glass, and Fruit Smoothie
   Blenders, a flavored fruit drink. These products extend the Company's
   traditional product lines and appeal to consumers' demands for high quality,
   convenient and nutritious food products. The Company is evaluating
   introductions of other new products packaged in glass and plastic to further
   expand its presence in the market beyond the processed food aisle.
 
- -  INCREASE PENETRATION OF HIGH-GROWTH DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS -- Changes in the
   retail grocery environment have resulted in substantial growth of alternative
   retailers such as warehouse clubs, mass merchandisers and supercenters. The
   Company believes it is well-positioned to benefit from these changes because
   these vendors generally seek leading brand name products that generate high
   inventory turnover. In addition, vendors in this category generally are
   attracted to large, technologically sophisticated suppliers such as the
   Company that have the ability to meet their stringent inventory and
   shelf-management requirements. Based on internal estimates and the broad
   range of products supplied by the Company to such retailers, the Company
   believes it is currently the leading supplier of canned vegetables and fruit
   to Wal-Mart's Sam's Club, and is a major supplier to PriceCostco. Based on
   such estimates, the Company also believes it is currently the leading
   supplier of canned vegetables, fruit and solid tomato products as a group to
   Wal-Mart Supercenters.
 
- -  IMPLEMENT FURTHER COST SAVINGS -- The Company is aggressively pursuing cost
   reduction opportunities, which have already contributed to an increase in
   Adjusted EBITDA margins (excluding the results of Divested Operations) from
   6.9% in 1995 to 10.2% in 1997 and 10.0% for the nine months ended March 31,
   1998. Management's strategy is to improve profitability through the
   implementation of capital projects that offer rapid returns on investment,
   and through plant consolidations and increased operating efficiencies. The
   Company has announced plans to consolidate, over the next three fiscal years,
   six existing fruit and tomato operations in California into four facilities,
   including one large state-of-the-art facility acquired as part of the
   Contadina Acquisition. The Company continually evaluates its production
   facilities and believes that further consolidations may be warranted in the
   future. In addition, the Company plans to continue to invest in new,
   state-of-the-art production equipment to increase production efficiencies and
   strengthen its position as a low cost producer. For example, such equipment
   includes high-speed, high-resolution vision sorting technology, which allows
   the rapid detection of defects in raw product, as well as high-speed,
   volumetric filling and continuous cooking equipment, which ensures accurate
   fill weights and uniform product quality.
 
- -  COMPLETE STRATEGIC ACQUISITIONS -- The Company will pursue strategic
   acquisitions when there are opportunities to leverage the Company's key
   strengths in product development, food processing, marketing, sales and
   distribution. In evaluating potential acquisition candidates, the Company
   seeks, among other things: (i) strong brands, including those in new product
   lines, that can be expanded by leveraging the Company's technical and
   manufacturing expertise and/or its sales and distribution systems; (ii) new
   products that can achieve growth through re-branding; and (iii) economies of
   scale in manufacturing, distribution and capacity utilization. The Contadina
   Acquisition, for example, adds a leading national brand which strengthens the
   Company's market share in key tomato segments and allows the Company to
   realize cost savings through plant consolidations. The Contadina Acquisition
   also allows the Company to introduce new branded retail products and to
   increase sales to the branded foodservice market. The Company also recently
   announced an agreement with Nabisco to reacquire rights to the Del Monte
   brand in South America and to purchase Nabisco's canned fruits and vegetables
   business in Venezuela. See "Recent Developments." The Company continuously
   reviews acquisition opportunities and at any time may be engaged in
   discussions with respect to an acquisition that may be material to its
   operations. With the exception of the Del Monte South America Acquisition, no
   agreement, understanding or arrangement has been reached, however, with
   respect to any such acquisition. The Company believes that any
                                       45
<PAGE>   52
 
   acquisition would likely require the incurrence of additional debt, which
   could exceed amounts available under the Bank Financing. As a result,
   completion of an acquisition could require the consent of the lenders under
   the Bank Financing and the amendment of the terms thereof, including for
   purposes of permitting the Company's compliance with its covenants
   thereunder.
 
THE INDUSTRY
 
     The Company believes that the domestic canned food industry is generally
characterized by relatively stable growth based on modest price and population
increases. Within the industry, however, the Company believes that certain
categories have been experiencing substantial growth. Over the last ten years,
the industry has experienced consolidation as competitors have disposed of
non-core business lines and made strategic acquisitions to complement category
positions, maximize economies of scale in raw material sourcing and production
and expand retail distribution. The Company also believes that sustaining strong
relationships with retailers has become a critical success factor for food
companies and is driving initiatives such as category management. Food companies
with category leadership positions and strong retail relationships appear to
have increasingly benefited from these initiatives as a way to maintain and
increase shelf space and maximize distribution efficiencies.
 
     Pricing and innovation in the canned food segments in which the Company
competes are typically led by branded food manufacturers. A majority of market
share in these categories is, however, attributable to private label
manufacturers based on statistical information compiled by ACNielsen. The
Company believes that the private label segment has historically been highly
fragmented among regional producers seeking to compete principally based on
price, although the aggregate market share of these manufacturers has remained
relatively stable over the past several years in each of the Company's principal
product categories. For the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998, private label
manufacturers as a group represented 43.8%, 39.7% and 30.7% of canned vegetable,
fruit and solid tomato product sales, respectively. Recently, some consolidation
has occurred among private label manufacturers in the canned vegetable category.
The Company believes that this consolidation may result in increasing
rationalization of production capacity in the industry, which may in turn result
in higher price positioning by private label manufacturers of canned vegetable
products.
 
     The Company increased vegetable and fruit prices in fiscal 1996 to cover
higher raw product costs and to improve margins. Higher prices put the Company
at a significant price disadvantage in the marketplace for most of the year as
competition did not raise prices until late in the fiscal year. As a result, the
Company experienced an anticipated volume loss and market share decline. In the
case of its fruit operations, however, the Company's significantly improved
margins generally offset the effects of the lower volume, and the Company's
market share recovered by year-end 1997 to achieve a higher level than that
experienced prior to the price increases. In the case of its vegetable
operations, the Company's market share has stabilized at a level lower than its
share prior to the price increases. See "Risk Factors -- Competition" and
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations."
 
COMPANY PRODUCTS
 
     The Company has a full-line, multi-category presence with products in four
major processed food categories: canned vegetable, fruit, tomato and pineapple
products.
 
                                       46
<PAGE>   53
 
     The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the Company's
net sales by canned product category, expressed in dollar amounts and as a
percentage of the Company's total pro forma net sales for such period:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         FISCAL YEAR        NINE MONTHS
                                                       ENDED JUNE 30,     ENDED MARCH 31,
                                                            1997               1998
                                                       ---------------    ---------------
                                                                 (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                    <C>        <C>     <C>        <C>
Vegetables (a).......................................  $  437      32%    $  358      34%
Fruit(a).............................................     431      31        343      32
Tomato products(a)(b)................................     385      28        303      29
Pineapple(a).........................................      65       5         50       5
Other(c).............................................      55       4          6      --
                                                       ------     ---     ------     ---
          Total(b)...................................  $1,373     100%    $1,060     100%
                                                       ======     ===     ======     ===
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
(a) Includes sales of the entire product line across each channel of
    distribution, including sales to grocery chains, warehouse clubs,
    supercenters, mass merchandisers and other grocery retailers, as well as the
    Company's foodservice, food ingredients, export and vegetable private label
    business and military sales.
 
(b) Includes $156 million and $92 million of sales of tomato products by
    Contadina, on a pro forma basis, for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1997 and
    the nine months ended March 31, 1998, respectively.
 
(c) Includes pickles, dried fruit and certain other retail products, as well as
    sales of Divested Operations.
 
  Vegetables
 
   
     Based on internal estimates using data compiled by ACNielsen from various
industry and other sources, the Company believes that the canned vegetable
industry in the United States generated more than $3 billion in sales in fiscal
1997. The Company believes that the domestic canned vegetable industry is a
mature segment characterized by high household penetration.
    
 
     The Company views the retail canned vegetable market as consisting of three
distinct segments: major, flanker and specialty products. The Company competes
in each of these segments. The major segment consists of corn, green beans and
peas and represents the largest volume segment, accounting for $780 million or
approximately 65% of fiscal 1997 canned vegetable supermarket case sales
(excluding pickles and tomato products). The Company's entries in the major
segment include cut green beans and French-style green beans, as well as whole
kernel and cream-style corn. The flanker segment, which includes mixed
vegetables, spinach, beets, carrots, potatoes and sauerkraut, accounted for $237
million or approximately 17% of fiscal 1997 canned vegetable supermarket case
sales. The specialty segment, comprised of asparagus, zucchini, baby beets and a
variety of corn and bean offerings, represents $284 million or approximately 12%
of fiscal 1997 canned vegetable supermarket case sales. Many of the Company's
specialty vegetable products are enhanced with flavors and seasonings, such as
the Company's zucchini in tomato sauce and its Fiesta corn, which is made with
green peppers and seasonings. The Company's specialty vegetables are priced at a
premium to its other vegetable products and carry higher margins. All of the
Company's vegetable products are offered to the retail market principally in
14-15 oz. sizes and to the foodservice market primarily in a larger commercial
size can. The Company produces six or eight can multi-packs primarily for its
club store customers. A cross-segment, buffet products, includes all of the
above varieties in smaller can sizes. The Company also offers a no-salt product
line across most of its core varieties. Within these segments, the Del Monte
brand accounted for $349 million in retail sales in fiscal 1997. During the 52
weeks ended March 28, 1998, Del Monte brand vegetable products enjoyed an
average premium of 20c (44%) per item over private label products and the
Company held a 19.5% share of the canned vegetable market for that period.
 
     The canned vegetable market is concentrated among a small number of branded
manufacturers and a large, fragmented pool of private label competitors. In the
major vegetable market, the Company is the branded market share leader and for
the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998, held a 23.2% market share in green beans, a
18.6% market share in corn and a 16.1% market share in peas. The Company also is
the branded
 
                                       47
<PAGE>   54
 
market share leader in the flanker segment and is the overall market share
leader in the buffet segment. Private label products taken as a whole command
the largest share of the canned vegetable market, but their market share has
remained relatively stable over the past decade. The Company's primary branded
competitors in the market include Green Giant nationally, and regional brands
such as Freshlike, Stokely and Libby's, in addition to private label producers.
 
                             VEGETABLE MARKET SHARE
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
DEL MONTE...................................................   19.5%
Green Giant (Pillsbury).....................................   13.2%
Libby's (Seneca)............................................    3.6%
Stokely (Chiquita)..........................................    2.3%
Freshlike (Dean Foods)......................................    2.0%
All private label combined..................................   43.8%
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
Source: ACNielsen SCANTRACK, 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998 (based on equivalent
cases).
 
     The Company has relationships with approximately 900 vegetable growers
located primarily in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Washington and Texas.
 
  Fruit
 
     Based on internal estimates using data compiled by ACNielsen from various
industry and other sources, the Company believes that the processed canned fruit
industry in the United States generated more than $2 billion in sales in fiscal
1997. The Company believes that the domestic canned fruit industry is a mature
segment characterized by high household penetration.
 
     The Company is the largest processor of branded canned fruit in the United
States. The Company competes in three distinct segments of the canned fruit
industry: major, specialty and pineapple products, which together account for
approximately 60% of the canned fruit industry's total sales. The major segment
consists of cling peaches, pears and fruit cocktail/mixed fruit and fruit cups.
The specialty segment includes apricots, freestone and spiced peaches, mandarin
oranges and cherries. The Company believes that the major fruit and specialty
fruit segments of the canned fruit market together accounted for more than $1
billion of total canned fruit industry sales in fiscal 1997. The pineapple
segment is discussed separately below.
 
     Major fruit accounted for sales by retailers of $624 million in fiscal
1997. Sales by retailers of Del Monte brand major fruit products totaled $291
million in fiscal 1997. For the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998, the Company was
the branded share leader with a 41.9% market share. The Company is also the
share leader in every major sub-segment of the major category. In single serve
sizes, the Company has over a 67% market share. The Company's major fruit and
fruit cup products are distributed in substantially all grocery outlets.
 
     The Company is the branded leader in the specialty category as a whole and
the market leader in apricots and freestone and spiced peaches. Specialty fruits
are higher margin, lower volume "niche" items, which benefit from the Company's
brand recognition. Del Monte apricots and freestone peaches are distributed in
over 71% and 65% of grocery outlets, respectively. Mandarin oranges and cherries
are distributed in 30% and 8% of grocery outlets, respectively.
 
     The Company believes that it has substantial opportunities to leverage the
Del Monte brand name to increase sales of its existing high margin specialty
products, such as its Fruit Cup line. The Company has also been developing new
high margin products designed to leverage the Company's presence in existing
categories, to capitalize on its existing manufacturing capabilities and to
expand the Company's presence in the market beyond the canned food aisle. For
example, following initial success in test markets, the Company is planning
national distribution of its Orchard Select, a premium fruit product packaged in
glass. The Company is also test marketing a new flavored fruit drink, Fruit
Smoothie Blenders, to expand its presence into the beverage aisle. An important
focus of the Company's new product development efforts is the production of high
quality, convenient and nutritious products, particularly snack-type products.
 
                                       48
<PAGE>   55
 
     The Company competes in the canned fruit business on the basis of product
quality and category support to both the trade and consumers. On the industry's
highest volume can size (15-16 oz.), the Del Monte brand commanded an average 8c
(9%) per item premium. The Company faces competition in the canned fruit segment
primarily from Tri-Valley Growers and PCP, both of which are grower
co-operatives that produce private label products. Tri-Valley Growers also packs
the Libby's and S&W brands.
 
                            MAJOR FRUIT MARKET SHARE
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
DEL MONTE...................................................   41.9%
Libby's (Tri-Valley)........................................   11.4%
All private label combined..................................   39.7%
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
Source: ACNielsen SCANTRACK, 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998 (based on equivalent
cases).
 
     The Company has relationships with approximately 600 fruit growers located
primarily in California, Oregon and Washington.
 
  Tomato Products
 
     Based on internal estimates using data compiled by ACNielsen from various
industry and other sources, the Company believes that processed tomato products
generated fiscal 1997 industry-wide sales in the United States of more than $5
billion. While total sales of tomato products have grown steadily in recent
years, the Company believes that the diced segment of the retail canned solid
tomato segment (which also includes chunky tomatoes and tomato wedges) has been
growing at a substantially greater rate than the category as a whole, as
consumer preferences have trended toward more convenient cut and seasoned tomato
products.
 
     The processed tomato category can be separated into more than ten distinct
product segments which differ widely in terms of profitability, price
sensitivity and growth potential. Consumers use tomato products for a variety of
purposes ranging from ingredients to condiments, beverages and main dishes.
 
     The Company's tomato product offerings consist of two major segments: solid
tomato products, which are differentiated primarily by cut style, with varieties
including stewed, crushed, diced, chunky and wedges, and paste-based tomato
products, such as ketchup, tomato sauce and tomato paste and value-added
products, including spaghetti, pasta and sloppy joe sauces.
 
     The Company is the leading producer of canned solid tomato products, which
are generally higher margin tomato products and are the fastest growing segment
of the Company's tomato products. As a result of the Contadina Acquisition, the
Company extended its presence in this segment through the addition of
Contadina's share of the market for crushed tomato products. The canned solid
tomato segment has evolved to include additional value-added items, such as
flavored diced tomato products. The Company believes that there is substantial
opportunity to increase sales of solid tomato products, including particularly
crushed tomato products, through similar line extensions that capitalize on the
Company's manufacturing and marketing expertise.
 
                       SOLID TOMATO PRODUCTS MARKET SHARE
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
DEL MONTE/CONTADINA.........................................   16.3%
Hunt's (ConAgra)............................................   11.2%
S&W (Tri Valley Growers)....................................    5.1%
All private label combined..................................   30.7%
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
Source: ACNielsen SCANTRACK, 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998 (based on equivalent
        cases).
 
     With the Contadina Acquisition, the Company has strengthened its position
in the branded paste-based tomato products categories in which it competes. The
Company markets its spaghetti, pasta and sloppy joe sauces, as well as its
ketchup products, under the Del Monte brand name using a "niche" marketing
strategy targeted toward value-conscious consumers seeking a branded, high
quality product. The Company's tomato
 
                                       49
<PAGE>   56
 
paste products are marketed under the Contadina brand name, which is an
established national brand for Italian-style food products. Contadina also
targets the branded food service tomato market, including small restaurants that
use Contadina brand products, such as finished spaghetti and pasta sauces. The
Company plans to use this presence as a platform to expand its branded
foodservice business, including sales of Del Monte brand products to new and
existing Contadina foodservice customers.
 
     The Company faces competition in the tomato product market from brand name
competitors including S&W and Hunt's in the solid tomato category; Heinz and
Hunt's in the ketchup category; and Hunt's, Campbell Soup's Prego and Unilever's
Ragu in the spaghetti sauce category. Hunt's is the Company's chief competitor
in the tomato paste segment. In addition, the Company faces competition from
private label products in all major categories. While the Company has a small
share of the overall tomato product market (with market shares for the 52 weeks
ended March 28, 1998 of 4.2% in spaghetti sauce and 5.6% in tomato sauce), it is
the largest branded competitor in the solid tomato segment with a market share
of 16.3% for the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998. Hunt's, the next largest branded
processor, possessed a 11.2% share of the solid tomato segment for this period.
In other key categories, for the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998, Heinz was the
market leader in ketchup with a 46.2% market share, and Hunt's was the leader in
tomato sauce with a 35.2% market share.
 
     The Company has relationships with approximately 40 tomato growers located
primarily in California, where approximately 95% of domestic tomatoes are
produced. See "Risk Factors -- Severe Weather Conditions and Natural Disasters."
 
  Pineapple
 
     Based on internal estimates using data compiled by ACNielsen from various
industry and other sources, the Company believes that the canned pineapple
industry in the United States generated more than $300 million in sales in
fiscal 1997. The Company believes that the domestic canned pineapple industry is
a mature segment of the canned fruit industry that has generated stable sales.
 
     Individual pineapple items are differentiated by cut style, with varieties
including sliced, chunk, tidbits and crushed. Currently, approximately 84% of
pineapple product sold is packed in juice, with the remaining 16% packed in
heavy syrup. Size offerings include the 20 oz. size, which accounts for 74% of
category sales. Other sizes offered include the 8 oz. and 15 oz. varieties.
 
     The Company's retail pineapple line consists of sliced, chunk, crushed and
juice products in a variety of container sizes. In addition to sales by
retailers, which totaled $35 million in fiscal 1997, the Company sells a
significant amount of juice concentrate and crushed pineapple through the food
ingredients channel and also sells pineapple solids and juice products to
foodservice customers.
 
     The Company is the second leading brand of canned pineapple, with a 14.3%
market share for the 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998. Dole is the industry leader
with a market share of 44.6%. Private label and foreign pack brands comprise the
low-price segment of this category and hold market shares of 28.3% and 11.6%,
respectively. The five major foreign pack brands, Geisha, Libby's, Liberty Gold,
Empress and 3-Diamond, have regional distribution and are supplied by Thai and
Indonesian packers. Certain foreign brands grew through 1995 by "dumping"
product in the United States at below cost prices which depressed category
pricing. In 1995, the U.S. Government imposed anti-dumping tariffs on Thai
packers which allowed the domestic industry to recover some of its margins and
volume.
 
                             PINEAPPLE MARKET SHARE
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
DEL MONTE...................................................   14.3%
Dole........................................................   44.6%
Foreign pack................................................   11.6%
All private label combined..................................   28.3%
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
Source: ACNielsen SCANTRACK, 52 weeks ended March 28, 1998 (based on equivalent
cases).
 
                                       50
<PAGE>   57
 
     The Company sources virtually all of its pineapple requirements from its
former subsidiary, Del Monte Philippines, under a long-term supply agreement.
The agreement provides for a guaranteed supply of quality pineapple with pricing
based on fixed retail and foodservice margins.
 
SUPPLY AND PRODUCTION
 
     The Company owns virtually no agricultural land. Each year, the Company
buys over one million tons of fresh vegetables, fruit and tomatoes pursuant to
over 2,500 contracts with individual growers and cooperatives located primarily
in the United States, many of which are long-term relationships. No supplier
accounts for more than 5% of the Company's raw product requirements, and the
Company does not consider its relationship with any particular supplier to be
material to its operations. The Company is exploring ways in which to extend its
growing season. For example, it has been planting green bean crops in Texas,
which has a longer growing season than the Company's other bean growing
locations in the Midwest region. Like other processed vegetable, fruit and
tomato product manufacturers, the Company is subject to market-wide price
fluctuations resulting from seasonal or other factors, although its long-term
relationships with growers help to ensure a consistent supply of raw product.
 
     The Company's vegetable growers are located in Wisconsin, Illinois,
Minnesota, Washington, Texas and Arizona. The Company provides the growers with
planting schedules, seeds, insecticide management and hauling capabilities and
actively participates in agricultural management and quality control with
respect to all sources of supply. The Company's vegetable supply contracts are
generally for a one-year term and require delivery of a specified quantity.
Prices are renegotiated each year. The Company believes that one of its
competitive advantages in the canned vegetable category derives from its
proprietary seed varieties. For example, the Company believes that its "Del
Monte Blue Lake Green Bean" variety is higher yielding than green bean varieties
used by the Company's competitors. In addition, the Company's green bean
production is primarily on irrigated fields, which facilitates production of
high quality, uniformly-sized beans.
 
     The Company's fruit and tomato growers are located primarily in California;
pear growers are also located in Oregon and Washington. The Company's fruit
supply contracts range from one to ten years. See Note J to the Company's
consolidated financial statements for the nine months ended March 31, 1998.
Prices are generally negotiated with grower associations and are reset each
year. Contracts to purchase yellow cling peaches generally require the Company
to purchase all of the fruit produced by a particular orchard or block of trees.
Contracts for other fruits require delivery of specified quantities each year.
The Company actively participates in agricultural management and quality control
and provides insecticide management and hauling capabilities. Where appropriate,
the Company manages the growers' agricultural practices.
 
     Fifteen Company-owned plants, located throughout the United States, process
the Company's products. The Company produces the majority of its products
between June and October. Most of the Company's seasonal plants operate at close
to full capacity during the packing season.
 
                                       51
<PAGE>   58
 
     The following table lists the Company's production facilities:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
             LOCATION                          PRIMARY PRODUCT LINE             SQUARE FOOTAGE*
             --------                          --------------------             ---------------
<S>                                 <C>                                         <C>
Hanford, CA.......................  Solid and Paste-Based Tomato Products           651,000
Kingsburg, CA.....................  Peaches, Zucchini and Corn                      229,000
Modesto, CA.......................  Solid and Paste-Based Tomato Products and       220,000
                                    Snap-E-Tom
San Jose, CA......................  Apricots, Fruit Cups, Fruit Cocktail,           458,000
                                    Chunky Fruit and Diced Pears
Stockton, CA......................  Peaches, Cocktail Cherries, Fruit Cocktail      446,000
                                    and Fruit Concentrate
Woodland, CA......................  Bulk Paste and Bulk Diced Tomatoes              465,000
Mendota, IL.......................  Peas, Corn, Lima Beans, Mixed Vegetables,       246,000
                                    Carrots and Peas & Carrots
Plymouth, IN......................  Paste-Based Tomato Products, Snap-E-Tom         156,000
                                    and Pineapple Juice
Sleepy Eye, MN....................  Peas and Corn                                   230,000
Crystal City, TX..................  Green Beans, Spinach, Carrots, Beets and        362,000
                                    Potatoes
Toppenish, WA.....................  Asparagus, Corn, Lima Beans and Peas            228,000
Yakima, WA........................  Cherries and Pears                              214,000
Arlington, WI.....................  Peas, Corn and Sauerkraut                       209,000
Markesan, WI......................  Green Beans, Wax Beans and Italian Beans        299,000
Plover, WI........................  Beans, Carrots, Beets and Potatoes              298,000
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
* Includes owned manufacturing and on-site warehouse and storage capacity.
 
     In January 1998, the Company announced a four-year plan to consolidate its
California production facilities in order to enhance the efficiency of its fruit
and tomato processing operations and to better meet the competitive challenges
of the market. Tomato production currently taking place at the Modesto plant is
expected to be transferred to the Company's newly acquired state-of-the-art
facility in Hanford in 1999. The Modesto location would then be converted to a
fruit processing plant allowing production currently processed at the San Jose
plant to be transferred to Modesto. At the end of the production season in 2000,
the Company is also expected to close its Stockton fruit plant and transfer
production from that plant to Modesto. Considerations of plant age and location
were primary factors in the decision to close the 80-year-old San Jose plant and
the 70-year-old Stockton plant and transfer production closer to growing areas.
The Company plans an aggregate of approximately $136 million of capital spending
through 2001 to increase production efficiency and reduce costs. See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- General" and "-- Liquidity and Capital Resources -- Investing
Activities."
 
     Co-packers are used for pickles and certain other non-core products and to
supplement supplies of certain canned vegetables, fruit and tomato products.
 
     Prior to December 1993, the Company produced almost all of the cans used to
package its products in the United States at its nine can manufacturing
facilities located throughout the United States. In December 1993, the Company
sold substantially all the assets (and certain related liabilities) of the
Company's can manufacturing business to Silgan Container Corporation ("Silgan").
The transaction included the sale or lease of the Company's nine can
manufacturing facilities. In connection with this agreement, Silgan and the
Company entered into a ten-year supply agreement, with optional successive
five-year extensions by either party under which the Company has agreed to
purchase all of its requirements for metal food and beverage containers in the
United States from Silgan. If Silgan is unable to supply all of such
requirements for any reason, the Company is entitled to purchase the excess from
another supplier. In addition, after September 1998, the Company is entitled to
seek a competitive bid for up to 50% of its requirements. Price levels were
originally set based on the Company's costs of self-manufactured containers.
Price changes under the contract
 
                                       52
<PAGE>   59
 
reflect changes in the manufacturer's costs. Upon any extension of the
agreement, the parties have agreed to negotiate in good faith the amount of
Silgan's margin. The agreement may be terminated by either party, without
penalty, on notice given 12 months prior to the end of the term of the agreement
(or any extension). The Company's total annual can usage is approximately two
billion cans.
 
SALES, MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION
 
  Sales and Marketing
 
     The Company's sales organization for retail products is divided into three
groups: (i) a retail broker network (which consists of 100% independent broker
representation at the market level, managed by Company sales managers); (ii) an
in-house sales force with responsibility for warehouse clubs, mass merchandisers
and supercenters; and (iii) an in-house team responsible for trade promotion.
Retail brokers are independent, commissioned sales organizations that represent
multiple manufacturers and, during fiscal 1997, accounted for 67% of the
Company's total net sales. The Company retains its brokers through a
standardized retail grocery brokerage agreement, and brokers are typically paid
at a percentage of collected sales, generally 2.5%, which percentage may be
increased up to 3.0% based on the broker's accomplishment of specified sales
objectives. Such agreements may be terminated on 30 days' prior notice by either
party. The Company's broker network represents the Company to a broad range of
grocery retailers. The Company's warehouse club, mass merchandiser and
supercenter group calls on these customers directly (non-brokered) and is
responsible for the development and implementation of sales programs for
non-grocery channels of distribution that include Wal-Mart, PriceCostco, Kmart
and Target. During fiscal 1997, this group accounted for 12% of the Company's
total net sales. Foodservice, food ingredients, private label and military and
export sales are accomplished through both direct sales and brokers and, during
fiscal 1997, accounted for 21% of the Company's total net sales.
 
     The Company's marketing group directs product development, pricing
strategy, consumer promotion, advertising, publicity and package design.
Consumer advertising and promotion support are used, together with trade
spending, to support awareness of new items and initial trial by consumers and
to build recognition of the Del Monte and Contadina brand names.
 
     The Company has been enhancing its sales and marketing efforts with
proprietary software applications, principally its Trade Wizard application and
applications designed to assist customers in managing product categories. The
Trade Wizard application assists the Company in implementing and managing the
timing and scope of its trade and consumer promotions. Customers using the
Company's category management software tools are able to more rapidly identify
sales levels for various product categories so as to achieve an optimal product
mix. Use of these category management tools has resulted in increased shelf
presence for the Company's products, particularly fruit products, relative to
those of the Company's competitors. The Company also has proprietary tools that
allows it to manage its customers' inventory requirements for its products,
thereby reducing customers' inventory levels while enhancing the Company's
opportunities to sell its products.
 
  Distribution
 
     The Company's distribution organization is responsible for the distribution
of finished goods to over 2,400 customer destinations. Customers can order
products to be delivered via third party trucking, rail or on a customer pickup
basis. The Company's distribution centers provide, among other services, casing,
labeling, special packaging, cold storing and fleet trucking services. Other
services the Company provides to customers include One Purchase Order/One
Shipment, in which the Company's most popular products are listed on a
consolidated invoicing service; the UCS Electronic Data Interchange, a paperless
system of purchase orders and invoices; and the Store Order Load Option (SOLO),
in which products are shipped directly to stores.
 
                                       53
<PAGE>   60
 
     The following table lists the Company's distribution centers:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
            LOCATION               OWNED/LEASED    SQUARE FOOTAGE
            --------               ------------    --------------
<S>                                <C>             <C>
Birmingham, AL...................   Leased            292,000
Clearfield, UT...................   Leased             80,000
Dallas, TX.......................   Leased            175,000
Rochelle, IL.....................    Owned            425,000
Stockton, CA.....................   Leased            512,000
Swedesboro, NJ...................    Owned            267,000
</TABLE>
 
CUSTOMERS
 
     The Company's customer base is broad and diverse, and no single customer
accounted for more than 10% of fiscal 1997 sales. The Company's 15 largest
customers during fiscal 1997 represented approximately 47.8% of the Company's
sales. These companies have all been Del Monte customers for at least ten years
and, in some cases, for 20 years or more. The Company has sought to establish
and strengthen its alliances with key customers by offering sophisticated
proprietary software applications to assist customers in managing inventories.
The Company plans to expand its promotion of these applications with its
customers.
 
COMPETITION
 
     The Company faces substantial competition throughout its product lines from
numerous well-established businesses operating nationally or regionally with
single or multiple branded product lines, as well as with private label
manufacturers. In general, the Company competes on the basis of quality, breadth
of product line and price. See "Risk Factors -- Competition" and "-- Company
Products."
 
INFORMATION SERVICES
 
     In November 1992, the Company entered into an agreement with EDS to provide
services and administration to the Company in support of its information
services functions. Payments under the terms of the agreement are based on
scheduled monthly base charges subject to various adjustments based on such
factors as production levels and inflation. The agreement expires in November
2002 with optional successive one-year extensions. The Company periodically
reviews its general information system needs, including Year 2000 compliance.
See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Year 2000."
 
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
 
     The Company's research and development organization provides product,
packaging and process development and analytical and microbiological services,
as well as agricultural research and seed production. In fiscal 1995, 1996 and
1997, R&D expenditures (net of revenue for services to third parties) were $6
million, $6 million and $5 million, respectively. The Company maintains an R&D
facility in Walnut Creek, California where it conducts research in a number of
areas related to its business including seed production, packaging, pest
management, food and nutrition science and plant breeding.
 
EMPLOYEES
 
     At March 31, 1998, the Company had approximately 2,550 full-time employees.
In addition, approximately 10,900 individuals are hired on a temporary basis
during the pack season. The Company considers its relations with its employees
to be good. In the past several years, the Company has not experienced any work
stoppages or strikes.
 
     The Company has ten collective bargaining agreements with seven union
locals covering approximately 10,600 of its hourly and seasonal employees. One
collective bargaining agreement expires in calendar 1999. The remaining
agreements expire in calendar 2000, 2001 and 2002.
 
                                       54
<PAGE>   61
 
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
 
     The Company owns a number of registered and unregistered trademarks for use
in connection with various food products, including the marks Del Monte, Snack
Cups, Fruit Cup, FreshCut, Fruit Naturals, Orchard Select, Fruit Smoothie
Blenders, Del Monte Lite and Contadina. These trademarks are important to the
Company because brand name recognition is a key factor in the success of the
Company's products. The current registrations of these trademarks in the United
States and foreign countries are effective for varying periods of time, and may
be renewed periodically, provided that the Company, as the registered owner, or
its licensees, where applicable, comply with all applicable renewal requirements
including, where necessary, the continued use of the marks in connection with
similar goods. The Company is not aware of any material challenge to the
ownership by the Company of its major trademarks.
 
     DMC owns approximately 12 issued U.S. patents covering machines used in
filling, cleaning, and sealing cans, food preservation methods, extracts and
colors, and peeling and coring devices. The patents expire between 2002 and 2014
and cannot be renewed. Patents are generally not material to the Company's
business.
 
     The Company claims copyright protection in its proprietary category
management software and vendor-managed inventory software. The Company's
customers receive reports generated by these software programs and provide data
to the Company for use in connection with the programs. The software itself,
however, is not currently licensed to the Company's customers. The copyrights
are not registered.
 
     The Company has developed a number of proprietary vegetable seed varieties
which it protects against disclosure by restricting access and/or by the use of
non-disclosure agreements. There can be no assurance that the means taken by the
Company to protect the secrecy of its seed varieties will be sufficient to
protect their secrecy or that others will not independently develop similar
technology. The Company has obtained U.S. plant variety protection certificates
under the Plant Variety Protection Act on some of its proprietary seed
varieties. Under such a certificate, the breeder has the right, among other
rights, to exclude others from offering or selling the variety or reproducing it
in the United States. The protection afforded by a plant variety protection
certificate generally runs for 20 years from the date of its issuance.
 
     In connection with the RJR Nabisco Sale, and the divestitures of the
Company's non-core and foreign operations subsequent to that sale, the Company
granted various perpetual, exclusive, royalty-free licenses for use of the Del
Monte name and mark along with certain other trademarks, patents, copyrights and
trade secrets to the acquiring companies or their affiliates. Under such
licenses, the Company is generally entitled to reimbursement from the licensees
of certain of its expenses in maintaining the registrations relating to such
intellectual property. In particular, with respect to all food and beverage
products other than fresh fruits, vegetables and produce, affiliates of RJR
Nabisco hold the rights to use Del Monte trademarks in Canada and South America;
Kikkoman holds the rights to use Del Monte trademarks in the Far East and
Pacific Rim (excluding the Philippines); Del Monte International holds the
rights in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent. Fresh Del
Monte holds the rights to use the Del Monte name and trademark with respect to
fresh fruit, vegetables, and produce and certain chilled and frozen products
related thereto throughout the world. With respect to dried fruit, nut and snack
products, Yorkshire holds the rights to use Del Monte trademarks in the United
States, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. In connection with agreements
to sell Del Monte Latin America, an affiliate of Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst
acquired the right to use the Del Monte trademarks with respect to all food and
beverage products other than fresh fruits, vegetables and produce in Mexico and
Capital Universal Ltd. (an affiliate of Donald W. Dickerson, Inc.) acquired
similar rights in Central America and the Caribbean. Dewey Limited (an affiliate
of Del Monte International) owns the rights in the Philippines to the Del Monte
brand name. See "Risk Factors -- Brand Risk."
 
     The Company retains the right to review the quality of the licensee's
products under each of its license agreements. The Company generally may inspect
the licensees' facilities and the licensees must periodically submit samples to
the Company for inspection. Licensees may grant sublicenses but all sublicensees
are bound by these quality control standards and other terms of the license.
 
     The Company has also granted various security and tangible interests in its
trademarks and related trade names, copyrights, patents, trade secrets and other
intellectual property to its creditors, in connection with the
 
                                       55
<PAGE>   62
 
Bank Financing, and to its licensees, to secure certain of the Company's
obligations under the license agreements.
 
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION
 
     As a manufacturer and marketer of food products, the Company's operations
are subject to extensive regulation by various federal government agencies,
including the Food and Drug Administration, the United States Department of
Agriculture and the FTC, as well as state and local agencies, with respect to
production processes, product attributes, packaging, labeling, storage and
distribution. Under various statutes and regulations, such agencies prescribe
requirements and establish standards for safety, purity and labeling. In
addition, advertising of the Company's products is subject to regulation by the
FTC, and the Company's operations are subject to certain health and safety
regulations, including those issued under the Occupational Safety and Health
Act. The Company's manufacturing facilities and products are subject to periodic
inspection by federal, state and local authorities. The Company seeks to comply
at all times with all such laws and regulations and is not aware of any
instances of material non-compliance. The Company maintains all permits and
licenses relating to its operations. The Company believes its facilities and
practices are sufficient to maintain compliance with applicable governmental
laws and regulations. Nevertheless, there can be no assurance that the Company
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.
 
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
     The Company is involved from time to time in various legal proceedings
incidental to its business, including claims with respect to product liability,
worker's compensation and other employee claims, tort and other general
liability, for which the Company carries insurance or is self-insured, as well
as trademark, copyright and related litigation. The Company believes that no
such legal proceedings will have a material adverse effect on the results of
operations, cash flow, liquidity or financial condition of the Company. See "--
Environmental Compliance" for a description of certain environmental matters in
which the Company is involved.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE
 
     As a result of its agricultural, food processing and canning activities,
the Company is subject to numerous environmental laws and regulations. Many of
these laws and regulations are becoming increasingly stringent and compliance
with them is becoming increasingly expensive. The Company seeks to comply at all
times with all such environmental laws and regulations and is not aware of any
instances of material non-compliance. The Company cannot predict the extent to
which any environmental law or regulation that may be enacted or enforced in the
future may affect its operations. The Company is engaged in a continuing program
to maintain its compliance with existing laws and regulations and to establish
compliance with anticipated future laws and regulations.
 
     In connection with the sale of one of its facilities, the Company is
currently remediating conditions resulting from the release of petroleum from
underground storage tanks ("USTs"). The Company is also conducting a groundwater
investigation at one currently owned property for hydrocarbon contamination that
it believes resulted from the operations of an unaffiliated prior owner of the
property. At the present time, the Company is unable to predict the total cost
for the remediation or the extent to which it may obtain contribution from the
prior owner. Further, there can be no assurance that investigation and
remediation of environmental conditions will not be required at other properties
currently or formerly owned or operated by the Company. Nonetheless, the Company
does not expect that these and other such remediation costs will have a material
adverse effect on the Company's financial condition or results of operations.
 
     The Company has been notified by governmental authorities and private
claimants that it is a PRP or may otherwise be potentially responsible for
environmental investigation and remediation costs at certain contaminated sites
under CERCLA or under similar state laws. With the exception of one previously
owned site, the Company has potential liability at each site because it
allegedly sent certain wastes from its operations
                                       56
<PAGE>   63
 
to these sites for disposal or recycling. These wastes consisted primarily of
empty metal drums (which previously held raw materials), used oils and solvents,
solder dross and paint waste.
 
     The Company is indemnified for any liability at two of these sites,
including the previously owned site. With respect to a majority of the sites at
which the Company has been identified as a PRP and is not indemnified by another
party, the Company has settled its liability with the responsible regulatory
agency. The Company believes that it has no liability for the remaining sites,
except with respect to one site at which it is a member of the PRP group. The
PRP group is conducting a Remedial Investigation and Feasibility Study to
analyze the nature and extent of the contamination and to evaluate remedial
alternatives for the site. Based upon the information currently available, the
Company does not expect that its liability for this site will be material. There
can be no assurance that the Company will not be identified as a PRP at
additional sites in the future.
 
     The Company spent approximately $5 million on domestic environmental
capital projects and expenditures from fiscal 1995 through fiscal 1997,
primarily related to UST remediation activities and upgrades to boilers and
wastewater treatment systems. The Company projects that it will spend an
aggregate of approximately $4 million in fiscal 1998 and 1999 on capital
projects and other expenditures in connection with environmental compliance,
primarily for boiler upgrades, compliance costs related to the consolidation of
its fruit and tomato processing operations and continued UST remediation
activities. The Company believes that its CERCLA and other environmental
liabilities will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial
position or results of operations.
 
PROPERTIES
 
     As of December 31, 1997, the Company operated 15 production facilities and
six distribution centers. See "-- Supply and Production" and "-- Sales,
Marketing and Distribution." The Company's production facilities are owned
properties, while its distribution centers are owned or leased. The Company has
various warehousing and storage facilities, which are primarily leased
facilities. The Company's leases are generally long-term. Virtually all of the
Company's properties, whether owned or leased, are subject to liens or security
interests.
 
     The Company's principal administrative headquarters are located in leased
office space in San Francisco, California. The Company owns its primary research
and development facility in Walnut Creek, California.
 
     The Company holds certain excess properties for sale and periodically
disposes of excess land and facilities through sales.
 
     Management considers its facilities to be suitable and adequate for its
business and to have sufficient production capacity for the purposes for which
they are currently intended.
 
                                       57
<PAGE>   64
 
                               CORPORATE HISTORY
 
     DMC was acquired in 1979 by the predecessor of RJR Nabisco. In 1990, DMC
and certain of its subsidiaries and affiliates were sold in the RJR Nabisco Sale
for $1.5 billion to Del Monte and DMPF Corp., a Delaware corporation, which were
organized by ML&Co. and capitalized by ML&Co. and certain other investors
including Court Square Capital, L.P., an affiliate of Citibank, N.A., Kikkoman,
Polly Peck, W.R. Huff Asset Management Co., Charterhouse Equity Partners, L.P.
and certain present and former members of management of the Company. The RJR
Nabisco Sale excluded certain businesses that were retained by RJR Nabisco, such
as the Del Monte processed foods operations in Canada and South America. Certain
other Del Monte businesses were not acquired, including the Del Monte fresh
produce business, which was sold by RJR Nabisco to Polly Peck, which, in turn,
sold it to Fresh Del Monte. In connection with the RJR Nabisco Sale and,
subsequently, in connection with the sale of the Company's foreign operations,
as described below, the Company granted various perpetual, exclusive
royalty-free licenses for the use of the Del Monte name and trademark. The
licensees of the Del Monte name and trademark include Del Monte International,
Kikkoman, Fresh Del Monte and Yorkshire. None of the licensees is affiliated
with the Company except for Yorkshire, of which the Company owns 20% of the
common stock. See "Risk Factors -- Brand Risk" and "Business -- Intellectual
Property."
 
     Following the RJR Nabisco Sale, the Company sold certain of its properties,
including the Company's processed foods operations in the Far East (other than
the Philippines) to Kikkoman for approximately $104 million; the Hawaiian Punch
business to Procter & Gamble for approximately $147 million; and Del Monte
International to Gravelgrove Limited for approximately $360 million, and applied
substantially all of the proceeds from such sales to the partial repayment of
the bank financing used to finance the RJR Nabisco Sale. In connection with the
sale of Del Monte International, the Company acquired an 8.35% equity investment
in Del Monte International. Subsequently, in the fiscal quarter ended March 31,
1993, the Company sold such equity investment for approximately $23 million.
 
     In January 1991, the Company completed the sale of a 49.9% interest in Del
Monte Philippines. As a result of this transaction, the Company received $16.7
million in cash, $17.9 million in notes (which were subsequently repaid), $8.7
million in a future purchase price adjustment (all of which has been paid) and
$1.3 million of preferred stock of a subsidiary of Del Monte Philippines (20% of
which was redeemed in May 1994 and 20% redeemed in May 1995). The Company
retained a 50.1% interest in Del Monte Philippines. In March 1996, the Company
sold its 50.1% interest in Del Monte Philippines and the remaining preferred
stock to a joint venture affiliated with Del Monte International for $100
million. In connection with the sale of its interest in Del Monte Philippines,
the Company signed an eight-year supply agreement under which the Company is
required to source substantially all of its pineapple requirements from Del
Monte Philippines over the term of the agreement.
 
     In August 1993, the Company sold its dried fruit and snack operation to
Yorkshire for cash and stock totaling $22.6 million. As part of the asset sale
transaction, the Company acquired 20% of the outstanding common stock and 1,000
shares of 7% preferred stock of Yorkshire. Following the expiration of a
standstill agreement in July 1996, the Company granted a right of first refusal
to Yorkshire to acquire the Company's equity interest in Yorkshire, and
Yorkshire Foods, Inc., the parent of Yorkshire ("YFI"), granted a right of
co-sale to the Company in the event that YFI proposed to sell its equity
interest in Yorkshire.
 
     In December 1993, the Company sold substantially all of the assets and
certain related liabilities of its can manufacturing operations in the United
States to Silgan for $72 million. At the same time, the Company entered into a
ten-year supply agreement under which Silgan would, effective immediately after
the sale, provide the Company with substantially all of its domestic can
requirements. The supply agreement provides the Company with a long-term supply
of cans at prices that adjust over time for normal manufacturing cost increases
or decreases. See "Business -- Supply and Production."
 
     On June 27, 1994, Del Monte entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger
(the "1994 Merger Agreement") with Grupo Empacador de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. and
CCP Acquisition Company of Maryland, Inc., which were formed by an investor
group led by Mr. Carlos Cabal Peniche for the purpose of effecting an
acquisition (the "Proposed Acquisition") of the Company. The Merger Agreement
provided that Del Monte
                                       58
<PAGE>   65
 
was entitled to terminate the 1994 Merger Agreement if the effective date of the
Proposed Acquisition failed to occur on or prior to September 19, 1994. The
effective date of the Proposed Acquisition did not occur on or prior to such
date and, on September 21, 1994, Del Monte terminated the 1994 Merger Agreement
in accordance with its terms. Pursuant to the 1994 Merger Agreement, because the
Proposed Acquisition failed to occur by September 19, 1994, Del Monte drew $30
million under a letter of credit issued by Banco Union, S.A., a bank affiliated
with Mr. Cabal. Such amount was applied to the repayment of indebtedness then-
outstanding under the Company's then-existing revolving credit agreement.
 
     In November 1995, the Company sold its pudding business to Kraft for $89
million.
 
     In October 1996, the Company sold its Mexican subsidiary for $38 million,
and, in November 1996, sold its Central American and Caribbean operations for
$12 million.
 
     On April 18, 1997, Del Monte was recapitalized through the merger of Shield
with and into Del Monte, with Del Monte being the surviving corporation. By
virtue of the Recapitalization, shares of Del Monte's preferred stock having an
implied value of approximately $14 million held by certain of Del Monte's
stockholders who remained investors were cancelled and were converted into the
right to receive new Del Monte Common Stock. All other shares of Del Monte
capital stock were cancelled and were converted into the right to receive cash
consideration. In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company repaid
substantially all of its funded debt obligations existing immediately before the
Recapitalization. In the Recapitalization, the common stock and preferred stock
of Shield was converted into new shares of Common Stock and preferred stock,
respectively, of Del Monte.
 
     On December 19, 1997, the Company acquired the Contadina business for $177
million in cash, plus an estimated working capital adjustment of approximately
$20 million. The purchase price was subject to adjustment based on the final
calculation of net working capital as of the closing date. Nestle provided its
calculation of the net working capital, which resulted in a payment to the
Company of approximately $2 million, and therefore a reduction in the purchase
price to $195 million. The Contadina Acquisition also included the assumption of
certain liabilities of approximately $5 million, consisting primarily of
liabilities in respect of reusable packaging materials, employee benefits and
product claims.
 
     On May 1, 1998, Del Monte merged with and into a newly created,
wholly-owned subsidiary incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware to
change Del Monte's state of incorporation from Maryland to Delaware.
 
   
     Following the Offering, TPG will own approximately 54.1% of the Common
Stock (approximately 51.8% if the U.S. Underwriters' overallotment option is
exercised in full) and will continue to have the power to control the management
and policies of the Company and matters requiring stockholder approval. TPG is
part of Texas Pacific Group, which was founded by David Bonderman, James G.
Coulter and William S. Price, III in 1992 to pursue public and private
investment opportunities. Texas Pacific Group's other investments include such
branded consumer products companies as Beringer Wine Estates Holdings, Inc.,
Ducati Motors S.p.A., Favorite Brands International, Inc. and J. Crew Group,
Inc.
    
 
                                       59
<PAGE>   66
 
                                   MANAGEMENT
 
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
 
     The following table sets forth the name, age and position of individuals
who are serving as directors and executive officers of Del Monte. Such
individuals hold the same positions with DMC. Each director will hold office
until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until his successor has been
elected and qualified. Officers are elected by the Board of Directors and serve
at the discretion of the Board.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                 NAME                    AGE                  POSITIONS
                 ----                    ---                  ---------
<S>                                      <C>   <C>
Richard W. Boyce.......................  44    Chairman of the Board; Director
Richard G. Wolford.....................  53    Chief Executive Officer; Director
Wesley J. Smith........................  51    Chief Operating Officer; Director
Timothy G. Bruer.......................  41    Director
Al Carey...............................  46    Director
Patrick Foley..........................  66    Director
Brian E. Haycox........................  56    Director
Denise M. O'Leary......................  40    Director
William S. Price, III..................  42    Director
Jeffrey A. Shaw........................  34    Director
David L. Meyers........................  52    Executive Vice President,
                                               Administration and Chief Financial
                                               Officer
Glynn M. Phillips......................  60    Executive Vice President, Sales
Brent D. Bailey........................  45    Executive Vice President, Marketing
Thomas E. Gibbons......................  50    Senior Vice President and Treasurer
William J. Spain.......................  56    Senior Vice President, Technology
Richard L. French......................  41    Senior Vice President and Chief
                                               Accounting Officer
William R. Sawyers.....................  36    Vice President, General Counsel and
                                               Secretary
</TABLE>
 
     Richard W. Boyce, Chairman of the Board; Director. Mr. Boyce became
Chairman of the Board and a director of Del Monte in August 1997. Mr. Boyce
became President of SRB, Inc., which provides management services to TPG and its
affiliated companies, in 1997. He was employed by PepsiCo from 1992 to 1997,
most recently as Senior Vice President of Operations for Pepsi-Cola North
America. From 1980 to 1992, Mr. Boyce was employed by Bain & Co. He is also a
director of J. Crew Group, Inc., certain of its subsidiaries and Favorite Brands
International, Inc.
 
     Richard G. Wolford, Chief Executive Officer; Director. Mr. Wolford joined
Del Monte as Chief Executive Officer and a director in April 1997 upon
consummation of the Recapitalization. From 1967 to 1987, he held a variety of
positions at Dole Foods, including President of Dole Packaged Foods from 1982 to
1987. From 1988 to 1996, he was Chief Executive Officer of HK Acquisition Corp.
where he developed food industry investments with venture capital investors.
 
     Wesley J. Smith, Chief Operating Officer; Director. Mr. Smith joined Del
Monte as Chief Operating Officer and a director in April 1997 upon consummation
of the Recapitalization. From 1972 to 1995, he was employed by Dole Foods in a
variety of positions, including senior positions in finance, marketing,
operations and general management in California, Hawaii and Honduras.
 
     Timothy G. Bruer, Director. Mr. Bruer became a director of Del Monte in
August 1997. Mr. Bruer has been President and Chief Executive Officer and a
director of Silverado Foods, Inc. since March 1997. From 1993 until that time,
he was Vice President and General Manager of the Culinary Division of Nestle. He
is also a director of Authentic Specialty Foods Inc.
 
                                       60
<PAGE>   67
 
     Al Carey, Director. Mr. Carey became a director of Del Monte in November
1997. He is the Chief Operating Officer of Frito-Lay, Inc., a division of
PepsiCo, Inc., and has been employed in various capacities with that company
since 1981.
 
     Patrick Foley, Director. Mr. Foley became a director of Del Monte in August
1997. Mr. Foley is Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of DHL
Corporation, Inc. and its major subsidiary, DHL Airways, Inc. He joined DHL in
September 1988, with more than 30 years experience in hotel and airline
industries. He was formerly Chairman and President of Hyatt Hotel Corporation.
Mr. Foley serves on the Boards of Directors of Continental Airlines, Inc., DHL
International, Flextronics International, Foundation Health Systems, Inc. and
Glenborough Realty Trust, Inc.
 
     Brian E. Haycox, Director. Mr. Haycox was elected to the Board of Directors
of Del Monte in June 1995. He was elected as Co-Chairman and Co-Chief Executive
Officer of Del Monte in December 1995, and he served in those capacities until
the consummation of the Recapitalization. Mr. Haycox served as President and
Chief Executive Officer of Del Monte Tropical Fruit Company from 1988 until
1993. Prior to that time Mr. Haycox served in a variety of management positions
within the Del Monte organization.
 
     Denise M. O'Leary, Director. Ms. O'Leary became a director of Del Monte in
August 1997. Ms. O'Leary has been a Special Limited Partner of Menlo Ventures
since 1996. From 1983 to 1996, she was a General Partner of Menlo Ventures. Ms.
O'Leary serves on the Boards of Directors of various private companies as well
as on the Board of ALZA Corporation. She is a member of the Board of Trustees of
Stanford University and a director of UCSF Stanford Health Care.
 
     William S. Price, III, Director. Mr. Price became a director of Del Monte
in August 1997. Mr. Price was a founding partner of TPG in 1992. Prior to
forming TPG, he was Vice President of Strategic Planning and Business
Development for G. E. Capital, and from 1985 to 1991, he was employed by Bain &
Company, where he was a partner and co-head of the Financial Services Practice.
Mr. Price serves on the Boards of Directors of Belden & Blake Corporation,
Beringer Wine Estates Holdings, Inc., Continental Airlines, Inc., Denbury
Resources, Inc., Favorite Brands International, Inc., Vivra Specialty Partners,
Inc. and Zilog, Inc.
 
     Jeffrey A. Shaw, Director. Mr. Shaw became a director of Del Monte in May
1997. Mr. Shaw is a partner of TPG and has been an executive of TPG since 1993.
Prior to joining TPG, Mr. Shaw was a principal of Acadia Partners, L.P., an
investment partnership affiliated with the Robert M. Bass Group, for three
years. Mr. Shaw serves as a director of Ducati Motors S.p.A., Ducati North
America, Inc., Favorite Brands International, Inc. and Ryanair PLC.
 
     David L. Meyers, Executive Vice President, Administration and Chief
Financial Officer. Mr. Meyers joined the Company in 1989. He was elected Chief
Financial Officer of Del Monte in December 1992 and served as a member of the
Board of Directors of Del Monte from January 1994 until consummation of the
Recapitalization. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Meyers held a variety of
financial and accounting positions with RJR Nabisco (1987 to 1989), Nabisco
Brands USA (1983 to 1987) and Standard Brands, Inc. (1973 to 1983).
 
     Glynn M. Phillips, Executive Vice President, Sales. Mr. Phillips joined Del
Monte in October 1994. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Phillips was Vice
President, Sales of The Clorox Company where he also held various sales and
marketing positions from 1973 to 1994.
 
     Brent D. Bailey, Executive Vice President, Marketing. Mr. Bailey joined Del
Monte in his current position in January 1998. Prior to that he was with The
Dial Corporation since 1992 as Senior Vice President and General
Manager -- Household Division, and Senior Vice President -- Portfolio Group.
From 1974 to 1992, Mr. Bailey held marketing management positions with Procter &
Gamble, Frito-Lay and Pillsbury.
 
     Thomas E. Gibbons, Senior Vice President and Treasurer. Mr. Gibbons joined
Del Monte in 1969 and was elected to his current position in February 1995. He
was elected Vice President and Treasurer of Del Monte in January 1990. Mr.
Gibbons' prior experience also includes a variety of positions within the
Company's and RJR Nabisco's tax and financial organizations.
 
                                       61
<PAGE>   68
 
     William J. Spain, Senior Vice President, Technology. Mr. Spain joined Del
Monte in 1966 and was elected to his current position in February 1995.
Previously, he was Vice President, Research, Government and Industry Relations
of Del Monte. Mr. Spain has also held various positions within Del Monte in
corporate affairs, production management, quality assurance, environmental and
energy management, and consumer services.
 
     Richard L. French, Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer. Mr.
French joined Del Monte in 1980 and was elected to his current position in May
1998. Mr. French was Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer of Del Monte
from August 1993 through May 1998 and has held a variety of positions within the
Company's financial organization.
 
     William R. Sawyers, Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. Mr.
Sawyers joined Del Monte in November 1993 and was elected to his current
position in 1995. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Sawyers was an associate
with the law firm of Shearman & Sterling from 1987 to 1993.
 
COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS; TERM
 
     Del Monte's Board of Directors has the committees described below.
 
     The Nominating and Compensation Committee (the "Compensation Committee")
has authority to determine executive compensation and will approve the terms of
stock options and stock purchase rights pursuant to the Company's plans and
arrangements (as described below). The Compensation Committee's current members
are Messrs. Price and Shaw and Ms. O'Leary.
 
     The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing the activities of the
Company's independent accountants and internal audit department. The Audit
Committee's members are Messrs. Bruer, Foley and Haycox. The directors on the
Audit Committee are not affiliated with the Company or TPG, in accordance with
applicable New York Stock Exchange requirements.
 
     The Board of Directors of Del Monte is divided into three classes, as
nearly equal in number as possible, with each director serving a three year term
and one class being elected at each year's annual meeting of stockholders.
Messrs. Bruer, Haycox and Price are in the class of directors whose term expires
at the 1999 annual meeting of Del Monte's stockholders. Messrs. Foley, Shaw and
Smith are in the class of directors whose term expires at the annual meeting of
Del Monte's stockholders to be held in the year 2000. Messrs. Boyce, Carey and
Wolford and Ms. O'Leary are in the class of directors whose term expires at the
2001 annual meeting of Del Monte's stockholders. At each annual meeting of Del
Monte's stockholders, successors to the class of directors whose term expires at
such meeting will be elected to serve for three year terms and until their
successors are elected and qualified.
 
                                       62
<PAGE>   69
 
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
 
     The following table sets forth compensation paid by the Company for fiscal
years 1995, 1996 and 1997 to each individual serving as its Chief Executive
Officer during fiscal 1997 and to each of the four other most highly compensated
executive officers of the Company as of the end of fiscal 1997, and to one
executive officer whose employment terminated prior to the end of fiscal 1997.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                    LONG TERM
                                                                                 COMPENSATION(3)
                                                                                 ---------------
                                                                  OTHER ANNUAL        LTIP         ALL OTHER
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITIONS  FISCAL YEAR   SALARY(1)    BONUS      COMP.(2)         PAYOUTS        COMP.(4)
- ----------------------------  -----------   ---------   -------   ------------   ---------------   ----------
<S>                           <C>           <C>         <C>       <C>            <C>               <C>
Richard G. Wolford(5).......     1997       $100,641    $ --      $  --              $--           $ 251,196
  Chief Executive Officer
Brian E. Haycox.............     1997        602,404      --         73,471          --            5,323,303
  Co-Chairman/Co-CEO(6)          1996        420,673      --        247,780          --                8,052
Paul H. Mullan..............     1997        602,404      --        221,940          --            5,288,452
  Co-Chairman/Co-CEO(7)          1996        420,673      --        817,978          --                8,052
David L. Meyers.............     1997        286,000    159,400      --              421,000       2,959,771
  Executive Vice President,      1996        273,000    143,000      55,386          421,000          11,242
  Administration & CFO           1995        302,500      --        145,954          421,000           9,786
Glynn M. Phillips...........     1997        239,118    118,300      --              280,000       1,974,454
  Executive Vice President,      1996        225,750    118,250      --              280,000           9,206
     Sales
                                 1995        158,907      --         --              280,000          52,724
Thomas E. Gibbons...........     1997        183,458     59,900      --              210,000         115,829
  Senior Vice President and      1996        175,600     63,900      --               54,600           4,717
  Treasurer                      1995        161,703     53,600      --               50,400           4,728
William J. Spain............     1997        147,917     49,500      --              162,000         115,766
  Senior Vice President,         1996        139,167     49,700      --               42,100           4,417
  Technology                     1995        126,542     40,700      --               38,900           4,024
David M. Little(8)..........     1997        250,250      --         --              421,000       3,363,581
  Executive Vice President,      1996        286,650    150,150      --              421,000          10,660
  Worldwide Operations           1995        309,500      --         --              421,000          10,302
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
(1) Reflects actual base earnings for the fiscal year specified.
 
(2) Fiscal 1995 reflects certain perquisites, including moving expenses for Mr.
    Meyers ($129,838). Fiscal 1996 reflects certain perquisites, including
    relocation related expenses for Mr. Haycox ($243,092) and Mr. Mullan
    ($812,333); moving expenses for Mr. Meyers ($33,091) and company car
    ($15,500). Fiscal 1997 reflects certain perquisites, including relocation
    related taxes for Mr. Haycox ($57,005) and Mr. Mullan ($198,955).
 
(3) Reflects payments under the Company's Old MEP (as defined below) and Long
    Term Incentive Plan.
 
(4) For fiscal 1995: Company contributions to the Del Monte Corporation Savings
    Plan -- Mr. Meyers $4,500; Mr. Gibbons $4,500; Mr. Spain $3,796; Mr. Little
    $4,500, Company paid term life premiums -- Mr. Meyers $1,960; Mr. Phillips
    $2,724; Mr. Gibbons $228; Mr. Spain $228; Mr. Little $2,080, a sign-on bonus
    for Mr. Phillips $50,000, amount paid under the nonqualified Additional
    Benefits Plan -- Mr. Meyers $3,326; Mr. Little $3,722. For fiscal 1996:
    Company contributions to the Del Monte Corporation Savings Plan -- Mr.
    Haycox $4,500; Mr. Mullan $4,500; Mr. Meyers $4,500; Mr. Phillips $4,500;
    Mr. Gibbons $4,500; Mr. Spain $4,200; Mr. Little $4,500, Company paid term
    life premiums -- Mr. Haycox $3,552; Mr. Mullan $3,552; Mr. Meyers $3,407;
    Mr. Phillips $4,706; Mr. Gibbons $217; Mr. Spain $217; Mr. Little $2,428,
    amount paid under the nonqualified Additional Benefits Plan -- Mr. Meyers
    $3,335; Mr. Little $3,732. For fiscal 1997: Company contributions to the Del
    Monte Corporation Savings Plan -- Mr. Haycox $4,800; Mr. Mullan $5,738; Mr.
    Meyers $4,500; Mr. Phillips $4,500; Mr. Gibbons $4,500; Mr. Spain $4,437;
    Mr. Little $3,003; Company paid term life premiums --
 
                                       63
<PAGE>   70
 
    Mr. Wolford $1,196; Mr. Haycox $13,057; Mr. Mullan $10,657; Mr. Meyers
    $4,198; Mr. Phillips $5,325; Mr. Gibbons $217; Mr. Spain $217; Mr. Little
    $2,739, amount paid under the nonqualified Additional Benefits Plan -- Mr.
    Meyers $4,130; Mr. Little $4,567, amount paid due to termination for Mr.
    Haycox $393,874; Mr. Mullan $360,485; Mr. Little $406,329, amounts under the
    New MEP (as defined below) paid April 1997 -- Mr. Haycox $4,911,572; Mr.
    Mullan $4,911,572; Mr. Meyers $2,946,943; Mr. Phillips $1,964,629; Mr.
    Gibbons $111,112; Mr. Spain $111,112; Mr. Little $2,946,943. For Mr.
    Wolford, the fiscal 1997 amount includes a consulting fee of $250,000 paid
    in December 1997 for the period prior to April 18, 1997.
 
(5) Mr. Wolford became Chief Executive Officer as of April 18, 1997.
 
(6) Mr. Haycox's employment as Co-Chairman/Co-CEO terminated as of April 18,
    1997.
 
(7) Mr. Mullan's employment as Co-Chairman/Co-CEO terminated as of April 18,
    1997.
 
(8) Mr. Little's employment as Executive Vice President, Worldwide Operations
    terminated as of April 30, 1997.
 
EMPLOYMENT AND OTHER ARRANGEMENTS
 
  The Management Equity Plan
 
     Established beginning in fiscal 1995 and modified in March 1996, the
Company's Management Equity Plan ("New MEP") provided awards to certain key
executives upon the sale of the Company or upon the public offering of the
Company's Common Stock. Under the terms of the New MEP, the "Base Value" of the
Company's preferred and Common Stock was established at $125 million. To the
extent that proceeds from the sale of the Company to preferred and common
stockholders (after repayment of debt but without reduction for payment to
executives under the New MEP) exceeded the $125 million Base Value, an award
pool of 6% of such excess was set aside for payment to the Company's executive
officers. The New MEP was terminated concurrent with the Recapitalization.
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company made payments
aggregating approximately $19.7 million pursuant to the New MEP. This amount was
allocated as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                        <C>
Mr. Haycox...............................................  $4,911,572
Mr. Mullan...............................................   4,911,572
Mr. Little...............................................   2,946,943
Mr. Meyers...............................................   2,946,943
Mr. Phillips.............................................   1,964,629
Other officers(1)........................................   2,000,016
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
(1) Other officers include Messrs. Gibbons and Spain and 16 other senior
    officers.
 
     Messrs. Meyers, Little and Phillips were participants in the MEP prior to
its modification in March 1996 (the "Old MEP"), and as such became eligible for
awards for fiscal 1995 based on the annual equity growth formula in effect under
the Old MEP for such year. Messrs. Meyers, Little and Phillips were paid
installment payments of the Old MEP awards in the amounts of $421,000, $421,000
and $280,000, respectively, in June 1996 and remained eligible for installment
payment of the Old MEP awards in the amounts of $421,000, $421,000 and $280,000,
respectively, for fiscal 1997. The Company paid these fiscal 1997 awards at the
time of the Recapitalization.
 
  Long Term Incentive Plan
 
     Established on July 1, 1990, amended and restated on July 1, 1995, the Long
Term Incentive Plan ("LTIP") provided certain key management employees with a
long-term incentive program based on Company performance. The LTIP had a
performance cycle of three fiscal years with interim award payments at the end
of each fiscal year based on the employee's target award. The three-year target
award was determined by multiplying (i) the executive's base pay by (ii) a
percentage based on salary grade level, and multiplying the result by (iii)
three (for each fiscal year in the performance cycle). Interim awards were
 
                                       64
<PAGE>   71
 
determined by comparing actual financial performance compared to target goals
and subject to a percentage payout schedule. Mr. Gibbons received fiscal 1995
and fiscal 1996 awards of $50,400 and $54,600, respectively. Mr. Gibbons
received the final fiscal 1997 award in the amount of $210,000 at the time of
the Recapitalization. Mr. Spain received fiscal 1995 and fiscal 1996 awards of
$38,900 and $42,100, respectively. Mr. Spain received the final fiscal 1997
award in the amount of $162,000 at the time of the Recapitalization. This plan
was terminated following the Recapitalization.
 
  The Annual Incentive Award Plan
 
     The Annual Incentive Award Plan ("AIAP") provides annual cash bonuses to
certain management employees, including certain of the named senior executives.
The target bonus for each eligible employee is based on a percentage of base
salary. Actual payment amounts are based on the Company's achievement of annual
earnings objectives and individual performance objectives at fiscal year end.
The targeted percentage of base salary is as follows: Mr. Little -- 50%, Mr.
Meyers -- 50%, Mr. Phillips -- 50%, Mr. Gibbons -- 30% and Mr. Spain -- 30%. Mr.
Haycox and Mr. Mullan were not eligible for the AIAP for fiscal 1996 or fiscal
1997. Mr. Wolford was not eligible for the AIAP for fiscal 1997. Mr. Little
received his fiscal 1997 AIAP payment of $150,150 at the time of his termination
as of April 30, 1997.
 
  Stock Purchase Plan
 
     The Del Monte Foods Company Employee Stock Purchase Plan was approved on
August 4, 1997 and amended on November 4, 1997. Under the Plan, key employees
are allowed to purchase up to $5 million in Common Stock. To date, 454,146
shares of the Company's Common Stock have been purchased by and issued to
eligible employees.
 
  Stock Incentive Plans
 
     The Del Monte Foods Company 1997 Stock Incentive Plan was approved on
August 4, 1997 and amended on November 4, 1997. Under the 1997 Stock Incentive
Plan, grants of incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options
representing 1,784,980 shares of Common Stock may be made to key employees. With
the exception of options for 151,701 shares issued to Mr. Bailey on January 19,
1998, the options were granted at an exercise price equal to the fair market
value of the shares at the time of such grant and have a ten-year term. Two
different vesting schedules have been approved under the 1997 Stock Incentive
Plan. The first provides for annual vesting on a proportionate basis over five
years and the second provide for monthly vesting on a proportionate basis over
four years. Pursuant to this plan, options for 1,736,520 shares of Common Stock
have been granted to eligible employees to date. It is not anticipated that any
additional options will be granted pursuant to this plan.
 
     The Del Monte Foods Company 1998 Stock Incentive Plan (the "1998 Stock
Incentive Plan") was adopted as the Del Monte Foods Company 1998 Stock Option
Plan by the Board of Directors on April 24, 1998 and approved in final form by
the Compensation Committee on May 29, 1998. Under the 1998 Stock Incentive Plan,
grants of incentive and nonqualified stock options ("Options"), stock
appreciation rights ("SARs") and stock bonuses (together with Options and SARs,
"Awards") representing 3,195,687 shares of Common Stock may be made to employees
of the Company. Subject to certain limitations, the Compensation Committee has
authority to grant Awards under the 1998 Stock Incentive Plan and to set the
terms of any such Awards. As of June 3, 1998, no Awards had been made under the
1998 Stock Incentive Plan.
 
  The Del Monte Retirement Plan for Salaried Employees
 
     The Del Monte Corporation Retirement Plan for Salaried Employees (the "Del
Monte Corporation Retirement Plan"), which became effective as of January 1,
1990, is a non-contributory defined benefit retirement plan covering salaried
employees of the Company. Credits are made monthly to each participant's
personal retirement account ("PRA") consisting of a percentage of that month's
eligible compensation, plus interest on his or her account balance. A
participant is fully vested upon completion of five years of service.
 
                                       65
<PAGE>   72
 
     The percentage of monthly compensation credited varies according to age as
follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             ALL MONTHLY       MONTHLY COMPENSATION
              PARTICIPANT AGE                COMPENSATION   ABOVE SOCIAL SECURITY BASE
              ---------------                ------------   --------------------------
<S>                                          <C>            <C>
Below 35...................................      4.0%                  3.0%
35 but below 45............................      5.0                   3.0
45 but below 55............................      6.0                   3.0
55 and over................................      7.0                   3.0
</TABLE>
 
     The Del Monte Corporation Retirement Plan was amended effective January 1,
1998 to change the interest credit from 110% of the U.S. Pension Benefit
Guaranty Corporation ("PBGC") rate to the yield on the 12-month Treasury Bill
rate plus 1.5%. In addition, the factors for annuity conversions were changed
from specific Company factors to factors based on 30-year Treasury Bond yields
and an Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") specified mortality table. A
participant's annual age 65 annuity benefit will be the greater of an annuity
based on (i) the credit balance as of December 31, 1997 increased by interest
credits (and not compensation credits) of 110% of the December 31, 1997 PBGC
rate divided by 8.2 or (ii) the credit balance at the time of retirement using
an annuity factor based on 30-year Treasury Bond yields and an IRS specified
mortality table. Alternatively, a participant at retirement or other termination
of employment may elect a lump sum distribution of his or her account balance.
 
     Participants who, as of January 1, 1988, were at least age 40 with ten or
more years' service, or at least age 55 with five or more years' service, are
eligible to receive an alternative retirement benefit that is based on the terms
of the prior Del Monte Corporation Retirement Plan. For credited service after
December 31, 1981, such participants have accrued an annual benefit of 1.75% of
average final compensation multiplied by years of credited service. Average
final compensation is the participant's highest five years' average compensation
during his or her last ten years of credited service; compensation generally
includes base salary and awards under the AIAP but not other forms of incentive
compensation. The amount determined by this alternative benefit formula is
reduced by 0.75% of the participant's Social Security benefit, multiplied by
years of credited service. For credited service prior to January 1, 1982, a
similar benefit formula is applied.
 
     The Del Monte Corporation Retirement Plan was amended effective April 30,
1992 to cease recognition of any future credited service or average final
compensation under the alternative retirement benefit. At retirement, a
participant who was eligible for the alternative retirement benefit will receive
an annual retirement benefit equal to the greater of the retirement benefit
determined by his or her PRA, or his or her alternative retirement benefit based
on compensation and credited service to April 30, 1992. Alternatively, a
participant may elect the greater of a lump sum distribution of his or her PRA
account balance or the actuarial equivalent lump sum of the alternative benefit.
 
     Nonqualified Retirement Plans. Effective January 1, 1990, the Company
established the Del Monte Corporation Additional Benefits Plan and the Del Monte
Corporation Supplemental Benefits Plan (the "Nonqualified Retirement Plans").
The Nonqualified Retirement Plans are "top hat" and "excess" benefit plans
designed to provide benefits in excess of those otherwise permitted under the
Del Monte Corporation Retirement Plan and the Del Monte Corporation Savings Plan
(which is qualified under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code) by
Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 of the Internal Revenue Code. The Nonqualified
Retirement Plans also provide benefits in respect of certain amounts of
severance not taken into account under the Del Monte Corporation Retirement Plan
or the Del Monte Corporation Savings Plan. Employees who participate in the Del
Monte Corporation Retirement Plan or the Del Monte Corporation Savings Plan are
generally eligible to participate in the Nonqualified Retirement Plans. Benefits
under the Nonqualified Retirement Plans are unfunded and paid from the general
assets of the Company.
 
                                       66
<PAGE>   73
 
     Set forth below are the estimated annual benefits payable at age 65
(assuming lump sum payments are not elected) under the Del Monte Corporation
Retirement Plan and the Nonqualified Retirement Plans:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                YEAR ATTAINING     ESTIMATED ANNUAL
                 PARTICIPANT                        AGE 65       RETIREMENT BENEFIT(A)
                 -----------                    --------------   ---------------------
<S>                                             <C>              <C>
Mr. Wolford...................................       2009              $125,819
Mr. Phillips..................................       2002                28,260
Mr. Meyers....................................       2010               179,742
Mr. Gibbons...................................       2012               178,762
Mr. Spain.....................................       2007               104,915
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
 
(a) The estimated annual retirement benefits shown assumes no increase in
    compensation or AIAP and interest credits of 6.68%.
 
     Employment Arrangements. During fiscal 1997, the Company had employment
agreements with each of Messrs. Haycox, Mullan, Meyers, Little, Phillips,
Gibbons and Spain. The following summaries of the material provisions of the
employment agreements with Messrs. Haycox and Mullan (each, a "CEO Agreement"
and collectively, the "CEO Agreements"), the employment agreements with Messrs.
Meyers and Little (each, an "EVP Employment Agreement" and collectively, the
"EVP Employment Agreements") and the employment agreement with Mr. Phillips (the
"Phillips Employment Agreement") do not purport to be complete and are qualified
in their entirety by reference to such agreements. The employment of Messrs.
Haycox and Mullan pursuant to the CEO Agreements was terminated effective as of
April 18, 1997. The employment of Mr. Little pursuant to his EVP Employment
Agreement was terminated effective as of April 30, 1997. The employment
agreements of Messrs. Meyers, Phillips, Gibbons and Spain have been filed as
exhibits to the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a part.
 
     The CEO Agreements provided for an initial term ending on December 31,
1997. Under the terms of the CEO Agreements, if an executive is terminated for
any reason other than for cause, if he resigns for good reason or if his
employment is terminated upon a sale of the Company, he shall be entitled to a
lump sum payment, within ten days of his termination, equal to the base salary
that he would have earned through December 31, 1997. The executive will also
receive any amounts due under the MEP, and will continue to participate in any
employee benefit plans and programs maintained by the Company until the earlier
of (i) December 31, 1997, or (ii) such time as he is covered by comparable
programs of a subsequent employer.
 
     Each of the EVP Employment Agreements is for an indefinite term and
contains virtually identical terms. Specifically, each EVP Employment Agreement
provides that if the executive's employment terminates for any reason other than
for cause or if the executive resigns for good reason, such executive would
receive as severance, subject to the executive's not competing with the Company
or disclosing confidential information or trade secrets of the Company,
severance payments over a three-year period commencing on the date of such
termination or resignation. The aggregate amount of the severance payable to the
executive over such three-year period would equal two times the sum of: (a) the
executive's highest annual base salary in effect during the 12-month period
prior to such termination or resignation and (b) the target award (50% of annual
base salary) under the AIAP (or successor thereto) for the year in which such
termination or resignation occurs (or, if greater, the amount of the award for
the next preceding year). In addition, the executive would receive a pro rata
annual bonus under the AIAP for the year in which such termination or
resignation occurs and would be entitled to participate in the employee benefit
plans and programs maintained by the Company in which the executive participates
until the earlier of (i) the end of the three-year period and (ii) such time as
the executive is covered by comparable programs of a subsequent employer.
 
     The Phillips Employment Agreement is for an indefinite term. The Phillips
Employment Agreement provides that if Mr. Phillips' employment terminates for
any reason other than for cause or if Mr. Phillips resigns for good reason, Mr.
Phillips would receive as severance three months of his then current base pay.
In addition, if Mr. Phillips executes and delivers to the Company a written
agreement confirming his commitment not to compete with the Company and not to
disclose confidential information or trade secrets of the Company, the Company
would then provide Mr. Phillips severance payments over an 18-month period
 
                                       67
<PAGE>   74
 
commencing on the date of such termination or resignation. The aggregate amount
of the severance payable to Mr. Phillips over such 18-month period would equal
the sum of (a) Mr. Phillips' highest annual rate of base salary in effect during
the 12-month period prior to such termination or resignation, and (b) the target
award under the AIAP (or successor thereto) for the year in which such
termination or resignation occurs (or, if greater, the amount of the award for
the next preceding year of employment). In addition, Mr. Phillips would receive
a pro rata annual bonus under the AIAP for the year in which such termination or
resignation occurs and would be entitled to participate in the employee benefit
plans and programs maintained by the Company in which Mr. Phillips participates
until the earlier of (i) the end of the 18-month period or (ii) such time as Mr.
Phillips is covered by comparable programs of a subsequent employer.
 
     Messrs. Gibbons' and Spain's employment agreement is similar to that of Mr.
Phillips except that it does not require Messrs. Gibbons or Spain to execute an
agreement not to compete or disclose confidential information in order to
receive severance payments over an 18-month period.
 
     On March 16, 1998, Del Monte entered into employment agreements with Mr.
Wolford and Mr. Smith (the "Wolford/Smith Employment Agreements") as Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, respectively. Copies of the
Wolford/Smith Employment Agreements have been filed as exhibits to the
Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a part. The Wolford/Smith
Employment Agreements are for an indefinite term. Under the terms of the
Wolford/Smith Employment Agreements, if the employment of Mr. Wolford or Mr.
Smith is terminated by Del Monte for any reason other than for cause or by such
executive for any reason, he would be entitled to continue to receive his base
salary and target award under the AIAP (50% of base salary) and to participate
in certain employee welfare benefit plans and programs of the Company for up to
two years after the date of such termination of employment, subject to his not
competing with the Company, not soliciting employees of the Company and not
disclosing proprietary or confidential information of the Company and subject to
his signing a general release and waiver with respect to certain claims he may
have against the Company.
 
DIRECTORS' COMPENSATION
 
     Under Company policy, Messrs. Bruer, Carey, Foley and Haycox and Ms.
O'Leary will each receive $25,000 per year to be paid in cash or in Common
Stock, at the option of the director. Each of these directors will also receive
$2,000 for each committee meeting of the Board of Directors attended in person.
 
     In February 1998, the Company adopted a stock incentive plan with terms
substantially identical to the terms of the Del Monte Foods 1997 Stock Incentive
Plan for the benefit of directors and independent contractors of the Company.
Pursuant to that plan, Mr. Boyce received options representing 148,828 shares of
Common Stock.
 
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
 
     During the period following consummation of the Recapitalization through
the end of Del Monte's last completed fiscal year, Del Monte did not have a
compensation committee or other board committee performing equivalent functions.
During that period, the entire Board of Directors had authority to consider
executive compensation matters. The membership of the Board of Directors during
that period is described under "Management -- Directors and Executive Officers"
above. No person who was an officer, employee or former officer of Del Monte or
any of its subsidiaries participated in deliberations of Del Monte's Board of
Directors concerning executive officer compensation.
 
                                       68
<PAGE>   75
 
   
                             PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS
    
 
   
     The following table sets forth certain information regarding beneficial
ownership of the Common Stock as of June 15, 1998, and as adjusted to reflect
the sale of the shares offered hereby (i) by each person who is known by the
Company to own beneficially more than 5% of the Common Stock; (ii) by each of
the Company's directors; (iii) by each of the executive officers of the Company
identified in the table set forth under the heading "Management -- Executive
Compensation;" and (iv) by all executive officers and directors as a group.
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 SHARES BENEFICIALLY       SHARES BENEFICIALLY
                                                   OWNED PRIOR TO              OWNED AFTER
                                                     OFFERING(A)               OFFERING(B)
             NAME AND ADDRESS OF               -----------------------   -----------------------
              BENEFICIAL OWNER                   NUMBER     PERCENT(C)     NUMBER     PERCENT(C)
             -------------------               ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
<S>                                            <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
TPG Partners, L.P............................  24,682,809(d)    69.5%    24,682,809      49.2%
  201 Main Street, Suite 2420
  Fort Worth, TX 76102
TPG Parallel I, L.P..........................   2,459,828(d)     6.9      2,459,828       4.9
  201 Main Street, Suite 2420
  Forth Worth, TX 76102
399 Venture Partners, Inc....................   2,490,046       7.0       2,490,046       5.0
  399 Park Avenue, 14th Floor
  New York, NY 10043
Richard W. Boyce.............................     148,828(e)     0.4        148,828       0.3
Richard G. Wolford...........................     636,111(f)     1.8        636,111       1.3
Wesley J. Smith..............................     636,111(f)     1.8        636,111       1.3
Timothy G. Bruer.............................          --        --              --        --
Al Carey.....................................       1,532(g)     0.0          1,532       0.0
Patrick Foley................................       2,873(g)     0.0          2,873       0.0
Brian E. Haycox..............................       4,214(g)     0.0          4,214       0.0
Denise M. O'Leary............................       2,873(g)     0.0          2,873       0.0
William S. Price, III........................          --(d)      --             --        --
Jeffrey A. Shaw..............................          --        --              --        --
David L. Meyers..............................     199,587(h)     0.6        199,587       0.4
Glynn M. Phillips............................      48,652(i)     0.1         48,652       0.1
Thomas E. Gibbons............................      33,328(j)     0.1             --    33,328
William J. Spain.............................      13,983(j)     0.0             --    13,983
All executive officers and directors as a
  group (14 persons).........................  28,870,729(k)    78.1     28,870,729      55.9
</TABLE>
    
 
- ---------------
(a) The persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with
    respect to all shares of Common Stock shown as beneficially owned by them,
    subject to community property laws where applicable and the information
    contained in this table and these notes.
 
(b) Assumes no exercise of U.S. Underwriters' overallotment option.
 
(c) Calculated excluding all shares issuable pursuant to agreements, options or
    warrants of Del Monte, except as to each individual, entity or group, the
    shares issuable to such individual, entity or group pursuant to agreements,
    options or warrants of Del Monte, as described below in notes (e) through
    (k), as the case may be.
 
(d) TPG Partners, L.P. and TPG Parallel I, L.P. are entities affiliated with
    William S. Price, III. Mr. Price disclaims beneficial ownership of all
    shares owned by such entities.
 
(e) Includes 148,828 shares issuable upon exercise of options issued to Mr.
    Boyce.
 
(f) In each case, includes 569,071 shares issuable upon exercise of options.
 
(g) Messrs. Carey, Foley and Haycox and Ms. O'Leary have elected to receive
    shares of Common Stock in lieu of cash for their directors' fees. See
    "-- Directors' Compensation."
                                       69
<PAGE>   76
 
(h) Includes 151,701 shares issuable upon exercise of options.
 
(i) Includes 29,497 shares issuable upon exercise of options.
 
(j) In each case, includes 12,067 shares issuable upon exercise of options.
 
   
(k) Includes all shares held by entities affiliated with a director as described
    in note (d) above and all shares issuable by Del Monte pursuant to
    arrangements as described in notes (e) through (j) above.
    
 
   
     The Company has granted the U.S. Underwriters an option to purchase up to
2,205,900 additional shares of Common Stock solely to cover overallotments.
    
 
   
     The 35,490,461 shares of Common Stock issued to and owned by TPG and other
existing stockholders prior to the Offering were originally acquired in
connection with the Recapitalization and the Contadina Acquisition for total
consideration of approximately $182 million, or $5.13 per share, as compared
with new investors who will pay approximately $250 million, or $17.00 per share,
for the 14,706,000 shares of Common Stock offered by Del Monte hereby (assuming
an initial public offering price of $17.00 per share). Accordingly, TPG and
other existing stockholders will benefit from an appreciation of $7.16 per share
of Common Stock (approximately $254 million in the aggregate) in the value of
their shares of Common Stock as a result of the Offering (assuming an initial
public offering price of $17.00 per share and no exercise of the U.S.
Underwriters' overallotment option). See "Dilution."
    
 
                                       70
<PAGE>   77
 
                 CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company entered into a
ten-year agreement dated April 18, 1997 (the "Management Advisory Agreement")
with TPG pursuant to which TPG is entitled to receive an annual fee from the
Company for management advisory services equal to the greater of $500,000 and
0.05% of the budgeted consolidated net sales of the Company for each fiscal year
under the contract term. In addition, the Company has agreed to indemnify TPG,
its affiliates and shareholders, and their respective directors, officers,
controlling persons, agents, employees and affiliates from and against all
claims, actions, proceedings, demands, liabilities, damages, judgments,
assessments, losses and costs, including fees and expenses, arising out of or in
connection with the services rendered by TPG thereunder. Such indemnification
may not extend to actions arising under the U.S. federal securities laws. The
Management Advisory Agreement makes available the resources of TPG concerning a
variety of financial and operational matters, including advice and assistance in
reviewing the Company's business plans and its results of operations and in
evaluating possible strategic acquisitions, as well as providing investment
banking services in identifying and arranging sources of financing. The
Management Advisory Agreement does not specify a minimum number of TPG personnel
who must provide such services or the individuals who must provide them, nor
does it require that a minimum amount of time be spent by such personnel on
Company matters. The services that will be provided by TPG cannot otherwise be
obtained by the Company without the addition of personnel or the engagement of
outside professional advisors. In management's opinion, the fees provided for
under the Management Advisory Agreement reasonably reflect the benefits to be
received by the Company and are comparable to those obtainable in an
arm's-length transaction with an unaffiliated third party.
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company also entered into a
ten-year agreement dated April 18, 1997 (the "Transaction Advisory Agreement")
with TPG pursuant to which TPG received a cash financial advisory fee of
approximately $8.4 million upon the closing of the Recapitalization as
compensation for its services as financial advisor for the Recapitalization,
which included assistance in connection with the evaluation of the fairness of
the Recapitalization and the valuation of the Company in connection therewith.
TPG also is entitled to receive a fee of 1.5% of the "transaction value" for
each transaction in which the Company is involved, which may include
acquisitions, refinancings and recapitalizations. The term "transaction value"
means the total value of any subsequent transaction, including, without
limitation, the aggregate amount of the funds required to complete the
subsequent transaction (excluding any fees payable pursuant to the Transaction
Advisory Agreement and fees, if any, paid to any other person or entity for
financial advisory, investment banking, brokerage or any other similar services
rendered in connection with such transaction) including the amount of any
indebtedness, preferred stock or similar items assumed (or remaining
outstanding). The Transaction Advisory Agreement includes indemnification
provisions similar to those in the Management Advisory Agreement, which
provisions also may not extend to actions arising under the U.S. federal
securities laws. In connection with the Contadina Acquisition, TPG received from
the Company a transaction fee of approximately $3 million. In connection with
the Offering, TPG expects to receive approximately $4 million as compensation
for its services as financial advisor. In management's opinion, the fees
provided for under the Transaction Advisory Agreement reasonably reflect the
benefits received and to be received by the Company and are comparable to those
obtainable in an arm's-length transaction with an unaffiliated third party.
 
     Also in connection with the Recapitalization, Del Monte and the holders of
the Common Stock, including TPG and 399 Venture Partners, Inc. ("399 Venture
Partners"), an affiliate of one of the Company's bank lenders, entered into a
stockholders' agreement dated as of April 18, 1997 (the "Stockholders'
Agreement"). Among other things, the Stockholders' Agreement (i) imposes certain
restrictions on the transfer of shares of Common Stock by such holders and (ii)
gives such holders registration rights under certain circumstances. Del Monte
will bear the costs of preparing and filing any such registration statement and
will indemnify and hold harmless, to the extent customary and reasonable,
holders selling shares covered by such a registration statement. Directors and
members of management of the Company to date have received 465,639 restricted
shares of Common Stock, which are subject to stockholders' agreements with the
Company which impose similar restrictions.
 
                                       71
<PAGE>   78
 
     As set forth in the Merger Agreement, an affiliate of 399 Venture Partners,
and certain current and former employees of an affiliate of 399 Venture
Partners, received approximately $7.9 million, and $215,000, respectively, in
return for shares of Del Monte preferred stock which were surrendered and were
cancelled by virtue of the Merger. Since the beginning of fiscal 1996, in
connection with certain interest rate protection transactions, the Company has
also paid fees and made other payments to banking and other affiliates of 399
Venture Partners totaling approximately $442,000, consisting of fees for banking
services. In addition, in consideration of advisory services rendered and its
participation in connection with the Recapitalization, the Company paid to 399
Venture Partners a transaction advisory fee of approximately $900,000. The
Company believes that the terms of these transactions were comparable to those
obtainable in an arm's-length transaction with a disinterested third party.
 
     The employment of Mr. Haycox pursuant to the CEO Agreement was terminated
effective as of April 18, 1997. Mr. Haycox continued to receive the salary that
he would have earned pursuant to the CEO Agreement until September 1997. In
September 1997, the Company paid to Mr. Haycox a lump sum payment of salary.
Such lump sum payment was $250,000, which was equal to the base salary that Mr.
Haycox would have earned pursuant to the CEO Agreement between the date the lump
sum payment was made and December 31, 1997. The Company believes that the terms
of these transactions were comparable to those obtainable in an arm's-length
transaction with an unaffiliated third party.
 
     During the second and third quarters of fiscal 1998, the Company sold
shares of Common Stock to certain key employees, including the executive
officers of the Company, pursuant to the Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
See "Management -- Employment and Other Arrangements -- Stock Purchase Plan."
Messrs. Wolford and Smith each borrowed $175,000 from the Company in order to
acquire a portion of the stock purchased by him pursuant to such plan, all of
which remains outstanding. At March 31, 1998, these loans bore interest at a
rate of 5.62%, which rate is adjusted semi-annually, and are evidenced by
promissory notes which are secured by a pledge of the stock purchased with the
proceeds of the loans. The Company extended these loans in accordance with
applicable law governing transactions by a corporation with its officers. The
Company cannot predict whether the terms of such transactions, if made with a
disinterested third party, would be more or less favorable to Messrs. Wolford
and Smith, although the Company has no reason to believe that such terms would
be less favorable. The Bank Financing limits the ability of the Company to make
loans or advances to employees to a maximum amount outstanding at any time of $5
million. Aside from the loans to Messrs. Wolford and Smith, the Company has made
no such loans or advances to any of its directors, officers or employees. Any
vote by the party receiving any loan must be made in accordance with Delaware
law.
 
   
     Certain conflicts of interest could arise as a result of the relationship
between the Company and TPG. Messrs. Price and Shaw, each a partner of TPG, and
Mr. Boyce, an officer of a company that provides management services to TPG, are
also directors of the Company. None of the Company's management is affiliated
with TPG. Following the Offering, TPG will continue to have the power to control
the management and policies of the Company and matters requiring stockholder
approval. TPG may be subject to a conflict of interest in allocating acquisition
or other business opportunities between the Company and other entities in which
TPG has substantial investments. Although currently TPG has no investment in any
entity that competes directly with the Company, it may in the future make such
an investment.
    
 
     The Company will address any conflicts of interest and future transactions
it may have with its affiliates, including TPG, or other interested parties in
accordance with applicable law. Delaware law provides that any transaction with
any director or officer or other entity in which any of the Company's directors
or officers are also directors or officers, or have a financial interest, will
not be void or voidable solely due to the fact of the interest or affiliation,
nor because the votes of interested directors are counted in approving the
transaction, so long as (i) the material facts of the relevant party and its
interest are disclosed to the Board of Directors or the stockholders, as
applicable, and the transaction is approved in good faith by a majority of the
disinterested directors or by a specific vote of the stockholders, as
applicable; or (ii) the transaction is fair to the Company at the time it is
authorized, approved or ratified.
 
                                       72
<PAGE>   79
 
                          DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK
 
GENERAL
 
     The following description summarizes Del Monte's capital stock and does not
purport to be complete and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by
reference to, the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation, a copy of
which has been filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this
Prospectus is a part.
 
COMMON STOCK
 
     The Certificate of Incorporation authorizes the issuance of an aggregate of
500,000,000 shares of Common Stock. Upon consummation of the Offering, of those
authorized shares of Common Stock, 50,196,461 shall have been validly issued,
fully paid and nonassessable. Prior to the consummation of the Offering, there
were 45 holders of record of Common Stock.
 
     The holders of the shares of Common Stock are entitled to receive, when, as
and if declared by the Board of Directors out of legally available funds,
dividends and other distributions in cash, shares or property of the Company.
Dividends or distributions so declared by the Board will be paid ratably in
proportion to the number of shares held by the holders of Common Stock.
 
     In the case of the voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or
winding up of Del Monte, after payment of the creditors of Del Monte, the
remaining assets and funds of Del Monte available for distribution to Del
Monte's stockholders shall be divided among and paid ratably to the holders of
the shares of Common Stock.
 
     Except as provided by statute or the Certificate of Incorporation, holders
of the shares of the Common Stock have the sole right and power to vote on all
matters on which a vote of Del Monte's stockholders is to be taken. At every
meeting of the stockholders, each holder of the shares of Common Stock is
entitled to cast one vote provided such holder is present in person or by proxy
for each share of Common Stock standing in his or her name as of the record date
for such a vote.
 
     The holders of the shares of Common Stock are entitled, by a majority vote
of those present, to nominate and thereafter elect and remove directors to and
from the Board of Directors of Del Monte.
 
PREFERRED STOCK
 
     The Certificate of Incorporation authorizes the issuance of an aggregate of
2,000,000 shares of preferred stock. Upon consummation of the Offering, there
will be no shares of preferred stock outstanding.
 
     Del Monte's Board of Directors may, from time to time, direct the issue of
shares of preferred stock in series and may, at the time of issue, determine the
rights, preferences and limitations of each series. Satisfaction of any dividend
preferences of outstanding preferred stock would reduce the amount of funds
available for the payment of dividends on shares of Common Stock. Holders of
shares of preferred stock may be entitled to receive a preference payment in the
event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of Del Monte before any
payment is made to the holders of shares of Common Stock. Under certain
circumstances, the issuance of preferred stock may render more difficult or tend
to discourage a merger, tender offer or proxy contest, the assumption of control
by a holder of a large block of Del Monte's securities or the removal of
incumbent management. Upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the total
number of directors then in office, the Board of Directors of Del Monte may
issue shares of preferred stock with voting and conversion rights which could
adversely affect the holders of shares of Common Stock.
 
     Prior to the consummation of the Offering, there were approximately 37,253
shares of Series A Preferred Stock outstanding. The Company intends to use a
portion of the proceeds of the Offering to redeem such shares. See "Use of
Proceeds."
 
   
     The Series A Preferred Stock accumulates dividends at the rate of 14% per
annum, which dividends are payable in cash or additional shares of Series A
Preferred Stock, at the option of Del Monte, subject to availability of funds
and the terms of its indebtedness. The Series A Preferred Stock has an initial
liquidation preference of $1,000 per share, and may be redeemed at the option of
Del Monte, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, at a redemption
price ranging from 103% of the liquidation preference, if redeemed prior to
October 1998, to 100% of the liquidation preference, if redeemed after October
2000, plus
    
 
                                       73
<PAGE>   80
 
accumulated and unpaid dividends to the redemption date. Del Monte will be
required to redeem all outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock on April
18, 2008 at such redemption price. In certain other circumstances, including the
occurrence of a change of control of Del Monte, the holders of the Series A
Preferred Stock will have the right to require Del Monte to repurchase said
shares at 101% of the liquidation preference, plus accumulated and unpaid
dividends to the redemption date. Holders of Series A Preferred Stock will not
have any voting rights with respect thereto, except for such rights as are
provided under applicable law, the right to elect, as a class, two directors of
Del Monte in the event that six consecutive quarterly dividends are in arrears
and class voting rights with respect to transactions adversely affecting the
rights, preferences or powers of the Series A Preferred Stock. In January 1998,
TPG sold approximately 93% of its holdings of Series A Preferred Stock to
unaffiliated investors, and TPG currently holds approximately 1,315 shares of
the approximately 37,253 shares of Series A Preferred Stock outstanding.
 
WARRANTS
 
   
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company issued warrants to
purchase at any time prior to the expiration thereof, at an exercise price of
$0.01 per share, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances involving
dilutive transactions, approximately 547,262 shares of Common Stock. The Company
issued the warrants, together with shares of its preferred stock, to TPG and
other investors for $35 million in a private placement in accordance with
Section 4(2) of the Securities Act. All such warrants have been exercised. Under
the Stockholders' Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement (as defined
below), the Company has agreed to register under the Securities Act the resale
of the Common Stock received upon exercise of the warrants in certain
circumstances.
    
 
CERTAIN CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAW PROVISIONS
 
     The Certificate of Incorporation provides for the Board of Directors of Del
Monte to be divided into three classes, as nearly equal in number as possible,
serving staggered terms. Approximately one-third of the Board of Directors will
be elected each year. See "Management." The provision for a classified board
could prevent a party who acquires control of a majority of the outstanding
voting shares from obtaining control of the Board of Directors until the second
annual stockholders meeting following the date the acquiror obtains the
controlling share interest. The classified board provision is designed to have
the effect of discouraging a potential acquiror from making a tender offer or
otherwise attempting to obtain control of Del Monte and to increase the
likelihood that incumbent directors will retain their positions.
 
     The Certificate of Incorporation provides that stockholder action can be
taken only at a general meeting of stockholders and cannot be taken by written
consent in lieu of a meeting. The Bylaws provide that, except as otherwise
required by law, general meetings of the stockholders can only be called
pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Board of Directors or by
the Chairman of the Board. Stockholders are not permitted to call a general
meeting or to require the Board of Directors to call a general meeting.
 
     The Bylaws establish an advance notice procedure for stockholder proposals
to be brought before a general meeting of stockholders of Del Monte, including
proposed nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors.
 
     Stockholders at a general meeting may only consider proposals or
nominations specified in the notice of meeting or brought before the meeting by
or at the direction of the Board of Directors or by a stockholder who was a
stockholder of record on the record date for the meeting, who is entitled to
vote at the meeting and who has given to Del Monte's Secretary timely written
notice, in proper form, of the stockholder's intention to bring that business
before the meeting. Although the Certificate of Incorporation does not give the
Board of Directors the power to approve or disapprove stockholder nominations of
candidates or proposals regarding other business to be conducted at a general
meeting, the Certificate of Incorporation may have the effect of precluding the
conduct of certain business at a meeting if the proper procedures are not
followed or may discourage or deter a potential acquiror from conducting a
solicitation of proxies to elect its own slate of directors or otherwise
attempting to obtain control of Del Monte.
 
     The Certificate of Incorporation provides that the provisions of Section
203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which relate to business
combinations with interested stockholders, do not apply to Del Monte.
 
                                       74
<PAGE>   81
 
                      DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS
 
     The summaries of the indebtedness contained herein do not purport to be
complete and are qualified in their entirety by reference to the provisions of
the various agreements and indentures related thereto, copies of which have been
filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a
part.
 
BANK FINANCING
 
   
     The Bank Financing consists of the Revolving Credit Facility and the Term
Loan Facility. In connection with the Offering, the Company plans to amend and
restate the terms of the Bank Financing pursuant to a Second Amended and
Restated Credit Agreement, a copy of the proposed form of which is filed as an
exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a part.
Borrowings under the amended and restated Bank Financing will be syndicated
among a group of banks, which will be led by Bank of America National Trust and
Savings Association and Bankers Trust Company.
    
 
     The principal anticipated terms of the Bank Financing, as amended, are
summarized below. Such summaries do not purport to be complete and remain
subject to change pending the execution of the Second Amended and Restated
Credit Agreement. The Company anticipates that such Agreement will be executed
on or prior to the closing of the Offering and that such closing will be a
condition to the initial borrowings thereunder.
 
     Revolving Credit Facility
 
   
     The amended Revolving Credit Facility will provide for revolving loans in
an aggregate amount of $400 million, including a letter of credit sublimit of
$70 million and a "swingline loan" sublimit of $25 million (representing funds
that DMC may borrow with only limited advance notice). Amounts available under
the amended Revolving Credit Facility will be subject to certain borrowing base
limitations based upon, among other things, the amounts and applicable advance
rates in respect of DMC's eligible accounts receivable and eligible inventory.
Interest rates per annum applicable to amounts outstanding under the amended
Revolving Credit Facility will be at DMC's option, either (i) the Base Rate (as
defined) plus 0.50% (the "Applicable Base Rate Margin") or (ii) the reserve
adjusted Offshore Rate (as defined) plus 1.50% (the "Applicable Offshore Rate
Margin"). In addition, DMC will be required to pay to lenders under the amended
Revolving Credit Facility a commitment fee (the "Commitment Fee") of 0.375%,
payable quarterly in arrears, on the unused portion of such Revolving Credit
Facility. DMC will also be required to pay to lenders under the Revolving Credit
Facility letter of credit fees (collectively, the "Letter of Credit Fees") of
1.00% for trade letters of credits and 1.50% for all other letters of credit.
Upon attainment of certain levels of the Senior Debt Ratio (as defined), such
Applicable Base Rate Margin and Applicable Offshore Rate Margin, as well as the
Commitment Fee and Letter of Credit Fees, will be adjusted.
    
 
     Term Loan Facility
 
     The amended Term Loan Facility will consist of amortizing term loans in an
aggregate amount of $300 million, consisting of a $150 million Tranche A term
loan and a $150 million Tranche B term loan. Interest rates per annum applicable
to the Tranche A term loan will be, at DMC's option, either (i) the Base Rate
plus 0.50%, or (ii) the Offshore Rate plus 1.50%. Interest rates applicable to
the Tranche B term loan will, at DMC's option, either (i) the Base Rate plus
0.875% or (ii) the Offshore Rate plus 1.875%. Additionally, under the terms of
the amended Bank Financing, interest rates applicable to both the Tranche A and
Tranche B term loans will be subject to quarterly adjustment upon attainment of
certain levels of the Senior Debt Ratio.
 
     Amortization/Prepayment
 
     Under the amended Bank Financing, (i) the amended Revolving Credit Facility
will terminate in approximately six years; (ii) the amended Tranche A term loan
will mature in approximately six years; and (iii) the amended Tranche B term
loan will mature in approximately eight years, in each case, after the closing
of the transactions contemplated by the Refinancing. Commencing on September 30,
1999, amortization payments on the amended Tranche A term loan will be required
in quarterly amounts of $7.5 million.
 
                                       75
<PAGE>   82
 
   
Also commencing on September 30, 1999, amortization payments on the amended
Tranche B term loan will be required for 24 consecutive quarters in quarterly
amounts of $375,000 and thereafter, commencing on September 30, 2005, in four
quarterly installments totaling $141 million.
    
 
     Guarantees and Collateral
 
     Del Monte will guarantee DMC's obligations under the amended Bank
Financing. DMC's obligations will be secured by substantially all personal
property of DMC. Del Monte's guarantee will be secured by a pledge of the stock
of DMC. DMC's obligations also will be secured by first priority liens on
certain of its unencumbered real property fee interests.
 
     Covenants
 
     Pursuant to the terms of the amended Bank Financing, DMC will be required
to meet certain financial tests, certain of which are set forth below. In
addition, DMC will covenant that, among other things, it will limit the
incurrence of additional indebtedness, dividends, transactions with affiliates,
asset sales, acquisitions, mergers, prepayment of other indebtedness, liens and
encumbrances and other matters customarily restricted in loan agreements.
 
     The following is a summary of certain financial tests that will apply under
the amended Bank Financing (capitalized terms have the meanings set forth in the
amended Bank Financing):
 
     Minimum Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio. The Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (a
ratio of EBITDA to certain interest expense and scheduled principal payments
under the Term Loan Facility) for any Computation Period may not be less than
1.75 times through March 26, 2000, increasing over specified periods to 2.0
times at June 30, 2002 and thereafter.
 
     Maximum Senior Debt Ratio. The Senior Debt Ratio (a ratio of outstanding
debt other than subordinated debt to EBITDA) for any Computation Period may not
exceed 4.25 times through March 28, 1999, decreasing over specified periods to
3.0 times at June 30, 2002 and thereafter.
 
     Maximum Total Debt Ratio. The Total Debt Ratio (a ratio of total
indebtedness to EBITDA) on the last day of any fiscal year may not exceed 4.75
times through June 30, 1999, decreasing at specified dates to 4.0 times at June
30, 2002 and thereafter.
 
     Maximum Capital Expenditures. The aggregate amount of all Capital
Expenditures by the Company for any fiscal year may not exceed $45 million at
June 30, 1998, varying during specified periods to $40 million at June 30, 2001
and thereafter.
 
     Minimum Adjusted Net Worth. The Company may not permit the Net Worth at any
time plus Subordinated Debt Proceeds at such time plus $300 million to be less
than $200 million plus 80% of Cumulative Consolidated Net Income for any
computation period.
 
     Events of Default
 
     The amended Bank Financing will contain customary events of default,
including payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties, covenant
defaults, cross-defaults, certain events of bankruptcy and insolvency, ERISA
judgment defaults, failure of any guaranty or security agreement supporting
DMC's obligations under the Bank Financing to be in full force and effect and a
change of control of Del Monte or DMC.
 
THE DMC NOTES AND THE DEL MONTE NOTES
 
     On April 15, 1997, DMC issued and sold $150 million principal amount of
12 1/4% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2007 (the "Original DMC Notes"). On
December 17, 1997, Del Monte issued and sold $230 million principal amount at
maturity of 12 1/2% Senior Discount Notes due 2007 (the "Original Del Monte
Notes"). Such notes were initially sold pursuant to exemptions from, or in
transactions not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act
pursuant to Section 4(2) thereof and Regulation S thereunder and applicable
state securities laws. On July 31, 1997, DMC completed an exchange offer whereby
 
                                       76
<PAGE>   83
 
the Original DMC Notes were exchanged into the DMC Notes, which are registered
under the Securities Act with terms substantially identical to the Original DMC
Notes. On March 4, 1998, Del Monte filed a registration statement with the
Commission in contemplation of an exchange offer whereby the Original Del Monte
Notes will be exchanged into the Del Monte Notes, which will be registered under
the Securities Act with terms substantially identical to the Original Del Monte
Notes.
 
     The DMC Notes and Del Monte Notes will mature on April 15, 2007 and
December 15, 2007, respectively. Interest accrues at the rate of 12 1/4% and
12 1/2% per annum on the DMC Notes and the Del Monte Notes, respectively.
Interest is payable on the DMC Notes in cash, while interest on the Del Monte
Notes accretes until December 15, 2002, after which date interest is payable in
cash. Payment of principal, premium and interest on the DMC Notes is
subordinated, as set forth in the indenture governing the DMC Notes, to the
prior payment in full of DMC's senior debt. The obligations of DMC under the DMC
Notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by Del
Monte. The DMC Notes and Del Monte Notes are redeemable by DMC and Del Monte,
respectively, in certain circumstances, including upon a change of control of
Del Monte.
 
     The indentures for the Del Monte Notes and the DMC Notes contain various
restrictive covenants that limit the ability of Del Monte and DMC and their
subsidiaries to, among other things, incur additional indebtedness, pay
dividends or make certain other restricted payments, consummate certain asset
sales, enter into certain transactions with affiliates, incur certain types of
indebtedness, incur liens, impose restrictions on the ability of a subsidiary to
pay dividends or make certain payments, merge or consolidate or sell, assign,
transfer, lease, convey or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of the
assets of Del Monte and DMC.
 
                                       77
<PAGE>   84
 
               CERTAIN U.S. TAX CONSEQUENCES TO NON-U.S. HOLDERS
 
     The following is a general discussion of certain U.S. federal income and
estate tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of Common
Stock by a person that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is not a U.S.
Person (a "non-U.S. holder"). For purposes of this section, a "U.S. Person"
means a citizen or resident of the United States, a corporation, partnership or
other entity created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or
any political subdivision thereof, an estate the income of which is subject to
United States federal income taxation regardless of its source or a trust if (i)
a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over the trust's
administration and (ii) one or more United States persons have the authority to
control all of the trust's substantial decisions, and the term "United States"
means the United States of America (including the States and the District of
Columbia).
 
     THE DISCUSSION DOES NOT CONSIDER SPECIFIC FACTS AND CIRCUMSTANCES THAT MAY
BE RELEVANT TO A PARTICULAR NON-U.S. HOLDER'S TAX POSITION AND DOES NOT
CONSTITUTE AND IS NOT BASED UPON AN OPINION OF TAX COUNSEL. ACCORDINGLY, EACH
NON-U.S. HOLDER IS URGED TO CONSULT ITS OWN TAX ADVISOR WITH RESPECT TO THE U.S.
TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE PURCHASE, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK, AS
WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES THAT MAY ARISE UNDER THE LAWS OF ANY STATE,
MUNICIPALITY, FOREIGN COUNTRY OR OTHER TAXING JURISDICTION.
 
DIVIDENDS
 
     Dividends paid to a non-U.S. holder of Common Stock ordinarily will be
subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax at a 30% rate, or at a lower
rate under an applicable income tax treaty that provides for a reduced rate of
withholding. However, if the dividends are effectively connected with the
conduct by the holder of a trade or business within the United States, then the
dividends will be exempt from the withholding tax described above and instead
will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis.
 
GAIN ON DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK
 
     A non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax
in respect of gain realized on a disposition of Common Stock, provided that (a)
the gain is not effectively connected with a trade or business conducted by the
non-U.S. holder in the United States and (b) in the case of a non-U.S. holder
who is an individual and who holds the Common Stock as a capital asset, such
holder is present in the United States for less than 183 days in the taxable
year of the sale and other conditions are met.
 
FEDERAL ESTATE TAXES
 
     Common Stock owned or treated as being owned by a non-U.S. holder at the
time of death will be included in such holder's gross estate for U.S. federal
estate tax purposes, unless an applicable estate tax treaty provides otherwise.
 
U.S. INFORMATION REPORTING REQUIREMENTS AND BACKUP WITHHOLDING TAX
 
     U.S. information reporting requirements and backup withholding tax will not
apply to dividends paid on Common Stock to a non-U.S. holder at an address
outside the United States, except that with regard to payments made after
December 31, 1998, a non-U.S. holder will be entitled to such an exemption only
if it provides a Form W-8 (or satisfies certain documentary evidence
requirements for establishing that it is a non-United States person) or
otherwise establishes an exemption. As a general matter, information reporting
and backup withholding also will not apply to a payment of the proceeds of a
sale of Common Stock effected outside the United States by a foreign office of a
foreign broker. However, information reporting requirements (but not backup
withholding) will apply to a payment of the proceeds of a sale of Common Stock
effected outside the United States by a foreign office of a broker if the broker
(i) is a U.S. person, (ii) derives 50% or more of its gross income for certain
periods from the conduct of a trade or business in the United States, or (iii)
is a "controlled foreign corporation" as to the United States or (iv) with
respect to payments made after December 31, 1998, is a foreign partnership that,
at any time during its taxable year is 50% or more (by income or capital
interest) owned by U.S. persons or is engaged in the conduct of a U.S. trade or
business, unless the broker has documentary evidence in its records that the
holder is a non-U.S. holder and certain
                                       78
<PAGE>   85
 
conditions are met, or the holder otherwise establishes an exemption. Payment by
a United States office of a broker of the proceeds of a sale of Common Stock
will be subject to both backup withholding and information reporting unless the
holder certifies its non-United States status under penalties of perjury or
otherwise establishes an exemption.
 
                        SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
 
     Prior to the Offering, there has been no public market for the shares of
Common Stock. There can be no assurance that an active trading market for the
shares of Common Stock will develop or will continue if it develops. Further,
Del Monte cannot predict the effect, if any, of sales under Rule 144 or Rule
144A under the Securities Act or otherwise of "restricted" shares of Common
Stock or the availability of restricted shares of Common Stock for sale in the
public market. Sales of a substantial number of shares of Common Stock in the
public market following the Offering could adversely affect the market price of
the shares of Common Stock prevailing from time to time.
 
   
     Upon completion of the Offering, Del Monte will have 50,196,461 shares of
Common Stock outstanding (assuming no exercise of the U.S. Underwriters'
overallotment option). Of these shares, the 14,706,000 shares sold in the
Offering will be freely transferable without restriction or registration under
the Securities Act, except for any shares purchased by an "affiliate" of Del
Monte, as that term is defined by the Securities Act (an "Affiliate"), which
shares will be subject to the resale limitations of Rule 144 adopted under the
Securities Act ("Rule 144"). Substantially all of the remaining outstanding
shares of Common Stock will be owned by TPG and certain other existing
stockholders of Del Monte and will be "restricted securities" as defined in Rule
144. "Restricted securities" may not be sold in the absence of an effective
registration statement under the Securities Act other than in accordance with
Rule 144 or another exemption from registration.
    
 
     Each of Del Monte, TPG and certain other stockholders of the Company and
each of the directors and executive officers of Del Monte have agreed that,
without the prior written consent of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated on behalf
of the Underwriters, they will not, during the period ending 180 days after the
date of this Prospectus, engage in specified transactions relating to the Common
Stock. See "Underwriters."
 
     In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, a person (or persons
whose shares are aggregated), including an Affiliate, who has beneficially owned
restricted securities for at least one year (including the holding period of any
prior owner except an Affiliate) would be entitled to sell within any
three-month period, a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of (i)
1% of the number of shares of Common Stock then outstanding (approximately
501,964 shares immediately after the Offering); or (ii) the average weekly
trading volume of the shares of Common Stock during the four calendar weeks
preceding the filing of a Form 144 with respect to such sale. Sales under Rule
144 are also subject to certain manner of sale and notice requirements and to
the availability of current public information about Del Monte. Under Rule
144(k), a person who is not deemed to have been an Affiliate at any time during
the 90 days preceding a sale, and who has beneficially owned restricted
securities for at least two years (including the holding period of any prior
owner except an Affiliate), is entitled to sell such shares without complying
with the manner of sale, public information requirements, volume limitations or
notice requirements of Rule 144. Accordingly, subject to the contractual
restrictions described above in the case of Del Monte, the "restricted" shares
of Common Stock held by TPG will be eligible for sale in the public market
without registration under the Securities Act, subject to compliance with the
resale volume limitations and other restrictions of Rule 144 under the
Securities Act.
 
     Rule 144A under the Securities Act ("Rule 144A") would allow the existing
stockholders of Del Monte to sell their current holdings of shares of Common
Stock to qualified institutional buyers (as defined in such Rule), and would
permit resales among such institutions, without regard to any volume or other
restrictions. There can be no assurance that Rule 144A will not have an adverse
effect on the liquidity and trading price of the Common Stock in the public
market.
 
                                       79
<PAGE>   86
 
REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENTS
 
     Under a registration rights agreement (the "Registration Rights Agreement")
between the Company and TPG Partners, the Company has granted TPG Partners the
right to require the Company to register shares of Common Stock held by TPG
Partners and its affiliates for public sale (a "demand registration"). So long
as TPG Partners and its affiliates continue to hold at least 5% of the
outstanding shares of Common Stock, TPG will have the right to request one
demand registration in each nine-month period. In the event that the Company
registers shares of Common Stock held by TPG, the Company would also be required
to register pursuant to the Stockholders' Agreement shares of Common Stock held
by other stockholders of the Company upon their request. See "Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions."
 
     The Company is required to pay all expenses (other than underwriting
discounts and commissions) incurred by TPG in connection with each demand
registration.
 
                                       80
<PAGE>   87
 
                                  UNDERWRITERS
 
   
     Under the terms and subject to the conditions contained in an Underwriting
Agreement dated the date hereof (the "Underwriting Agreement"), the U.S.
Underwriters named below, for whom Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated,
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens, Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc., BT Alex. Brown
Incorporated and Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation are acting
as U.S. Representatives, and the International Underwriters named below, for
whom Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited, BancAmerica Robertson Stephens,
Bear, Stearns International Limited, BT Alex. Brown International, a division of
Bankers Trust International PLC, and Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette International
are acting as International Representatives, have severally agreed to purchase,
and Del Monte has agreed to sell to them, severally, the respective number of
shares of Common Stock set forth opposite the names of such Underwriters below:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                NUMBER
                            NAME                              OF SHARES
                            ----                              ----------
<S>                                                           <C>
U.S. Underwriters:
  Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated.........................
  BancAmerica Robertson Stephens............................
  Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc...................................
  BT Alex. Brown Incorporated...............................
  Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation.......
 
                                                              ----------
     Subtotal...............................................  11,765,000
                                                              ----------
 
International Underwriters:
  Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited................
  BancAmerica Robertson Stephens............................
  Bear, Stearns International Limited.......................
  BT Alex. Brown International, a division of Bankers Trust
     International PLC......................................
  Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities International.....
 
                                                              ----------
     Subtotal...............................................   2,941,000
                                                              ----------
          Total.............................................  14,706,000
                                                              ==========
</TABLE>
    
 
     The U.S. Underwriters and the International Underwriters, and the U.S.
Representatives and the International Representatives, are collectively referred
to as the "Underwriters" and the "Representatives," respectively. The
Underwriting Agreement provides that the obligations of the several Underwriters
to pay for and accept delivery of the shares of Common Stock offered hereby are
subject to the approval of certain legal matters by their counsel and to certain
other conditions. The Underwriters are obligated to take and pay for all of the
shares of Common Stock offered hereby (other than those covered by the U.S.
Underwriters' over-allotment option described below) if any of such shares are
taken.
 
     Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters, each
U.S. Underwriter has represented and agreed that, with certain exceptions: (i)
it is not purchasing any Shares (as defined herein) for the account of anyone
other than a United States or Canadian Person (as defined herein) and (ii) it
has not offered or sold, and will not offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any
Shares or distribute any prospectus relating to the Shares outside the United
States or Canada or to anyone other than a United States or Canadian Person.
Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters, each
International Underwriter has represented and agreed that, with certain
exceptions: (i) it is not purchasing any Shares for the account of any United
States or Canadian Person and (ii) it has not offered or sold, and will not
offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any Shares or distribute any prospectus
relating to the Shares in the United States or Canada or to any United States or
Canadian Person. With respect to any Underwriter that is a U.S.
 
                                       81
<PAGE>   88
 
Underwriter and an International Underwriter, the foregoing representations and
agreements (i) made by it in its capacity as a U.S. Underwriter apply only to it
in its capacity as a U.S. Underwriter and (ii) made by it in its capacity as an
International Underwriter apply only to it in its capacity as an International
Underwriter. The foregoing limitations do not apply to stabilization
transactions or to certain other transactions specified in the Agreement Between
U.S. and International Underwriters. As used herein, "United States or Canadian
Person" means any national or resident of the United States or Canada, or any
corporation, pension, profit-sharing or other trust or other entity organized
under the laws of the United States or Canada or of any political subdivision
thereof (other than a branch located outside the United States and Canada of any
United States or Canadian Person), and includes any United States or Canadian
branch of a person who is otherwise not a United States or Canadian Person. All
shares of Common Stock to be purchased by the Underwriters under the
Underwriting Agreement are referred to herein as the "Shares."
 
     Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters,
sales may be made between the U.S. Underwriters and International Underwriters
of any number of Shares as may be mutually agreed. The per share price of any
Shares so sold shall be the public offering price set forth on the cover page
hereof, in United States dollars, less an amount not greater than the per share
amount of the concession to dealers set forth below.
 
     Pursuant to the Agreement between U.S. and International Underwriters, each
U.S. Underwriter has represented that it has not offered or sold, and has agreed
not to offer or sell, any Shares, directly or indirectly, in any province or
territory of Canada or to, or for the benefit of, any resident of any province
or territory of Canada in contravention of the securities laws thereof and has
represented that any offer or sale of Shares in Canada will be made only
pursuant to an exemption from the requirement to file a prospectus in the
province or territory of Canada in which such offer or sale is made. Each U.S.
Underwriter has further agreed to send to any dealer who purchases from it any
of the Shares a notice stating in substance that, by purchasing such Shares,
such dealer represents and agrees that it has not offered or sold, and will not
offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any of such Shares in any province or
territory of Canada or to, or for the benefit of, any resident of any province
or territory of Canada in contravention of the securities laws thereof and that
any offer or sale of Shares in Canada will be made only pursuant to an exemption
from the requirement to file a prospectus in the province or territory of Canada
in which such offer or sale is made, and that such dealer will deliver to any
other dealer to whom it sells any of such Shares a notice containing
substantially the same statement as is contained in this sentence.
 
     Pursuant to the Agreement between U.S. and International Underwriters, each
International Underwriter has represented and agreed that (i) it has not offered
or sold and, prior to the date six months after the closing date for the sale of
the Shares to the International Underwriters, will not offer or sell, any Shares
to persons in the United Kingdom except to persons whose ordinary activities
involve them in acquiring, holding, managing or disposing of investments (as
principal or agent) for the purposes of their businesses or otherwise in
circumstances which have not resulted and will not result in an offer to the
public in the United Kingdom within the meaning of the Public Offers of
Securities Regulations 1995 (the "U.K. Regulations"); (ii) it has complied and
will comply with all applicable provisions of the Financial Services Act 1986
and the U.K. Regulations with respect to anything done by it in relation to the
Shares in, from or otherwise involving the United Kingdom; and (iii) it has only
issued or passed on and will only issue or pass on in the United Kingdom any
document received by it in connection with the offering of the Shares to a
person who is of a kind described in Article 11(3) of the Financial Services Act
1986 (Investment Advertisements) (Exemptions) Order 1996 or is a person to whom
such document may otherwise lawfully be issued or passed on.
 
     The Underwriters initially propose to offer part of the shares of Common
Stock directly to the public at the public offering price set forth on the cover
page hereof and part to certain dealers at a price that represents a concession
not in excess of $          a share under the public offering price. Any
Underwriter may allow, and such dealers may reallow, a concession not in excess
of $          a share to other Underwriters or to certain dealers. After the
initial offering of the shares of Common Stock, the offering price and other
selling terms described above may from time to time be varied by the
Representatives.
 
   
     Del Monte has granted to the U.S. Underwriters an option, exercisable for
30 days from the date of this Prospectus, to purchase up to an aggregate of
2,205,900 additional shares of Common Stock, at the public
    
 
                                       82
<PAGE>   89
 
   
offering price set forth on the cover page hereof, less underwriting discounts
and commissions. The U.S. Underwriters may exercise such option solely for the
purpose of covering overallotments, if any, made in connection with the
Offering. To the extent such option is exercised, each U.S. Underwriter will
become obligated, subject to certain conditions, to purchase approximately the
same percentage of such additional shares of Common Stock as the number set
forth next to such U.S. Underwriter's name in the preceding table bears to the
total number of shares of Common Stock set forth next to the names of all U.S.
Underwriters in the preceding table.
    
 
     The Underwriters have informed Del Monte that they do not intend sales to
discretionary accounts to exceed 5% of the total number of shares of Common
Stock offered by them.
 
   
     The shares of Common Stock have been approved for listing, subject to
official notice of issuance, on the New York Stock Exchange and the Pacific
Exchange under the symbol "DLM."
    
 
     Each of Del Monte, TPG and certain other stockholders of the Company and
each of the directors and executive officers of Del Monte have agreed that,
without the prior written consent of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated on behalf
of the Underwriters, they will not, during the period ending 180 days after the
date of this Prospectus, (i) offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any
option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant
any option, right or warrant to purchase, lend or otherwise transfer or dispose
of, directly or indirectly, any shares of Common Stock or any securities
convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock or (ii) enter
into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in
part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of the Common Stock, whether
any such transaction described in clause (i) or (ii) above is to be settled by
delivery of Common Stock or such other securities, in cash or otherwise. The
restrictions described in this paragraph do not apply to (x) the sale of the
Shares to the Underwriters, (y) the issuance by Del Monte of shares of Common
Stock upon the exercise of an option or a warrant or the conversion of a
security outstanding on the date of this Prospectus or (z) transactions by any
person other than the Company relating to shares of Common Stock or other
securities acquired in open market transactions after the completion of the
Offering.
 
     In order to facilitate the offering of the Common Stock, the Underwriters
may engage in transactions that stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the
price of the Common Stock. Specifically, the Underwriters may overallot in
connection with the offering, creating a short position in the Common Stock for
their own account. In addition, to cover overallotments or to stabilize the
price of the Common Stock, the Underwriters may bid for, and purchase, shares of
Common Stock in the open market. Finally, the underwriting syndicate may reclaim
selling concessions allowed to an Underwriter or a dealer for distributing the
Common Stock in the Offering, if the syndicate repurchases previously
distributed shares of Common Stock in transactions to cover syndicate short
positions, in stabilization transactions or otherwise. Any of these activities
may stabilize or maintain the market price of the Common Stock above independent
market levels. The Underwriters are not required to engage in these activities,
and may end any of these activities at any time.
 
     Pursuant to the application of the net proceeds of the Offering, certain of
the Underwriters or affiliates of the Underwriters, which may include Bank of
America National Trust and Savings Association, an affiliate of BancAmerica
Robertson Stephens, and Bankers Trust Company, an affiliate of BT Alex. Brown
Incorporated, may receive in the aggregate an amount greater than 10% of the net
proceeds of the Offering. Accordingly, the underwriting arrangements for the
Offering will be made in compliance with Rule 2710(c)(8) of the Conduct Rules of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (the "NASD"), which
provides that, among other things, 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, A.G. Edwards & Sons,
Inc. will serve in such role and will recommend a price in compliance with the
Conduct Rules of the NASD. In connection with the Offering, A.G. Edwards & Sons,
Inc., in its role as a qualified independent underwriter, has performed due
diligence investigations and reviewed and participated in the preparation of the
Prospectus and the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a part.
 
     From time to time, Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated has provided, and
continues to provide, certain financial advisory services to Del Monte and its
subsidiaries for which they have received customary fees and commissions.
 
                                       83
<PAGE>   90
 
     Del Monte and the Underwriters have agreed to indemnify each other against
certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.
 
DIRECTED SHARE PROGRAM
 
   
     At the request of Del Monte, the Underwriters have reserved for sale, at
the initial offering price, up to 735,300 shares, which may be offered to
directors, officers, employees, retirees and related persons of Del Monte. The
number of shares of Common Stock available for sale to the general public will
be reduced to the extent such persons purchase such reserved shares. Such
related persons include officers, partners and principals of independent brokers
that represent the Company's products to the grocery trade. Any reserved shares
which are not so purchased will be offered by the Underwriters to the general
public on the same basis as the other shares offered hereby.
    
 
PRICING OF THE OFFERING
 
   
     Prior to the Offering, there has been no public market for the Common
Stock. The initial public offering price will be determined by negotiations
between Del Monte and the U.S. Representatives. Among the factors to be
considered in determining the initial public offering price will be the future
prospects of the Company and its industry in general, sales, earnings and
certain other financial and operating information of the Company in recent
periods, and the price-earnings ratios, price-sales ratios, market prices of
securities and certain financial and operating information of companies engaged
in activities similar to those of the Company. The estimated initial public
offering price range set forth on the cover page of this Preliminary Prospectus
is subject to change as a result of market conditions and other factors.
    
 
                                 LEGAL MATTERS
 
     The validity of the shares of Common Stock offered hereby and certain other
legal matters in connection with the Offering will be passed upon for Del Monte
by Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton, One Liberty Plaza, New York, New York
10006, counsel for Del Monte. Certain legal matters in connection with the
Offering will be passed upon for the Underwriters by Brown & Wood LLP, 555
California Street, San Francisco, California 94104.
 
                                    EXPERTS
 
     The consolidated financial statements of the Company as of June 30, 1997,
and for the year then ended, and as of March 31, 1998, and for the nine months
then ended, appearing in this Prospectus and Registration Statement have been
audited by KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, independent certified public accountants, and
as of June 30, 1996, and for each of the two years in the period ended June 30,
1996, by Ernst & Young LLP, independent certified public accountants, as set
forth in their respective reports thereon appearing elsewhere herein, and are
included in reliance upon such reports given upon the authority of said firms as
experts in accounting and auditing.
 
     The combined financial statements of Contadina (a division of Nestle USA,
Inc.) as of December 31, 1996 and December 18, 1997, and for the year ended
December 31, 1996 and the period January 1 through December 18, 1997, appearing
in this Prospectus and Registration Statement have been audited by KPMG Peat
Marwick LLP, independent certified public accountants, as set forth in their
report thereon appearing elsewhere herein, and are included in reliance on such
report given upon the authority of said firm as experts in accounting and
auditing.
 
                                       84
<PAGE>   91
 
                         INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              PAGE
                                                              ----
<S>                                                           <C>
DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Report of Independent Auditors..............................  F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets -- June 30, 1996 and 1997.......  F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations -- Years ended June
  30, 1995, 1996 and 1997...................................  F-4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
  (Deficit) -- Years ended June 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997.....  F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -- Years ended June
  30, 1995, 1996 and 1997...................................  F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements..................  F-7
 
Report of Independent Auditors..............................  F-27
Report of Independent Auditors..............................  F-28
Consolidated Balance Sheets -- March 31, 1997 (unaudited)
  and March 31, 1998........................................  F-29
Consolidated Statements of Operations -- Nine-month Periods
  ended March 31, 1997 (unaudited) and March 31, 1998.......  F-30
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity
  (Deficit) -- Nine-month Period ended March 31, 1998.......  F-31
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -- Nine-month Periods
  ended March 31, 1997 (unaudited)
  and March 31, 1998........................................  F-32
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements..................  F-33
 
CONTADINA (A DIVISION OF NESTLE USA, INC.)
Independent Auditors' Report................................  F-51
Combined Balance Sheets at December 31, 1996 and December
  18, 1997..................................................  F-52
Combined Statements of Operations and Divisional Equity for
  the year ended December 31, 1996 and the period from
  January 1, 1997 through December 18, 1997.................  F-53
Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the year ended
  December 31, 1996 and the period from January 1, 1997
  through December 18, 1997.................................  F-54
Notes to Combined Financial Statements for the year ended
  December 31, 1996 and the period from January 1, 1997
  through December 18, 1997.................................  F-55
</TABLE>
 
                                       F-1
<PAGE>   92
 
                         REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Del Monte Foods Company
 
     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Del Monte
Foods Company and subsidiaries as of June 30, 1997, and the related consolidated
statements of operations, stockholders' equity (deficit) and cash flows for the
year then ended. 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 audit. The accompanying financial statements
of Del Monte Foods Company and subsidiaries as of June 30, 1996 and for each of
the years in the two-year period ended June 30, 1996 were audited by other
auditors whose report, dated August 29, 1996, except for Note M, as to which the
date is July 22, 1998, and Note N, as to which the date is June 29, 1998, on
those statements included an explanatory paragraph that described the change in
the Company's method of accounting for impairment of long-lived assets and for
long-lived assets to be disposed of discussed in Note A to the financial
statements.
 
     We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards 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. 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 audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
     In our opinion, the 1997 consolidated financial statements referred to
above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial
position of Del Monte Foods Company and subsidiaries as of June 30, 1997 and the
consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for the year then
ended in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
 
                                          KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP
 
San Francisco, California
August 22, 1997, except for Note N,
as to which the date is June 29,
1998, and Note M, as to which the
date is July 22, 1998
 
                                       F-2
<PAGE>   93
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
                                     ASSETS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      JUNE 30,
                                                              ------------------------
                                                                 1996          1997
                                                              ----------    ----------
                                                              (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)
<S>                                                           <C>           <C>
Current assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents.................................     $  6          $  5
  Restricted cash...........................................       30            --
  Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance...............       98            67
  Other receivables.........................................        8             2
  Inventories...............................................      304           339
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets.................       13             9
                                                                 ----          ----
          Total current assets..............................      459           422
  Property, plant and equipment, net........................      247           222
  Other assets..............................................       30            23
                                                                 ----          ----
          Total assets......................................     $736          $667
                                                                 ====          ====
 
       LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
Current liabilities:
  Accounts payable and accrued expenses.....................     $200          $220
  Short-term borrowings.....................................       43            82
  Current portion of long-term debt.........................        7             2
                                                                 ----          ----
          Total current liabilities.........................      250           304
Long-term debt..............................................      323           526
Other noncurrent liabilities................................      236           203
Redeemable common stock ($.01 par value per share,
  316,044,300 shares authorized; issued and outstanding:
  30,529,113 at June 30, 1996)..............................        2            --
Redeemable preferred stock ($.01 par value per share,
  32,493,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding:
  17,300,041 at June 30, 1996; aggregate liquidation
  preference: $579).........................................      213            --
Redeemable preferred stock ($.01 par value per share,
  1,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding:
  35,000 at June 30, 1997; aggregate liquidation preference:
  $35)......................................................       --            32
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
     Common stock ($.01 par value per share, 325,621,400
      shares authorized; issued and outstanding: 42,803,508
      in 1996)..............................................       --            --
     Common stock ($.01 par value per share, 500,000,000
      shares authorized;
       issued and outstanding: 26,815,880 in 1997)..........       --            --
     Paid-in capital........................................        3           129
     Retained earnings (deficit)............................     (265)         (527)
     Cumulative translation adjustment......................      (26)           --
                                                                 ----          ----
          Total stockholders' equity (deficit)..............     (288)         (398)
                                                                 ----          ----
          Total liabilities and stockholders' equity........     $736          $667
                                                                 ====          ====
</TABLE>
 
                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
                                       F-3
<PAGE>   94
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                      -----------------------------------------
                                                         1995           1996           1997
                                                      -----------    -----------    -----------
                                                                     (RESTATED)     (RESTATED)
<S>                                                   <C>            <C>            <C>
Net sales...........................................  $     1,527    $     1,305    $     1,217
Cost of products sold...............................        1,183            984            819
                                                      -----------    -----------    -----------
  Gross profit......................................          344            321            398
Selling, advertising, administrative and general
  expense...........................................          264            239            327
                                                      -----------    -----------    -----------
  Operating income..................................           80             82             71
Interest expense....................................           76             67             52
Loss (gain) on sale of divested assets (Note B).....           --           (123)             5
Other (income) expense (Note D).....................          (11)             3             30
                                                      -----------    -----------    -----------
  Income (loss) before income taxes, minority
     interest, extraordinary item and cumulative
     effect of accounting change....................           15            135            (16)
Provision for income taxes..........................            2             11
Minority interest in earnings of subsidiary.........            1              3             --
                                                      -----------    -----------    -----------
  Income (loss) before extraordinary item and
     cumulative effect of accounting change.........           12            121            (16)
Extraordinary loss from refinancing of debt and
  early debt retirement.............................            7             10             42
Cumulative effect of accounting change..............           --              7             --
                                                      -----------    -----------    -----------
          Net income (loss).........................  $         5    $       104    $       (58)
                                                      ===========    ===========    ===========
Net income (loss) attributable to common shares.....  $       (66)   $        22    $      (128)
                                                      ===========    ===========    ===========
Weighted average numbers of shares outstanding......   76,671,294     75,047,353     61,703,436
                                                      ===========    ===========    ===========
Income (loss) per common share:
Income (loss) before extraordinary item and
  cumulative effect of accounting change............  $     (0.76)   $      0.52    $     (1.40)
Extraordinary loss from early debt retirement.......        (0.09)         (0.14)         (0.67)
Cumulative effect of accounting change..............           --          (0.09)            --
                                                      -----------    -----------    -----------
Net income (loss) per common share..................  $     (0.85)   $      0.29    $     (2.07)
                                                      ===========    ===========    ===========
</TABLE>
 
                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
                                       F-4
<PAGE>   95
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            NOTES                                     TOTAL
                                                          RECEIVABLE    RETAINED    CUMULATIVE    STOCKHOLDERS'
                                      COMMON   PAID-IN       FROM       EARNINGS    TRANSLATION      EQUITY
                                      STOCK    CAPITAL   STOCKHOLDERS   (DEFICIT)   ADJUSTMENT      (DEFICIT)
                                      ------   -------   ------------   ---------   -----------   -------------
<S>                                   <C>      <C>       <C>            <C>         <C>           <C>
Balance at June 30, 1994............   $--      $  3         $(1)         $(374)       $(12)          $(384)
Repurchase of shares................    --        --          --             --          --              --
Net income..........................    --        --          --              5          --               5
Cumulative translation adjustment...    --        --          --             --         (14)            (14)
                                       ---      ----         ---          -----        ----           -----
Balance at June 30, 1995............    --         3          (1)          (369)        (26)           (393)
Repayment of notes receivable from
  stockholders......................    --        --           1             --          --               1
Repurchase of shares................    --        --          --             --          --              --
Net income (as restated)............    --        --          --            104          --             104
                                       ---      ----         ---          -----        ----           -----
Balance at June 30, 1996 (as
  restated).........................    --         3          --           (265)        (26)           (288)
Cancellation of shares in connection
  with the Recapitalization.........    --        (3)         --           (204)         --            (207)
Issuance of shares..................    --       129          --             --          --             129
Net loss (as restated)..............    --        --          --            (58)         --             (58)
Cumulative translation adjustment...    --        --          --             --          26              26
                                       ---      ----         ---          -----        ----           -----
Balance at June 30, 1997 (as
  restated).........................   $--      $129         $--          $(527)       $ --           $(398)
                                       ===      ====         ===          =====        ====           =====
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 NUMBER OF SHARES
                                --------------------------------------------------
                                  COMMON                                              TOTAL COMMON
                                  STOCK         CLASS A      CLASS B     CLASS E         SHARES
                                ----------    -----------    -------    ----------    ------------
<S>                             <C>           <C>            <C>        <C>           <C>
Shares issued and outstanding
  at June 30, 1994............          --     41,768,032        --      4,788,550     46,556,582
Repurchase of shares..........          --       (642,241)       --             --       (642,241)
                                ----------    -----------    ------     ----------    -----------
Shares issued and outstanding
  at June 30, 1995............          --     41,125,791        --      4,788,550     45,914,341
Repurchase of shares..........          --     (3,110,833)       --             --     (3,110,833)
                                ----------    -----------    ------     ----------    -----------
Shares issued and outstanding
  at June 30, 1996............          --     38,014,958        --      4,788,550     42,803,508
Cancellation of shares........          --    (38,014,958)       --     (4,788,550)   (42,803,508)
Issuance of shares............  26,815,880             --        --             --     26,815,880
                                ----------    -----------    ------     ----------    -----------
Shares issued and outstanding
  at June 30, 1997............  26,815,880             --        --             --     26,815,880
                                ==========    ===========    ======     ==========    ===========
</TABLE>
 
                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
                                       F-5
<PAGE>   96
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                              -----------------------------
                                                               1995       1996       1997
                                                              -------    -------    -------
                                                                         (RESTATED) (RESTATED)
<S>                                                           <C>        <C>        <C>
Operating activities:
  Net income (loss).........................................  $     5    $   104    $   (58)
  Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
     flows:
     Extraordinary loss from early debt retirement..........        7         10         42
     Cumulative effect of accounting change.................       --          7         --
     Loss (gain) on sale of divested assets.................       --       (123)         5
     Loss on sales of assets................................        3          2          3
     Depreciation and amortization..........................       40         31         29
     Minority interest in earnings of subsidiary............        1         --         --
  Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
     Accounts receivable....................................      (37)        33         24
     Inventories............................................      (21)        11        (48)
     Prepaid expenses and other current assets..............        3         (2)         3
     Other assets...........................................        4          1          6
     Accounts payable and accrued expenses..................       25        (28)        29
     Other non-current liabilities..........................       33         14        (10)
                                                              -------    -------    -------
          Net cash provided by operating activities.........       63         60         25
Investing activities:
     Capital expenditures...................................      (24)       (16)       (20)
     Proceeds from sales of fixed assets....................        3          4          9
     Proceeds from sales of divested assets.................       --        182         48
                                                              -------    -------    -------
          Net cash provided by (used in) investing
            activities......................................      (21)       170         37
Financing activities:
     Short-term borrowings..................................    1,901      1,276      1,137
     Payment on short-term borrowings.......................   (1,867)    (1,354)    (1,098)
     Proceeds from long-term borrowings.....................      188         --        582
     Principal payments on long-term debt...................     (238)      (108)      (407)
     Deferred debt issuance costs...........................      (24)        (2)       (26)
     Prepayment penalty.....................................       --         (5)       (20)
     Payments to previous shareholders for cancellation of
       stock................................................       --         --       (422)
     Issuance of common and preferred stock.................       --         --        161
     Specific Proceeds Collateral Account...................       --        (30)        30
     Dividends paid to minority shareholders................       (1)        --         --
     Other..................................................       (3)        (1)        --
                                                              -------    -------    -------
          Net cash used in financing activities.............      (44)      (224)       (63)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
  equivalents...............................................        3         (8)        --
                                                              -------    -------    -------
          Net change in cash and cash equivalents...........        1         (2)        (1)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year..............        7          8          6
                                                              -------    -------    -------
          Cash and cash equivalents at end of year..........  $     8    $     6    $     5
                                                              =======    =======    =======
</TABLE>
 
                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
                                       F-6
<PAGE>   97
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                 JUNE 30, 1997
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE A -- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
     Business:  Del Monte Foods Company ("DMFC") and its wholly owned
subsidiary, Del Monte Corporation ("DMC"), (DMFC together with DMC, the
"Company") purchased the Del Monte processed foods division of RJR Nabisco, Inc.
effective January 9, 1990 ("the Acquisition"). The Company operates in one
business segment: the manufacturing and marketing of processed foods, primarily
canned vegetables, fruits and tomato products. The Company primarily sells its
products under the Del Monte brand to a variety of food retailers, supermarkets
and mass merchandising stores. The Company holds the rights to the Del Monte
brand in the United States.
 
     Basis of Accounting:  Pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated
February 21, 1997, and amended and restated as of April 14, 1997 (the "Merger
Agreement"), entered into among TPG Partners, L.P., a Delaware partnership
("TPG"), TPG Shield Acquisition Corporation, a Maryland corporation ("Shield"),
and DMFC, Shield merged with and into DMFC (the "Merger"), with DMFC being the
surviving corporation. By virtue of the Merger, shares of DMFC's preferred stock
having an implied value of approximately $14 held by certain of DMFC's
stockholders, who remained investors, were cancelled and were converted into the
right to receive common stock of the surviving corporation. All other shares of
DMFC stock were cancelled and were converted into the right to receive cash
consideration as set forth in the Merger Agreement. In the Merger, the common
stock and preferred stock of Shield was converted into shares of new DMFC common
stock and preferred stock, respectively. The Merger was accounted for as a
leveraged recapitalization for accounting purposes (the "Recapitalization");
accordingly, all assets and liabilities are stated at historical cost. In
connection with the Merger, DMC repaid substantially all of its funded debt
obligations existing immediately before the closing of the Merger.
 
     Principles of Consolidation:  The consolidated financial statements include
the accounts of the Company and its majority owned subsidiaries. All significant
intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
     Use of Estimates:  Certain amounts reported in the consolidated financial
statements are based on management estimates. The ultimate resolution of these
items may differ from those estimates.
 
     Cash Equivalents:  The Company considers all highly liquid investments with
a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The
carrying amount reported in the balance sheet for cash and cash equivalents
approximates its fair value.
 
     Restricted Cash:  Restricted cash at June 30, 1996 represents a portion of
the proceeds from the Company's sale of its 50.1% interest in Del Monte Pacific
Resources Limited ("Del Monte Philippines"), a joint venture operating primarily
in the Philippines, which were deposited into the Specific Proceeds Collateral
Account until agreement was reached with the Term Loan lenders as to final
application of the funds (see Note B). These funds were used to repurchase
outstanding PIK Notes in September 1996.
 
     Inventories:  Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. The
cost of substantially all inventories is determined using the LIFO method. The
Company has established various LIFO pools that have measurement dates
coinciding with the natural business cycles of the Company's major inventory
items.
 
     Inflation has had a minimal impact on production costs since the Company
adopted the LIFO method as of July 1, 1991. Accordingly, there is no significant
difference between LIFO inventory costs and current costs.
 
     Property, Plant and Equipment and Depreciation:  Property, plant and
equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives,
principally by the straight-line method. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as
incurred. Significant expenditures that increase useful lives are capitalized.
 
                                       F-7
<PAGE>   98
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     The principal estimated useful lives are: land improvements -- 10 to 30
years; building and leasehold improvements -- 10 to 30 years; machinery and
equipment -- 7 to 15 years. Depreciation of plant and equipment and leasehold
amortization was $34, $26 and $24 for the years ended June 30, 1995, 1996 and
1997, respectively.
 
     Revenue Recognition:  Revenue from sales of product, and related cost of
product is recognized upon shipment of product, at which time title passes to
the customer. Customers generally do not have the right to return product unless
damaged or defective.
 
     Cost of Products Sold:  Cost of products sold includes raw material, labor
and overhead.
 
     Advertising Expenses:  The Company expenses all costs associated with
advertising as incurred or when the advertising takes place. Advertising expense
was $8, $5 and $6 for the years ended June 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997,
respectively.
 
     Research and Development:  Research and development costs are included as a
component of "Selling, advertising, administrative and general expense."
Research and development costs charged to operations were $6, $6 and $5 for the
years ended June 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively.
 
     Foreign Currency Translation:  For the Company's operations in countries
where the functional currency is other than the U.S. dollar, asset and liability
accounts were translated at the rate in effect at the balance sheet date, and
revenue and expense accounts were translated at the average rates during the
period. Translation adjustments were reflected as a separate component of
stockholders' equity.
 
     Interest Rate Contracts:  To manage interest rate exposure, the Company
uses interest-rate swap agreements. These agreements involve the receipt of
fixed rate amounts in exchange for floating rate interest payments over the life
of the agreement without an exchange of the underlying principal amount. The
differential to be paid or received is accrued as interest rates change and
recognized as an adjustment to interest expense related to the debt. The related
amount payable to or receivable from counterparties is included in other
liabilities or assets.
 
     Fair Value of Financial Instruments:  The carrying amount of the Company's
financial instruments, which primarily include cash, accounts receivable,
accounts payable, and accrued expenses, approximates fair value due to the
relatively short maturity of such instruments.
 
     The carrying amounts of the Company's borrowings under its short-term
revolving credit agreement and long-term debt instruments, excluding the
Subordinated Notes, approximate their fair value. At June 30, 1997, the fair
value of the Subordinated Notes was $161, as estimated based on quoted market
prices from dealers.
 
     The fair value of the interest rate swap agreements at June 30, 1997 was
$(1). The fair value of interest rate swap agreements are the estimated amounts
that the Company would receive or pay to terminate the agreements at the
reporting date, taking into account current interest rates and the current
credit worthiness of the counterparties.
 
     Net Income (Loss) per Common Share:  The Company has adopted the provision
of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128. Net income (loss) per
common share is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to common
shares by the weighted average number of common and redeemable common shares
outstanding during the period (Note E). Net income (loss) attributable to common
shares is computed as net income (loss) reduced by the cash and in-kind
dividends for the period on redeemable preferred stock.
 
     Minority Interest:  Minority interest represents the minority shareholders'
proportionate share of the earnings of Del Monte Philippines, a consolidated
subsidiary.
                                       F-8
<PAGE>   99
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     Change in Accounting Principle:  Effective July 1, 1995, the Company
adopted the provisions of SFAS 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived
Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of." The statement requires that
assets held and used be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be
recoverable. The Company has identified certain events as possible indicators
that an asset's carrying value may not be recoverable, including the elimination
of or a significant reduction in a product line. Future cash flows will be
estimated based on current levels of production, market sales price and
operating costs adjusted for expected trends. The statement also requires that
all long-lived assets, for which management has committed to a plan to dispose,
be reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value. During fiscal 1996, a
review of assets to be disposed of resulted in identification of certain assets
(farm lands and plants no longer in use) whose carrying value exceeded their
present fair value, and a loss of $7 was recorded. The Company does not
depreciate long-lived assets held for sale.
 
     Reclassification:  Beginning in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1997,
merchandising allowances primarily relating to in-store displays, store
advertising and store coupons, which previously were recorded as a cost of
products sold, have been reclassified to selling expense. Such merchandising
allowances totaled $106, $100 and $143 in the fiscal years ended June 30, 1995,
1996, and 1997, respectively. Due to the nature of the Company's trade promotion
programs and the required performance associated with such programs, the
classification of these costs as selling expense rather than as a cost of
products sold is appropriate. The Company believes that this presentation is
widely practiced in the industry. In addition, certain military distributor
allowances, which previously were treated as a reduction in net sales, have been
reclassified to selling expense. Such military distributor allowances amounted
to $1, $1 and $2 in fiscal years ended June 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997,
respectively. All financial information has been restated to conform to this
presentation.
 
NOTE B -- DIVESTED ASSETS
 
     Del Monte Latin America. On August 27, 1996, the Company signed a stock
purchase agreement to sell its Latin America subsidiaries to an affiliate of
Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst Incorporated ("Hicks Muse"). This agreement was
amended and restated on October 25, 1996 for the sale of only the Company's
Mexican subsidiary, Productos Del Monte, S.A. de C.V. ("PDM") to an affiliate of
Hicks Muse for $38 which was completed on October 28, 1996. The sale of the
Central America and Caribbean subsidiaries to an affiliate of Donald W.
Dickerson, Inc. for $12 was completed on November 13, 1996. The sales price for
PDM is subject to adjustment based on the final balance sheet. The amount of any
adjustment to the purchase price is currently in dispute but is not expected to
be material. In addition, the purchasers have alleged, among other things, that
the Company breached the purchase agreement because the financial statements of
the Mexican subsidiary did not fairly present its financial condition and
results of operations in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting
principles. The Company does not believe that this claim will have a material
adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations (see
Note H). The combined proceeds of both sales of $50, reduced by $2 of related
transaction expenses, resulted in a loss of $5.
 
     The following results of the Latin American operations are included in the
Statements of Operations:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                          --------------------
                                                          1995    1996    1997
                                                          ----    ----    ----
<S>                                                       <C>     <C>     <C>
Net sales...............................................  $65     $55     $17
Costs and expenses......................................   62      50      17
                                                          ---     ---     ---
Income from operations before income taxes..............    3       5      --
Provision for income taxes..............................    1       1      --
                                                          ---     ---     ---
Income from Latin American operations...................  $ 2     $ 4     $--
                                                          ===     ===     ===
</TABLE>
 
                                       F-9
<PAGE>   100
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     Del Monte Philippines. On March 29, 1996, the Company entered into a
repurchase agreement to sell its 50.1% interest in Del Monte Philippines (a
joint venture operating primarily in the Philippines) and also executed a supply
agreement, for total proceeds of $100 (net of $2 of related transaction
expenses) which were paid solely in cash. Under the terms of the supply
agreement, the Company must source substantially all of its pineapple
requirements from Del Monte Philippines over the eight-year term of the
agreement (Note N).
 
     The following results of the Del Monte Philippines operations are included
in the Statements of Operations:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEAR ENDED
                                                                  JUNE 30,
                                                                ------------
                                                                1995    1996
                                                                ----    ----
<S>                                                             <C>     <C>
Net sales...................................................    $142    $102
Costs and expenses..........................................     141      97
                                                                ----    ----
Income from operations before income taxes..................       1       5
Provision for income taxes..................................      --       2
                                                                ----    ----
Income from operations......................................    $  1    $  3
                                                                ====    ====
</TABLE>
 
     All of the net proceeds from the sale of Del Monte Philippines were
temporarily applied to the revolving credit facility. In April 1996, $13 of
Senior Secured Notes were prepaid along with a $1 prepayment premium recorded as
an extraordinary loss. In addition, $30 was placed in the Specific Proceeds
Collateral Account until final agreement was reached with the Term Loan lenders
as to the application of funds. These funds were used in the September 1996
exchange offer.
 
     Pudding Business. On November 27, 1995, the Company sold its pudding
business, including the capital assets and inventory on hand, to Kraft Foods,
Inc. ("Kraft") for $89, net of $4 of related transaction expenses. The sale
resulted in the recognition of a $71 gain, reduced by $2 of taxes.
 
     The following results of the pudding business are included in the
Statements of Operations:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 YEAR ENDED
                                                                  JUNE 30,
                                                                ------------
                                                                1995    1996
                                                                ----    ----
<S>                                                             <C>     <C>
Net sales...................................................    $47     $15
Costs and expenses..........................................     33      11
                                                                ---     ---
Income from operations......................................    $14     $ 4
                                                                ===     ===
</TABLE>
 
     The net proceeds received from the pudding business sale were used to
prepay $54 of the term debt and $25 of the Senior Secured Notes. In conjunction
with the prepayment, the Company recorded an extraordinary loss for the early
retirement of debt. The extraordinary loss consists of a $4 prepayment premium
and a $5 write-off of capitalized debt issue costs related to the early
retirement of debt.
 
                                      F-10
<PAGE>   101
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE C -- SUPPLEMENTAL BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        JUNE 30,
                                                                ------------------------
                                                                   1996          1997
                                                                ----------    ----------
                                                                (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)
<S>                                                             <C>           <C>
Trade Accounts Receivable:
  Trade.....................................................      $  99         $  68
  Allowance for doubtful accounts...........................         (1)           (1)
                                                                  -----         -----
          Total trade accounts receivable...................      $  98         $  67
                                                                  =====         =====
Inventories:
  Finished product..........................................      $ 198         $ 239
  Raw materials and supplies................................         12            13
  Other, principally packaging material.....................         94            87
                                                                  -----         -----
          Total inventories.................................      $ 304         $ 339
                                                                  =====         =====
Property, Plant and Equipment:
  Land and land improvements................................      $  44         $  37
  Buildings and leasehold improvements......................         98            93
  Machinery and equipment...................................        240           233
  Construction in progress..................................          9            10
                                                                  -----         -----
                                                                    391           373
  Accumulated depreciation..................................       (144)         (151)
                                                                  -----         -----
          Property, plant and equipment, net................      $ 247         $ 222
                                                                  =====         =====
Other Assets:
  Deferred debt issue costs.................................      $  26         $  19
  Other.....................................................         10             4
                                                                  -----         -----
                                                                     36            23
  Accumulated amortization..................................         (6)           --
                                                                  -----         -----
          Total other assets................................      $  30         $  23
                                                                  =====         =====
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses:
  Accounts payable -- trade.................................      $  76         $  79
  Marketing and advertising.................................         39            59
  Payroll and employee benefits.............................         18            17
  Current portion of accrued pension liability..............         13            12
  Current portion of other noncurrent liabilities...........         22            19
  Other.....................................................         32            34
                                                                  -----         -----
          Total accounts payable and accrued expenses.......      $ 200         $ 220
                                                                  =====         =====
Other Noncurrent Liabilities:
  Accrued postretirement benefits...........................      $ 140         $ 145
  Accrued pension liability.................................         48            26
  Self-insurance liabilities................................         12            15
  Other.....................................................         36            17
                                                                  -----         -----
          Total other noncurrent liabilities................      $ 236         $ 203
                                                                  =====         =====
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-11
<PAGE>   102
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE D -- SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS AND LONG-TERM DEBT
 
     Short-term borrowings under revolving credit agreements at June 30, 1996
and 1997 were $43 and $82, respectively. Unused amounts under the revolving
credit agreements at June 30, 1996 and 1997 totaled $328 and $242, respectively.
 
     On April 18, 1997, the Company completed the Recapitalization transaction
in which $301 of proceeds from the transaction were used to repay the
outstanding balances of the then-existing $400 revolving credit facility, term
loan, and Senior Subordinated Guaranteed Pay-in-Kind Notes. Concurrent with the
Recapitalization, the Company entered into a credit agreement with respect to
the Term Loan Facility (the "Term Loan") and the Revolving Credit Facility (the
"Revolver"). The Term Loan provides for term loans in the aggregate amount of
$380, consisting of Term Loan A of $200 and Term Loan B of $180. The Revolver
provides for revolving loans in an aggregate amount of up to $350, including a
$70 Letter of Credit subfacility. The Revolving Credit Facility will expire in
fiscal 2003, Term Loan A will mature in fiscal 2003, and Term Loan B will mature
in fiscal 2005.
 
     The interest rates applicable to amounts outstanding under Term Loan A and
the Revolving Credit Facility are, at the Company's option, either (i) the base
rate (the higher of .50% above the Federal Funds Rate and the bank's reference
rate) plus 1.25% or (ii) the reserve adjusted offshore rate plus 2.25% (8.25% at
June 30, 1997). Interest rates on Term Loan B are, at the Company's option,
either (i) the base rate plus 2.00% or (ii) the offshore rate plus 3.00% (8.875%
at June 30, 1997).
 
     The Company is required to pay the lenders under the Revolving Credit
Facility a commitment fee of 0.50% on the unused portion of such facility. The
Company is also required to pay the lenders under the Revolving Credit Facility
letter of credit fees of 1.75% per year for commercial letters of credit and
2.25% per year for all other letters of credit, as well as an additional fee in
the amount of 0.25% per year to the bank issuing such letters of credit. Upon
attainment of certain leverage ratios, the base rate margin, offshore rate
margin, as well as the commitment fees and letter of credit fees will be
adjusted. At June 30, 1997, a balance of $26 was outstanding on these letters of
credit.
 
     In addition, on April 18, 1997, the Company issued senior subordinated
notes (the "Unregistered Notes") with an aggregate principal amount of $150 and
received gross proceeds of $147. The Unregistered Notes accrue interest at
12.25% per year, payable semiannually in cash on each April 15 and October 15.
These Unregistered Notes are guaranteed by DMFC and mature on April 15, 2007.
The Unregistered Notes are redeemable at the option of the Company on or after
April 15, 2002 at a premium to par that initially is 106.313% and that decreases
to par on April 15, 2006 and thereafter. On or prior to April 15, 2000, the
Company, at its option, may redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount
of notes originally issued with the net cash proceeds of one or more public
equity offerings at a redemption price equal to 112.625% of the principal amount
thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption; provided
that at least 65% of the aggregate principal amount of notes originally issued
remains outstanding immediately after any such redemption. The Unregistered
Notes were issued with registration rights requiring the Company to exchange the
Unregistered Notes for new notes (the "Subordinated Notes") registered under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The form and terms of the Subordinated Notes
are substantially the same as the Unregistered Notes, except that there is no
restriction on the transfer thereof. The Company filed a registration statement
on Form S-4 with respect to the Unregistered Notes on June 12, 1997, which
became effective on June 24, 1997. The exchange of the Unregistered Notes for
the Subordinated Notes was completed on July 31, 1997.
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company incurred expenses
totaling $85 of which $25 were included in selling, advertising, administrative
and general expense, $22 were charged to other expense and $38 were accounted
for as an extraordinary loss. The extraordinary loss consisted of previously
capitalized debt
 
                                      F-12
<PAGE>   103
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
issue costs of approximately $19 and a 1996 PIK Note premium and a term loan
make-whole aggregating $19. In addition, in conjunction with the Bank Financing,
$19 of debt issue costs were capitalized.
 
     Long-term debt consists of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                JUNE 30,
                                                              ------------
                                                              1996    1997
                                                              ----    ----
<S>                                                           <C>     <C>
Term Loan...................................................  $ 68    $380
Subordinated Debt...........................................   243      --
Subordinated Notes..........................................    --     147
Senior Secured Notes........................................    13      --
Other.......................................................     6       1
                                                              ----    ----
                                                               330     528
Less Current Portion........................................     7       2
                                                              ----    ----
                                                              $323    $526
                                                              ====    ====
</TABLE>
 
     At June 30, 1997, scheduled maturities of long-term debt in each of the
next five fiscal years and thereafter will be as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
1998........................................................  $  2
1999........................................................    32
2000........................................................    36
2001........................................................    42
2002........................................................    47
Thereafter..................................................   372
                                                              ----
                                                               531
Less discount...............................................     3
                                                              ----
                                                              $528
                                                              ====
</TABLE>
 
     The Term Loan and Revolver are collateralized by security interests in
certain of the Company's assets. At June 30, 1997, total assets that are not
pledged to secure the Debt are less than 10% of the Company's total consolidated
assets. At June 30, 1997, assets totaling $639 were pledged as collateral for
approximately $462 of short-term borrowings and long-term debt.
 
     The Subordinated Notes, Term Loan and Revolver (collectively the "Debt")
agreements contain restrictive covenants with which the Company must comply.
These restrictive covenants, in some circumstances, limit the incurrence of
additional indebtedness, payment of dividends, transactions with affiliates,
asset sales, mergers, acquisitions, prepayment of other indebtedness, liens and
encumbrances. In addition, the Company is required to meet certain financial
tests, including minimum levels of consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the credit
agreement), minimum fixed charge coverage, minimum adjusted net worth and
maximum leverage ratios. The Company is in compliance with all of the Debt
covenants at June 30, 1997.
 
     In June 1995, the Company refinanced its then-existing revolving credit
agreement, term loan and Senior Secured Floating Rate Notes. In conjunction with
the refinancing, capitalized debt issue costs of $7 were charged to fiscal 1995
income and were accounted for as an extraordinary item.
 
     At June 30, 1996, a balance of $29 was outstanding on letters of credit.
Letter of credit fees were 2.25% per year for commercial letters of credit and
2.75% per year for all other letters of credit with an additional fee of 0.50%
to the bank issuing such letters of credit. The Company paid a commitment fee to
maintain the lines of credit equal to 0.50% of the unused balance.
 
                                      F-13
<PAGE>   104
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     At June 30, 1996, the then-existing term loan consisted of three
components. A $31 amortizing component was due in quarterly installments with an
interest rate of LIBOR plus 3.25%. The second component of this loan of $30 and
the third component of $7 were non-amortizing with interest fixed at 11.11% and
LIBOR plus 4.75%, respectively. At June 30, 1996, the interest rate on the $31
component was 8.75% and on the $7 component was 10.25%.
 
     The Senior Secured Notes carried an interest rate of 18%, 14% payable in
cash and 4% payable in-kind in Secondary Notes, at the Company's option.
Interest payments were due quarterly.
 
     Subordinated Debt consisted of Subordinated Guaranteed Payment-in-Kind
Notes ("PIK Notes"). Interest accrued at 12.25% per year and was generally
payable through the issuance of additional PIK Notes. The payment of such
interest in additional PIK Notes since issuance resulted in an increase in the
principal amount outstanding of such indebtedness.
 
     In August 1996, the Company offered to redeem (the "Exchange Offer") a
portion of its outstanding PIK Notes for a cash payment and exchange the
remaining PIK Notes for new Senior Subordinated Guaranteed Pay-in-Kind Notes due
2002 (the "1996 PIK Notes"). On September 11, 1996, the Company repurchased PIK
Notes in an aggregate amount of $102 for a cash payment of $100 and,
concurrently, exchanged essentially all remaining PIK Notes for 1996 PIK Notes
in an aggregate amount of $156. In addition, the $13 Senior Secured Notes
outstanding were repaid. Funding for the Exchange Offer was accomplished through
the application of $30 from the Specific Proceeds Collateral Account held by the
then-existing term lenders, additional borrowing in an aggregate amount of $55
under the then-existing term loan, and borrowing of approximately $36 from the
then-existing revolving credit facility. In conjunction with the Exchange Offer,
capitalized debt issue costs of approximately $4, net of a discount on the PIK
Notes, have been charged to net income in fiscal 1997 and accounted for as an
extraordinary loss.
 
     The Company made cash interest payments of $44, $30 and $24 for the years
ended June 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively.
 
     As required by the Company's Debt agreements, the Company has entered into
interest rate swap agreements which effectively converts $235 notional principal
amount of floating rate debt to a fixed rate basis for a three-year period
beginning May 22, 1997, thus reducing the impact of interest rate changes on
future income. The Company paid a fixed rate of 6.375% and received a weighted
average rate of 5.875%. The incremental effect on interest expense for 1997 was
insignificant. The agreements also include a provision establishing the rate the
Company will pay as 7.50% if the three-month LIBOR rate sets at or above 7.50%
during the term of the agreements. The Company will continue paying 7.50% until
the three-month LIBOR again sets below 7.50% at which time the fixed rate of
6.375% will again become effective. The Company is exposed to credit loss in the
event of nonperformance by the other parties to the interest rate swap
agreements. However, the Company does not anticipate nonperformance by the
counterparties.
 
NOTE E -- STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND REDEEMABLE STOCK
 
     On February 21, 1997, Del Monte Foods Company entered into a
recapitalization agreement and plan of merger, which was amended and restated as
of April 14, 1997, with affiliates of Texas Pacific Group. Under this agreement,
Shield, a corporation affiliated with TPG, was to be merged with and into DMFC,
with DMFC being the surviving corporation. The Merger became effective on April
18, 1997. By virtue of the Merger, shares of DMFC's outstanding preferred stock
having a value implied by the Merger consideration of approximately $14, held by
certain of DMFC's pre-recapitalization stockholders who remained investors
pursuant to the Recapitalization, were cancelled, and were converted into the
right to receive new DMFC common stock. All other shares of DMFC stock were
cancelled and were converted into the right to receive
 
                                      F-14
<PAGE>   105
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
cash consideration, as set forth in the Merger Agreement. In the Merger, the
common and preferred stock of Shield were converted into new shares of common
stock and preferred stock, respectively, of DMFC.
 
     Immediately following the consummation of the Recapitalization, the charter
of DMFC authorized DMFC to issue capital stock consisting of new common stock
(the "Common Stock"), $.01 par value, and 1,000,000 shares of new preferred
stock (the "Preferred Stock"), $.01 par value. The Company issued and has
outstanding 26,815,880 shares of Common Stock, and 35,000 shares of Preferred
Stock. TPG and certain of its affiliates or partners hold 20,925,580 shares of
DMFC's Common Stock, continuing shareholders of DMFC hold 2,729,857 shares of
such stock, and other investors hold 3,160,443 shares. TPG and certain of its
affiliates hold 17,500 outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock, and TCW
Capital Investment Corporation holds 17,500 outstanding shares of Series B
Preferred Stock.
 
     The Preferred Stock accumulates dividends at the annual rate of 14% of the
liquidation value, payable quarterly. These dividends are payable in cash or
additional shares of Preferred Stock, at the option of the Company, subject to
availability of funds and the terms of its loan agreements, or through a
corresponding increase in the liquidation value of such stock. The Preferred
Stock has a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share and may be redeemed at
the option of the Company at a redemption price equal to the liquidation
preference plus accumulated and unpaid dividends (the "Redemption Price"). The
Company is required to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock on or
prior to April 17, 2008 at the Redemption Price, or upon a change of control of
the Company at 101% of the Redemption Price. The initial purchasers of Preferred
Stock for consideration of $35 received 35,000 shares of Preferred Stock and
warrants (exercisable after October 17, 1997) to purchase, at a nominal exercise
price, shares of DMFC Common Stock representing 2% of the outstanding shares of
DMFC Common Stock. A value of $3 was placed on the warrants, and such amount is
reflected as paid-in-capital within stockholders' equity. The remaining $32 is
reflected as redeemable preferred stock.
 
     The two series of preferred stock have no voting rights except the right to
elect one director to the Board for each series, resulting in the authorized
number of directors to be increased, in cases where dividends are in arrears for
six quarters or shares have not been redeemed within ten days of a redemption
date.
 
     Stockholders' equity at June 30, 1996 included the following classes of
common stock, $.01 par value per share:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    SHARES ISSUED AND
                    CLASS                      SHARES AUTHORIZED       OUTSTANDING
                    -----                      -----------------    -----------------
<S>                                            <C>                  <C>
  A..........................................     191,542,000          38,014,958
  B..........................................      28,731,300                  --
  E..........................................     105,348,100           4,788,550
                                                  -----------          ----------
                                                  325,621,400          42,803,508
                                                  ===========          ==========
</TABLE>
 
     Redeemable common and redeemable preferred stock at June 30, 1996 consisted
of the following:
 
     Redeemable non-voting common stock ($.01 par value per share):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    SHARES ISSUED AND
                    CLASS                      SHARES AUTHORIZED       OUTSTANDING
                    -----                      -----------------    -----------------
<S>                                            <C>                  <C>
  C..........................................     105,348,100           1,322,214
  D..........................................     105,348,100          19,629,799
  F..........................................     105,348,100           9,577,100
                                                  -----------          ----------
                                                  316,044,300          30,529,113
                                                  ===========          ==========
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-15
<PAGE>   106
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     Redeemable preferred stock ($.01 par value per share):
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    SHARES ISSUED AND
                   SERIES                      SHARES AUTHORIZED       OUTSTANDING
                   ------                      -----------------    -----------------
<S>                                            <C>                  <C>
A Cumulative (issuable in subseries A1 and
  A2)........................................     16,523,000            8,336,795
B Cumulative.................................      3,616,000            1,602,845
C Cumulative.................................      2,900,000            1,522,353
D Cumulative.................................      1,454,000            1,356,955
E Cumulative.................................      5,000,000            3,328,002
F Cumulative.................................      3,000,000            1,153,091
                                                  ----------           ----------
                                                  32,493,000           17,300,041
                                                  ==========           ==========
</TABLE>
 
     The Company declared dividends for the following series of redeemable
preferred stock:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      DIVIDEND RATE PER SHARE
                                                        YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                      -----------------------
                       SERIES                         1995     1996     1997
                       ------                         -----    -----    -----
<S>                                                   <C>      <C>      <C>
  A1................................................  $3.80    $3.81    $1.92
  B.................................................  $3.87    $3.87    $1.95
  D.................................................  $3.93    $3.94    $1.98
  E.................................................  $3.93    $3.94    $1.98
</TABLE>
 
     These dividends were paid in like-kind redeemable preferred stock at the
rate of .04 shares for each $.001 dividend declared. Resulting issuance of
additional shares and related par values were:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
                                         --------------------------------------
                                            1995          1996          1997
                                         ----------    ----------    ----------
<S>                                      <C>           <C>           <C>
Additional shares......................   1,564,117     1,824,999     1,027,406
Total par value........................  $    0.016    $    0.018    $    0.010
</TABLE>
 
     In the Recapitalization, all of the redeemable preferred stock issued prior
to April 18, 1997 was either cancelled and converted into the right to receive
new DMFC common stock or cancelled and converted into the right to receive cash
consideration as set forth in the Merger Agreement.
 
                                      F-16
<PAGE>   107
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted
earnings per share:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       JUNE 30,
                                                        ---------------------------------------
                                                           1995          1996          1997
                                                        -----------   -----------   -----------
                                                                      (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)
<S>                                                     <C>           <C>           <C>
Numerator:
  Income (loss) before extraordinary item and
     cumulative effect of accounting change...........  $        12   $       121   $       (16)
  Preferred stock dividends...........................          (71)          (82)          (70)
                                                        -----------   -----------   -----------
  Numerator for basic and diluted earning (loss) per
     share -- income (loss) attributable to common
     shares before extraordinary items and cumulative
     effect of accounting change......................  $       (59)  $        39   $       (86)
                                                        ===========   ===========   ===========
Denominator for basic and diluted earnings (loss) per
  common share -- weighted-average shares.............   76,671,294    75,047,353    61,703,436
                                                        ===========   ===========   ===========
Basic and diluted income (loss) per common share
  before extraordinary item and cumulative effect of
  accounting change...................................  $     (0.76)  $      0.52   $     (1.40)
                                                        ===========   ===========   ===========
Extraordinary loss....................................  $         7   $        10   $        42
                                                        ===========   ===========   ===========
Extraordinary loss per common share...................  $     (0.09)  $     (0.14)  $     (0.67)
                                                        ===========   ===========   ===========
Cumulative effect of accounting change................           --   $         7            --
                                                        ===========   ===========   ===========
Cumulative effect of accounting change per common
  share...............................................           --   $     (0.09)           --
                                                        ===========   ===========   ===========
</TABLE>
 
     For the period from April 18, 1997 to June 30, 1997, since the effect of
inclusion of potentially dilutive securities in the denominator of diluted loss
per share was antidilutive, 547,262 warrants were excluded from the computation.
 
NOTE F -- RETIREMENT BENEFITS
 
     The Company sponsors three non-contributory defined benefit pension plans
covering substantially all full-time employees. Plans covering most hourly
employees provide pension benefits that are based on the employee's length of
service and final average compensation before retirement. Plans covering
salaried employees provide for individual accounts which offer lump sum or
annuity payment options, with benefits based on accumulated compensation and
interest credits made monthly throughout the career of each participant. Assets
of the plans consist primarily of equity securities and corporate and government
bonds.
 
     It has been the Company's policy to fund the Company's retirement plans in
an amount consistent with the funding requirements of federal law and
regulations and not to exceed an amount that would be deductible for federal
income tax purposes. Contributions are intended to provide not only for benefits
attributed to service to date but also for those expected to be earned in the
future. Del Monte's defined benefit retirement plans have been determined to be
underfunded under federal ERISA guidelines. In connection with the
Recapitalization, the Company entered into an agreement with the U.S. Pension
Benefit Guaranty Corporation dated April 7, 1997 whereby the Company will
contribute a total of $55 to its defined benefit pension plans through calendar
2001, with $15 contributed within 30 days after the consummation of the
Recapitalization. The contributions to be made in 1999, 2000 and 2001 will be
secured by a $20 letter of credit to be obtained by the Company by August 31,
1998.
 
                                      F-17
<PAGE>   108
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     The following table sets forth the pension plans' funding status and
amounts recognized on the Company's balance sheet:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 JUNE 30,
                                                              --------------
                                                              1996     1997
                                                              -----    -----
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>
Actuarial present value of benefit obligations:
Vested benefit obligation...................................  $(265)   $(269)
                                                              =====    =====
Accumulated benefit obligation..............................  $(270)   $(274)
                                                              =====    =====
Projected benefit obligation for services rendered to
  date......................................................  $(277)   $(279)
Plan assets at fair value...................................    245      276
                                                              -----    -----
Projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets.......    (32)      (3)
Unrecognized net actuarial gain.............................    (27)     (34)
Unrecognized prior service income...........................     (2)      (1)
                                                              -----    -----
Accrued pension cost recognized in the consolidated balance
  sheet.....................................................  $ (61)   $ (38)
                                                              =====    =====
</TABLE>
 
     The components of net periodic pension cost for the years ended June 30,
1995, 1996 and 1997 for all defined benefit plans are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      JUNE 30,
                                                              ------------------------
                                                              1995      1996      1997
                                                              ----    --------    ----
<S>                                                           <C>     <C>         <C>
Service cost for benefits earned during period..............  $  4      $  4      $  3
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation...............    22        21        21
Actual return on plan assets................................   (31)      (32)      (35)
Net amortization and deferral...............................    11        11        13
                                                              ----      ----      ----
Net periodic pension cost...................................  $  6      $  4      $  2
                                                              ====      ====      ====
</TABLE>
 
     Significant rate assumptions used in determining net periodic pension cost
and related pension obligations are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 AS OF JUNE 30,
                                                              --------------------
                                                              1995    1996    1997
                                                              ----    ----    ----
<S>                                                           <C>     <C>     <C>
Discount rate used in determining projected benefit
  obligation................................................  7.75%   8.0%    7.75%
Rate of increase in compensation levels.....................  5.0     5.0     5.0
Long-term rate of return on assets..........................  9.0     9.0     9.0
</TABLE>
 
     In addition, the Company participates in several multi-employer pension
plans which provide defined benefits to certain of its union employees. The
contributions to multi-employer plans for each of the years ended June 30, 1995,
1996 and 1997 were $4. The Company also sponsors defined contribution plans
covering substantially all employees. Company contributions to the plans are
based on employee contributions or compensation. Contributions under such plans
totaled $3, $2, and $1 for the years ended June 30, 1995, 1996, and 1997,
respectively.
 
     The Company provided retirement benefits under various arrangements to
substantially all employees in foreign locations who were not covered under the
above plans. Generally, benefits under these arrangements were based on years of
service and levels of salary. The majority of the Company's foreign plans were
commonly referred to as termination indemnities. The plans provided employees
with retirement benefits in accordance with programs mandated by the governments
of the countries in which such employees worked. The expense and related
liabilities associated with these arrangements were recorded by the Company
based on established formulas, with funding generally occurring when employees
ceased active service.
 
     The Company sponsors several unfunded defined benefit postretirement plans
providing certain medical, dental and life insurance benefits to eligible
retired, salaried, non-union hourly and union employees. Benefits, eligibility
and cost-sharing provisions vary by plan and employee group.
 
                                      F-18
<PAGE>   109
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     Net periodic postretirement benefit cost for the fiscal years 1995, 1996
and 1997 included the following components:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    JUNE 30,
                                                              --------------------
                                                              1995    1996    1997
                                                              ----    ----    ----
<S>                                                           <C>     <C>     <C>
Service cost................................................  $ 2     $ 2     $ 1
Interest cost...............................................    9       9       9
Amortization of prior service cost..........................   --      --      (1)
Amortization of actuarial losses (gains)....................   --      (3)     (3)
Curtailment gain............................................   --      (4)     --
                                                              ---     ---     ---
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost....................  $11     $ 4     $ 6
                                                              ===     ===     ===
</TABLE>
 
     The Company amortizes unrecognized gains and losses at the end of the
fiscal year over the expected remaining service of active employees. The
curtailment gain results from a reduction in personnel in fiscal 1996. The
following table sets forth the plans' combined status reconciled with the amount
included in the consolidated balance sheet:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                JUNE 30,
                                                              ------------
                                                              1996    1997
                                                              ----    ----
<S>                                                           <C>     <C>
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation:
  Current retirees..........................................  $ 85    $ 80
  Fully eligible active plan participants...................    16      11
  Other active plan participants............................    18      13
                                                              ----    ----
                                                               119     104
  Unrecognized prior service cost...........................    --      10
  Unrecognized gain.........................................    30      38
                                                              ----    ----
  Accrued postretirement benefit cost.......................  $149    $152
                                                              ====    ====
</TABLE>
 
     For fiscal years 1996 and 1997, the weighted average annual assumed rate of
increase in the health care cost trend is 13.33% and 12.42%, respectively, and
is assumed to decrease gradually to 6.0% in the year 2004. The health care cost
trend rate assumption has a significant effect on the amounts reported. An
increase in the assumed health care cost trend by 1% in each year would increase
the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of June 30, 1997 by $10 and
the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic
postretirement benefit cost for the year then ended by $1.
 
     The discount rate used in determining the accumulated postretirement
benefit obligation as of June 30, 1997 was 7.75%. The weighted-average discount
rate used in determining the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of
June 30, 1996 was 8.32%.
 
                                      F-19
<PAGE>   110
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE G -- PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
 
     The provision for income taxes consists of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                       --------------------------------
                                                       1995       1996          1997
                                                       ----    ----------    ----------
                                                               (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)
<S>                                                    <C>     <C>           <C>
Income (loss) before minority interest and taxes:
  Domestic...........................................   $2        $106          $(58)
  Foreign............................................    6          12             1
                                                        --        ----          ----
                                                        $8        $118          $(57)
                                                        ==        ====          ====
Income tax provision (benefit)
  Current:
     Federal.........................................   $--       $  5          $ --
     Foreign and state...............................    1           6            --
                                                        --        ----          ----
     Total current...................................    1          11            --
                                                        --        ----          ----
  Deferred:
     Federal.........................................   --          --            --
     Foreign and state...............................    1          --            --
                                                        --        ----          ----
     Total deferred..................................    1          --            --
                                                        --        ----          ----
                                                        $2        $ 11          $ --
                                                        ==        ====          ====
</TABLE>
 
     Pre-tax income for foreign operations includes income of all operations
located outside the United States, some of which are currently subject to U.S.
taxing jurisdictions.
 
     Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities
as of June 30, 1996 and 1997 are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     YEAR ENDED
                                                                      JUNE 30,
                                                              ------------------------
                                                                 1996          1997
                                                              ----------    ----------
                                                              (RESTATED)    (RESTATED)
<S>                                                           <C>           <C>
Deferred tax assets:
  Post employment benefits..................................     $ 53         $  53
  Pension expense...........................................       24            16
  Workers' compensation.....................................        7             8
  Leases and patents........................................        5             4
  State income taxes........................................       --            14
  Other.....................................................       20            24
  Net operating loss and tax credit carryforward............       16            33
                                                                 ----         -----
     Gross deferred tax assets..............................      125           152
     Valuation allowance....................................      (92)         (122)
                                                                 ----         -----
     Net deferred tax assets................................       33            30
Deferred tax liabilities:
  Depreciation..............................................       30            30
  Other.....................................................        3            --
                                                                 ----         -----
     Gross deferred liabilities.............................       33            30
                                                                 ----         -----
     Net deferred tax asset.................................     $ --         $  --
                                                                 ====         =====
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-20
<PAGE>   111
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     The net change in the valuation allowance for the years ended June 30, 1996
and 1997 was a decrease of $33 and an increase of $30, respectively. The Company
believes that, based on a history of tax losses and the related absence of
recoverable prior taxes through net operating loss carryback, it is more likely
than not that the net operating losses and the deferred tax assets will not be
realized. Therefore, a full valuation allowance in the amount of $122 has been
recorded.
 
     The differences between the provision for income taxes and income taxes
computed at the statutory U.S. federal income tax rates are explained as
follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                                --------------------
                                                                1995    1996    1997
                                                                ----    ----    ----
<S>                                                             <C>     <C>     <C>
Income taxes (benefit) computed at the statutory U.S.
  federal income tax rates..................................     $2     $42     $(19)
Taxes on foreign income at rates different than U.S. federal
  income tax rates..........................................     --      (1)      --
State taxes, net of federal benefit.........................     --       3       --
Net operating losses for which no benefit has been
  recognized................................................     --      --       19
Realization of prior years' net operating losses and tax
  credits...................................................     --     (33)      --
                                                                 --     ---     ----
Provision for income taxes..................................     $2     $11     $ --
                                                                 ==     ===     ====
</TABLE>
 
     As of June 30, 1997, the Company had operating loss carryforwards for tax
purposes available from domestic operations totaling $84 which will expire
between 2008 and 2012.
 
     Extraordinary losses from refinancing of debt and early debt retirement and
the cumulative effect of change in accounting principle did not have any tax
effect due to the Company's current tax position.
 
     The Company made income tax payments of $3, $5 and $4 for the years ended
June 30, 1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively.
 
NOTE H -- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
     The Company leases certain property and equipment and office and plant
facilities. At June 30, 1997, the aggregate minimum rental payments required
under operating leases that have initial or remaining terms in excess of one
year are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
1998........................................................    $14
1999........................................................     13
2000........................................................     12
2001........................................................      9
2002........................................................      6
Thereafter..................................................     41
                                                                ---
                                                                $95
                                                                ===
</TABLE>
 
     Minimum payments have not been reduced by minimum sublease rentals of $7
due through 2016 under noncancelable subleases.
 
     Rent expense was $32, $28, and $32 for fiscal years ended June 30, 1995,
1996, and 1997, respectively. Rent expense includes contingent rentals on
certain equipment based on usage.
 
     The Company has entered into noncancelable agreements with growers, with
terms ranging from two to ten years, to purchase certain quantities of raw
products. Total purchases under these agreements were $68,
 
                                      F-21
<PAGE>   112
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
$54, and $114 for the years ended June 30, 1995, 1996, and 1997, respectively.
The Company also has commitments to purchase certain finished goods.
 
     At June 30, 1997, aggregate future payments under such purchase commitments
(priced at the June 30, 1997 estimated cost) are estimated as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
1998........................................................    $ 68
1999........................................................      56
2000........................................................      44
2001........................................................      33
2002........................................................      26
Thereafter..................................................      60
                                                                ----
                                                                $287
                                                                ====
</TABLE>
 
     In addition, the Company expects to purchase $46 in fiscal 1998 under the
supply agreement for pineapple products entered into in conjunction with the
sale of the Del Monte Philippines operations (see Note B).
 
     Effective August 13, 1993, DMC sold its dried fruit and snack operations to
Yorkshire Dried Fruits and Nuts, Inc., ("YDFNI"). In connection with this asset
sale, DMC entered into certain agreements with YDFNI which, among other things,
grant YDFNI the right to use certain Del Monte trademarks. Under these
agreements, as a service to, and for the benefit of YDFNI, DMC purchased and
resold certain of the former DMC dried fruit and snack products. This resale
agreement was terminated by the Company as of June 30, 1997.
 
     Effective December 21, 1993, DMC sold substantially all of the assets and
certain related liabilities of its can manufacturing operations in the United
States to Silgan Containers Corporation ("Silgan"). In connection with the sale
to Silgan, DMC entered into a ten-year supply agreement under which Silgan,
effective immediately after the sale, began supplying substantially all of DMC's
metal container requirements for foods and beverages in the United States.
Purchases under the agreement in fiscal 1997 amounted to $134. The Company
believes the supply agreement provides it with a long-term supply of cans at
competitive prices that adjust over time for normal manufacturing cost increases
or decreases.
 
     In May 1992, DMC entered into an exclusive supply agreement (the
"Agreement") with Pacific Coast Producers ("PCP"), a canned fruit and tomato
processor, to purchase substantially all of PCP's tomato and fruit production
commencing July 1, 1992. PCP continued to own and operate its production
facilities, as well as purchase raw products via its established grower network.
The Agreement was to expire in June 1998 with optional successive five-year
extensions. Total payments under the Agreement for the twelve months ended June
30, 1995 were $186.
 
     The Federal Trade Commission ("FTC") conducted an investigation to
determine whether the supply arrangement was in violation of certain U.S.
antitrust laws. In January 1995, the Company and PCP agreed to terminate their
supply and purchase option agreements in settlement of the FTC investigation. In
response to the Company's actions, the FTC issued a final consent order on April
18, 1995. A consent agreement does not constitute an admission of any violation
of law. The option and supply agreements were terminated in late fiscal 1995. As
a condition of the termination, the Company was required to make a termination
payment of $4 to PCP.
 
     On November 1, 1992, DMC entered into an agreement with Electronic Data
Systems Corporation ("EDS") to provide services and administration to the
Company in support of its information services functions for all domestic
operations. Payments under the terms of the agreement are based on scheduled
 
                                      F-22
<PAGE>   113
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
monthly base charges subject to various adjustments such as system usage and
inflation. Total payments for the twelve months ended June 30, 1995, 1996, and
1997 were $16, $16, and $18, respectively. The agreement expires in November
2002 with optional successive one-year extensions.
 
     At June 30, 1997, base charge payments under the agreement are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
1998........................................................  $14
1999........................................................   14
2000........................................................   13
2001........................................................   13
2002........................................................   13
Thereafter..................................................    6
                                                              ---
                                                              $73
                                                              ===
</TABLE>
 
     Del Monte has a concentration of labor supply in employees working under
union collective bargaining agreements, which represent approximately 75% of its
hourly and seasonal work force. Of these represented employees, 7% of employees
are under agreements that will expire in 1998.
 
     The Company is defending various claims and legal actions that arise from
its normal course of business, including certain environmental actions. While it
is not feasible to predict or determine the ultimate outcome of these matters,
in the opinion of management none of these actions, individually or in the
aggregate, will have a material effect on the Company's results of operations,
cash flow, liquidity or financial position.
 
     On March 25, 1997, the entities that purchased the Company's Mexican
subsidiary in October 1996 commenced an action in Texas state court alleging,
among other things, that the Company breached the agreement with respect to the
purchase because the financial statements of the Mexican subsidiary did not
fairly present its financial condition and results of operations in accordance
with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The purchasers have claimed
damages in excess of $10 as a result of these alleged breaches. In connection
with this action, $8 of the cash proceeds from the Recapitalization which were
payable to shareholders and certain members of senior management of DMFC have
been held in escrow and will be applied to fund the Company's costs and expenses
in defending the action, with any remaining amounts available to pay up to 80%
of any ultimate liability of the Company to the purchasers. Separately, the
purchasers claim that they are entitled to receive from the Company as a
purchase price adjustment an additional approximately $2 pursuant to provisions
of the purchase agreement. The Company does not believe that these claims, in
the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial
position or results of operations.
 
NOTE I -- FOREIGN OPERATIONS AND GEOGRAPHIC DATA
 
     The Company's earnings have historically been derived in part from foreign
operations. As of November 1996, all of these operations had been sold.
Transfers between geographic areas have been accounted for as intercompany
sales, and transfer prices have been based generally on negotiated contracts.
 
                                      F-23
<PAGE>   114
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     The following table shows certain financial information relating to the
Company's operations in various geographic areas:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,
                                                           --------------------------
                                                            1995      1996      1997
                                                           ------    ------    ------
<S>                                                        <C>       <C>       <C>
Net Sales:
  United States..........................................  $1,331    $1,147    $1,203
  Philippines............................................     180       142        --
  Latin America..........................................      65        55        17
  Transfer between geographic areas......................     (49)      (39)       (3)
                                                           ------    ------    ------
          Total net sales................................  $1,527    $1,305    $1,217
                                                           ======    ======    ======
Operating income (loss):
  United States..........................................  $   64    $   65    $   71
  Philippines............................................      11        12        --
  Latin America..........................................       5         5        --
                                                           ------    ------    ------
          Total operating income.........................  $   80    $   82    $   71
                                                           ======    ======    ======
Assets:
  United States..........................................  $  754    $  701    $  667
  Philippines............................................     164        --        --
  Latin America..........................................      42        35        --
                                                           ------    ------    ------
          Total assets...................................  $  960    $  736    $  667
                                                           ======    ======    ======
Liabilities of the Company's operations located in
  foreign countries......................................  $  128    $    7    $   --
                                                           ======    ======    ======
</TABLE>
 
NOTE J -- DEL MONTE CORPORATION
 
     DMC is directly-owned and wholly-owned by DMFC. In the fiscal years ended
June 30, 1996 and 1997, DMC and DMC's subsidiaries accounted for 100% of the
consolidated revenues and net earnings of the Company. In the fiscal year ended
June 30, 1995, DMC and DMC's subsidiaries accounted for all of the consolidated
revenues and net earnings of the Company except for proceeds recorded by DMFC
from a $30 letter of credit related to the termination of an Agreement and Plan
of Merger (see Note K). As of June 30, 1996 and 1997, the Company's sole asset,
other than intercompany receivables from DMC, was the stock of DMC. The Company
had no subsidiaries other than DMC and DMC's subsidiaries, and had no direct
liabilities other than intercompany payables to DMC. The Company is separately
liable under various guarantees of indebtedness of DMC, which guarantees of
indebtedness are full and unconditional.
 
NOTE K -- TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
 
     On June 27, 1994 the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger
with Grupo Empacador de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., and CCP Acquisition Company of
Maryland, Inc. (the "Purchasers"). The Purchasers were formed by an investor
group led by Mr. Carlos Cabal Peniche for the purpose of effecting an
acquisition (the "Proposed Acquisition") of the Company. The Agreement and Plan
of Merger provided that the Company was entitled to terminate the Agreement and
Plan of Merger if the effective date of the Proposed Acquisition failed to occur
on or prior to September 19, 1994. The effective date of the Proposed
Acquisition did not occur on or prior to such date and, on September 21, 1994,
the Company terminated the Agreement and Plan of Merger in accordance with its
terms.
 
                                      F-24
<PAGE>   115
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
     Pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, the Purchasers caused a $30
letter of credit (the "Letter of Credit") to be issued by Banco Union, S.A., a
Mexican bank affiliated with Mr. Cabal, and confirmed by Midland Bank plc, New
York Branch, in favor of the Company. Under the terms of the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, the Company was entitled to draw under the Letter of Credit if the
effective date of the Proposed Acquisition failed to occur on or prior to
September 19, 1994. Because the Proposed Acquisition did not close by September
19, 1994, on September 20, 1994 the Company drew $30 under the Letter of Credit.
This amount, net of $4 of related transaction expenses, is included in "Other
(income) expense". The cash was applied to the repayment of indebtedness then
outstanding under the Company's revolving credit agreement.
 
NOTE L -- RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company entered into a
ten-year agreement dated April 18, 1997 (the "Management Advisory Agreement")
with TPG pursuant to which TPG is entitled to receive an annual fee from the
Company for management advisory services equal to the greater of $0.5 and 0.05%
of the budgeted consolidated net sales of the Company. In addition, the Company
has agreed to indemnify TPG, its affiliates and shareholders, and their
respective directors, officers, agents, employees and affiliates from and
against fees and expenses, arising out of or in connection with the services
rendered by TPG thereunder. The Management Advisory Agreement makes available
the resources of TPG concerning a variety of financial and operational matters
including advice and assistance in reviewing the Company's business plans and
its results of operations and in evaluating possible strategic acquisitions, as
well as providing investment banking services in identifying and arranging
sources of financing. The services that will be provided by TPG cannot otherwise
be obtained by the Company without the addition of personnel or the engagement
of outside professional advisors. In management's opinion, the fees provided for
under the Management Advisory Agreement reasonably reflect the benefits to be
received by the Company and are comparable to those obtainable in an
arm's-length transaction with an unaffiliated third party.
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company also entered into an
agreement dated April 18, 1997 (the "Transaction Advisory Agreement") with TPG
pursuant to which TPG received a cash financial advisory fee of approximately
$8.4 million upon the closing of the Recapitalization as compensation for its
services as financial advisor for the Recapitalization. TPG also is entitled to
receive fees up to 1.5% of the "transaction value" for each subsequent
transaction in which the Company is involved, which may include acquisitions,
refinancings and recapitalizations. The term "transaction value" means the total
value of any subsequent transaction, including, without limitation, the
aggregate amount of the funds required to complete the subsequent transaction
(excluding any fees payable pursuant to the Transaction Advisory Agreement and
fees, if any paid to any other person or entity for financial advisory,
investment banking, brokerage or any other similar services rendered in
connection with such transaction) including the amount of indebtedness,
preferred stock or similar items assumed (or remaining outstanding). In
management's opinion, the fees provided for under the Transaction Advisory
Agreement reasonably reflect the benefits to be received by the Company and are
comparable to those obtainable in an arm's-length transaction with an
unaffiliated third party.
 
NOTE M -- SUBSEQUENT EVENT
 
     In connection with the Company's proposed public offering of shares of its
Common Stock, on July 22, 1998, the Company declared a 191.542-for-one stock
split of all of the Company's outstanding shares of Common Stock (the "Stock
Split"). Accordingly, all share and per share amounts have been retroactively
adjusted to give effect to the Stock Split.
 
                                      F-25
<PAGE>   116
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                        (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE N -- RESTATEMENT OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     The Company has restated its financial statements for the years ended June
30, 1996 and 1997. This action was taken following consultation with the staff
of the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding the deferral of $16 of gain
resulting from the sale of the Company's 50.1% interest in Del Monte Philippines
in March 1996 (see Note B). The Company had allocated $16 of the $100 proceeds
from the sale to the supply agreement the Company executed in conjunction with
the sale. The deferred gain of $16 was being recognized by the Company over the
eight-year term of the supply agreement. After discussions with the staff of the
Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company has recognized the $16 gain at
the time of the sale.
 
     The fiscal 1996 financial statements have been restated to include the $16
gain and the fiscal 1997 financial statements have been restated to reverse the
recognition of $2 of the deferred gain. The impact of these adjustments on the
Company's financial results as originally reported is summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           1996                        1997
                                                 -------------------------   -------------------------
                                                 AS REPORTED   AS RESTATED   AS REPORTED   AS RESTATED
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
<S>                                              <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
Net income (loss) before extraordinary item....    $  105        $  121        $  (14)       $  (16)
Net income (loss)..............................        88           104           (56)          (58)
Net income (loss) attributable to common
  shares.......................................         6            22          (126)         (128)
Net income (loss) per common share.............      0.08          0.29         (2.04)        (2.07)
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-26
<PAGE>   117
 
                         REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Del Monte Foods Company
 
     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Del Monte
Foods Company and subsidiaries as of June 30, 1996, and the related consolidated
statements of operations, stockholders' equity (deficit) and cash flows for the
years ended June 30, 1996 and 1995. 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 in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards 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. 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.
 
     In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of
Del Monte Foods Company and subsidiaries at June 30, 1996, and the consolidated
results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended June 30,
1996 and 1995 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
 
     In the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996, Del Monte Foods Company changed its
method of accounting for impairment of long-lived assets and for long-lived
assets to be disposed of.
 
                                          Ernst & Young LLP
 
San Francisco, California
August 29, 1996, except for Note N, as to which the date is
June 29, 1998, and Note M, as to which the date is
July 22, 1998
 
                                      F-27
<PAGE>   118
 
                         REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
Del Monte Foods Company
 
     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheet of Del Monte
Foods Company and subsidiaries as of March 31, 1998, and the related
consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity (deficit) and cash
flows for the nine-month period then ended. 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 audit.
 
     We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards 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. 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 audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
     In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of
Del Monte Foods Company and subsidiaries as of March 31, 1998 and the
consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for the nine-month
period then ended in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
 
                                          KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP
 
San Francisco, California
May 1, 1998, except for Note O,
as to which the date is June 29,
1998, and the third paragraph of
Note M, as to which the
date is July 22, 1998
 
                                      F-28
<PAGE>   119
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        MARCH 31,
                                                                -------------------------
                                                                   1997           1998
                                                                -----------    ----------
                                                                (RESTATED)     (RESTATED)
                                                                (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                             <C>            <C>
                                  ASSETS
Current assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents.................................       $   6         $    4
  Restricted cash...........................................           2             --
  Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance...............          84            104
  Other receivables.........................................           3              5
  Inventories...............................................         381            467
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets.................           4             10
                                                                   -----         ------
          Total current assets..............................         480            590
Property, plant and equipment, net..........................         229            298
Intangibles.................................................                         16
Other assets................................................          30             24
                                                                   -----         ------
          Total assets......................................       $ 739         $  928
                                                                   =====         ======
              LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
Current liabilities:
  Accounts payable and accrued expenses.....................       $ 236         $  278
  Short-term borrowings.....................................          42             68
  Current portion of long-term debt.........................          16             24
                                                                   -----         ------
          Total current liabilities.........................         294            370
Long-term debt..............................................         252            678
Other noncurrent liabilities................................         221            202
Redeemable common stock ($.01 par value per share,
  316,044,300 shares authorized; issued and outstanding:
  30,529,113 at March 31, 1997).............................           2             --
Redeemable preferred stock ($.01 par value per share,
  32,493,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding:
  18,327,449 at March 31, 1997; aggregate liquidation
  preference: $649).........................................         213             --
Redeemable preferred stock ($.01 par value per share,
  1,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding 37,253
  at March 31, 1998; aggregate liquidation preference
  $40)......................................................          --             32
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
  Common stock ($.01 par value per share, 325,621,400 shares
     authorized; issued and outstanding: 42,803,508 at March
     31, 1997)..............................................          --             --
  Common stock ($.01 par value per share, 500,000,000 shares
     authorized; issued and outstanding: 34,943,199 at March
     31, 1998)..............................................          --             --
  Paid-in capital...........................................           3            173
  Retained earnings (deficit)...............................        (246)          (527)
                                                                   -----         ------
          Total stockholders' equity (deficit)..............        (243)          (354)
                                                                   -----         ------
          Total liabilities and stockholders' equity........       $ 739         $  928
                                                                   =====         ======
</TABLE>
 
                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
                                      F-29
<PAGE>   120
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                                         MARCH 31,
                                                                ---------------------------
                                                                    1997            1998
                                                                -------------    ----------
                                                                 (RESTATED)      (RESTATED)
                                                                 (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                             <C>              <C>
Net sales...................................................     $      936      $      968
Cost of products sold.......................................            634             655
                                                                 ----------      ----------
     Gross profit...........................................            302             313
Selling, advertising, administrative and general expense....            235             249
Acquisition expenses........................................             --               7
                                                                 ----------      ----------
     Operating income.......................................             67              57
Interest expense............................................             37              58
Loss on sale of divested assets.............................              5              --
Other income................................................             --              (1)
                                                                 ----------      ----------
     Income before income taxes and extraordinary item......             25              --
Provision for income taxes..................................              2              --
                                                                 ----------      ----------
     Income before extraordinary item.......................             23              --
Extraordinary loss from early debt retirement...............              4              --
                                                                 ----------      ----------
     Net income.............................................     $       19      $       --
                                                                 ==========      ==========
Net loss attributable to common shares......................     $      (51)     $       (4)
                                                                 ==========      ==========
Weighted average number of shares outstanding...............     73,332,621      30,389,671
                                                                 ==========      ==========
  Loss per common share:
     Loss before extraordinary item.........................     $    (0.64)     $    (0.12)
     Extraordinary loss from early debt retirement..........          (0.05)             --
                                                                 ----------      ----------
          Net loss per common share.........................     $    (0.69)     $    (0.12)
                                                                 ==========      ==========
</TABLE>
 
                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
                                      F-30
<PAGE>   121
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   NOTES                       TOTAL
                                                                 RECEIVABLE    RETAINED    STOCKHOLDERS'
                                  COMMON     COMMON   PAID-IN       FROM       EARNINGS       EQUITY
                                  SHARES     STOCK    CAPITAL   STOCKHOLDERS   (DEFICIT)     (DEFICIT)
                                ----------   ------   -------   ------------   ---------   -------------
<S>                             <C>          <C>      <C>       <C>            <C>         <C>
Balance at June 30, 1997 (as
  restated)..................   26,815,880      --      129           --          (527)         (398)
Issuance of shares...........    8,127,319      --       44           --            --            44
Net income (as restated).....           --      --       --           --            --            --
                                ----------    ----     ----         ----         -----         -----
Balance at March 31, 1998 (as
  restated)..................   34,943,199    $ --     $173         $ --         $(527)        $(354)
                                ==========    ====     ====         ====         =====         =====
</TABLE>
 
                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
                                      F-31
<PAGE>   122
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                             (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                                        MARCH 31,
                                                                -------------------------
                                                                   1997           1998
                                                                -----------    ----------
                                                                (RESTATED)     (RESTATED)
                                                                (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                             <C>            <C>
Operating activities:
  Net income................................................       $  19         $  --
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows:
     Extraordinary loss from early debt retirement..........           4            --
     Loss on sale of divested assets........................           5            --
     Loss (gain) on sales of assets.........................          --             1
     Depreciation and amortization..........................          22            23
     Other..................................................          --             2
     Changes in operating assets and liabilities net of
      effect of acquisition:
       Accounts receivable..................................           7           (40)
       Inventories..........................................         (90)          (24)
       Prepaid expenses and other current assets............           7             3
       Other assets.........................................          --            (1)
       Accounts payable and accrued expenses................          44            46
       Other non-current liabilities........................           8            (1)
                                                                   -----         -----
       Net cash provided by operating activities............          26             9
Investing activities:
     Capital expenditures...................................         (12)          (15)
     Proceeds from sales of assets..........................           1             5
     Proceeds from sales of divested assets.................          50            --
     Acquisition of business................................          --          (195)
                                                                   -----         -----
       Net cash provided by (used in) investing
        activities..........................................          39          (205)
Financing activities:
     Short-term borrowings..................................         929           261
     Payment on short-term borrowings.......................        (930)         (275)
     Proceeds from long-term borrowings.....................          55           176
     Principal payments on long-term debt...................        (140)           (2)
     Deferred debt issuance costs...........................          (7)           (7)
     Issuance of common and preferred stock.................          --            42
     Specific Proceeds Collateral Account...................          28            --
                                                                   -----         -----
       Net cash provided by (used in) financing
        activities..........................................         (65)          195
       Net change in cash and cash equivalents..............          --            (1)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period............           6             5
                                                                   -----         -----
       Cash and cash equivalents at end of period...........       $   6         $   4
                                                                   =====         =====
</TABLE>
 
                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
                                      F-32
<PAGE>   123
 
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                 MARCH 31, 1998
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE A -- SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
     Business:  Del Monte Foods Company ("DMFC") and its wholly owned
subsidiary, Del Monte Corporation ("DMC"), (DMFC together with DMC, the
"Company") operates in one business segment: the manufacturing and marketing of
processed foods, primarily canned vegetables, fruits and tomato products. The
Company primarily sells its products under the Del Monte brand to a variety of
food retailers, supermarkets and mass merchandising stores. The Company holds
the rights to the Del Monte brand in the United States. The Company reports its
financial results on a July 1 to June 30 fiscal year basis.
 
     During fiscal 1998, the Company acquired certain of Contadina's canned
processed tomato product lines from Nestle USA, Inc. and Contadina Services,
Inc. (see Note B). Contadina operates in one business segment which manufactures
and markets branded, private label, industrial and foodservice processed tomato
products from manufacturing facilities in Hanford, California and Woodland,
California. Contadina's products are distributed throughout the United States.
The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting.
 
     Basis of Accounting:  Pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated
February 21, 1997, and amended and restated as of April 14, 1997 (the "Merger
Agreement"), entered into among TPG Partners, L.P., a Delaware partnership
("TPG"), TPG Shield Acquisition Corporation, a Maryland corporation ("Shield"),
and DMFC, Shield merged with and into DMFC (the "Merger"), with DMFC being the
surviving corporation. By virtue of the Merger, shares of DMFC's preferred stock
having an implied value of approximately $14 held by certain of DMFC's
stockholders, who remained investors, were canceled and were converted into the
right to receive common stock of the surviving corporation. All other shares of
DMFC stock were canceled and were converted into the right to receive cash
consideration as set forth in the Merger Agreement. In the Merger, the common
stock and preferred stock of Shield was converted into shares of new DMFC common
stock and preferred stock, respectively. The Merger was accounted for as a
leveraged recapitalization for accounting purposes (the "Recapitalization");
accordingly, all assets and liabilities continue to be stated at historical
cost.
 
     Principles of Consolidation:  The consolidated financial statements include
the accounts of the Company and its majority owned subsidiaries. All significant
intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
     Use of Estimates:  Certain amounts reported in the consolidated financial
statements are based on management estimates. The ultimate resolution of these
items may differ from those estimates.
 
     Cash Equivalents:  The Company considers all highly liquid investments with
a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. The
carrying amount reported in the balance sheet for cash and cash equivalents
approximates its fair value.
 
     Inventories:  Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. The
cost of substantially all inventories is determined using the LIFO method. The
Company has established various LIFO pools that have measurement dates
coinciding with the natural business cycles of the Company's major inventory
items.
 
     Inflation has had a minimal impact on production costs since the Company
adopted the LIFO method as of July 1, 1991. Accordingly, there is no significant
difference between LIFO inventory costs and current costs.
 
     Property, Plant and Equipment and Depreciation:  Property, plant and
equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives,
principally by the straight-line method. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as
incurred. Significant expenditures that increase useful lives are capitalized.
 
                                      F-33
<PAGE>   124
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
     The principal estimated useful lives are: land improvements -- 10 to 30
years; building and leasehold improvements -- 10 to 30 years; machinery and
equipment -- 7 to 15 years. Depreciation of plant and equipment and leasehold
amortization was $20 for the nine-month period ended March 31, 1998.
 
     Intangibles:  Intangibles consists of tradenames and trademarks, and are
carried at cost less accumulated amortization which is calculated on a
straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset, not to exceed
40 years.
 
     Revenue Recognition:  Revenue from sales of products is recognized upon
shipment of product, at which time title passes to the customer. Customers
generally do not have the right to return product unless damaged or defective.
 
     Cost of Products Sold:  Cost of products sold includes raw material, labor
and overhead.
 
     Advertising Expenses:  The Company expenses all costs associated with
advertising as incurred or when the advertising takes place. Advertising expense
was $1 for the nine months ended March 31, 1998.
 
     Research and Development:  Research and development costs are included as a
component of "Selling, advertising, administrative and general expense."
Research and development costs charged to operations were $4 for the nine-month
period ended March 31, 1998.
 
     Interest Rate Contracts:  To manage interest rate exposure, the Company
uses interest-rate swap agreements. These agreements involve the receipt of
fixed rate amounts in exchange for floating rate interest payments over the life
of the agreement without an exchange of the underlying principal amount. The
differential to be paid or received is accrued as interest rates change and
recognized as an adjustment to interest expense related to the debt. The related
amount payable to or receivable from counterparties is included in other
liabilities or assets.
 
     Fair Value of Financial Instruments:  The carrying amount of certain of the
Company's financial instruments, including accounts receivable, accounts
payable, and accrued expenses, approximates fair value due to the relatively
short maturity of such instruments.
 
     The carrying amounts of the Company's borrowings under its short-term
revolving credit agreement and long-term debt instruments, excluding the Senior
Subordinated Notes and the Senior Discount Notes, approximate their fair value.
At March 31, 1998, the fair value of the Senior Subordinated Notes was $170 and
of the Senior Discount Notes was $153, as estimated based on quoted market
prices from dealers.
 
     The fair value of the interest rate swap agreements at March 31, 1998 was
$(3). The fair value of interest rate swap agreements are the estimated amounts
that the Company would receive or pay to terminate the agreements at the
reporting date, taking into account current interest rates and the current
credit worthiness of the counterparties.
 
     Net Income (Loss) per Common Share:  The Company has adopted the provisions
of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128. Net income (loss) per
common share is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to common
shares by the weighted average number of common and redeemable common shares
outstanding during the period. Net income (loss) attributable to common shares
is computed as net income (loss) reduced by the cash and in-kind dividends for
the period on redeemable preferred stock.
 
     Stock Option Plan:  The Company accounts for its stock-based employee
compensation for stock options using the intrinsic value method prescribed by
Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees", and related interpretations. Accordingly, compensation cost is
measured as the excess, if any, of the fair value of the Company's stock at the
date of the grant over the price the employee must pay to acquire the stock.
 
                                      F-34
<PAGE>   125
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE B -- ACQUISITION
 
     On December 19, 1997, the Company acquired the Contadina canned tomato
business, including the Contadina trademark worldwide, capital assets and
inventory (the "Contadina Acquisition") from Nestle USA, Inc. ("Nestle") and
Contadina Services, Inc. for a total purchase price of $197, comprised of a base
price of $177 and an estimated net working capital adjustment of $20. The
consideration was paid solely in cash. The purchase price was subject to
adjustment based on the final calculation of net working capital as of the
closing date. Nestle provided its calculation of the net working capital which
resulted in a payment to the Company of $2, and therefore a reduction in the
purchase price to a total of $195. The Contadina Acquisition also included the
assumption of certain liabilities of approximately $5, consisting primarily of
liabilities in respect of reusable packaging materials, employee benefits and
product claims. In connection with the Contadina Acquisition, approximately $7
of acquisition-related expenses were incurred.
 
     The Contadina Acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting. The allocation of purchase price to the assets acquired and
liabilities assumed has been made using estimated fair values which include
values based on independent appraisals and management estimates. These estimates
may be subject to adjustment to actual amounts, primarily in the area of accrued
liabilities. Any subsequent adjustments are expected to occur by fiscal year end
and are not expected to be material. Allocation of the $195 purchase price is as
follows: inventory $95, prepaid expenses $5, property, plant and equipment $84,
intangibles $16 and accrued liabilities $5.
 
     Results of operations of the Contadina Acquisition are included in the
Consolidated Statement of Operations for March 31, 1998 since the acquisition
date. The following unaudited pro forma information has been prepared assuming
the Contadina Acquisition had taken place on July 1, 1996:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                             MARCH 31,
                                                         ------------------
                                                          1997       1998
                                                         -------    -------
<S>                                                      <C>        <C>
Net sales............................................    $1,064     $1,060
Operating income.....................................        64         53
Net income (loss) before extraordinary item..........         4        (16)
Net income (loss)....................................    $   --     $  (16)
                                                         ======     ======
Net loss attributable to common shares...............    $  (70)    $  (20)
                                                         ======     ======
Loss per share.......................................    $(0.95)    $(0.57)
                                                         ======     ======
</TABLE>
 
     These pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only
and do not purport to represent what the Company's results of operations
actually would have been if the Contadina Acquisition had occurred as of the
date indicated.
 
                                      F-35
<PAGE>   126
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE C -- SUPPLEMENTAL BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        MARCH 31,
                                                                -------------------------
                                                                   1997           1998
                                                                -----------    ----------
                                                                (UNAUDITED)    (RESTATED)
<S>                                                             <C>            <C>
Trade Accounts Receivable:
  Trade.....................................................       $ 85           $105
  Allowance for doubtful accounts...........................         (1)            (1)
                                                                   ----           ----
          Total trade accounts receivable...................       $ 84           $104
                                                                   ====           ====
Inventories:
  Finished product..........................................       $317           $390
  Raw materials and supplies................................          6             12
  Other, principally packaging material.....................         58             65
                                                                   ----           ----
          Total inventories.................................       $381           $467
                                                                   ====           ====
Property, Plant and Equipment:
  Land and land improvements................................       $ 43           $ 41
  Buildings and leasehold improvements......................         94            106
  Machinery and equipment...................................        230            304
  Construction in progress..................................         11             15
                                                                   ----           ----
                                                                    378            466
  Accumulated depreciation..................................       (149)          (168)
                                                                   ----           ----
          Property, plant and equipment, net................       $229           $298
                                                                   ====           ====
Intangible Assets:
  Trademark.................................................       $ --           $ 16
  Accumulated amortization..................................         --             --
                                                                   ----           ----
          Intangible assets, net............................       $ --           $ 16
                                                                   ====           ====
Other Assets:
  Deferred debt issue costs.................................       $ 26           $ 26
  Other.....................................................         11             --
                                                                   ----           ----
                                                                     37             26
  Accumulated amortization..................................          7              2
                                                                   ----           ----
          Total other assets................................       $ 30           $ 24
                                                                   ====           ====
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses:
  Accounts payable--trade...................................       $ 58           $ 67
  Marketing and advertising.................................         71             84
  Payroll and employee benefits.............................         17             18
  Current portion of accrued pension liability..............         13             12
  Current portion of other noncurrent liabilities...........         22             15
  Accrued production costs..................................         31             34
  Other.....................................................         24             48
                                                                   ----           ----
          Total accounts payable and accrued expenses.......       $236           $278
                                                                   ====           ====
Other Noncurrent Liabilities:
  Accrued postretirement benefits...........................       $142           $144
  Accrued pension liability.................................         40             18
  Self-insurance liabilities................................         16              8
  Other.....................................................         23             32
                                                                   ----           ----
          Total other noncurrent liabilities................       $221           $202
                                                                   ====           ====
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-36
<PAGE>   127
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE D -- SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS AND LONG-TERM DEBT
 
     Short-term borrowings under the revolving credit agreement at March 31,
1998 were $68. Unused amounts under the revolving credit agreement at March 31,
1998 totaled $282.
 
     In conjunction with the Contadina Acquisition, the Company issued $230 of
12 1/2% senior discount notes ("DMFC Notes") and received proceeds of $126. The
DMFC Notes accrue interest on each June 15 and December 15, which will be
accreted through December 15, 2002, after which time interest is to be paid in
cash until maturity. The DMFC Notes mature on December 15, 2007. These DMFC
Notes are redeemable in whole or in part at the option of the Company on or
after December 15, 2002 at a price that initially is 106.250% of par and that
decreases to par, if redeemed on December 15, 2005 or thereafter. On or prior to
December 15, 2000, the Company may, at its option, redeem up to 35% of the
aggregate principal amount at maturity of the DMFC Notes with the net cash
proceeds of one or more public equity offerings, at a redemption price of
112.50% of the accreted value to the date of redemption. The DMFC Notes were
issued with registration rights requiring the Company (i) to file, within 75
days of the consummation of the Contadina Acquisition, a registration statement
under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, to exchange the DMFC Notes for new
registered notes with terms substantially identical to the initial notes and,
(ii) to use its best efforts to effect that registration within 150 days after
the consummation of the Contadina Acquisition. A registration statement was
filed to this effect on March 4, 1998. If the Company does not comply with its
obligations under the Registration Rights Agreement, the Company will be
required to pay an additional 0.5% interest on the accreted value of the DMFC
Notes. In connection with the financing related to the Contadina Acquisition, $7
of deferred debt issuance costs were capitalized.
 
     On April 18, 1997, the Company completed the Recapitalization transaction
in which $301 of proceeds from the transaction were used to repay the
outstanding balances of the then-existing $400 revolving credit facility, term
loan, and Senior Subordinated Guaranteed Pay-in-Kind Notes. Concurrent with the
Recapitalization, the Company entered into a credit agreement with respect to
the Term Loan Facility (the "Term Loan") and the Revolving Credit Facility (the
"Revolver"). The Term Loan provides for term loans in the aggregate amount of
$380, consisting of Term Loan A of $200 and Term Loan B of $180. The Revolver
provides for revolving loans in an aggregate amount of up to $350, including a
$70 Letter of Credit subfacility. The Revolving Credit Facility will expire in
fiscal 2003, Term Loan A will mature in fiscal 2003, and Term Loan B will mature
in fiscal 2005. In connection with the Contadina Acquisition, the Company
amended its bank financing agreements and related debt covenants to permit
additional funding under the existing Term B loan which was drawn in an amount
of $50. Amortization of the additional Term B loan amount is incremental to the
scheduled amortization of the existing Term B loan. Such additional amortization
will begin on a quarterly basis in the second quarter of fiscal 1999. In
conjunction with the Recapitalization, $19 of debt issue costs were capitalized.
Deferred debt issuance costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the
life of the related debt issuance.
 
     The interest rates applicable to amounts outstanding under Term Loan A and
the Revolving Credit Facility are, at the Company's option, either (i) the base
rate (the higher of 0.50% above the Federal Funds Rate or the bank's reference
rate) plus 1.00% or (ii) the reserve adjusted offshore rate plus 2.00% (7.8750%
at March 31, 1998). Interest rates on Term Loan B are, at the Company's option,
either (i) the base rate plus 2.00% or (ii) the offshore rate plus 3.00%
(8.6875% at March 31, 1998).
 
     The Company is required to pay the lenders under the Revolving Credit
Facility a commitment fee of 0.425% on the unused portion of such facility. The
Company is also required to pay the lenders under the Revolving Credit Facility
letter of credit fees of 1.50% per year for commercial letters of credit and
2.00% per year for all other letters of credit, as well as an additional fee in
the amount of 0.25% per year to the bank issuing such letters of credit. At
March 31, 1998, a balance of $26 was outstanding on these letters of credit.
 
                                      F-37
<PAGE>   128
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
     In addition, on April 18, 1997, the Company issued senior subordinated
notes (the "DMC Notes") with an aggregate principal amount of $150 and received
gross proceeds of $147. The DMC Notes accrue interest at 12.25% per year,
payable semiannually in cash on each April 15 and October 15. The DMC Notes are
guaranteed by DMFC and mature on April 15, 2007. The DMC Notes are redeemable at
the option of the Company on or after April 15, 2002 at a premium to par that
initially is 106.313% and that decreases to par on April 15, 2006 and
thereafter. On or prior to April 15, 2000, the Company, at its option, may
redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of notes originally issued
with the net cash proceeds of one or more public equity offerings at a
redemption price equal to 112.625% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued
and unpaid interest to the date of redemption; provided that at least 65% of the
aggregate principal amount of notes originally issued remains outstanding
immediately after any such redemption.
 
     Long-term debt consists of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             MARCH 31,
                                                           1997        1998
                                                        -----------    ----
                                                        (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                     <C>            <C>
Term Loan...........................................       $112        $429
Subordinated Debt...................................        155          --
Senior Subordinated Notes...........................         --         147
Senior Discount Notes...............................         --         126
Other...............................................          1          --
                                                           ----        ----
                                                            268         702
Less current portion................................         16          24
                                                           ----        ----
                                                           $252        $678
                                                           ====        ====
</TABLE>
 
     At March 31, 1998, scheduled maturities of long-term debt in each of the
next five fiscal years and thereafter will be as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
4(th) Quarter 1998..........................................    $  1
1999........................................................      32
2000........................................................      37
2001........................................................      42
2002........................................................      47
2003........................................................      52
Thereafter..................................................     598
                                                                ----
                                                                 809
Less discount on notes......................................     107
                                                                ----
                                                                $702
                                                                ====
</TABLE>
 
     The Term Loan and Revolver are collateralized by security interests in
certain of the Company's assets. At March 31, 1998, total assets that are not
pledged to secure debt are less than 10% of the Company's total consolidated
assets. At March 31, 1998, assets totaling $875 were pledged as collateral for
approximately $497 of short-term borrowings and long-term debt.
 
     The DMC Notes, DMFC Notes, Term Loan and Revolver (collectively the "Debt")
agreements contain restrictive covenants with which the Company must comply.
These restrictive covenants, in some circumstances, limit the incurrence of
additional indebtedness, payment of dividends, transactions with affiliates,
asset sales, mergers, acquisitions, prepayment of other indebtedness, liens and
encumbrances. In addition, the
 
                                      F-38
<PAGE>   129
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
Company is required to meet certain financial tests, including minimum levels of
consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the credit agreement), minimum fixed charge
coverage, minimum adjusted net worth and maximum leverage ratios. The Company is
in compliance with all of the Debt covenants at March 31, 1998.
 
     The Company made cash interest payments of $48 for the nine months ended
March 31, 1998.
 
     As required by the Company's Debt agreements, the Company has entered into
interest rate swap agreements which effectively converts $235 notional principal
amount of floating rate debt to a fixed rate basis for a three-year period
beginning May 22, 1997, thus reducing the impact of interest rate changes on
future income. The Company paid a fixed rate of 6.3750% and received a weighted
average rate of 5.6875%. The incremental effect on interest expense for the nine
months ended March 31, 1998 was approximately $1. The agreements also include a
provision establishing the rate the Company will pay as 7.50% if the three-month
LIBOR rate sets at or above 7.50% during the term of the agreements. The Company
will continue paying 7.50% until the three-month LIBOR again sets below 7.50% at
which time the fixed rate of 6.375% will again become effective. The Company is
exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other parties to
the interest rate swap agreements. However, the Company does not anticipate
nonperformance by the counterparties.
 
NOTE E -- STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND REDEEMABLE STOCK
 
     On February 21, 1997, Del Monte Foods Company entered into a
recapitalization agreement and plan of merger, which was amended and restated as
of April 14, 1997, with affiliates of Texas Pacific Group. Under this agreement,
Shield, a corporation affiliated with TPG, was to be merged with and into DMFC,
with DMFC being the surviving corporation. The Merger became effective on April
18, 1997. By virtue of the Merger, shares of DMFC's outstanding preferred stock
having a value implied by the Merger consideration of approximately $14, held by
certain of DMFC's pre-recapitalization stockholders who remained investors
pursuant to the Recapitalization, were canceled, and were converted into the
right to receive new DMFC common stock. All other shares of DMFC stock were
canceled and were converted into the right to receive cash consideration, as set
forth in the Merger Agreement. In the Merger, the common and preferred stock of
Shield were converted into new shares of common stock and preferred stock,
respectively, of DMFC.
 
     Immediately following the consummation of the Recapitalization, the charter
of DMFC authorized DMFC to issue capital stock consisting of new common stock
(the "Common Stock"), $.01 par value, and 1,000,000 shares of new preferred
stock (the "Preferred Stock"), $.01 par value. The Company issued and had
outstanding 26,815,880 shares of Common Stock, and 35,000 shares of Preferred
Stock. TPG and certain of its affiliates or partners held 20,925,580 shares of
DMFC's Common Stock, continuing shareholders of DMFC held 2,729,857 shares of
such stock, and other investors held 3,160,443 shares. TPG and certain of its
affiliates held 17,500 outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock, and TCW
Capital Investment Corporation held 17,500 outstanding shares of Series B
Preferred Stock.
 
     The Preferred Stock accumulates dividends at the annual rate of 14% of the
liquidation value, payable quarterly. These dividends are payable in cash or
additional shares of Preferred Stock, at the option of the Company, subject to
availability of funds and the terms of its loan agreements, or through a
corresponding increase in the liquidation value of such stock. The Preferred
Stock had an initial liquidation preference of $1,000 per share and may be
redeemed at the option of the Company at a redemption price equal to the
liquidation preference plus accumulated and unpaid dividends (the "Redemption
Price"). The Company is required to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred
Stock on or prior to April 17, 2008 at the Redemption Price, or upon a change of
control of the Company at 101% of the Redemption Price. The initial purchasers
of Preferred Stock for consideration of $35 received 35,000 shares of Preferred
Stock and warrants to purchase, at a nominal exercise price, shares of DMFC
Common Stock representing 2% of the then-outstanding shares
 
                                      F-39
<PAGE>   130
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
of DMFC Common Stock. A value of $3 was placed on the warrants, and such amount
is reflected as paid-in-capital within stockholders' equity. The remaining $32
is reflected as redeemable preferred stock.
 
     The two series of preferred stock had no voting rights except the right to
elect one director to the Board for each series, resulting in the authorized
number of directors to be increased, in cases where dividends are in arrears for
six quarters or shares have not been redeemed within ten days of a redemption
date.
 
     On October 13, 1997, the Company authorized a new series of cumulative
redeemable preferred stock, Series C, and authorized issuance of shares of such
new series of preferred stock in exchange for all of the issued and outstanding
shares of cumulative redeemable preferred stock, Series A and B, held by
preferred stock shareholders. The Series A and Series B preferred stock were
retired upon completion of this exchange.
 
     The terms of the Series C preferred stock are substantially identical to
those of the Series A and B stock with the exception of a call premium and right
of holders to require redemption upon a change in control. The Series C
preferred stock will be redeemable at the option of the Company at a redemption
price ranging from 103% of the liquidation preference, if redeemed prior to
October 1998, to 100% of the liquidation preference, if redeemed after October
2000. The Series A and B preferred stock was redeemable by the Company at par.
In the event of a change of control of the Company, the holders of the Series C
preferred stock will have the right to require the Company to repurchase shares
of such stock at 101% of the liquidation preference. Under the terms of the
Series A and B preferred stock, shares of such stock were mandatorily redeemable
(i.e., the holder did not have the option of continuing to hold such shares) at
101% of the liquidation preference.
 
     On January 16, 1998, TPG and certain of its affiliates sold approximately
93% of their preferred stock holdings to unaffiliated investors.
 
     Dividends paid on redeemable preferred stock were $4 for the nine months
ended March 31, 1998 consisting of $1 of additional shares issued and $3 of
accretion of liquidation value.
 
NOTE F -- EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
     The following table set forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings
per share:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        MARCH 31,
                                                --------------------------
                                                   1997           1998
                                                -----------    -----------
                                                (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                             <C>            <C>
Numerator:
  Income before extraordinary item..........    $        23    $        --
  Preferred stock dividends.................            (70)            (4)
                                                -----------    -----------
  Numerator for basic and diluted earnings
     per share -- loss attributable to
     common stock before extraordinary
     item...................................    $       (47)   $        (4)
                                                ===========    ===========
Denominator:
  Denominator for basic and diluted earnings
     per share -- weighted-average shares...     73,332,621     30,389,671
                                                ===========    ===========
Basic and diluted loss per common share
  before extraordinary item.................    $     (0.64)   $     (0.12)
                                                ===========    ===========
</TABLE>
 
     Since the effect of inclusion of potentially dilutive securities in the
denominator of the diluted loss per share was antidilutive, 547,262 warrants and
774,979 weighted average options were excluded from the computation for the
period ended March 31, 1998.
 
                                      F-40
<PAGE>   131
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE G -- STOCK PLANS
 
STOCK OPTION INCENTIVE PLAN
 
     On August 4, 1997, the Company adopted the 1997 Stock Incentive Plan
(amended November 4, 1997) which allows the granting of options to certain key
employees. Options may be granted to participants for up to 1,784,980 shares of
the Company's common stock. Options may be granted as incentive stock options or
as non-qualified options for purposes of the Internal Revenue Code. Options
terminate ten years from the date of grant. Two different vesting schedules have
been approved under the 1997 Stock Incentive plan. The first provides for annual
vesting on a proportionate basis over five years and the second provides for
monthly vesting on a proportionate basis over four years. In addition, on
February 24, 1998, the Company adopted the Del Monte Foods Company Non-Employee
Director and Independent Contractor 1997 Stock Option Plan. Under the plan,
148,828 options were granted. These options terminate 10 years from the date of
grant and vest monthly on a proportionate basis over four years.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               WEIGHTED AVERAGE
                                                                   EXERCISE
OPTION SHARES                                                  PRICE PER SHARE     NUMBER OF SHARES
- -------------                                                  ----------------    ----------------
<S>                                                            <C>                 <C>
Outstanding at July 1, 1997................................            --                    --
Granted....................................................         $5.22             1,885,348
Canceled...................................................         $5.22                46,353
Exercised..................................................            --                    --
Outstanding at March 31, 1998..............................         $5.22             1,838,995
Exercisable at March 31, 1998..............................         $5.22               298,806
Available for grant at March 31, 1998......................         $5.22                94,813
</TABLE>
 
     The weighted-average remaining contractual life for the above options is
9.1 years.
 
     The Company accounts for its stock option plans using the intrinsic value
method prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for
Stock Issued to Employees" and related Interpretations, under which no
compensation cost for stock options is recognized for stock option awards
granted with an exercise price at or above fair market value.
 
     Pro forma information regarding net income and earnings per share is
required by FASB Statement No. 123, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees"
("SFAS 123"), and has been determined as if the Company had accounted for its
employee stock options under the fair value method of that Statement. The fair
value for these options was estimated at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes
option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions: dividend
yield of 0%, expected volatility of 0; risk-free interest rates of 5.74%; and
expected lives of 7 years.
 
     The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in
estimating the fair value of traded options which have no vesting restrictions
and are fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the
input of highly subjective assumptions including the expected stock price
volatility. Because the Company's employee stock options have characteristics
significantly different from those of traded options, and because changes in the
subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, in
management's opinion, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable
single measure of the fair value of its employee stock options. The weighted
average fair value per share of options granted during the year was $2.78.
 
     For purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of the
options is amortized to expense over the options' vesting period. The Company's
pro forma information as calculated in accordance with
 
                                      F-41
<PAGE>   132
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
SFAS 123, results in a pro forma net income of zero and a pro forma loss per
common share of $(0.13) for the nine months ended March 31, 1998.
 
     The Del Monte Foods Company 1998 Stock Option Plan (the "1998 Stock Option
Plan") was approved on April 24, 1998. Under the 1998 Stock Option Plan, grants
of incentive and nonqualified stock options ("Options"), stock appreciation
rights ("SARs") and stock bonuses (together with Options and SARs, "Awards")
representing 3,064,672 shares of Common Stock may be made to key employees of
the Company. The term of any Option or SAR is not to be more than ten years from
the date of its grant. No Awards have been made under the 1998 Stock Option
Plan.
 
STOCK PURCHASE PLAN
 
     Effective August 4, 1997, the Del Monte Foods Company Employee Stock
Purchase Plan was established under which certain key employees are eligible to
participate. A total of 957,710 shares of common stock of the Company are
reserved for issuance under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. At March 31, 1998,
454,146 shares of the Company's common stock were purchased by and issued to
eligible employees. It is anticipated that no future shares will be issued
pursuant to this plan.
 
     Total compensation expense recognized in connection with all stock plans
for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 was $2.
 
NOTE H -- RETIREMENT BENEFITS
 
     The Company sponsors three non-contributory defined benefit pension plans
covering substantially all full-time employees. Plans covering most hourly
employees provide pension benefits that are based on the employee's length of
service and final average compensation before retirement. Plans covering
salaried employees provide for individual accounts which offer lump sum or
annuity payment options, with benefits based on accumulated compensation and
interest credits made monthly throughout the career of each participant. Assets
of the plans consist primarily of equity securities and corporate and government
bonds.
 
     It has been the Company's policy to fund the Company's retirement plans in
an amount consistent with the funding requirements of federal law and
regulations and not to exceed an amount that would be deductible for federal
income tax purposes. Contributions are intended to provide not only for benefits
attributed to service to date but also for those benefits expected to be earned
in the future. Del Monte's defined benefit retirement plans were determined to
be underfunded under federal ERISA guidelines. In connection with the
Recapitalization, the Company entered into an agreement with the U.S. Pension
Benefit Guaranty Corporation dated April 7, 1997 whereby the Company will
contribute a total of $55 to its defined benefit pension plans through calendar
2001, with $15 contributed within 30 days after the consummation of the
Recapitalization. The contributions to be made in 1999, 2000 and 2001 will be
secured by a $20 letter of credit to be obtained by the Company by August 31,
1998.
 
                                      F-42
<PAGE>   133
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
     The following table sets forth the pension plans' funding status and
amounts recognized on the Company's balance sheet at March 31, 1998:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Actuarial present value of benefit obligations:
Vested benefit obligation...................................    $(279)
                                                                =====
Accumulated benefit obligation..............................    $(287)
                                                                =====
Projected benefit obligation for services rendered to
  date......................................................    $(294)
Plan assets at fair value...................................      298
                                                                -----
Plan assets in excess of projected benefit obligation.......        4
Unrecognized net actuarial gain.............................      (33)
Unrecognized prior service income...........................       (1)
                                                                -----
Accrued pension cost recognized in the consolidated balance
  sheet.....................................................    $ (30)
                                                                =====
</TABLE>
 
     The components of net periodic pension cost for the nine months ended March
31, 1998 for all defined benefit plans are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Service cost for benefits earned during period..............    $  2
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation...............      16
Actual return on plan assets................................     (32)
Net amortization and deferral...............................      13
                                                                ----
Net periodic pension cost...................................    $ (1)
                                                                ====
</TABLE>
 
     Significant rate assumptions used in determining net periodic pension cost
and related pension obligations at March 31, 1998 are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Discount rate used in determining projected benefit
  obligation................................................    7.0%
Rate of increase in compensation levels.....................    5.0
Long-term rate of return on assets..........................    9.0
</TABLE>
 
     In addition, the Company participates in several multi-employer pension
plans which provide defined benefits to certain of its union employees. The
contributions to multi-employer plans for the nine-month period ended March 31,
1998 was $5. The Company also sponsors defined contribution plans covering
substantially all employees. Company contributions to the plans are based on
employee contributions or compensation. Contributions under such plans totaled
$1 for the nine-month period ended March 31, 1998.
 
     The Company sponsors several unfunded defined benefit postretirement plans
providing certain medical, dental and life insurance benefits to eligible
retired, salaried, non-union hourly and union employees. Benefits, eligibility
and cost-sharing provisions vary by plan and employee group.
 
     Net periodic postretirement benefit cost for the nine months ended March
31, 1998 included the following components:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Service cost................................................    $ 1
Interest cost...............................................      6
Amortization of prior service cost..........................     (1)
Amortization of actuarial losses (gains)....................     (2)
                                                                ---
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost....................    $ 4
                                                                ===
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-43
<PAGE>   134
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
     The Company amortizes unrecognized gains and losses at the end of the
fiscal year over the expected remaining service of active employees. The
following table sets forth the plans' combined status reconciled with the amount
included in the consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 1998:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation:
  Current retirees..........................................    $ 86
  Fully eligible active plan participants...................      11
  Other active plan participants............................      15
                                                                ----
                                                                 112
  Unrecognized prior service cost...........................       9
  Unrecognized gain.........................................      31
                                                                ----
  Accrued postretirement benefit cost.......................    $152
                                                                ====
</TABLE>
 
     For the nine months ended March 31, 1998, the weighted average annual
assumed rate of increase in the health care cost trend is 12.42%, and is assumed
to decrease gradually to 6.0% in the year 2004. The health care cost trend rate
assumption has a significant effect on the amounts reported. An increase in the
assumed health care cost trend by 1% in each year would increase the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation as of March 31, 1998 by $11 and the aggregate
of the service and interest cost components of net periodic postretirement
benefit cost for the period then ended by $1.
 
     The discount rate used in determining the accumulated postretirement
benefit obligation as of March 31, 1998 was 7.00%.
 
NOTE I -- PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
 
     The provision for income taxes at March 31, 1998 consists of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Income before taxes (restated)..............................    $  --
                                                                =====
Income tax provision(benefit)
  Current:
     Federal................................................    $  --
     State..................................................       --
                                                                -----
  Total current.............................................       --
                                                                -----
  Deferred:
     Federal................................................       --
     State..................................................       --
                                                                -----
  Total deferred............................................       --
                                                                -----
                                                                $  --
                                                                =====
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-44
<PAGE>   135
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
     Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities
as of March 31, 1998 are as follows (restated):
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Deferred tax assets:
  Post employment benefits..................................    $  53
  Pension expense...........................................       14
  Purchase accounting.......................................        7
  Inventory valuation.......................................        8
  Workers' compensation.....................................        4
  Interest expense..........................................        2
  Intangibles...............................................        7
  State income taxes........................................       14
  Other.....................................................       19
  Net operating loss and tax credit carry forward...........       29
                                                                -----
     Gross deferred tax assets..............................      157
     Valuation allowance....................................     (122)
                                                                -----
     Net deferred tax assets................................       35
Deferred tax liabilities:
  Depreciation..............................................       30
  Other.....................................................        5
                                                                -----
     Gross deferred liabilities.............................       35
                                                                -----
     Net deferred tax asset.................................    $  --
                                                                =====
</TABLE>
 
     There has been no net change in the valuation allowance for the nine months
ended March 31, 1998. The Company believes that, based on a history of tax
losses and related absence of recoverable prior taxes through net operating loss
carryback, it is more likely than not that the net operating losses and the
deferred tax assets will not be realized. Therefore, a full valuation allowance
in the amount of $122 has been recorded.
 
     The differences between the provision for income taxes and income taxes
computed at the statutory U.S. federal income tax rates for the nine months
ended March 31, 1998 are explained as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
Income taxes (benefit) computed at the statutory U.S.
  federal income tax rates..................................    $ --
State taxes, net of federal benefit.........................      --
Realization of prior years' net operating losses and tax
  credits...................................................      --
                                                                ----
Provision for income taxes..................................    $ --
                                                                ====
</TABLE>
 
     As of March 31, 1998, the Company had operating loss carryforwards for tax
purposes available from domestic operations totaling $72 which will expire
between 2008 and 2012.
 
     The Company made no income tax payments for the nine months ended March 31,
1998.
 
                                      F-45
<PAGE>   136
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE J -- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
     The Company leases certain property and equipment and office and plant
facilities. At March 31, 1998, the aggregate minimum rental payments required
under operating leases that have initial or remaining terms in excess of one
year are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
4th Quarter 1998............................................    $  3
1999........................................................      14
2000........................................................      13
2001........................................................      11
2002........................................................       6
2003........................................................       5
Thereafter..................................................      37
                                                                ----
                                                                $ 89
                                                                ====
</TABLE>
 
     Minimum payments have not been reduced by minimum sublease rentals of $6
due through 2016 under noncancelable subleases. Rent expense was $28 for the
nine months ended March 31, 1998. Rent expense includes contingent rentals on
certain equipment based on usage.
 
     The Company has entered into noncancelable agreements with growers, with
terms ranging from two to ten years, to purchase certain quantities of raw
products. Total purchases under these agreements were $68 for the nine months
ended March 31, 1998. The Company also has commitments to purchase certain
finished goods.
 
     At March 31, 1998, aggregate future payments under such purchase
commitments (priced at the March 31, 1998 estimated cost) are estimated as
follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
4th Quarter 1998............................................    $  6
1999........................................................      63
2000........................................................      51
2001........................................................      40
2002........................................................      38
2003........................................................      34
Thereafter..................................................      78
                                                                ----
                                                                $310
                                                                ====
</TABLE>
 
     In connection with the sale of the Company's 50.1% interest in Del Monte
Philippines, a joint venture operating primarily in the Philippines, on March
29, 1996, the Company signed an eight-year supply agreement whereby the Company
must source substantially all of its pineapple requirements from Del Monte
Philippines over the agreement term. The Company expects to purchase $11 during
the fourth quarter of fiscal 1998 and $44 in fiscal 1999 under the supply
agreement for pineapple products entered into in conjunction with the sale of
the Del Monte Philippines operations. During the nine months ended March 31,
1998, the Company purchased $33 under the supply agreement.
 
     Effective December 21, 1993, DMC sold substantially all of the assets and
certain related liabilities of its can manufacturing operations in the United
States to Silgan Containers Corporation ("Silgan"). In connection with the sale
to Silgan, DMC entered into a ten-year supply agreement under which Silgan,
effective immediately after the sale, began supplying substantially all of DMC's
metal container requirements
 
                                      F-46
<PAGE>   137
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
for foods and beverages in the United States. Purchases under the agreement
during the nine-month period ended March 31, 1998 amounted to $100. The Company
believes the supply agreement provides it with a long-term supply of cans at
competitive prices that adjust over time for normal manufacturing cost increases
or decreases.
 
     On November 1, 1992, DMC entered into an agreement with Electronic Data
Systems Corporation ("EDS") to provide services and administration to the
Company in support of its information services functions for all domestic
operations. Payments under the terms of the agreement are based on scheduled
monthly base charges subject to various adjustments such as system usage and
inflation. Total payments for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 were $13. The
agreement expires in November 2002 with optional successive one year extensions.
 
     At March 31, 1998, base charge payments under the agreement are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                             <C>
4th Quarter 1998............................................    $  3
1999........................................................      14
2000........................................................      14
2001........................................................      13
2002........................................................      14
2003........................................................       5
                                                                ----
                                                                $ 63
                                                                ====
</TABLE>
 
     Del Monte has a concentration of labor supply in employees working under
union collective bargaining agreements, which represent approximately 84% of its
hourly and seasonal work force. Of these represented employees, 1% of employees
are under agreements that will expire during the remainder of calendar 1998, and
4% of employees are under agreements that will expire in calendar 1999.
 
     The Company accrues for losses associated with environmental remediation
obligations when such losses are probable, and the amounts of such losses are
reasonably estimable. Accruals for estimated losses from environmental
remediation obligations generally are recognized no later than completion of the
remedial feasibility study. Such accruals are adjusted as further information
develops or circumstances change. Costs of future expenditures for environmental
remediation obligations are not discounted to their present value.
 
     The Company is defending various claims and legal actions that arise from
its normal course of business, including certain environmental actions. While it
is not feasible to predict or determine the ultimate outcome of these matters,
in the opinion of management none of these actions, individually or in the
aggregate, will have a material effect on the Company's results of operations,
cash flow, liquidity or financial position.
 
     On March 25, 1997, the entities that purchased the Company's Mexican
subsidiary in October 1996 commenced an action in Texas state court alleging,
among other things, that the Company breached the agreement with respect to the
purchase because the financial statements of the Mexican subsidiary did not
fairly present its financial condition and results of operations in accordance
with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. In connection with this
action, $8 of the cash proceeds from the Recapitalization which were payable to
shareholders and certain members of senior management of DMFC were held in
escrow to be applied to fund the Company's costs and expenses in defending the
action, with any remaining amounts available to pay up to 80% of any ultimate
liability of the Company to the purchasers. In January 1998, the Company reached
a settlement of this litigation. The settlement resolves all claims and disputes
relating to the sale of the Company's Mexican subsidiary, including the purchase
price adjustment contemplated at the time of the sale. The Company's portion of
the settlement was within the amount reserved and thus did not adversely impact
net income of the Company.
 
                                      F-47
<PAGE>   138
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE K -- DEL MONTE CORPORATION
 
     DMC is directly-owned and wholly-owned by DMFC. For the nine months ended
March 31, 1998, DMC and DMC's subsidiaries accounted for 100% of the
consolidated revenues and net earnings of the Company, except for those expenses
incidental to the DMFC Notes. As of March 31, 1998, the Company's sole asset,
other than intercompany receivables from DMC, was the stock of DMC. The Company
had no subsidiaries other than DMC and DMC's subsidiaries, and had no direct
liabilities other than intercompany payables to DMC and the DMFC Notes. The
Company is separately liable under various guarantees of indebtedness of DMC,
which guarantees of indebtedness are full and unconditional.
 
NOTE L -- RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company entered into a
ten-year agreement dated April 18, 1997 (the "Management Advisory Agreement")
with TPG pursuant to which TPG is entitled to receive an annual fee from the
Company for management advisory services equal to the greater of $.5 or 0.05% of
the budgeted consolidated net sales of the Company. For the nine month period
ended March 31, 1998, TPG received fees of less than $1. In addition, the
Company has agreed to indemnify TPG, its affiliates and shareholders, and their
respective directors, officers, agents, employees and affiliates from and
against fees and expenses, arising out of or in connection with the services
rendered by TPG thereunder. The Management Advisory Agreement makes available
the resources of TPG concerning a variety of financial and operational matters
including advice and assistance in reviewing the Company's business plans and
its results of operations and in evaluating possible strategic acquisitions, as
well as providing investment banking services in identifying and arranging
sources of financing. The services that will be provided by TPG cannot otherwise
be obtained by the Company without the addition of personnel or the engagement
of outside professional advisors. In management's opinion, the fees provided for
under the Management Advisory Agreement reasonably reflect the benefits to be
received by the Company and are comparable to those obtainable in an
arm's-length transaction with an unaffiliated third party.
 
     In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company also entered into an
agreement dated April 18, 1997 (the "Transaction Advisory Agreement") with TPG
pursuant to which TPG is entitled to receive fees up to 1.5% of the "transaction
value" for each transaction in which the Company is involved, which may include
acquisitions, refinancings and recapitalizations. The term "transaction value"
means the total value of any subsequent transaction, including, without
limitation, the aggregate amount of the funds required to complete the
subsequent transaction (excluding any fees payable pursuant to the Transaction
Advisory Agreement and fees, if any paid to any other person or entity for
financial advisory, investment banking, brokerage or any other similar services
rendered in connection with such transaction) including the amount of
indebtedness, preferred stock or similar items assumed (or remaining
outstanding). In connection with the Contadina Acquisition, TPG received $3 upon
the closing of the acquisition as compensation for its services as financial
advisor for the acquisition. In management's opinion, the fees provided for
under the Transaction Advisory Agreement reasonably reflect the benefits to be
received by the Company and are comparable to those obtainable in an
arm's-length transaction with an unaffiliated third party.
 
NOTE M -- PUBLIC OFFERING
 
     The Company has filed a registration statement on Form S-1 with the SEC for
the purpose of making a public offering of shares of its Common Stock (the
"Offering") which is expected to occur during the fourth quarter of fiscal 1998.
The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering to (i) repay a
portion of its borrowings outstanding under its Term Loan Facility; (ii) repay a
portion of its senior discount notes; (iii) redeem a portion of its senior
subordinated notes; and (iv) redeem all of its outstanding redeemable preferred
stock, including accreted dividends. In connection with the Offering, the
Company intends to amend
 
                                      F-48
<PAGE>   139
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
its bank financing agreements and related debt covenants, among other things, to
increase the available revolving loans from an aggregate amount of $350 to $400,
to decrease the term loans from an aggregate amount of $429 to $300 and to
change certain provisions and definitions to reflect changes resulting from the
consummation of the Offering. In connection with the Offering, TPG expects to
receive approximately $4 as compensation for its services as financial advisor
in the Offering.
 
     On May 1, 1998, in contemplation of the Offering, Del Monte Foods Company
merged with and into a newly created, wholly-owned subsidiary incorporated under
the laws of the State of Delaware to change Del Monte Foods Company's state of
incorporation from Maryland to Delaware. The Certificate of Incorporation
authorizes the issuance of an aggregate of 500,000,000 shares of Common Stock
and an aggregate of 2,000,000 shares of preferred stock.
 
     In connection with the Company's proposed public offering of shares of its
Common Stock, on July 22, 1998, the Company declared a 191.542-for-one stock
split of all of the Company's outstanding shares of Common Stock (the "Stock
Split"). Accordingly, all share and per share amounts for all periods have been
retroactively adjusted to give effect to the Stock Split.
 
NOTE N -- PLANT CONSOLIDATION
 
     In the third quarter of fiscal 1998, management committed to a plan to
consolidate processing operations. In connection with this plan, the Company
recorded charges of $7 in selling, advertising, general and administrative
expenses. These costs relate to severance and benefit costs for 433 employees to
be terminated, which includes all salaried and regular employee groups at the
Stockton and San Jose facilities. No expenditures have been recorded against
this accrual as of March 31, 1998. This plan will be implemented in a specific
sequence over the next three years. The plan involves suspending operations at
the Modesto facility for a year while that facility is reconfigured to
accommodate fruit processing which is currently taking place at the San Jose and
Stockton facilities (which sites will be permanently closed). The tomato
processing currently at the Modesto facility will be moved to the Hanford
facility. Management believes that because of these sequenced activities, it is
not likely that there will be any significant changes to this plan. In addition,
due to historically low turnover at the affected plants, the Company can
reasonably estimate the number of employees to be terminated, and, due to the
existence of union contracts, the Company can reasonably estimate any related
benefit exposure.
 
     The Company anticipates that it will incur total charges of approximately
$35 as a result of these plant closures. These expenses include costs of $16
representing accelerated depreciation resulting from the effects of adjusting
the assets' remaining useful lives to match the period of use prior to the plant
closure, $7 in severance costs (as described above) and various other costs
totaling $12, such as costs to remove and dispose of those assets and ongoing
fixed costs to be incurred during the Modesto plant reconfiguration and until
the sale of the San Jose and Stockton properties. These charges will affect the
Company's results over a five-year period as follows: $10 in fiscal 1998
(including depreciation expense of $3), $12 in fiscal 1999 (including
depreciation expense of $9), $9 in fiscal 2000 (including depreciation expense
of $4), $3 in fiscal 2001 and $1 in fiscal 2002.
 
     Assets that are subject to accelerated depreciation, the costs of which
will begin to be reflected in operations during the fourth quarter of fiscal
1998, consist primarily of buildings and of machinery and equipment, which will
become redundant due to the consolidation of the operations of the two fruit
processing plants and the consolidation of the operations of two tomato
processing plants. At March 31, 1998, the buildings at the San Jose facility had
remaining useful lives of approximately 22 years, which were reduced to two
years. The remaining useful lives of machinery and equipment at the affected
plants have been reduced to one year, two years and three years for the Modesto,
San Jose and Stockton facilities, respectively.
 
                                      F-49
<PAGE>   140
                    DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
             NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                  (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
NOTE O -- RESTATEMENT OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     The Company has restated its financial statements for the nine months ended
March 31, 1998. This action was taken following consultation with the staff of
the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding the deferral of $16 of gain
resulting from the sale of the Company's 50.1% interest in Del Monte Philippines
in March 1996. The Company had allocated $16 of the $100 proceeds from the sale
to the supply agreement the Company executed in conjunction with the sale. The
deferred gain of $16 was being recognized by the Company over the eight-year
term of the supply agreement. After discussions with the staff of the Securities
and Exchange Commission, the Company has recognized the $16 gain at the time of
the sale.
 
     The financial statements for the nine months ended March 31, 1998 have been
restated to include the $16 gain in retained earnings and to reverse the
recognition of $2 of the deferred gain. The impact of these adjustments on the
Company's financial results as originally reported is summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       AS REPORTED    AS RESTATED
                                                       -----------    -----------
<S>                                                    <C>            <C>
Net income (loss) before extraordinary item..........    $    2         $   --
Net income (loss)....................................         2             --
Net income (loss) attributable to common shares......        (2)            (4)
Net income (loss) per common share...................     (0.05)         (0.12)
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-50
<PAGE>   141
 
                          INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
 
The Board of Directors
Del Monte Foods Company
 
     We have audited the accompanying combined balance sheets of Contadina (a
division of Nestle USA, Inc.) as of December 18, 1997 and December 31, 1996, and
the related statements of operations, divisional equity, and cash flows for the
period January 1, 1997 through December 18, 1997 and for the year ended December
31, 1996. These financial statements are the responsibility of Del Monte Foods
Company management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial 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 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.
 
     In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the financial position of Contadina (a division of
Nestle USA, Inc.) as of December 18, 1997 and December 31, 1996, and the results
of its operations and its cash flows for the period January 1, 1997 through
December 18, 1997 and for the year ended December 31, 1996 in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.
 
                                          KPMG PEAT MARWICK LLP
 
March 16, 1998
Los Angeles, California
 
                                      F-51
<PAGE>   142
 
                                   CONTADINA
                        (A DIVISION OF NESTLE USA, INC.)
 
                            COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
                                     ASSETS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 18,
                                                                  1996            1997
                                                              ------------    ------------
<S>                                                           <C>             <C>
Current assets:
  Trade accounts receivable.................................      $ 10            $ 17
  Other receivables.........................................         3              --
  Inventories...............................................        92              98
                                                                  ----            ----
          TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS..............................       105             115
Property, plant and equipment...............................        94              90
Goodwill....................................................        32              31
                                                                  ----            ----
          TOTAL ASSETS......................................      $231            $236
                                                                  ====            ====
 
                            LIABILITIES AND DIVISIONAL EQUITY
Current liabilities:
  Accounts payable and accrued expenses.....................      $ 10            $ 13
  Payable to Nestle USA, Inc................................        17              52
                                                                  ----            ----
          TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES.........................        27              65
Divisional equity...........................................       204             171
                                                                  ----            ----
          TOTAL LIABILITIES AND DIVISIONAL EQUITY...........      $231            $236
                                                                  ====            ====
</TABLE>
 
                  See Notes to Combined Financial Statements.
                                      F-52
<PAGE>   143
 
                                   CONTADINA
                        (A DIVISION OF NESTLE USA, INC.)
                     COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND
                               DIVISIONAL EQUITY
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               JANUARY 1
                                                               YEAR ENDED       THROUGH
                                                              DECEMBER 31,    DECEMBER 18,
                                                                  1996            1997
                                                              ------------    ------------
<S>                                                           <C>             <C>
Net sales...................................................      $160            $162
Cost of products sold.......................................       151             163
                                                                  ----            ----
     Gross profit (loss)....................................         9              (1)
Selling, advertising, administrative and general expense....        20              26
                                                                  ----            ----
          OPERATING LOSS....................................       (11)            (27)
Interest expense............................................         6               6
                                                                  ----            ----
          NET LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES......................       (17)            (33)
DIVISIONAL EQUITY, BEGINNING OF PERIOD......................       221             204
                                                                  ----            ----
DIVISIONAL EQUITY, END OF PERIOD............................      $204            $171
                                                                  ====            ====
</TABLE>
 
                  See Notes to Combined Financial Statements.
                                      F-53
<PAGE>   144
 
                                   CONTADINA
                        (A DIVISION OF NESTLE USA, INC.)
 
                       COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               YEAR ENDED    JANUARY 1 THROUGH
                                                              DECEMBER 31,      DECEMBER 18,
                                                                  1996              1997
                                                              ------------   ------------------
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
  Net loss..................................................      $(17)             $(33)
  Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash flows used
     in operating activities:
     Depreciation and amortization..........................        12                13
  Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
     Accounts receivable....................................         9                (4)
     Inventories............................................       (16)               (6)
     Accounts payable and accrued expenses..................         4                 3
                                                                  ----              ----
          NET CASH USED IN OPERATING ACTIVITIES.............        (8)              (27)
 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
  Capital expenditures......................................       (10)               (8)
  Proceeds from sale of assets..............................         1                --
                                                                  ----              ----
          NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES.............        (9)               (8)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net borrowings from Nestle USA,
  Inc.......................................................        17                35
                                                                  ----              ----
          NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS...........        --                --
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period............        --                --
                                                                  ----              ----
          CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
            AT END OF PERIOD................................      $ --              $ --
                                                                  ====              ====
</TABLE>
 
                  See Notes to Combined Financial Statements.
                                      F-54
<PAGE>   145
 
                                   CONTADINA
                        (A DIVISION OF NESTLE USA, INC.)
 
                     NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                               DECEMBER 18, 1997
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
NOTE A -- ORGANIZATION, OPERATIONS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
 
     General:  The accompanying combined financial statements include the
accounts of Contadina Services, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nestle USA,
Inc. ("Nestle") and other divisional accounts related to the Contadina canned
business within the culinary division of Nestle ("Contadina") on a carve-out
basis, excluding the effects of product lines not acquired (see Note E).
Contadina operates in one business segment which manufactures and markets
branded, private label, industrial and foodservice processed tomato products
from manufacturing facilities in Hanford, California and Woodland, California.
Contadina's products are distributed throughout the United States.
 
     Contadina does not maintain stand-alone corporate treasury, legal, tax and
other similar corporate support functions. Therefore, corporate general and
administrative expense and interest expense, as well as certain other expenses
(see Note D), are allocated to Contadina from Nestle generally on a proportional
basis. Allocations and estimates, as described in Note D, are based on
assumptions that Del Monte Foods Company management believes are reasonable. It
is impracticable to determine whether such costs are comparable to those which
would have been incurred on a stand-alone basis. Long-term debt and income taxes
are not allocated by Nestle.
 
     All purchases of inventory, payroll, capital and other expenditures are
funded through Contadina's intercompany account with Nestle. Remittances from
sales to customers are collected by Nestle and are accounted for through the
intercompany account. Accordingly, Contadina has no cash on a stand-alone basis.
Trade receivables and payables do represent the amounts due from/to
customers/suppliers at the dates presented.
 
NOTE B -- SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
     Inventories:  Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in,
first-out) or market.
 
     Property, plant and equipment and depreciation:  Property, plant and
equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives,
principally by the straight-line method. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as
incurred. Significant expenditures that increase useful lives are capitalized.
The ranges of estimated useful lives for computing depreciation are:
buildings -- 30 years; leasehold improvements -- the shorter of useful life or
life of lease; and machinery and equipment -- 5 to 17 years. Depreciation of
plant and equipment and building and leasehold improvements amortization was $11
for the year ended December 31, 1996 and $12 for the period ended December 18,
1997.
 
     Goodwill:  Goodwill represents the excess purchase price over fair value of
acquired assets and liabilities. Goodwill is amortized on a straight-line basis
over 40 years.
 
     Fair Value of Financial Instruments:  The carrying amount of the Company's
financial instruments, which include trade accounts receivable, accounts
payable, and accrued expenses, approximates fair value due to the relatively
short maturity of such instruments. The carrying amount of the payable to Nestle
USA, Inc. approximates fair value due to the regular settlement of this account.
 
     Cost of Products Sold:  Cost of products sold includes raw material, labor,
and overhead.
 
     Royalties:  Under a royalty agreement with Nestle S.A. (parent of Nestle
and legal entity which owns the Contadina trademarks), royalties are charged for
the license of the Contadina trademarks at a rate of 3% of net sales. Royalty
expense under this agreement was $5 for both the year ended December 31, 1996
and the period ended December 18, 1997.
                                      F-55
<PAGE>   146
                                   CONTADINA
                        (A DIVISION OF NESTLE USA, INC.)
 
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
     Divisional Equity:  Divisional equity includes the combined historical
legal capital of Contadina Services, Inc. and profit and losses of Contadina
subsequent to December 31, 1995 on a carve-out basis. Pre-1996 results of
operations for the acquired product line are not available. Transactions with
Nestle for all other intercompany transactions are included in and settled
through the intercompany account payable to Nestle.
 
     Use of Estimates:  Certain amounts reported in the financial statements are
based on management estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts
of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and
liabilities as of December 31, 1996 and December 18, 1997, and the reported
amounts of income and expenses for the year ended December 31, 1996 and the
period ended December 18, 1997. The ultimate resolution of these items may
differ from those estimates.
 
     Change in Accounting Principle:  Effective January 1, 1996, Contadina
adopted the provisions of SFAS 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived
Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of." The statement requires that
assets held and used be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be
recoverable. Contadina evaluates impairment based upon undiscounted future cash
flows. If such cash flows indicate that long-lived assets may not be
recoverable, the loss is measured by discounting cash flows to present value.
The statement also requires that all long-lived assets, for which management has
committed to a plan to dispose, be reported at the lower of carrying amount or
fair value. Contadina does not depreciate long-lived assets held for sale. There
was no material effect upon the adoption of this statement.
 
                                      F-56
<PAGE>   147
                                   CONTADINA
                        (A DIVISION OF NESTLE USA, INC.)
 
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
NOTE C -- SUPPLEMENTAL BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              DECEMBER 31,   DECEMBER 18,
                                                                  1996           1997
                                                              ------------   ------------
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>
Trade Accounts Receivable:
  Trade.....................................................      $ 10           $ 17
  Allowance for doubtful accounts...........................        --             --
                                                                  ----           ----
          TOTAL TRADE ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE...................      $ 10           $ 17
                                                                  ====           ====
Inventories:
  Finished product..........................................      $ 60           $ 69
  Raw materials and supplies................................        35             32
  Other, principally packaging material.....................         2              2
  Reserves..................................................        (5)            (5)
                                                                  ----           ----
          TOTAL INVENTORIES.................................      $ 92           $ 98
                                                                  ====           ====
Property, Plant and Equipment:
  Land and land improvements................................      $  8           $  4
  Buildings.................................................        36             40
  Machinery and equipment...................................       110            125
  Construction in progress..................................        10              3
                                                                  ----           ----
                                                                   164            172
  Accumulated amortization..................................       (70)           (82)
                                                                  ----           ----
          PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET................      $ 94           $ 90
                                                                  ====           ====
Goodwill:
  Goodwill..................................................      $ 44           $ 44
  Accumulated amortization..................................       (12)           (13)
                                                                  ----           ----
          GOODWILL, NET.....................................      $ 32           $ 31
                                                                  ====           ====
Accounts payable and accrued expenses:
  Accounts payable..........................................      $  6           $  2
  Payroll...................................................         1              1
  Marketing.................................................         1              8
  Other.....................................................         2              2
                                                                  ----           ----
          TOTAL ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED EXPENSES.......      $ 10           $ 13
                                                                  ====           ====
</TABLE>
 
NOTE D -- CORPORATE ALLOCATIONS AND RELATED PARTY INFORMATION
 
     Goodwill is associated with the acquisition of Carnation Foods in 1985, the
then-parent of Contadina, and was not recorded in the individual business units'
accounts. As such, goodwill relating to Contadina has been allocated based on a
percentage derived from the tax basis goodwill specifically identified to
Contadina in relation to total tax basis goodwill. This relative percentage was
then applied to aggregate goodwill to determine book basis goodwill attributable
to Contadina. This allocation basis was determined to be reasonable by Del Monte
Foods Company management.
 
     Since invoicing is centralized at Nestle for all business units, customer
discounts and unapplied cash related to trade receivables are allocated based on
Contadina relative sales dollars on a customer invoice as a percentage of the
total sales dollars on the customer invoice. Cash discounts are allocated to
Contadina based
 
                                      F-57
<PAGE>   148
                                   CONTADINA
                        (A DIVISION OF NESTLE USA, INC.)
 
               NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
on Contadina receivables as a percent of total consolidated Nestle receivables.
A specific reserve for doubtful accounts is not maintained on a business unit
basis. Therefore, a reserve for doubtful accounts was established for Contadina
through an allocation of the corporate reserve based on the percentage of
Contadina's outstanding receivables to the total Nestle outstanding accounts
receivable balance.
 
     Variable distribution costs are allocated based on the applied usage rate
for the respective products. Fixed distribution costs are allocated on an
historical average cost per case basis. Allocated distribution costs included in
cost of products sold for the year ended December 31, 1996 were $5 and for the
period ended December 18, 1997 were $7. Marketing and sales force expense is
allocated based on relative Contadina sales dollars to total Nestle sales
dollars. The majority of warehousing costs reported are actual costs related to
Contadina's two facilities; however, a component of warehousing cost also
includes costs allocated from Nestle based on historical average inventory
stored at the distribution center.
 
     General and administrative expenses are, for the most part, allocated by
function. Allocated selling, marketing, general and administrative expenses
amounted to $12 for the year ended December 31, 1996 and to $20 for the period
ended December 18, 1997. Benefit costs are allocated at a rate of 40% of gross
wages which is representative of total benefit costs (including pension,
postretirement benefits, bonus, 401(k) matching contribution and vacation) to
total compensation. Interest expense is charged to Contadina based on the end-
of-month working capital balance at an intercompany rate equal to 7% for all
periods.
 
     Contadina's sales of product to Nestle were $6 for both the year ended
December 31, 1996 and the period ended December 18, 1997.
 
NOTE E -- SALE OF CONTADINA
 
     On December 19, 1997, Del Monte Foods Company acquired the Contadina canned
tomato businesses, including the Contadina trademark worldwide, capital assets
and inventory from Nestle and Contadina Services, Inc., for a total purchase
price of $197 paid solely in cash, comprised of a base price of $177 and an
estimated net working capital adjustment of $20. The purchase price is subject
to adjustment based on the final calculation of net working capital as of the
closing date. In accordance with the asset purchase agreement, dated November
12, 1997, by and among Del Monte Foods Company, Del Monte Corporation ("DMC")
and Nestle USA, Inc., Nestle has provided its calculation of the net working
capital which would result in a payment to DMC of approximately $2. DMC has
until April 18, 1998 to review this calculation and determine if it has an
objection to the calculation.
 
                                      F-58
<PAGE>   149
 
                                [DEL MONTE LOGO]
<PAGE>   150
 
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.
 
PROSPECTUS (Subject to Completion)
 
   
Issued July 28, 1998
    
   
                                    14,706,000 Shares
    
 
                            DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY
 
                                  COMMON STOCK
[DEL MONTE LOGO]
 
                            ------------------------
 
   
OF THE 14,706,000 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK BEING OFFERED HEREBY, 2,941,000 SHARES
    ARE BEING OFFERED INITIALLY OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA BY THE
INTERNATIONAL UNDERWRITERS AND 11,765,000 SHARES ARE BEING OFFERED INITIALLY IN
 THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA BY THE U.S. UNDERWRITERS. SEE "UNDERWRITERS." ALL
    OF THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK BEING OFFERED HEREBY ARE BEING SOLD BY THE
COMPANY. AT THE REQUEST OF THE COMPANY, THE UNDERWRITERS HAVE RESERVED FOR SALE,
  AT THE INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE, UP TO 735,300 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK,
  WHICH MAY BE OFFERED TO DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, RETIREES AND RELATED
 PERSONS OF THE COMPANY. ANY RESERVED SHARES THAT ARE NOT SO PURCHASED WILL BE
OFFERED BY THE UNDERWRITERS TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC ON THE SAME BASIS AS THE OTHER
SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY. PRIOR TO THIS OFFERING, THERE HAS BEEN NO
  PUBLIC MARKET FOR THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OF THE COMPANY. IT IS CURRENTLY
 ESTIMATED THAT THE INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE PER SHARE WILL BE BETWEEN $16
AND $18. SEE "UNDERWRITERS" FOR A DISCUSSION OF THE FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED IN
                 DETERMINING THE INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE.
    
                            ------------------------
 
   
 THE COMMON STOCK HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR LISTING, SUBJECT TO OFFICIAL NOTICE OF
  ISSUANCE, ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE AND THE PACIFIC EXCHANGE UNDER THE
                                 SYMBOL "DLM."
    
                            ------------------------
 
         SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 11 OF THIS PROSPECTUS FOR
           RISKS THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS.
                            ------------------------
 
  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.
                            ------------------------
 
                            PRICE $          A SHARE
                            ------------------------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    UNDERWRITING
                                                     PRICE TO      DISCOUNTS AND       PROCEEDS TO
                                                      PUBLIC       COMMISSIONS(1)       COMPANY(2)
                                                     --------      --------------      ------------
<S>                                                  <C>           <C>                 <C>
Per Share..........................................     $               $                  $
Total(3)...........................................     $               $                  $
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------
 
   
    (1) The Company has agreed to indemnify the Underwriters against certain
        liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as
        amended. See "Underwriters."
    
 
    (2) Before deducting expenses of the offering payable by the Company
        estimated at $6,200,000.
 
   
    (3) The Company has granted the U.S. Underwriters an option, exercisable
        within 30 days of the date hereof, to purchase up to an aggregate of
        2,205,900 additional shares of Common Stock at the price to public, less
        underwriting discounts and commissions, solely for the purpose of
        covering overallotments, if any. If the U.S. Underwriters exercise such
        option in full, the total price to public, underwriting discounts and
        commissions and proceeds to Company will be $        , $        and
        $        , respectively. See "Underwriters."
    
                            ------------------------
 
     The shares of Common Stock are offered, subject to prior sale, when, as and
if accepted by the Underwriters named herein and subject to the approval of
certain legal matters by Brown & Wood LLP, counsel for the Underwriters. It is
expected that delivery of the shares of Common Stock will be made on or about
            , 1998 at the office of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, New York,
N.Y. against payment therefor in immediately available funds.
 
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER
        BA ROBERTSON STEPHENS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
                  BEAR, STEARNS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
                           BT ALEXS BROWN INTERNATIONAL
                                   DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE
                                                 International
 
                 , 1998
<PAGE>   151
 
                                    PART II
 
                     INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
 
ITEM 13. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION.
 
     The following table sets forth the estimated expenses to be paid by the
Registrant in connection with the issuance and distribution of the shares of
Common Stock being registered, other than underwriting discounts and
commissions.
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
SEC registration fee........................................  $  110,258
NASD filing fee.............................................      30,500
New York Stock Exchange listing fee.........................     148,858
Legal fees and expenses.....................................     650,000
Transaction advisory expense................................   3,750,000
Accounting fees and expenses................................     600,000
Blue Sky fees and expenses..................................       2,000
Printing and engraving expenses.............................     625,000
Registrar and transfer agent's fee..........................      30,000
Miscellaneous...............................................     250,000
                                                              ----------
          Total.............................................  $6,196,616
                                                              ==========
</TABLE>
 
ITEM 14. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS.
 
     The Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant provides that the
Registrant will indemnify each of its directors and officers to the fullest
extent permitted by the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the
"DGCL") and may indemnify certain other persons as authorized by the DGCL.
Section 145 of the DGCL provides as follows:
 
145  INDEMNIFICATION OF OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES AND AGENTS; INSURANCE. --
 
     (a) A corporation shall have power to indemnify any person who was or is a
party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or
completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or
investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the corporation) by
reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee or
agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation
as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership,
joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys'
fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably
incurred by the person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding if the
person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be
in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to
any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe the
person's conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding
by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or
its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did
not act in good faith and in a manner which the person reasonably believed to be
in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to
any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that the
person's conduct was unlawful.
 
     (b) A corporation shall have power to indemnify any person who was or is a
party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or
completed action or suit by or in the right of the corporation to procure a
judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that the person is or was a
director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at
the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of
another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise
against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by
the person in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit
if the person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed
to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and except that
no indemnification shall be made in respect
 
                                      II-1
<PAGE>   152
 
of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged
to be liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that the court of
Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought shall determine
upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all
the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to
indemnity for such expenses which the Court of Chancery or such other court
shall deem proper.
 
     (c) To the extent that a present or former director or officer of a
corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any
action, suit or proceeding referred to in subsections (a) and (b) of this
section, or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, such person shall
be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and
reasonably incurred by such person in connection therewith.
 
     (d) Any indemnification under subsections (a) and (b) of this section
(unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the corporation only as authorized
in the specific case upon a determination that indemnification of the present or
former director, officer, employee or agent is proper in the circumstances
because the person has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in
subsections (a) and (b) of this section. Such determination shall be made, with
respect to a person who is a director or officer at the time of such
determination, (1) by a majority vote of the directors who are not parties to
such action, suit or proceeding, even though less than a quorum, or (2) by a
committee of such directors designated by majority vote of such directors, even
though less than a quorum, or (3) if there are no such directors, or if such
directors so direct, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion, or (4)
by the stockholders.
 
     (e) Expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred by an officer or director
in defending any civil, criminal, administrative or investigative action, suit
or proceeding may be paid by the corporation in advance of the final disposition
of such action, suit or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on
behalf of such director or officer to repay such amount if it shall ultimately
be determined that such person is not entitled to be indemnified by the
corporation as authorized in this section. Such expenses (including attorneys'
fees) incurred by former directors and officers or other employees and agents
may be so paid upon such terms and conditions, if any, as the corporation deems
appropriate.
 
     (f) The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted
pursuant to, the other subsections of this section shall not be deemed exclusive
of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification or advancement of
expenses may be entitled under any bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or
disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in such person's
official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such
office.
 
     (g) A corporation shall have power to purchase and maintain insurance on
behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the
corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a
director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint
venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against such
person in any such capacity or arising out of such person's status as such
whether or not the corporation would have the power to indemnify such person
against such liability under this section.
 
     (h) For purposes of this section, references to "the corporation" shall
include, in addition to the resulting corporation, any constituent corporation
(including any constituent of a constituent) absorbed in a consolidation or
merger which, if its separate existence had continued, would have had power and
authority to indemnify its directors, officers, and employees or agents, so that
any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of such
constituent corporation, or is or was serving at the request of such constituent
corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall stand in the same
position under this section with respect to the resulting or surviving
corporation as such person would have with respect to such constituent
corporation if its separate existence had continued.
 
     (i) For purposes of this section, references to "other enterprises" shall
include employee benefit plans; references to "fines" shall include any excise
taxes assessed on a person with respect to any employee benefit plan; and
references to "serving at the request of the corporation" shall include any
service as a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation which
imposes duties on, or involves services by, such director,
 
                                      II-2
<PAGE>   153
 
officer, employee, or agent with respect to an employee benefit plan, its
participants or beneficiaries; and a person who acted in good faith and in a
manner such person reasonably believed to be in the interest of the participants
and beneficiaries of an employee benefit plan shall be deemed to have acted in a
manner "not opposed to the best interests of the corporation" as referred to in
this section.
 
     (j) The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted
pursuant to, this section shall, unless otherwise provided when authorized or
ratified, continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer,
employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and
administrators of such a person.
 
     (k) The Court of Chancery is hereby vested with exclusive jurisdiction to
hear and determine all actions for advancement of expenses or indemnification
brought under this section or under any bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders
or disinterested directors, or otherwise. The Court of Chancery may summarily
determine a corporation's obligation to advance expenses (including attorneys'
fees).
 
     The Registrant also carries liability insurance covering officers and
directors.
 
     Pursuant to the proposed form of Underwriting Agreement, the Underwriters
have agreed to indemnify the directors and officers of the Registrant in certain
circumstances.
 
ITEM 15. RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES.
 
     In connection with the recapitalization of the Company on April 18, 1997,
the predecessor of the Company issued and sold an aggregate of (i) 140,000
shares of its common stock; (ii) warrants to purchase an additional 2,857.14
shares of such common stock; and (iii) 35,000 shares of its preferred stock,
series A and B, each series par value $.01 per share, in each case directly to
affiliates of Texas Pacific Group and a limited group of private institutional
and individual investors in a private placement in accordance with Section 4(2)
of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The
consideration received for such shares of common stock was $140 million. The
consideration received for such preferred stock and such warrants was $35
million. Such common stock and preferred stock were converted by operation of
law into shares of the common stock, par value $.01 per share, and preferred
stock, series A and B, respectively, of the Company upon the merger of such
predecessor with and into the Company. The Company expressly assumed its
predecessor's obligations under such warrants, which thereupon became
convertible into shares of common stock of the Company.
 
     On April 18, 1997, Del Monte Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of the
Company, issued and sold at par $150 million of its 12 1/4% Senior Subordinated
Notes due 2007, which are unconditionally guaranteed by the Company. The Notes
were sold in a private placement in accordance with Section 4(2) of the
Securities Act made to BT Securities Corporation, BancAmerica Securities, Inc.
and Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc., which acted as initial purchasers, for resale to
"qualified institutional buyers" within the meaning of Rule 144A under the
Securities Act and in offshore transactions to non-U.S. persons in compliance
with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The Company received none of the
proceeds from such sale.
 
     On October 15, 1997, the Company issued 37,253.388 shares of its preferred
stock, series C, par value $.01 per share, in exchange for all outstanding
shares of its preferred stock, series A and B, which shares of preferred stock,
series A and B, were then canceled and returned to authorized but unissued
shares of the Company's preferred stock. Such exchange was effected in
accordance with Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act.
 
     On December 17, 1997, the Company issued and sold at a discount $230
million of its 12 1/2% Senior Discount Notes Due 2007 in a private placement in
accordance with Section 4(2) of the Securities Act made to Bear, Stearns & Co.
Inc., BancAmerica Robertson Stephens and BT Alex. Brown Incorporated, which
acted as initial purchasers, for resale to "qualified institutional buyers"
within the meaning of Rule 144A under the Securities Act and in offshore
transactions to non-U.S. persons in compliance with Regulation S under the
Securities Act. The consideration received by the Company upon the sale of such
Notes was approximately $125 million.
 
                                      II-3
<PAGE>   154
 
     On December 19, 1997, the Company issued 40,000 shares of common stock
directly to affiliates of Texas Pacific Group and a limited number of
institutional investors in a private placement in accordance with Section 4(2)
of the Securities Act. The consideration received by the Company for such common
stock was $40 million.
 
     On May 1, 1998, to change its state of incorporation from Maryland to
Delaware, the predecessor of the Company merged with and into a newly created,
wholly-owned subsidiary incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware and
such subsidiary was the surviving corporation. In connection with the
reincorporation, each issued and outstanding share of common stock of the
predecessor of the Company was converted into one share of common stock of the
surviving corporation. Also in connection with the reincorporation, each issued
and outstanding share of preferred stock of the predecessor of the Company was
converted into one share of preferred stock of the surviving corporation
containing substantially the same preferences, rights and powers.
 
     As of June 2, 1998, all of the Company's outstanding warrants issued as
described above were exercised in transactions made in reliance on Section 4(2)
of the Securities Act.
 
ITEM 16. EXHIBITS.
 
     (a) EXHIBITS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
        EXHIBIT
          NO.                              DESCRIPTION
        -------                            -----------
        <C>        <S>
          1.1+     Form of Underwriting Agreement among Del Monte Foods Company
                   and the several underwriters listed therein
          2.1      Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 12, 1997,
                   among Nestle USA, Inc., Contadina Services, Inc., Del Monte
                   Corporation and Del Monte Foods Company (the "Asset Purchase
                   Agreement") (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
                   Report on Form 8-K No. 33-36374-01 filed January 5, 1998)
          2.2      Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 21, 1997,
                   amended and restated as of April 14, 1997, among TPG
                   Partners, L.P., TPG Shield Acquisition Corporation and Del
                   Monte Foods Company (the "Agreement and Plan of Merger")
                   (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Registration
                   Statement on Form S-4 No. 333-29079, filed June 12, 1997
                   (the "DMC Registration Statement"))
                   NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of Item
                   601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to
                   furnish to the Commission upon request copies of any
                   schedule to the Agreement and Plan of Merger.
          3.1      Certificate of Incorporation of Del Monte Foods Company
          3.2      Bylaws of Del Monte Foods Company
          3.3      Certificate of Designations filed May 4, 1998
          3.4      Certificate of Merger between Del Monte Foods Company, a
                   Maryland corporation, and Del Monte Foods Company, a
                   Delaware corporation, filed May 1, 1998
          3.5      Articles of Merger between Del Monte Foods Company, a
                   Maryland corporation, and Del Monte Foods Company, a
                   Delaware corporation, filed May 1, 1998
          4.1      Specimen Certificate of Common Stock of Del Monte Foods
                   Company
          4.2      Stockholders' Agreement, dated as of April 18, 1997, among
                   Del Monte Foods Company and its Stockholders (incorporated
                   by reference to Exhibit 3.6 to the DMC Registration
                   Statement)
</TABLE>
    
 
                                      II-4
<PAGE>   155
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
        EXHIBIT
          NO.                              DESCRIPTION
        -------                            -----------
        <C>        <S>
                   NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(4)(iii) of
                   Item 601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes
                   to furnish to the Commission upon request copies of the
                   instruments pursuant to which various entities hold
                   long-term debt of the Company or its parent or subsidiaries,
                   none of which instruments govern indebtedness exceeding 10%
                   of the total assets of the Company and its parent or
                   subsidiaries on a consolidated basis
          4.3      Form of Stockholders' Agreement among Del Monte Foods
                   Company and its employee stockholders (incorporated by
                   reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registration Statement on Form
                   S-8 filed November 24, 1997 File No. 333-40867 (the
                   "Registration Statement on Form S-8"))
          4.4      Form of Stockholders' Agreement between Del Monte Foods
                   Company and its Employee Directors
          4.5      Form of Stockholders' Agreement between Del Monte Foods
                   Company and its Employee Directors -- Directors' Fee
                   Arrangement
          4.6      Form of Registration Rights Agreement by and among TPG
                   Partners, L.P., TPG Parallel I, L.P. and Del Monte Foods
                   Company
          5.1      Opinion of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton
         10.1      Indenture, dated as of December 17, 1997, among Del Monte
                   Foods Company, as issuer, and Marine Midland Bank, as
                   trustee, relating to the Notes (the "Indenture")
                   (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the
                   Registration Statement on Form S-4 No. 333-47289, filed
                   March 4, 1998 (the "Exchange Offer Registration Statement"))
                   NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of Item
                   601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to
                   furnish to the Commission upon request copies of any
                   schedule to the Indenture.
         10.2      Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 17,
                   1997, by and among Del Monte Foods Company and the Initial
                   Purchasers listed therein, relating to the Notes (the
                   "Registration Rights Agreement") (incorporated by reference
                   to Exhibit 4.3 to the Exchange Offer Registration Statement)
                   NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of Item
                   601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to
                   furnish to the Commission upon request copies of any
                   schedule to the Registration Rights Agreement.
         10.3      Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December
                   17, 1997, among Del Monte Corporation, ("BofA") Bank of
                   America National Trust and Savings Association, as
                   Administrative Agent, and the other financial institutions
                   parties thereto (the "Amended Credit Agreement")
                   (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Exchange
                   Offer Registration Statement)
                   NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of Item
                   601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to
                   furnish to the Commission upon request copies of any
                   schedule to the Amended Credit Agreement.
         10.4      Amended and Restated Parent Guaranty, dated December 17,
                   1997, executed by Del Monte Foods Company, with respect to
                   the obligations under the Amended Credit Agreement (the
                   "Restated Parent Guaranty") (incorporated by reference to
                   Exhibit 4.5 to the Exchange Offer Registration Statement)
         10.5      Security Agreement, dated April 18, 1997, between Del Monte
                   Corporation and Del Monte Foods Company and Bank of America
                   National Trust and Savings Association (incorporated by
                   reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the DMC Registration Statement)
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-5
<PAGE>   156
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
        EXHIBIT
          NO.                              DESCRIPTION
        -------                            -----------
        <C>        <S>
         10.6      Pledge Agreement, dated April 18, 1997, between Del Monte
                   Corporation and Bank of America National Trust and Savings
                   Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the
                   DMC Registration Statement)
         10.7      Parent Pledge Agreement, dated April 18, 1997, between Del
                   Monte Foods Company and Bank of America National Trust and
                   Savings Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                   4.8 to the DMC Registration Statement)
         10.8      Indenture, dated as of April 18, 1997, among Del Monte
                   Corporation, as issuer, Del Monte Foods Company, as
                   guarantor, and Marine Midland Bank, as trustee, relating to
                   the 12 1/4% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2007 (incorporated
                   by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the DMC Registration
                   Statement)
         10.9      Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of April 18, 1997,
                   by and among Del Monte Corporation and the Purchasers listed
                   therein, relating to the 12 1/4% Senior Subordinated Notes
                   Due 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to the
                   DMC Registration Statement)
         10.10     Transaction Advisory Agreement, dated as of April 18, 1997,
                   between Del Monte Corporation and TPG Partners, L.P.
                   (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the DMC
                   Registration Statement)
         10.11     Management Advisory Agreement, dated as of April 18, 1997,
                   between Del Monte Corporation and TPG Partners, L.P.
                   (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the DMC
                   Registration Statement)
         10.12     Retention Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and David
                   L. Meyers, dated November 1, 1991 (incorporated by reference
                   to Exhibit 10.3 to the DMC Registration Statement)
         10.13     Retention Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and Glynn
                   M. Phillips, dated October 5, 1994 (incorporated by
                   reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the DMC Registration Statement)
         10.14     Retention Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and Thomas
                   E. Gibbons, dated January 1, 1992 (incorporated by reference
                   to Exhibit 10.5 to the DMC Registration Statement)
         10.15     Del Monte Foods Annual Incentive Award Plan and 1997 Plan
                   Year Amendments (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8
                   to the DMC Registration Statement)
         10.16     Additional Benefits Plan of Del Monte Corporation, as
                   amended and restated effective January 1, 1996 (incorporated
                   by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the DMC Registration
                   Statement)
         10.17     Supplemental Benefits Plan of Del Monte Corporation,
                   effective as of January 1, 1990, as amended as of January 1,
                   1992 and May 30, 1996 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
                   10.10 to the DMC Registration Statement)
         10.18     Del Monte Foods Company Employee Stock Purchase Plan
                   (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the
                   Registration Statement on Form S-8)
         10.19     Del Monte Foods Company 1997 Stock Incentive Plan
                   (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the
                   Registration Statement on Form S-8)
         10.20     Agreement for Information Technology Services between Del
                   Monte Corporation and Electronic Data Systems Corporation,
                   dated November 1, 1992, as amended as of September 1, 1993
                   and as of September 15, 1993 (incorporated by reference to
                   Exhibit 10.11 to the DMC Registration Statement)
</TABLE>
 
                                      II-6
<PAGE>   157
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
        EXHIBIT
          NO.                              DESCRIPTION
        -------                            -----------
        <C>        <S>
         10.21     Supply Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and Silgan
                   Containers Corporation, dated as of September 3, 1993, as
                   amended as of December 21, 1993 (incorporated by reference
                   to Exhibit 10.12 to the DMC Registration Statement)
         10.22     Retention Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and
                   William J. Spain, dated January 1, 1992
         10.23     Del Monte Foods Company Non-Employee Directors and
                   Independent Contractors 1997 Stock Incentive Plan
         10.24     Del Monte Foods Company 1998 Stock Incentive Plan
         10.25     Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 24, 1998, among
                   Del Monte Corporation, as Issuer, Del Monte Foods Company,
                   as Guarantor, and Marine Midland Bank, as Trustee
         10.26     Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 24, 1998, between
                   Del Monte Foods Company, as Guarantor, and Marine Midland
                   Bank, as Trustee
         10.27     Amendment and Waiver, dated as of April 16, 1998, to the
                   Amended Credit Agreement and the Restated Parent Guaranty,
                   by Del Monte Corporation and the financial institutions
                   party thereto
         10.28     Commitment Letter dated April 15, 1998 to Del Monte
                   Corporation from BofA and Bankers Trust Company
         10.29     Promissory Note of Richard Wolford
         10.30     Promissory Note of Wesley Smith
         10.31     Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 19, 1997, among
                   Del Monte Corporation, as Issuer, Del Monte Foods Company,
                   as Guarantor, and Marine Midland Bank, as Trustee
         10.32     Form of Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
                   NOTE: Pursuant to paragraph (b)(2) of Item 601 of Regulation
                   S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to furnish to the
                   Commission upon request copies of any schedule to the Second
                   Amended and Restated Credit Agreement.
         11.1      Statement re Computation of Earnings Per Share
         12.1      Statement re Computation of Ratios
         21.1      Subsidiaries of Del Monte Foods Company
         23.1+     Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors
         23.2+     Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, Independent Accountants
         23.3+     Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, Independent Accountants
         23.4      Consent of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton (included in
                   its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1)
         23.5      Consent of A. C. Nielsen Company
</TABLE>
    
 
- ---------------
 
+ Filed herewith.
 
     (b) FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
 
        Not applicable.
 
ITEM 17. UNDERTAKINGS
 
     The undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes:
 
          (a) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
     Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and
     controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing
 
                                      II-7
<PAGE>   158
 
     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 of 1933 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 of
     whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in
     the Securities Act of 1933 and will be governed by the final adjudication
     of such issue.
 
          (b)(1) That for purposes of determining any liability under the
     Securities Act of 1933, 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 of 1933 shall be deemed
     to be part of this Registration Statement as of the time it was declared
     effective.
 
          (2) That for the purpose of determining any liability under the
     Securities Act of 1933, 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-8
<PAGE>   159
 
                                   SIGNATURES
 
   
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant
has duly caused Amendment No. 5 to this registration statement to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of San
Francisco, State of California, on July 28, 1998.
    
 
                                          DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY
 
                                          By: /s/  RICHARD G. WOLFORD
                                            ------------------------------------
                                                     Richard G. Wolford
                                                  Chief Executive Officer
 
                               POWER OF ATTORNEY
 
     Each person whose signature appears below on this Registration Statement
hereby constitutes and appoints Richard G. Wolford, David L. Meyers and Wesley
J. Smith, and each of them, with full power to act without the other, his true
and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power of substitution and
resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all
capacities (unless revoked in writing) to sign any and all amendments (including
post-effective amendments thereto) to this Registration Statement to which this
power of attorney is attached, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto,
and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, granting to such attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them,
full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing
requisite and necessary to be done in connection therewith, as full to all
intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and
confirming all that such attorneys-in-fact and agents or any of them, or their
or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue
hereof.
 
   
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, Amendment No. 5
to this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities indicated on July 28, 1998.
    
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                      SIGNATURE                                            TITLE
                      ---------                                            -----
<S>                                                    <C>
               /s/ RICHARD G. WOLFORD*                 Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive
- -----------------------------------------------------  Officer) and Director
                 Richard G. Wolford
 
                 /s/ DAVID L. MEYERS                   Executive Vice President, Administration and
- -----------------------------------------------------  Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial
                   David L. Meyers                     Officer)
 
               /s/ RICHARD L. FRENCH*                  Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting
- -----------------------------------------------------  Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)
                  Richard L. French
 
                /s/ RICHARD W. BOYCE*                  Chairman of the Board and Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                  Richard W. Boyce
 
                /s/ TIMOTHY G. BRUER*                  Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                  Timothy G. Bruer
 
                    /s/ AL CAREY*                      Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                      Al Carey
 
                 /s/ PATRICK FOLEY*                    Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                    Patrick Foley
</TABLE>
 
                                       S-1
<PAGE>   160
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                      SIGNATURE                                            TITLE
                      ---------                                            -----
<S>                                                    <C>
                /s/ BRIAN E. HAYCOX*                   Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                   Brian E. Haycox
 
                /s/ JEFFREY A. SHAW*                   Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                   Jeffrey A. Shaw
 
                /s/ WESLEY J. SMITH*                   Chief Operating Officer and Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                   Wesley J. Smith
 
               /s/ DENISE M. O'LEARY*                  Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                  Denise M. O'Leary
 
             /s/ WILLIAM S. PRICE, III*                Director
- -----------------------------------------------------
                William S. Price, III
</TABLE>
 
- --------------------------------------
By: /s/     DAVID L. MEYERS
    ----------------------------------
             David L. Meyers
                                       S-2
<PAGE>   161
 
                                 EXHIBIT INDEX
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
  EXHIBIT
    NO.                              DESCRIPTION
  -------                            -----------
  <C>        <S>
    1.1+     Form of Underwriting Agreement among Del Monte Foods Company
             and the several underwriters listed therein
    2.1      Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 12, 1997,
             among Nestle USA, Inc., Contadina Services, Inc., Del Monte
             Corporation and Del Monte Foods Company (the "Asset Purchase
             Agreement") (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
             Report on Form 8-K No. 33-36374-01 filed January 5, 1998)
    2.2      Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 21, 1997,
             amended and restated as of April 14, 1997, among TPG
             Partners, L.P., TPG Shield Acquisition Corporation and Del
             Monte Foods Company (the "Agreement and Plan of Merger")
             (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Registration
             Statement on Form S-4 No. 333-29079, filed June 12, 1997
             (the "DMC Registration Statement"))
             NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of Item
             601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to
             furnish to the Commission upon request copies of any
             schedule to the Agreement and Plan of Merger.
    3.1      Certificate of Incorporation of Del Monte Foods Company
    3.2      Bylaws of Del Monte Foods Company
    3.3      Certificate of Designations filed May 4, 1998
    3.4      Certificate of Merger between Del Monte Foods Company, a
             Maryland corporation, and Del Monte Foods Company, a
             Delaware corporation, filed May 1, 1998
    3.5      Articles of Merger between Del Monte Foods Company, a
             Maryland corporation, and Del Monte Foods Company, a
             Delaware corporation, filed May 1, 1998
    4.1      Specimen Certificate of Common Stock of Del Monte Foods
             Company
    4.2      Stockholders' Agreement, dated as of April 18, 1997, among
             Del Monte Foods Company and its Stockholders (incorporated
             by reference to Exhibit 3.6 to the DMC Registration
             Statement)
             NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(4)(iii) of
             Item 601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes
             to furnish to the Commission upon request copies of the
             instruments pursuant to which various entities hold
             long-term debt of the Company or its parent or subsidiaries,
             none of which instruments govern indebtedness exceeding 10%
             of the total assets of the Company and its parent or
             subsidiaries on a consolidated basis
    4.3      Form of Stockholders' Agreement among Del Monte Foods
             Company and its employee stockholders (incorporated by
             reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registration Statement on Form
             S-8 filed November 24, 1997 File No. 333-40867 (the
             "Registration Statement on Form S-8"))
    4.4      Form of Stockholders' Agreement between Del Monte Foods
             Company and its Employee Directors
    4.5      Form of Stockholders' Agreement between Del Monte Foods
             Company and its Employee Directors -- Directors' Fee
             Arrangement
    4.6      Form of Registration Rights Agreement by and between TPG
             Partners, L.P., TPG Parallel I, L.P. and Del Monte Foods
             Company
    5.1      Opinion of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton
   10.1      Indenture, dated as of December 17, 1997, among Del Monte
             Foods Company, as issuer, and Marine Midland Bank, as
             trustee, relating to the Notes (the "Indenture")
             (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the
             Registration Statement on Form S-4 No. 333-47289, filed
             March 4, 1998 (the "Exchange Offer Registration Statement"))
             NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of Item
             601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to
             furnish to the Commission upon request copies of any
             schedule to the Indenture.
   10.2      Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 17,
             1997, by and among Del Monte Foods Company and the Initial
             Purchasers listed therein, relating to the Notes (the
             "Registration Rights Agreement") (incorporated by reference
             to Exhibit 4.3 to the Exchange Offer Registration Statement)
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>   162
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
  EXHIBIT
    NO.                              DESCRIPTION
  -------                            -----------
  <C>        <S>
             NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of Item
             601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to
             furnish to the Commission upon request copies of any
             schedule to the Registration Rights Agreement.
   10.3      Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December
             17, 1997, among Del Monte Corporation, Bank of America
             National Trust and Savings Association, as Administrative
             Agent ("BofA"), and the other financial institutions parties
             thereto (the "Amended Credit Agreement") (incorporated by
             reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Exchange Offer Registration
             Statement)
             NOTE: Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of Item
             601 of Regulation S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to
             furnish to the Commission upon request copies of any
             schedule to the Amended Credit Agreement.
   10.4      Amended and Restated Parent Guaranty, dated December 17,
             1997, executed by Del Monte Foods Company, with respect to
             the obligations under the Amended Credit Agreement (the
             "Restated Parent Guaranty") (incorporated by reference to
             Exhibit 4.5 to the Exchange Offer Registration Statement)
   10.5      Security Agreement, dated April 18, 1997, between Del Monte
             Corporation and Del Monte Foods Company and Bank of America
             National Trust and Savings Association (incorporated by
             reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.6      Pledge Agreement, dated April 18, 1997, between Del Monte
             Corporation and Bank of America National Trust and Savings
             Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the
             DMC Registration Statement)
   10.7      Parent Pledge Agreement, dated April 18, 1997, between Del
             Monte Foods Company and Bank of America National Trust and
             Savings Association (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
             4.8 to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.8      Indenture, dated as of April 18, 1997, among Del Monte
             Corporation, as issuer, Del Monte Foods Company, as
             guarantor, and Marine Midland Bank, as trustee, relating to
             the 12 1/4 Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2007 (incorporated
             by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the DMC Registration
             Statement)
   10.9      Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of April 18, 1997,
             by and among Del Monte Corporation and the Purchasers listed
             therein, relating to the 12 1/4 Senior Subordinated Notes
             Due 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to the
             DMC Registration Statement)
   10.10     Transaction Advisory Agreement, dated as of April 18, 1997,
             between Del Monte Corporation and TPG Partners, L.P.
             (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the DMC
             Registration Statement)
   10.11     Management Advisory Agreement, dated as of April 18, 1997,
             between Del Monte Corporation and TPG Partners, L.P.
             (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the DMC
             Registration Statement)
   10.12     Retention Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and David
             L. Meyers, dated November 1, 1991 (incorporated by reference
             to Exhibit 10.3 to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.13     Retention Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and Glynn
             M. Phillips, dated October 5, 1994 (incorporated by
             reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.14     Retention Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and Thomas
             E. Gibbons, dated January 1, 1992 (incorporated by reference
             to Exhibit 10.5 to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.15     Del Monte Foods Annual Incentive Award Plan and 1997 Plan
             Year Amendments (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8
             to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.16     Additional Benefits Plan of Del Monte Corporation, as
             amended and restated effective January 1, 1996 (incorporated
             by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the DMC Registration
             Statement)
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   163
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
  EXHIBIT
    NO.                              DESCRIPTION
  -------                            -----------
  <C>        <S>
   10.17     Supplemental Benefits Plan of Del Monte Corporation,
             effective as of January 1, 1990, as amended as of January 1,
             1992 and May 30, 1996 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
             10.10 to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.18     Del Monte Foods Company Employee Stock Purchase Plan
             (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Registration
             Statement on Form S-8)
   10.19     Del Monte Foods Company 1997 Stock Incentive Plan
             (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Registration
             Statement on Form S-8)
   10.20     Agreement for Information Technology Services between Del
             Monte Corporation and Electronic Data Systems Corporation,
             dated November 1, 1992, as amended as of September 1, 1993
             and as of September 15, 1993 (incorporated by reference to
             Exhibit 10.11 to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.21     Supply Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and Silgan
             Containers Corporation, dated as of September 3, 1993, as
             amended as of December 21, 1993 (incorporated by reference
             to Exhibit 10.12 to the DMC Registration Statement)
   10.22     Retention Agreement between Del Monte Corporation and
             William J. Spain, dated January 1, 1992
   10.23     Del Monte Foods Company Non-Employee Director and
             Independent Contractor 1997 Stock Incentive Plan
   10.24     Del Monte Foods Company 1998 Stock Incentive Plan
   10.25     Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 24, 1998, among
             Del Monte Corporation, as Issuer, Del Monte Foods Company,
             as Guarantor, and Marine Midland Bank, as Trustee
   10.26     Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 24, 1998, between
             Del Monte Foods Company and Marine Midland Bank, as Trustee
   10.27     Amendment and Waiver, dated as of April 16, 1998, to the
             Amended Credit Agreement and the Restated Parent Guaranty,
             by Del Monte Corporation and the Financial institutions
             party thereto
   10.28     Commitment Letter dated April 15, 1998 to Del Monte
             Corporation from BofA and Bankers Trust Company
   10.29     Promissory Note of Richard Wolford
   10.30     Promissory Note of Wesley Smith
   10.31     Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 19, 1997, among
             Del Monte Corporation, as Issuer, Del Monte Foods Company,
             as Guarantor, and Marine Midland Bank, as Trustee
   10.32     Form of Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
             NOTE: Pursuant to paragraph (b)(2) of Item 601 of Regulation
             S-K, the Registrant hereby undertakes to furnish to the
             Commission upon request copies of any schedule to the Second
             Amended and Restated Credit Agreement.
   11.1      Statement re Computation of Earnings Per Share
   12.1      Statement re Computation of Ratios
   21.1      Subsidiaries of Del Monte Foods Company
   23.1+     Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors
   23.2+     Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, Independent Accountants
   23.3+     Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, Independent Accountants
   23.4      Consent of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton (included in
             its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1)
   23.5      Consent of A. C. Nielsen Company
</TABLE>
    
 
- ---------------
+ Filed herewith.

<PAGE>   1
                                 [*****] SHARES


                             DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY

                     COMMON STOCK, PAR VALUE $0.01 PER SHARE




                             UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT




[*****], 1998


<PAGE>   2
                                  [*****], 1998




Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens
Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.
BT Alex. Brown Incorporated
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation
c/o   Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
      1585 Broadway
      New York, New York  10036

Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens
Bear, Stearns International Limited
BT Alex. Brown International, a division of Bankers Trust International PLC
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities International
c/o   Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited
      25 Cabot Square
      Canary Wharf
      London E14 1QA
      England

Dear Sirs and Mesdames:

         Del Monte Foods Company, a Delaware corporation (the "COMPANY"),
proposes to issue and sell to the several Underwriters (as defined below)
[*****] shares of the Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share of the Company
(the "FIRM SHARES").

         It is understood that, subject to the conditions hereinafter stated,
[*****] Firm Shares (the "U.S. FIRM SHARES") will be sold to the several U.S.
Underwriters named in Schedule I hereto (the "U.S. UNDERWRITERS") in connection
with the offering and sale of such U.S. Firm Shares in the United States and
Canada to United States and Canadian Persons (as such terms are defined in the
Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters of even date herewith),
and [*****] Firm Shares (the "INTERNATIONAL SHARES") will be sold to the several
International Underwriters named in Schedule II hereto (the "INTERNATIONAL
UNDERWRITERS") in connection with the offering and sale of such International
Shares outside the United States and Canada to persons other than United States
and Canadian Persons.

         Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, BancAmerica Robertson Stephens,
Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc., BT Alex. Brown Incorporated and Donaldson, Lufkin &
Jenrette Securities Corporation shall act as representatives (the "U.S.
REPRESENTATIVES") of the several U.S. Underwriters, and 

<PAGE>   3

Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited, BancAmerica Robertson Stephens,
Bear, Stearns International Limited, BT Alex. Brown International, a division of
Bankers Trust International PLC, and Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities
International shall act as representatives (the "INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES")
of the several International Underwriters. The U.S. Underwriters and the
International Underwriters are hereinafter collectively referred to as the
"UNDERWRITERS".

         The Company also proposes to issue and sell to the several U.S.
Underwriters not more than an additional [*****] shares of its Common Stock, par
value $0.01 per share (the "ADDITIONAL SHARES") if and to the extent that the
U.S. Representatives shall have determined to exercise, on behalf of the U.S.
Underwriters, the right to purchase such shares of common stock granted to the
U.S. Underwriters in Section 2 hereof. The Firm Shares and the Additional Shares
are hereinafter collectively referred to as the "SHARES". The shares of Common
Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company to be outstanding after giving
effect to the sales contemplated hereby are hereinafter referred to as the
"COMMON STOCK".

         The Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"COMMISSION") a registration statement relating to the Shares. The registration
statement contains two prospectuses to be used in connection with the offering
and sale of the Shares: the U.S. prospectus, to be used in connection with the
offering and sale of Shares in the United States and Canada to United States and
Canadian Persons, and the international prospectus, to be used in connection
with the offering and sale of Shares outside the United States and Canada to
persons other than United States and Canadian Persons. The international
prospectus is identical to the U.S. prospectus except for the outside front
cover page. The registration statement as amended at the time it becomes
effective, including the information (if any) deemed to be part of the
registration statement at the time of effectiveness pursuant to Rule 430A under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "SECURITIES ACT"), is hereinafter
referred to as the "REGISTRATION STATEMENT"; the U.S. prospectus and the
international prospectus in the respective forms first used to confirm sales of
Shares are hereinafter collectively referred to as the "PROSPECTUS". If the
Company has filed an abbreviated registration statement to register additional
shares of Common Stock pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act (the
"RULE 462 REGISTRATION STATEMENT"), then any reference herein to the term
"Registration Statement" shall be deemed to include such Rule 462 Registration
Statement.

         As part of the offering contemplated by this Agreement, Morgan Stanley
& Co. Incorporated ("MORGAN STANLEY") has agreed to reserve out of the Shares
set forth opposite its name on Schedule I to this Agreement, up to [*****]
shares, for sale to the Company's directors, officers, employees, retirees and
related persons of the Company (collectively, "PARTICIPANTS"), as set forth in
the Prospectus under the heading "Underwriters -- Directed Share Program" (the
"DIRECTED SHARE PROGRAM"). The Shares to be sold by Morgan Stanley pursuant to
the Directed Share Program (the "DIRECTED SHARES") will be sold by Morgan
Stanley pursuant to this Agreement at the public offering price. Any Directed
Shares not orally confirmed for purchase by any Participants by the end of the
first business day after the date on which this Agreement is executed will be
offered to the public by Morgan Stanley as set forth in the Prospectus.

         1. Representations and Warranties of the Company. The Company
represents and warrants to and agrees with each of the Underwriters that:



                                       2
<PAGE>   4

         (a) The Registration Statement has become effective; no stop order
suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement is in effect, and no
proceedings for such purpose are pending before or threatened by the Commission.

         (b) (i) The Registration Statement, when it became effective, did not
contain and, as amended or supplemented, if applicable, will not contain any
untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to
be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading,
(ii) the Registration Statement and the Prospectus comply and, as amended or
supplemented, if applicable, will comply in all material respects with the
Securities Act and the applicable rules and regulations of the Commission
thereunder and (iii) the Prospectus does not contain and, as amended or
supplemented, if applicable, will not contain any untrue statement of a material
fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements therein,
in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading,
except that the representations and warranties set forth in this paragraph do
not apply to statements or omissions in the Registration Statement or the
Prospectus based upon information relating to any Underwriter furnished to the
Company in writing by such Underwriter through you expressly for use therein.

         (c) The Company has been duly incorporated, is validly existing as a
corporation in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its
incorporation, has the corporate power and authority to own its property and to
conduct its business as described in the Prospectus and is duly qualified to
transact business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the
conduct of its business or its ownership or leasing of property requires such
qualification, except to the extent that the failure to be so qualified or be in
good standing would not have a material adverse effect on the Company and its
subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

         (d) Each subsidiary of the Company has been duly incorporated, is
validly existing as a corporation in good standing under the laws of the
jurisdiction of its incorporation, has the corporate power and authority to own
its property and to conduct its business as described in the Prospectus and is
duly qualified to transact business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction
in which the conduct of its business or its ownership or leasing of property
requires such qualification, except to the extent that the failure to be so
qualified or be in good standing would not have a material adverse effect on the
Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole; all of the issued shares of
capital stock of each subsidiary of the Company have been duly and validly
authorized and issued, are fully paid and non-assessable and are owned directly
by the Company, free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, equities or claims.

         (e) This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by
the Company.

         (f) The authorized capital stock of the Company conforms as to legal
matters to the description thereof contained in the Prospectus.



                                       3
<PAGE>   5

         (g) The shares of Common Stock outstanding prior to the issuance of the
Shares have been duly authorized and are validly issued, fully paid and
non-assessable.

         (h) The Shares have been duly authorized and, when issued and delivered
in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, will be validly issued, fully
paid and non-assessable, and the issuance of such Shares will not be subject to
any preemptive or similar rights.

         (i) The execution and delivery by the Company of, and the performance
by the Company of its obligations under, this Agreement will not contravene any
provision of applicable law or the certificate of incorporation or by-laws of
the Company or any agreement or other instrument binding upon the Company or any
of its subsidiaries that is material to the Company and its subsidiaries, taken
as a whole, or any judgment, order or decree of any governmental body, agency or
court having jurisdiction over the Company or any subsidiary, and no consent,
approval, authorization or order of, or qualification with, any governmental
body or agency is required for the performance by the Company of its obligations
under this Agreement, except such as may be required by the securities or Blue
Sky laws of the various states in connection with the offer and sale of the
Shares.

         (j) There has not occurred any material adverse change, or any
development involving a prospective material adverse change, in the condition,
financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business or operations of the
Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, from that set forth in the
Prospectus.

         (k) There are no legal or governmental proceedings pending or
threatened to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or to
which any of the properties of the Company or any of its subsidiaries is subject
that are required to be described in the Registration Statement or the
Prospectus and are not so described or any statutes, regulations, contracts or
other documents that are required to be described in the Registration Statement
or the Prospectus or to be filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement that
are not described or filed as required.

         (l) Each preliminary prospectus filed as part of the registration
statement as originally filed or as part of any amendment thereto, or filed
pursuant to Rule 424 under the Securities Act, complied when so filed in all
material respects with the Securities Act and the applicable rules and
regulations of the Commission thereunder.

         (m) The Company is not and, after giving effect to the offering and
sale of the Shares and the application of the proceeds thereof as described in
the Prospectus, will not be an "investment company" as such term is defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

         (n) Subsequent to the respective dates as of which information is given
in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus, (1) the Company and its
subsidiaries have not incurred any material liability or obligation, direct or
contingent, nor entered into any material transaction not in the ordinary course
of business; (2) the Company has not purchased any of its outstanding capital
stock, nor declared, paid or otherwise made any 



                                       4
<PAGE>   6

dividend or distribution of any kind on its capital stock other than ordinary
and customary dividends; and (3) there has not been any material adverse change
in the capital stock, short-term debt or long-term debt of the Company and its
consolidated subsidiaries, except in each case as described in the Prospectus.

         (o) The Company and its subsidiaries have good and marketable title in
fee simple to all real property and good and marketable title to all personal
property owned by them which is material to the business of the Company and its
subsidiaries, in each case free and clear of all liens, encumbrances and defects
except such as are described in the Prospectus or such as do not materially
affect the value of such property and do not interfere with the use made and
proposed to be made of such property by the Company and its subsidiaries; and
any real property and buildings held under lease by the Company and its
subsidiaries are held by them under valid, subsisting and enforceable leases
with such exceptions as are not material and do not interfere with the use made
and proposed to be made of such property and buildings by the Company and its
subsidiaries, in each case except as described in the Prospectus.

         (p) The Company and its subsidiaries own or possess, or can acquire on
reasonable terms, all material patents, patent rights, licenses, inventions,
copyrights, know-how (including trade secrets and other unpatented and/or
unpatentable proprietary or confidential information, systems or procedures),
trademarks, service marks and trade names currently employed by them in
connection with the business now operated by them, and neither the Company nor
any of its subsidiaries has received any notice of infringement of or conflict
with asserted rights of others with respect to any of the foregoing which,
singly or in the aggregate, if the subject of an unfavorable decision, ruling or
finding, would result in any material adverse change in the condition, financial
or otherwise, or in the earnings, business or operations of the Company and its
subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

         (q) No material labor dispute with the employees of the Company or any
of its subsidiaries exists, except as described in the Prospectus, or, to the
knowledge of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, is imminent; and the
Company or any of its subsidiaries are not aware of any existing, threatened or
imminent labor disturbance by the employees of any of its principal suppliers,
manufactures or contractors that could result in any material adverse change in
the condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business or
operations of the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

         (r) The Company and each of its subsidiaries are insured by insurers of
recognized financial responsibility against such losses and risks and in such
amounts as are prudent and customary in the businesses in which they are
engaged; neither the Company nor any such subsidiary has been refused any
insurance coverage sought or applied for; and neither the Company nor any such
subsidiary has any reason to believe that it will not be able to renew its
existing insurance coverage as and when such coverage expires or to obtain
similar coverage from similar insurers as may be necessary to continue its
business at a cost that would not materially and adversely affect the condition,
financial or otherwise, or the earnings, business or operations of the Company
and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, except as described in the Prospectus.



                                       5
<PAGE>   7

         (s) The Company and its subsidiaries possess all certificates,
authorizations and permits issued by the appropriate federal, state or foreign
authorities necessary to conduct their respective businesses, and neither the
Company nor any such subsidiary has received any notice of proceedings relating
to the revocation or modification of any such certificate, authorization or
permit which, singly or in the aggregate, if the subject of an unfavorable
decision, ruling or finding, would result in a material adverse change in the
condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business or operations of
the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, except as described in the
Prospectus.

         (t) The Company and its subsidiaries (i) are in compliance with any and
all applicable foreign, federal, state and local laws and regulations relating
to the protection of human health and safety, the environment or hazardous or
toxic substances or wastes, pollutants or contaminants ("Environmental Laws"),
(ii) have received all permits, licenses or other approvals required of them
under applicable Environmental Laws to conduct their respective businesses and
(iii) are in compliance with all terms and conditions of any such permit,
license or approval, except where such noncompliance with Environmental Laws,
failure to receive required permits, licenses or other approvals or failure to
comply with the terms and conditions of such permits, licenses or approvals
would not, singly or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the
Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

         (u) There are no costs or liabilities associated with Environmental
Laws (including, without limitation, any capital or operating expenditures
required for clean-up, closure of properties or compliance with Environmental
Laws or any permit, license or approval, any related constraints on operating
activities and any potential liabilities to third parties) which would, singly
or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the Company and its
subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

         (v) The Company and each of its subsidiaries maintain a system of
internal accounting controls sufficient to provide reasonable assurance that (1)
transactions are executed in accordance with management's general or specific
authorizations; (2) transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation
of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles and to maintain asset accountability; (3) access to assets is
permitted only in accordance with management's general or specific
authorization; and (4) the recorded accountability for assets is compared with
the existing assets at reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with
respect to any differences.

         (w) There are no contracts, agreements or understandings between the
Company and any person granting such person the right to require the Company to
file a registration statement under the Securities Act with respect to any
securities of the Company or to require the Company to include such securities
with the Shares registered pursuant to the Registration Statement, except as
described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus.


         (x) The Company has not offered, or caused the Underwriters to offer,
Shares to any person pursuant to the Directed Share Program with the specific
intent to 



                                       6
<PAGE>   8

         unlawfully influence (i) a customer or supplier of the Company to alter
         the customer's or supplier's level or type of business with the
         Company, or (ii) a trade journalist or publication to write or publish
         favorable information about the Company or its products.

         2. Agreements to Sell and Purchase. The Company hereby agrees to sell
to the several Underwriters, and each Underwriter, upon the basis of the
representations and warranties herein contained, but subject to the conditions
hereinafter stated, agrees, severally and not jointly, to purchase from the
Company at U.S.$[*****] a share (the "PURCHASE PRICE") the respective number of
Firm Shares set forth in Schedules I and II hereto opposite the name of such
Underwriter.

         On the basis of the representations and warranties contained in this
Agreement, and subject to its terms and conditions, the Company agrees to sell
to the U.S. Underwriters the Additional Shares, and the U.S. Underwriters shall
have a one-time right to purchase, severally and not jointly, up to [*****]
Additional Shares at the Purchase Price. If the U.S. Representatives, on behalf
of the U.S. Underwriters, elect to exercise such option, the U.S.
Representatives shall so notify the Company in writing not later than 30 days
after the date of this Agreement, which notice shall specify the number of
Additional Shares to be purchased by the U.S. Underwriters and the date on which
such shares are to be purchased. Such date may be the same as the Closing Date
(as defined below) but not earlier than the Closing Date nor later than ten
business days after the date of such notice. Additional Shares may be purchased
as provided in Section 4 hereof solely for the purpose of covering
overallotments made in connection with the offering of the Firm Shares. If any
Additional Shares are to be purchased, each U.S. Underwriter agrees, severally
and not jointly, to purchase the number of Additional Shares (subject to such
adjustments to eliminate fractional shares as the U.S. Representatives may
determine) that bears the same proportion to the total number of Additional
Shares to be purchased as the number of U.S. Firm Shares set forth in Schedule I
hereto opposite the name of such U.S. Underwriter bears to the total number of
U.S. Firm Shares.

         The Company hereby agrees that, without the prior written consent of
Morgan Stanley on behalf of the Underwriters, it will not, during the period
ending 180 days after the date of the Prospectus, (i) offer, pledge, sell,
contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option
or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase, lend, or
otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any shares of Common
Stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for
Common Stock or (ii) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to
another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of
the Common Stock, whether any such transaction described in clause (i) or (ii)
above is to be settled by delivery of Common Stock or such other securities, in
cash or otherwise. The foregoing sentence shall not apply to (A) the Shares to
be sold hereunder, (B) the issuance by the Company of shares of Common Stock
upon the exercise of an option or warrant or the conversion of a security
outstanding on the date hereof and which option, warrant or conversion feature
is described in the Prospectus, (C) the sale of any shares of Common Stock to
the Company or the purchase of any shares of Common Stock by the Company in
accordance with certain Stockholders' Agreements pursuant to the Company's
employee benefit plans or (D) transactions by any person other than the Company
relating to shares of Common Stock or other securities acquired in open market
transactions after the completion of the offering of the Shares.




                                       7
<PAGE>   9

         3. Terms of Public Offering. The Company is advised by you that the
Underwriters propose to make a public offering of their respective portions of
the Shares as soon after the Registration Statement and this Agreement have
become effective as in your judgment is advisable. The Company is further
advised by you that the Shares are to be offered to the public initially at
U.S.$[*****] a share (the "PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE") and to certain dealers
selected by you at a price that represents a concession not in excess of
U.S.$[*****] a share under the Public Offering Price, and that any Underwriter
may allow, and such dealers may reallow, a concession, not in excess of
U.S.$[*****] a share, to any Underwriter or to certain other dealers.

         4. Payment and Delivery. Payment for the Firm Shares shall be made to
the Company in Federal or other funds immediately available in New York City
against delivery of such Firm Shares for the respective accounts of the several
Underwriters at 10:00 a.m., New York City time, on [*****], 1998, or at such
other time on the same or such other date, not later than [*****], 1998 [INSERT
DATE 5 BUSINESS DAYS AFTER THE IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING DATE], as shall be
designated in writing by you. The time and date of such payment are hereinafter
referred to as the "CLOSING DATE".

         Payment for any Additional Shares shall be made to the Company in
Federal or other funds immediately available in New York City against delivery
of such Additional Shares for the respective accounts of the several U.S.
Underwriters at 10:00 a.m., New York City time, on the date specified in the
notice described in Section 2 or at such other time on the same or on such other
date, in any event not later than [*****], 1998 [INSERT DATE 10 BUSINESS DAYS
AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF THE GREENSHOE OPTION], as shall be designated in writing
by you. The time and date of such payment are hereinafter referred to as the
"OPTION CLOSING DATE".

         Certificates for the Firm Shares and Additional Shares shall be in
definitive form and registered in such names and in such denominations as you
shall request in writing not later than one full business day prior to the
Closing Date or the Option Closing Date, as the case may be. The certificates
evidencing the Firm Shares and Additional Shares shall be delivered to you on
the Closing Date or the Option Closing Date, as the case may be, for the
respective accounts of the several Underwriters, with any transfer taxes payable
in connection with the transfer of the Shares to the Underwriters duly paid,
against payment of the Purchase Price therefor.

         5. Conditions to the Underwriters' Obligations. The obligations of the
Company to sell the Shares to the Underwriters and the several obligations of
the Underwriters to purchase and pay for the Shares on the Closing Date are
subject to the condition that the Registration Statement shall have become
effective not later than the date hereof.

         The several obligations of the Underwriters are subject to the
following further conditions:

                  (a) Subsequent to the execution and delivery of this Agreement
         and prior to the Closing Date:

                           (i) there shall not have occurred any downgrading,
                  nor shall any notice have been given of any intended or
                  potential downgrading or of any review for a possible change
                  that does not indicate the direction of the possible change,
                  in the 



                                       8
<PAGE>   10
                  rating accorded any of the Company's securities by any
                  "nationally recognized statistical rating organization," as
                  such term is defined for purposes of Rule 436(g)(2) under the
                  Securities Act; and

                           (ii) there shall not have occurred any change, or any
                  development involving a prospective change, in the condition,
                  financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business or
                  operations of the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a
                  whole, from that set forth in the Prospectus (exclusive of any
                  amendments or supplements thereto subsequent to the date of
                  this Agreement) that, in your judgment, is material and
                  adverse and that makes it, in your judgment, impracticable to
                  market the Shares on the terms and in the manner contemplated
                  in the Prospectus.

                  (b) The Underwriters shall have received on the Closing Date a
         certificate, dated the Closing Date and signed by an executive officer
         of the Company, to the effect set forth in Section 5(a)(i) above and to
         the effect that the representations and warranties of the Company
         contained in this Agreement are true and correct as of the Closing Date
         and that the Company has complied with all of the agreements and
         satisfied all of the conditions on its part to be performed or
         satisfied hereunder on or before the Closing Date.

                  The officer signing and delivering such certificate may rely
         upon the best of his or her knowledge as to proceedings threatened.

                  (c) The Underwriters shall have received on the Closing Date
         an opinion of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton, outside counsel for
         the Company, dated the Closing Date, to the effect that:

                           (i) the Company has been duly incorporated and is
                  validly existing as a corporation in good standing under the
                  laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation;

                           (ii) the Company has corporate power to own its
                  properties and conduct its business as described in the
                  Prospectus, and the Company has corporate power to issue the
                  Shares to be issued by it in the Offering, to enter into the
                  this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder;

                           (iii) the Shares have been duly authorized by all
                  necessary corporate action of the Company, have been validly
                  issued by the Company and are fully paid and nonassessable;
                  and the holders of outstanding shares of capital stock of the
                  Company are not entitled to any preemptive or similar rights
                  to subscribe for the Shares under the Certificate of
                  Incorporation or Bylaws of the Company or the laws of the
                  State of Delaware;

                           (iv) the execution and delivery of this Agreement
                  have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action of
                  the Company, and this Agreement has been duly executed and
                  delivered by the Company;



                                       9
<PAGE>   11

                           (v) the issuance and sale of the Shares to the
                  Underwriters pursuant to this Agreement, and the performance
                  by the Company of its obligations in this Agreement and the
                  Shares (A) do not require any consent, approval,
                  authorization, registration or qualification of or with any
                  governmental authority of the United States or the State of
                  New York, except such as have been obtained or effected under
                  the Securities Act and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
                  amended (the "EXCHANGE ACT") (but such counsel need express no
                  opinion as to any consent, approval, authorization,
                  registration or qualification that may be required under state
                  securities or Blue Sky laws); and (B) do not result in a
                  breach or violation of any of the terms and provisions of, or
                  constitute a default under, the Certificate of Incorporation
                  or Bylaws of the Company;

                           (vi) the statements made in the Prospectus under the
                  heading "Description of Capital Stock", insofar as such
                  statements purport to summarize certain provisions of the
                  Common Stock, the preferred stock of the Company, warrants to
                  purchase Common Stock and the Certificate of Incorporation and
                  Bylaws of the Company, provide a fair summary of such
                  provisions;

                           (vii) the statements made in the Prospectus under the
                  heading "Certain U.S. Tax Consequences to Non-U.S. Holders",
                  insofar as such statements purport to summarize certain
                  federal income tax laws of the United States, constitute a
                  fair summary of the principal U.S. federal income tax
                  consequences of an investment in the Shares;

                           (viii) the Company is not and, after giving effect to
                  the offering and sale of the Shares and the application of the
                  proceeds thereof as described in the Prospectus, will not be
                  an "investment company" as such term is defined in the
                  Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended; and

                           (ix) (A) the Registration Statement (except the
                  financial statements and schedules and other financial and
                  statistical data included therein, as to which such counsel
                  need express no view), at the time it became effective, and
                  the Prospectus (except as aforesaid), as of the date thereof,
                  appeared on their face to be appropriately responsive in all
                  material respects to the requirements of the Securities Act
                  and the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder,
                  and such counsel knows of no contracts or other documents of a
                  character required to be filed as exhibits to the Registration
                  Statement or required to be described in the Registration
                  Statement or the Prospectus that are not so filed or described
                  as required; (B) no information has come to the attention of
                  such counsel that causes it to believe that the Registration
                  Statement (except the financial statements and schedules and
                  other financial and statistical data included therein, as to
                  which such counsel need express no view), at the time it
                  became effective, contained an untrue statement of a material
                  fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated
                  therein or necessary to make the statements therein not
                  misleading; and (C) no information has come to the attention
                  of such counsel that causes it to believe that the Prospectus
                  (except the financial statements and schedules and other
                  financial and statistical data included therein, as to which
                  such counsel need 




                                       10
<PAGE>   12

                  express no view), as of the date thereof or the Closing Date,
                  contained or contains an untrue statement of a material fact
                  or omitted or omits to state a material fact necessary to make
                  the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances
                  under which they were made, not misleading.

                  (d) The Underwriters shall have received on the Closing Date
         an opinion of William R. Sawyers, Vice President, General Counsel and
         Secretary of the Company, dated the Closing Date, to the effect that:

                           (i) the Company is duly qualified to transact
                  business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which
                  the conduct of its business or its ownership or leasing of
                  property requires such qualification, except to the extent
                  that the failure to be so qualified or be in good standing
                  would not have a material adverse effect on the Company and
                  its subsidiaries, taken as a whole;

                           (ii) each subsidiary of the Company has been duly
                  incorporated, is validly existing as a corporation in good
                  standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation,
                  has corporate power to own its property and to conduct its
                  business as described in the Prospectus and is duly qualified
                  to transact business and is in good standing in each
                  jurisdiction in which the conduct of its business or its
                  ownership or leasing of property requires such qualification,
                  except to the extent that the failure to be so qualified or be
                  in good standing would not have a material adverse effect on
                  the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole;

                           (iii) the shares of Common Stock outstanding prior to
                  the issuance of the Shares have been duly authorized and are
                  validly issued and are fully paid and non-assessable;

                           (iv) all of the issued shares of capital stock of
                  each subsidiary of the Company have been duly and validly
                  authorized and issued and are fully paid and non-assessable
                  and are owned, directly or indirectly by the Company, free and
                  clear of all liens, encumbrances, equities or claims, except
                  as described in the Prospectus;

                           (v) the issuance and sale of the Shares to be issued
                  and sold by the Company to the Underwriters pursuant to this
                  Agreement, and the performance by the Company of its
                  obligations in this Agreement and the Shares (A) will not
                  contravene any provision of applicable law that is material to
                  the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole; (B) do not
                  require any consent, approval, authorization, registration or
                  qualification of or with any governmental authority that is
                  material to the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a
                  whole, except such as have been obtained or effected under the
                  Securities Act and the Exchange Act (but such counsel need
                  express no opinion as to any consent, approval, authorization,
                  registration or qualification that may be required under state
                  securities or Blue Sky laws); and (C) do not result in a
                  breach or violation of any of the terms or provisions of, or
                  constitute a default under, any agreement or other instrument
                  binding upon the Company or any of its subsidiaries that is
                  material to 



                                       11
<PAGE>   13
                  the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or any
                  judgment, decree or order of any governmental body, agency or
                  court having jurisdiction over the Company or any of its
                  subsidiaries;

                           (vi) the statements made (A) in the Prospectus under
                  the headings "Description of Certain Indebtedness" and "Shares
                  Eligible for Future Sale" and (B) in the Registration
                  Statement in Item 15, in each case insofar as such statements
                  constitute summaries of the legal matters, documents or
                  proceedings referred to therein, fairly present the
                  information called for with respect to such legal matters,
                  documents and proceedings;

                           (vii) after due inquiry, such counsel does not know
                  of any legal or governmental proceedings pending or threatened
                  to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party or
                  to which any of the properties of the Company or any of its
                  subsidiaries is subject that are required to be described in
                  the Registration Statement or the Prospectus and are not so
                  described or of any statutes, regulations, contracts or other
                  documents that are required to be described in the
                  Registration Statement or the Prospectus or to be filed as
                  exhibits to the Registration Statement that are not described
                  or filed as required; and

                           (viii) the Company and its subsidiaries (A) are in
                  compliance with any and all applicable Environmental Laws, (B)
                  have received all permits, licenses or other approvals
                  required of them under applicable Environmental Laws to
                  conduct their respective businesses and (C) are in compliance
                  with all terms and conditions of any such permit, license or
                  approval, except where such noncompliance with Environmental
                  Laws, failure to receive required permits, licenses or other
                  approvals or failure to comply with the terms and conditions
                  of such permits, licenses or approvals would not, singly or in
                  the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the Company
                  and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole.

                  (e) The Underwriters shall have received on the Closing Date
         an opinion of Brown & Wood LLP, counsel for the Underwriters, dated the
         Closing Date, covering the matters referred to in Sections 5(c)(iii),
         5(c)(iv), 5(c)(vi) and 5(c)(ix) above.

                  With respect to Section 5(c)(ix) above, Cleary, Gottlieb,
         Steen & Hamilton and Brown & Wood LLP may state that their opinion and
         belief are based upon their participation in the preparation of the
         Registration Statement and Prospectus and any amendments or supplements
         thereto and review and discussion of the contents thereof, but are
         without independent check or verification, except as specified. The
         opinions of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton and William R. Sawyers,
         Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of the Company described
         in Sections 5(c) and 5(d) above shall be rendered to the Underwriters
         at the request of the Company and shall so state therein.

                  (f) The Underwriters shall have received, on each of the date
         hereof and the Closing Date, a letter dated the date hereof or the
         Closing Date, as the case may be, in form and substance satisfactory to
         the Underwriters, from KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, independent public
         accountants, and Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, 



                                       12
<PAGE>   14
         containing statements and information of the type ordinarily included
         in accountants' "comfort letters" to underwriters with respect to the
         financial statements and certain financial information contained in the
         Registration Statement and the Prospectus; provided that the letter
         delivered on the Closing Date shall use a "cut-off date" not earlier
         than the date hereof.

                  (g) The "lock-up" agreements, each substantially in the form
         of Exhibit A hereto, between you and certain stockholders, officers and
         directors of the Company relating to sales and certain other
         dispositions of shares of Common Stock or certain other securities,
         delivered to you on or before the date hereof, shall be in full force
         and effect on the Closing Date.


         The several obligations of the Underwriters to purchase Additional
Shares hereunder are subject to the delivery to you on the Option Closing Date
of such documents as you may reasonably request with respect to the good
standing of the Company, the due authorization and issuance of the Additional
Shares and other matters related to the issuance of the Additional Shares.

         6. Covenants of the Company. In further consideration of the agreements
of the Underwriters herein contained, the Company covenants with each
Underwriter as follows:

                  (a) To furnish to you, without charge, ten signed copies of
         the Registration Statement (including exhibits thereto) and for
         delivery to each other Underwriter a conformed copy of the Registration
         Statement (without exhibits thereto) and to furnish to you in New York
         City, without charge, prior to 10:00 a.m. New York City time on the
         business day next succeeding the date of this Agreement and during the
         period mentioned in Section 6(c) below, as many copies of the
         Prospectus and any supplements and amendments thereto or to the
         Registration Statement as you may reasonably request.

                  (b) Before amending or supplementing the Registration
         Statement or the Prospectus, to furnish to you a copy of each such
         proposed amendment or supplement and not to file any such proposed
         amendment or supplement to which you reasonably object, and to file
         with the Commission within the applicable period specified in Rule
         424(b) under the Securities Act any prospectus required to be filed
         pursuant to such Rule.

                  (c) If, during such period after the first date of the public
         offering of the Shares as in the opinion of counsel for the
         Underwriters the Prospectus is required by law to be delivered in
         connection with sales by an Underwriter or dealer, any event shall
         occur or condition exist as a result of which it is necessary to amend
         or supplement the Prospectus in order to make the statements therein,
         in the light of the circumstances when the Prospectus is delivered to a
         purchaser, not misleading, or if, in the opinion of counsel for the
         Underwriters, it is necessary to amend or supplement the Prospectus to
         comply with applicable law, forthwith to prepare, file with the
         Commission and furnish to the Underwriters and to the dealers (whose
         names and addresses you will furnish to the Company) to which Shares
         may have been sold by you on behalf of the Underwriters and to any
         other dealers upon request, either amendments or supplements to the
         Prospectus so that the statements in the Prospectus as so amended or
         supplemented will not, in the light 



                                       13
<PAGE>   15

         of the circumstances when the Prospectus is delivered to a purchaser,
         be misleading or so that the Prospectus, as amended or supplemented,
         will comply with law. If, in accordance with the preceding sentence, it
         shall be necessary to amend or supplement the Prospectus at any time
         prior to the expiration of nine months after the first date of the
         public offering of the Shares, the Company shall prepare, file and
         furnish such amendment or supplement at its own expense. Thereafter,
         the Underwriters shall bear the expense of preparing, filing and
         furnishing any such amendment or supplement.

                  (d) To endeavor to qualify the Shares for offer and sale under
         the securities or Blue Sky laws of such jurisdictions as you shall
         reasonably request.

                  (e) To make generally available to the Company's security
         holders and to you as soon as practicable an earning statement covering
         the twelve-month period ending June 30, 1999 that satisfies the
         provisions of Section 11(a) of the Securities Act and the rules and
         regulations of the Commission thereunder.

                  (f) In connection with the Directed Share Program, to ensure
         that the Directed Shares will be restricted to the extent required by
         the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (the "NASD") or
         the NASD rules from sale, transfer, assignment, pledge or hypothecation
         for a period of three months following the date of the effectiveness of
         the Registration Statement. Morgan Stanley will notify the Company as
         to which Participants will need to be so restricted. The Company will
         direct the transfer agent to place stop transfer restrictions upon such
         securities for such period of time.

         7. Expenses. Whether or not the transactions contemplated in this
Agreement are consummated or this Agreement is terminated, the Company agrees to
pay or cause to be paid all expenses incident to the performance of its
obligations under this Agreement, including: (i) the fees, disbursements and
expenses of the Company's counsel and the Company's accountants in connection
with the registration and delivery of the Shares under the Securities Act and
all other fees or expenses in connection with the preparation and filing of the
Registration Statement, any preliminary prospectus, the Prospectus and
amendments and supplements to any of the foregoing, including all printing costs
associated therewith, and the mailing and delivering of copies thereof to the
Underwriters and dealers, in the quantities hereinabove specified, (ii) all
costs and expenses related to the transfer and delivery of the Shares to the
Underwriters, including any transfer or other taxes payable thereon, (iii) the
cost of printing or producing any Blue Sky or Legal Investment memorandum in
connection with the offer and sale of the Shares under state securities laws and
all expenses in connection with the qualification of the Shares for offer and
sale under state securities laws as provided in Section 6(d) hereof, including
filing fees and the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the
Underwriters in connection with such qualification and in connection with the
Blue Sky or Legal Investment memorandum, (iv) all filing fees and the reasonable
fees and disbursements of counsel to the Underwriters incurred in connection
with the review and qualification of the offering of the Shares by the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., including any fees and disbursements of
counsel incurred on behalf of or disbursements by A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc.
("A.G. EDWARDS") in its capacity as "qualified independent underwriter", (v) all
fees and expenses in connection with the preparation and filing of the
registration statement on Form 8-A relating to the Common Stock and all costs
and expenses incident to listing the Shares on the NYSE and the Pacific
Exchange,


                                       14
<PAGE>   16

(vi) the cost of printing certificates representing the Shares, (vii) the costs
and charges of any transfer agent, registrar or depositary, (viii) the costs and
expenses of the Company relating to investor presentations on any "road show"
undertaken in connection with the marketing of the offering of the Shares,
including, without limitation, expenses associated with the production of road
show slides and graphics, fees and expenses of any consultants engaged in
connection with the road show presentations with the prior approval of the
Company, travel and lodging expenses of the representatives and officers of the
Company and any such consultants, and the cost of any aircraft chartered in
connection with the road show, (ix) all fees and disbursements of counsel
incurred by the Underwriters in connection with the Directed Share Program and
stamp duties, similar taxes or duties or other taxes, if any, incurred by the
Underwriters in connection with the Directed Share Program, and (x) all other
costs and expenses incident to the performance of the obligations of the Company
hereunder for which provision is not otherwise made in this Section 7. It is
understood, however, that except as provided in this Section7, Section 8
entitled "Indemnity and Contribution", and the last paragraph of Section 10
below, the Underwriters will pay all of their costs and expenses, including fees
and disbursements of their counsel, stock transfer taxes payable on resale of
any of the Shares by them and any advertising expenses connected with any offers
they may make.

         8. Indemnity and Contribution.

                  (a) The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each
         Underwriter and each person, if any, who controls any Underwriter
         within the meaning of either Section 15 of the Securities Act or
         Section 20 of the Exchange Act, from and against any and all losses,
         claims, damages and liabilities (including, without limitation, any
         reasonable legal or other expenses reasonably incurred in connection
         with defending or investigating any such action or claim) caused by any
         untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact
         contained in the Registration Statement or any amendment thereof, any
         preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus (as amended or supplemented if
         the Company shall have furnished any amendments or supplements
         thereto), or caused by any omission or alleged omission to state
         therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to
         make the statements therein not misleading, except insofar as such
         losses, claims, damages or liabilities are caused by any such untrue
         statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission based
         upon information relating to any Underwriter furnished to the Company
         in writing by such Underwriter through you expressly for use therein.

                  (b) The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Morgan
         Stanley and each person, if any, who controls Morgan Stanley within the
         meaning of either Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the
         Exchange Act ("MORGAN STANLEY ENTITIES"), from and against any and all
         losses, claims, damages, liabilities and judgments (including, without
         limitation, any reasonable legal or other expenses reasonably incurred
         in connection with defending or investigating any such action or claim)
         (i) caused by the failure of any Participant to pay for and accept
         delivery of the shares which, immediately following the effectiveness
         of the Registration Statement, were subject to a properly confirmed
         agreement to purchase; or (ii) related to, arising out of, or in
         connection with the Directed Share Program, provided that, the Company
         shall not be responsible under this subparagraph (ii) for any losses,
         claims, damages, liabilities or judgments (or 



                                       15
<PAGE>   17

         expenses relating thereto) that are finally judicially determined to
         have resulted from the bad faith or gross negligence of Morgan Stanley
         Entities.

                  (c) The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless A.G.
         Edwards and each person, if any, who controls A.G. Edwards within the
         meaning of either Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the
         Exchange Act ("A.G. EDWARDS ENTITIES"), from and against any and all
         losses, claims, damages, liabilities and judgments (including, without
         limitation, any reasonable legal or other expenses reasonably incurred
         in connection with defending or investigating any such action or claim)
         related to, arising out of, or in connection with A.G. Edwards'
         participation as a "qualified independent underwriter" within the
         meaning of Rule 2720 of the National Association of Securities Dealers'
         Conduct Rules in connection with the offering of the Shares, provided
         that, the Company shall not be responsible under this Section 8(c) for
         any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or judgments (or expenses
         relating thereto) that are finally judicially determined to have
         resulted from the bad faith or gross negligence of A.G. Edwards
         Entities.

                  (d) Each Underwriter agrees, severally and not jointly, to
         indemnify and hold harmless the Company, the directors of the Company,
         the officers of the Company who sign the Registration Statement and
         each person, if any, who controls the Company within the meaning of
         either Section 15 of the Securities Act or Section 20 of the Exchange
         Act from and against any and all losses, claims, damages and
         liabilities (including, without limitation, any reasonable legal or
         other expenses reasonably incurred in connection with defending or
         investigating any such action or claim) caused by any untrue statement
         or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the
         Registration Statement or any amendment thereof, any preliminary
         prospectus or the Prospectus (as amended or supplemented if the Company
         shall have furnished any amendments or supplements thereto), or caused
         by any omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact
         required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements
         therein not misleading, but only with reference to information relating
         to such Underwriter furnished to the Company in writing by such
         Underwriter through you expressly for use in the Registration
         Statement, any preliminary prospectus, the Prospectus or any amendments
         or supplements thereto.

                  (e) In case any proceeding (including any governmental
         investigation) shall be instituted involving any person in respect of
         which indemnity may be sought pursuant to Section 8(a), 8(b), 8(c) or
         8(d), such person (the "INDEMNIFIED PARTY") shall promptly notify the
         person against whom such indemnity may be sought (the "INDEMNIFYING
         PARTY") in writing and the indemnifying party, upon request of the
         indemnified party, shall retain counsel reasonably satisfactory to the
         indemnified party to represent the indemnified party and any others the
         indemnifying party may designate in such proceeding and shall pay the
         fees and disbursements of such counsel related to such proceeding. In
         any such proceeding, any indemnified party shall have the right to
         retain its own counsel, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall
         be at the expense of such indemnified party unless (i) the indemnifying
         party and the indemnified party shall have mutually agreed to the
         retention of such counsel or (ii) the named parties to any such
         proceeding (including any impleaded parties) include both the
         indemnifying party and the




                                       16
<PAGE>   18
         indemnified party and representation of both parties by the same
         counsel would be inappropriate due to actual or potential differing
         interests between them. It is understood that the indemnifying party
         shall not, in respect of the legal expenses of any indemnified party in
         connection with any proceeding or related proceedings in the same
         jurisdiction, be liable for (i) the reasonable fees and expenses of
         more than one separate firm (in addition to any local counsel) for all
         Underwriters and all persons, if any, who control any Underwriter
         within the meaning of either Section 15 of the Securities Act or
         Section 20 of the Exchange Act and (ii) the reasonable fees and
         expenses of more than one separate firm (in addition to any local
         counsel) for the Company, its directors, its officers who sign the
         Registration Statement and each person, if any, who controls the
         Company within the meaning of either such Section, and that all such
         fees and expenses shall be reimbursed as they are incurred. In the case
         of any such separate firm for the Underwriters and such control persons
         of any Underwriters, such firm shall be designated in writing by Morgan
         Stanley. In the case of any such separate firm for the Company, and
         such directors, officers and control persons of the Company, such firm
         shall be designated in writing by the Company. The indemnifying party
         shall not be liable for any settlement of any proceeding effected
         without its written consent, but if settled with such consent or if
         there be a final judgment for the plaintiff, the indemnifying party
         agrees to indemnify the indemnified party from and against any loss or
         liability by reason of such settlement or judgment. Notwithstanding the
         foregoing sentence, if at any time an indemnified party shall have
         requested an indemnifying party to reimburse the indemnified party for
         fees and expenses of counsel as contemplated by the second and third
         sentences of this paragraph, the indemnifying party agrees that it
         shall be liable for any settlement of any proceeding effected without
         its written consent if (i) such settlement is entered into more than 90
         days after receipt by such indemnifying party of the aforesaid request
         and (ii) such indemnifying party shall not have reimbursed the
         indemnified party in accordance with such request prior to the date of
         such settlement. No indemnifying party shall, without the prior written
         consent of the indemnified party, effect any settlement of any pending
         or threatened proceeding in respect of which any indemnified party is
         or could have been a party and indemnity could have been sought
         hereunder by such indemnified party, unless such settlement includes an
         unconditional release of such indemnified party from all liability on
         claims that are the subject matter of such proceeding. Notwithstanding
         anything contained herein to the contrary, if indemnity may be sought
         pursuant to Section 8 (b) hereof in respect of such action or
         proceeding, then in addition to such separate firm for the indemnified
         parties, the indemnifying party shall be liable for the reasonable fees
         and expenses of not more than one separate firm (in addition to any
         local counsel) for Morgan Stanley and the Morgan Stanley Entities for
         the defense of any losses, claims, damages and liabilities arising out
         of the Directed Share Program, if the representation of Morgan Stanley
         or the Morgan Stanley Entities by such separate firm for the
         indemnified parties with respect to such defense relating to the
         Directed Share Program would be inappropriate due to actual or
         potential differing interests between Morgan Stanley or the Morgan
         Stanley Entities on the one hand and the other indemnified parties on
         the other hand. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the
         contrary, if indemnity may be sought pursuant to Section 8(c) hereof in
         respect of such action or proceeding, then in addition to such separate
         firm for the indemnified parties, the indemnifying party shall be
         liable for the reasonable fees 



                                       17
<PAGE>   19

         and expenses of not more than one separate firm (in addition to any
         local counsel) for A.G. Edwards and the A.G. Edwards Entities in their
         capacity as a "qualified independent underwriter."

                  (f) To the extent the indemnification provided for in Section
         8(a), 8(b), 8(c) or 8(d) is unavailable to an indemnified party or
         insufficient in respect of any losses, claims, damages or liabilities
         referred to therein, then each indemnifying party under such paragraph,
         in lieu of indemnifying such indemnified party thereunder, shall
         contribute to the amount paid or payable by such indemnified party as a
         result of such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (i) in such
         proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received
         by the indemnifying party or parties on the one hand and the
         indemnified party or parties on the other hand from the offering of the
         Shares or (ii) if the allocation provided by clause 8(f)(i) above is
         not permitted by applicable law, in such proportion as is appropriate
         to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to in clause 8(f)(i)
         above but also the relative fault of the indemnifying party or parties
         on the one hand and of the indemnified party or parties on the other
         hand in connection with the statements or omissions that resulted in
         such losses, claims, damages or liabilities, as well as any other
         relevant equitable considerations. The relative benefits received by
         the Company on the one hand and the Underwriters on the other hand in
         connection with the offering of the Shares shall be deemed to be in the
         same respective proportions as the net proceeds from the offering of
         the Shares (before deducting expenses) received by the Company and the
         total underwriting discounts and commissions received by the
         Underwriters, in each case as set forth in the table on the cover of
         the Prospectus, bear to the aggregate Public Offering Price of the
         Shares. The relative fault of the Company on the one hand and the
         Underwriters on the other hand shall be determined by reference to,
         among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue statement of a
         material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a material
         fact relates to information supplied by the Company or by the
         Underwriters and the parties' relative intent, knowledge, access to
         information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or
         omission. The Underwriters' respective obligations to contribute
         pursuant to this Section 9 are several in proportion to the respective
         number of Shares they have purchased hereunder, and not joint.

                  (g) The Company and the Underwriters agree that it would not
         be just or equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 8 were
         determined by pro rata allocation (even if the Underwriters were
         treated as one entity for such purpose) or by any other method of
         allocation that does not take account of the equitable considerations
         referred to in Section 8(f). The amount paid or payable by an
         indemnified party as a result of the losses, claims, damages and
         liabilities referred to in the immediately preceding paragraph shall be
         deemed to include, subject to the limitations set forth above, any
         legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such indemnified party
         in connection with investigating or defending any such action or claim.
         Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 8, no Underwriter shall
         be required to contribute any amount in excess of the amount by which
         the total price at which the Shares underwritten by it and distributed
         to the public were offered to the public exceeds the amount of any
         damages that such Underwriter has otherwise been required to pay by
         reason of such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or
         alleged omission. No person guilty of fraudulent 



                                       18
<PAGE>   20

         misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the
         Securities Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who
         was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation. The remedies
         provided for in this Section 8 are not exclusive and shall not limit
         any rights or remedies which may otherwise be available to any
         indemnified party at law or in equity.

                  (h) The indemnity and contribution provisions contained in
         this Section 8 and the representations, warranties and other statements
         of the Company contained in this Agreement shall remain operative and
         in full force and effect regardless of (i) any termination of this
         Agreement, (ii) any investigation made by or on behalf of any
         Underwriter or any person controlling any Underwriter or the Company,
         its officers or directors or any person controlling the Company and
         (iii) acceptance of and payment for any of the Shares.

         9. Termination. This Agreement shall be subject to termination by
notice given by you to the Company, if (a) after the execution and delivery of
this Agreement and prior to the Closing Date (i) trading generally shall have
been suspended or materially limited on or by, as the case may be, any of the
New York Stock Exchange, the American Stock Exchange, the National Association
of Securities Dealers, Inc., the Chicago Board of Options Exchange, the Chicago
Mercantile Exchange or the Chicago Board of Trade, (ii) trading of any
securities of the Company shall have been suspended on any exchange or in any
over-the-counter market, (iii) a general moratorium on commercial banking
activities in New York shall have been declared by either Federal or New York
State authorities or (iv) there shall have occurred any outbreak or escalation
of hostilities or any change in financial markets or any calamity or crisis
that, in your judgment, is material and adverse and (b) in the case of any of
the events specified in clauses 9(a)(i) through 9(a)(iv), such event, singly or
together with any other such event, makes it, in your judgment, impracticable to
market the Shares on the terms and in the manner contemplated in the Prospectus.

         10. Effectiveness; Defaulting Underwriters. This Agreement shall become
effective upon the execution and delivery hereof by the parties hereto.

         If, on the Closing Date or the Option Closing Date, as the case may be,
any one or more of the Underwriters shall fail or refuse to purchase Shares that
it has or they have agreed to purchase hereunder on such date, and the aggregate
number of Shares which such defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters agreed but
failed or refused to purchase is not more than one-tenth of the aggregate number
of the Shares to be purchased on such date, the other Underwriters shall be
obligated severally in the proportions that the number of Firm Shares set forth
opposite their respective names in Schedule I or Schedule II bears to the
aggregate number of Firm Shares set forth opposite the names of all such
non-defaulting Underwriters, or in such other proportions as you may specify, to
purchase the Shares which such defaulting Underwriter or Underwriters agreed but
failed or refused to purchase on such date; provided that in no event shall the
number of Shares that any Underwriter has agreed to purchase pursuant to this
Agreement be increased pursuant to this Section 10 by an amount in excess of
one-ninth of such number of Shares without the written consent of such
Underwriter. If, on the Closing Date, any Underwriter or Underwriters shall fail
or refuse to purchase Firm Shares and the aggregate number of Firm Shares with
respect to which such default occurs is more than one-tenth of the aggregate
number 



                                       19
<PAGE>   21
of Firm Shares to be purchased, and arrangements satisfactory to you and
the Company for the purchase of such Firm Shares are not made within 36 hours
after such default, this Agreement shall terminate without liability on the part
of any non-defaulting Underwriter or the Company. In any such case either you or
the Company shall have the right to postpone the Closing Date, but in no event
for longer than seven days, in order that the required changes, if any, in the
Registration Statement and in the Prospectus or in any other documents or
arrangements may be effected. If, on the Option Closing Date, any Underwriter or
Underwriters shall fail or refuse to purchase Additional Shares and the
aggregate number of Additional Shares with respect to which such default occurs
is more than one-tenth of the aggregate number of Additional Shares to be
purchased, the non-defaulting Underwriters shall have the option to (i)
terminate their obligation hereunder to purchase Additional Shares or (ii)
purchase not less than the number of Additional Shares that such non-defaulting
Underwriters would have been obligated to purchase in the absence of such
default. Any action taken under this paragraph shall not relieve any defaulting
Underwriter from liability in respect of any default of such Underwriter under
this Agreement.

         If this Agreement shall be terminated by the Underwriters, or any of
them, because of any failure or refusal on the part of the Company to comply
with the terms or to fulfill any of the conditions of this Agreement, or if for
any reason the Company shall be unable to perform its obligations under this
Agreement, the Company will reimburse the Underwriters or such Underwriters as
have so terminated this Agreement with respect to themselves, severally, for all
out-of-pocket expenses (including the reasonable fees and disbursements of their
counsel) reasonably incurred by such Underwriters in connection with this
Agreement or the offering contemplated hereunder.

         11. Counterparts. This Agreement may be signed in two or more
counterparts, each of which shall be an original, with the same effect as if the
signatures thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument.

         12. Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed
in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York. 

         13. Headings. The headings of the sections of this Agreement have been
inserted for convenience of reference only and shall not be deemed a part of
this Agreement.



                                       20
<PAGE>   22
                                       Very truly yours,

                                       DEL MONTE FOODS COMPANY




                                       By:______________________________________
                                          Name:
                                          Title:


Accepted as of the date hereof

Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens
Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.
BT Alex. Brown Incorporated
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation

Acting severally on behalf of themselves 
  and the several U.S. Underwriters named
  in Schedule I hereto.



By:  Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated



By:___________________________________
Name:
Title:



                                       21
<PAGE>   23
Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens
Bear, Stearns International Limited
BT Alex. Brown International, a division of Bankers Trust International PLC
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities International



Acting severally on behalf of themselves and
      the several International Underwriters
      named in Schedule II hereto

By:    Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited



By:__________________________________________
   Name:
   Title:



                                       22
<PAGE>   24
                                                                      SCHEDULE I


                                U.S. UNDERWRITERS


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         UNDERWRITER                             NUMBER OF FIRM
                                                                                  SHARES TO BE
                                                                                    PURCHASED
<S>                                                                              <C>
Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated............................................
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens...............................................
Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc......................................................
BT Alex. Brown Incorporated..................................................
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation..........................
[NAMES OF OTHER U.S. UNDERWRITERS]...........................................
                                                                                -------------------
         Total U.S. Firm Shares..............................................
                                                                                ===================
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   25
                                                                     SCHEDULE II


                           INTERNATIONAL UNDERWRITERS



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      UNDERWRITER                                        NUMBER OF FIRM SHARES
                                                                                            TO BE PURCHASED
<S>                                                                                      <C>
Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited..........................................
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens......................................................
Bear, Stearns International Limited.................................................
BT Alex. Brown International, a division of Bankers Trust International PLC.........
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities International...............................
[NAMES OF OTHER INTERNATIONAL UNDERWRITERS].........................................
                                                                                        ------------------------
    Total International Firm Shares.................................................
                                                                                        ========================
</TABLE>
<PAGE>   26
                                                                       EXHIBIT A


                            [FORM OF LOCK-UP LETTER]

                                                                   [*****], 1998


Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens
Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc.
BT Alex. Brown Incorporated
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation
c/o   Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
      1585 Broadway
      New York, New York  10036

Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited
BancAmerica Robertson Stephens
Bear, Stearns International Limited
         BT Alex. Brown International, a division of Bankers Trust 
         International PLC

Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette International
c/o   Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
      1585 Broadway
      New York, New York  10036

Dear Sirs and Mesdames:

         The undersigned understands that Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
("MORGAN STANLEY") and Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited ("MSIL")
propose to enter into an Underwriting Agreement (the "UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT")
with Del Monte Foods Company, a Delaware corporation (the "COMPANY") providing
for the public offering (the "PUBLIC OFFERING") by the several Underwriters,
including Morgan Stanley and MSIL (the "UNDERWRITERS") of [*****] shares (the
"SHARES") of the common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company (the
"COMMON STOCK").

         To induce the Underwriters that may participate in the Public Offering
to continue their efforts in connection with the Public Offering, the
undersigned hereby agrees that, without the prior written consent of Morgan
Stanley on behalf of the Underwriters, it will not, during the period commencing
on the date hereof and ending 180 days after the date of the final U.S. and
International prospectuses relating to the Public Offering (the "Prospectuses"),
(1) offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to
purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or
warrant to purchase, lend, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or
indirectly, any shares of Common Stock or any securities convertible into or
exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock or (2) enter into any swap or other
arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic
consequences of ownership of Common Stock, whether any such transaction
described in clause (1) or (2) above is to be settled by delivery of Common
Stock or such other securities, in cash or otherwise. The foregoing sentence
shall not apply to (a) the sale of any Shares to the Underwriters pursuant to
the 


                                      A-1
<PAGE>   27
Underwriting Agreement, (b) the issuance by the Company of the shares of
Common Stock upon the exercise of an option or warrant or the conversion of a
security outstanding on the date of the Prospectuses and which option, warrant
or conversion feature is described in the Prospectuses, (c) if applicable, the
sale of any shares of Common Stock to the Company or the purchase of any shares
of Common Stock by the Company in accordance with the undersigned's
Stockholders' Agreement pursuant to the Company's employee benefit plans or (d)
transactions relating to shares of Common Stock or other securities acquired in
open market transactions after the completion of the Public Offering. In
addition, the undersigned agrees that, without the prior written consent of
Morgan Stanley on behalf of the Underwriters, it will not, during the period
commencing on the date hereof and ending 180 days after the date of the
Prospectuses, make any demand for, or exercise any right with respect to, the
registration of any shares of Common Stock or any security convertible into or
exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock which would cause the Company to
file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission prior
to the expiration of such 180 day period.

         Whether or not the Public Offering actually occurs depends on a number
of factors, including market conditions. Any Public Offering will only be made
pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement, the terms of which are subject to
negotiation between the Company, the Selling Stockholders and the Underwriters.

                                       Very truly yours,



                                       _________________________________________
                                       (Name)



                                       _________________________________________
                                       (Address)



                                      A-2

<PAGE>   1

                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1
                                                                  Conformed Copy


                         Consent of Independent Auditors


        We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and
to the use of our report dated August 29, 1996 (except for Note N, as to which
the date is June 29, 1998, and Note M, as to which the date is July 22, 1998), 
in Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement (Form S-1 No. 333-48235) and
related Prospectus of Del Monte Foods Company for the registration of up to
16,911,900 shares of its common stock.


                                                /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

San Francisco, California
July 27, 1998



<PAGE>   1
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.2
                                                                  Conformed Copy


                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


The Board of Directors
Del Monte Foods Company:

We consent to the use of our reports dated August 22, 1997 (except for Note N,
as to which the date is June 29, 1998, and Note M, as to which the date is July
22, 1998) and May 1, 1998 (except for Note O, as to which the date is June 29,
1998, and the third paragraph of Note M, as to which the date is July 22, 1998)
with respect to Del Monte Foods Company included herein and to the reference to
our firm under the headings "Selected Consolidated Financial Data" and
"Experts" in the Registration Statement (Form S-1) and related Prospectus of Del
Monte Foods Company.



/s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP


San Francisco, California
July 27, 1998

<PAGE>   1

                                                                    Exhibit 23.3
                                                                  Conformed Copy

                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

The Board of Directors
Del Monte Foods Company

     We consent to the inclusion in the registration statement on Form S-1 of
Del Monte Foods Company of our report dated March 16, 1998, with respect to the
combined balance sheets of Contadina (a division of Nestle USA, Inc.) as of
December 18, 1997 and December 31, 1996, and the related statements of
operations, divisional equity, and cash flows for the period January 1, 1997 to
December 18, 1997 and for the year ended December 31, 1996, and to the
reference to our firm under the heading "Experts" in the prospectus.


/s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP


Los Angeles, California
July 27, 1998

 


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