Del Monte Foods Company (NYSE: DLM) today announced that Thomas E. Gibbons, Senior Vice President and Treasurer, will be departing the Company on August 1, 2006 after 37 years of service.

The Company also announced that Jeff Berry, currently responsible for Strategic and Business Planning, is appointed Vice President and Treasurer. Effective August 1, Berry will assume additional responsibility for financing and banking relationships, corporate communications and mergers and acquisitions. Also, on August 1, Larry Bodner, currently Vice President, Financial Planning and Analysis is appointed Vice President, Finance and Investor Relations. In addition to financial planning and analysis, Bodner will assume additional responsibility for Investor Relations.

"During Tom's 37 year career, Del Monte has seen many changes," said Richard G. Wolford, Chairman and CEO of Del Monte Foods. "Over that period, the Company has been fortunate to have consistently benefited from Tom's contribution, leadership and sound judgment. Even more importantly, in addition to these contributions to the Company's success, Tom's dedication and quality as an individual have made Del Monte a better place for all of us."

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 tax and financial organizations of Del Monte Foods, Nabisco Brands and RJR Nabisco.

About Del Monte Foods

Del Monte Foods is one of the country's largest and most well known producers, distributors and marketers of premium quality, branded food and pet products for the U.S. retail market, generating approximately $3 billion in net sales in fiscal 2006. With a powerful portfolio of brands including Del Monte(R), Contadina(R), StarKist(R), S&W(R), College Inn(R), 9Lives(R), Kibbles 'n Bits(R), Meow Mix(R), Pup-Peroni(R), Snausages(R), Pounce(R) and Meaty Bone(R), Del Monte products are found in nine out of ten American households. The Company also produces, distributes and markets private label food and pet products. For more information on Del Monte Foods Company (NYSE:DLM), visit the Company's website at www.delmonte.com.