Dean Foods rides sales momentum into '06

Dean Foods Co's net income from continuing operations for the 2005 fourth quarter totaled $70.7 million, compared with $85.2 million in the prior year fourth quarter.

Net sales for the fourth quarter totaled $2.7 billion, an increase of 4% over the fourth quarter of 2004, due to strong sales growth at the Dairy Group and WhiteWave Foods.

Consolidated operating income from continuing operations in the fourth quarter totaled $160.0 million versus $177.4 million in fourth quarter 2004.

“In light of the challenges caused by two major hurricanes and the resulting dislocation of energy and packaging costs, the Dairy Group and WhiteWave businesses both turned in solid performances in the fourth quarter, and we are entering 2006 with positive momentum,” said Gregg Engles, chairman and chief executive officer.