Hormel Foods has agreed to divest its whole-bird turkey business to Life-Science Innovations in a move that further narrows its focus on value-added protein categories.
The transaction is expected to complete by the end of Hormel’s second quarter of fiscal 2026, subject to standard closing conditions. Financial terms have not been disclosed.
The sale reflects Hormel’s ongoing portfolio reshaping, which prioritises higher-margin, branded and value-added products while stepping back from more commodity-exposed operations. The company has been steadily reducing its reliance on segments where pricing volatility is driven by input costs and market cycles rather than brand strength or product differentiation.
As part of the agreement, Life-Science Innovations will acquire the Melrose whole-bird turkey production facility and the Swanville feed mill in Minnesota, along with related transportation assets. The deal also includes the transfer of supply agreements with third-party turkey growers dedicated to the whole-bird operation.
Life-Science Innovations will provide co-manufacturing services to Hormel through the end of fiscal 2026. This arrangement is intended to maintain continuity of supply and fulfilment for customers during the transition period.
Hormel will retain its broader turkey portfolio, including the full range of Jennie-O branded products. Ownership of the Jennie-O brand is not included in the sale.
The company expects the divestment to have a minimal effect on its adjusted financial results for fiscal 2026. Further detail on the transaction’s impact is expected to be shared during Hormel’s first-quarter earnings call on 26 February 2026.