Tyson Foods dismisses JBS expansion threat

JBS has acquired majority stakes in Pilgrim's Pride and Bertin, but Tyson Foods has dismissed claims that this may threaten its foothold in the US meat market.

JBS claimed that it will become the world's largest multi-protein company, surpassing Tyson Foods Inc., once the deals are approved.

JBS Chief Executive Joesley Mendonca Batista also said the company has projected combined revenues of US$28.7 billion, beating Tyson's US$28.1 billion registered in 2008.

But Tyson Foods remain unfazed by the news.

Tyson spokesman Gary Mickelson said while the deals may change which company is the largest protein business, it will not determine which company is the best.

Mickelson added that Tyson remains focused on its own business strategies, which will enable the company to continue providing the best protein products and services both in the US and worldwide.