Sanderson Farms, Inc. Announces Increase in Quarterly Dividend

Sanderson Farms, Inc. (NASDAQ:SAFM) today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 (fifteen cents) per share payable October 20, 2009, to stockholders of record on October 6, 2009. This represents a new annual dividend rate of $0.60 (sixty cents) per share.

“The Board's decision to increase our regular quarterly dividend reflects Sanderson Farms’ improved operating results as well as the Company's solid financial position,” commented Joe F. Sanderson, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms. “Our consistent record of growth and solid execution of our operating strategy have placed us in this position and we are pleased to have the opportunity to reward our shareholders.”

Sanderson Farms, Inc. is engaged in the production, processing, marketing and distribution of fresh and frozen chicken and other prepared food items. Its shares trade on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol SAFM.