Sanderson Farms, Inc. Donates $25,000 to USO

LAUREL, Miss., Jan 9, 2002 -- Sanderson Farms, Inc. (Nasdaq/NM:SAFM) today announced that it has made a contribution of $25,000 to the general operating fund of the United Service Organizations, or "USO." The Company made this donation during the past holiday season on behalf of its many valued customers and vendors in lieu of a traditional holiday gift.

The USO, chartered by Congress, is a non-profit charitable corporation whose mission is to provide morale, welfare and recreation-type services to uniformed military personnel. For over 60 years, the USO has supported the United States Armed Forces with a broad spectrum of programs including crisis support, family programs and overseas entertainment tours. The demand for USO services has steadily increased since September 11, particularly in the remote and hostile locations where the nation's military has been deployed.

"We at Sanderson Farms recognize that much of the prosperity we have enjoyed over the years is because we are able to operate in and enjoy the freedom of our great nation," said Joe F. Sanderson, Jr., president and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms, Inc. "We are proud to support the tremendous work of the USO and their efforts to assist our armed forces as they and we confront a crisis unlike any this nation has faced before. We hope that our contribution will benefit the men and women who have been deployed around the world to protect our freedom, as well as the many families and individuals who stand behind them."

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 National Market under the symbol SAFM.