ABJ - January 18 - Kraft Foods Inc. reported that strong fourth quarter sales will lead to strong fiscal 2011 results, consistent with the company's previous outlook.

"We finished 2011 with strong business momentum in each of our geographies," said Irene Rosenfeld, Chairman and CEO, Kraft Foods. "Our virtuous cycle of investment continues to pay off around the world, despite a difficult operating environment. We expect our 2011 results will place us solidly among the top-tier of our peer group, and we remain on track to launch two industry-leading companies in 2012."

Net revenue for full year 2011 is expected to have grown 10 per cent. Organic Net Revenue is expected to increase 6.5 per cent, compared to a previous outlook of at least six per cent, driven by mid-single-digit organic growth in North America and Europe, and double-digit organic growth in Developing Markets.

Diluted earnings per share are expected to be at least $1.95. Operating EPS, which excludes acquisition-related costs, Integration Program costs, and costs related to the spin-off of the North American Grocery business, is expected to be at least $2.28, including a negative one-cent impact from currency in the fourth quarter. The previous outlook for Operating EPS was at least $2.27 excluding any potential impact from currency in the fourth quarter.