May 4, 2006 8:57 AM, from staff and wire reports

Dean Foods Co reported net income of $52.8 million from continuing operations for the first quarter of 2006, compared with $51.1 million in the prior-year first quarter.

“Both the Dairy Group and WhiteWave Foods performed well in the first quarter,” said Gregg Engles, chairman and chief executive officer. “Our Dairy Group again outpaced the industry, growing fluid milk volumes by 3.4%. Sales of our key brands at WhiteWave Foods continue to grow at a robust pace.”

Net sales for the first quarter totaled $2.6 billion, an increase of 1% over the first quarter of 2005. Consolidated operating income from continuing operations in the first quarter totaled $137.0 million versus $125.9 million in first quarter 2005.

Long-term debt as of March 31, 2006, was about $3.5 billion.