AUSTIN, MINN. — Hormel Foods Corp. has agreed to acquire the Country Crock chilled side dish line from Unilever United States, Inc., Englewood Cliffs, N.J. The transaction is expected to be finalized during February 2010. Terms were not disclosed.

The Country Crock side dish line consists of pasta- and potato-based products. The line was originally introduced in 2004 and generated approximately $50 million in sales, according to Unilever.

“The acquisition of Country Crock microwavable, refrigerated side dishes represents a significant opportunity for Hormel Foods to advance its participation in the growing segments of convenient meals and side dishes,” said Jeffrey M. Ettinger, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer at Hormel Foods. “The line nicely complements our existing protein-based refrigerated products and aligns with our goal of elevating the everyday experience by making Hormel Foods the favorite part of any eating occasion.”