Cal-Maine vs. Tyson: Which Protein Stock Packs a Stronger Punch Now?

Core Insights - Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (CALM) and Tyson Foods (TSN) are leading U.S. producers in protein-based food products, with CALM focusing on eggs and TSN on meat [1] - Both companies operate in the essential food sector, benefiting from commodity price fluctuations and consumer staple demand [1] Company Overview - Cal-Maine, based in Ridgeland, MS, has a market capitalization of $4.6 billion and is the largest producer and distributor of fresh shell eggs in the U.S. [2] - Tyson, located in Springdale, AR, has a market capitalization of $19.4 billion and operates in four segments: Beef, Pork, Chicken, and Prepared Foods [3] Financial Performance - In Q3 fiscal 2025, CALM reported earnings per share (EPS) of $10.38, up from $3.00 in the same quarter last year, with revenues increasing 102% year-over-year to $1.42 billion [5] - Tyson's Q2 fiscal 2025 revenues were $13 billion, with EPS of $0.92, reflecting a 48% increase due to cost relief and efficiency gains in the Chicken segment [10][11] Market Trends - The demand for eggs remains strong as they are considered a cost-effective source of high-quality protein, with increasing consumer preference for cage-free and pasture-raised options [7] - Tyson is experiencing strong consumer demand for protein, particularly in its Chicken segment, which has shown improved efficiencies and rising volumes [15] Strategic Initiatives - Cal-Maine is investing in organic and bolt-on growth, focusing on cage-free and prepared egg products, with plans to complete $60 million in capital projects to increase production capacity [8][9] - Tyson is modernizing and expanding capacity while enhancing its brands, focusing on operational excellence and waste reduction, particularly in Prepared Foods [15] Valuation and Investment Outlook - Cal-Maine is trading at a forward earnings multiple of 17.79X, while Tyson is at 13.23X, indicating Tyson may offer a more attractive valuation [19] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Cal-Maine's fiscal 2025 earnings is $22.73 per share, a 299.5% increase year-over-year, while Tyson's estimate is $3.90 per share, a 25.81% rise [16][17] - In the past year, Cal-Maine's stock has gained 67%, contrasting with Tyson's 3.5% decline [18]