CHICAGO — The Sara Lee Corp. has entered into an agreement to acquire the Aidells Sausage Co. for $87 million in cash. Based in San Leandro, Calif., Aidells manufactures a variety of gourmet sausages, including dinner, breakfast, fresh and organic varieties.

Sara Lee said the transaction is expected to close in the next few months and will expand the company’s presence into the organic and natural meat segments of the market.


Started 25 years ago, Aidells Sausage Co. is known for the unique flavor profiles of its products. Dinner sausage flavors, for example, include habenero and green chile, mango, pineapple and bacon, portabello mushroom, spinach and feta, and chicken and apple.