10 Consumer Defensive Stocks to Buy Now

5.  Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN)

Upside Potential: 15.72%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 25

Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN) is one of 10 consumer defensive stocks to buy now. Goldman Sachs has initiated coverage of Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN), assigning a Buy rating and setting a $67 price target. The firm’s analysts highlighted Tyson’s diverse business segments—beef, chicken, and prepared foods—as a key advantage for reducing earnings volatility over time.

With beef profitability currently at a cyclical low, Goldman views the present share price as a promising point for “patient investors” to enter. The analysts noted that the underlying weakness in beef markets appears to be largely reflected in the stock, allowing for potential returns as meat prices stabilize. In the near term, strength in Tyson’s chicken and prepared foods divisions is seen as a primary growth driver. These segments continue to benefit from steady consumer demand and operational efficiencies, bolstering confidence in Tyson’s performance outlook.

Goldman also emphasized Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN)’s resilience in managing supply and demand fluctuations. The firm’s diversified model is expected to smooth margins and earnings across commodity cycles and consumer patterns. This flexibility gives Tyson an edge compared to peers focused predominantly on a single meat category. The report suggests that Tyson’s current valuation already accounts for challenges in the beef market, providing a foundation for appreciation if conditions improve.