AMERICA'S TOP PRIVATE COMPANIES-THE TOP 20

The largest agricultural company in the U.S., public or private, cargill produces and transports food and ingredients on a biblical scale. Rising food prices have created a public relations headache over the past year. The company blames adverse global weather conditions and demand for biofuels, and back in August CEO Greg Page also pointed a finger at government hoarding. To help those finding it increasingly expensive to eat, Cargill has contributed $55 million over the last five years to charitable organizations, such as Feeding America, that combat hunger and improve nutrition.