The provided text is an excerpt from a Wikipedia article focusing on Darden Restaurants, Inc., an American multi-brand restaurant operator. The information covers the history of the company, beginning with William Darden's founding of Red Lobster and its sale to General Mills, which later spun off the restaurant division as Darden Restaurants. Significant detail is provided on Darden's growth, acquisitions, and divestitures, including the sale of Red Lobster and the integration of chains like Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and, most recently, Ruth's Chris Steak House and Chuy's. Additionally, the source summarizes the company’s animal welfare policies, covering commitments to cage-free eggs and reduced antibiotic use, while also listing its current restaurant units and key financial data as of 2024.