EXHIBIT 23


     CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


          We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration
     Statement (Form S-8, No. 33-57065) pertaining to the United Industrial
     Corporation 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan, and in the Registration
     Statement (Form S-8, No. 33-53911) pertaining to the United Industrial
     Corporation 1994 Stock Option Plan, of our report dated February 21,
     1996, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and
     schedules included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
     December 31, 1995.


                                        ERNST & YOUNG LLP

     New York, New York
     March 27, 1996