EXHIBIT 23


CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Annual Report (Form 10-K)
of United Industrial Corporation and in the Registration Statement (Form S-8,
No. 33-57065) pertaining to the United Industrial Corporation 401(k) Retirement
Savings Plan, in the Registration Statements (Form S-8, Nos. 33-53911,
333-19517, 333-59487 and 333-85819) pertaining to the United Industrial
Corporation 1994 Stock Option Plan, and in the Registration Statement (Form S-8,
No. 333-30103) pertaining to the United Industrial Corporation 1996 Stock Option
Plan for Nonemployee Directors, of our report dated February 28, 2001, with
respect to the consolidated financial statements of United Industrial
Corporation included in the Annual Report to Shareholders of United Industrial
Corporation for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2000, and with respect to the
financial statement schedule included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K).


                                        /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP


New York, New York
March 28, 2001