McCormick & Co. reported a stronger fiscal second quarter, with sales edging higher and operating income rising to $246 million from $234 million a year earlier. Adjusted operating income reached $259 million, up from $236 million, and earnings per share came in at $0.65, topping analyst expectations. The Hunt Valley, Maryland-based spice and seasoning maker reiterated its full-year outlook, saying it remains well positioned to offset higher input costs through pricing and cost-savings initiatives. Investors welcomed the results, sending McCormick shares up roughly 5% in pre-market trading.