Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Pension Benefits Pension Plan [Member] Other Benefits Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Domestic Plans United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Number of defined benefit, other post-retirement plans, and defined contribution other post-retirement plans (postretirement plan) Number of Defined Benefit Other Post-retirement Plans and Defined Contribution Other Post-retirement Plans Number of Defined Benefit Other Post-retirement Plans and Defined Contribution Other Post-retirement Plans Defined benefit plan, accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined benefit plan, ultimate health care cost trend rate, pre sixty five Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate, Pre Sixty Five Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate, Pre Sixty Five Defined benefit plan, ultimate health care cost trend rate Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined benefit plan, ultimate health care cost trend rate, post sixty five Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate, Post Sixty Five Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate, Post Sixty Five Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Defined benefit plans, minimum future employer contributions in next fiscal year Defined Benefit Plans, Minimum Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plans, Minimum Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Expected period from date of approved amendment to complete termination Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Period to Terminate Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Period to Terminate Plan Net pension liability Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities Defined contribution pan, cost recognized Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Current: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current provision for income taxes Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax provision Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Computer Software Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Capitalized software, net Capitalized Computer Software, Net Property, plant and equipment, useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Capitalized computer software, accumulated amortization Capitalized Computer Software, Accumulated Amortization Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of the Changes in the Carrying Value of Goodwill by Reportable Segment Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Gross Carrying Amount and Accumulated Amortization for Each Major Class of Intangible Asset Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Summary of Amortization Expense, for the Next Five Years Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Shanghai Golden Monkey Food Joint Stock Co., Ltd. Shanghai Golden Monkey Food Joint Stock Co., Ltd. [Member] Shanghai Golden Monkey Food Joint Stock Co., Ltd. [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Accrued Liabilities Accrued Liabilities [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business acquisition, percentage of voting interests acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Revenue of acquiree since acquisition date Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Payments to acquire businesses Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Contingent consideration, asset Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Asset, Current Additional voting interest purchase period Business Acquisition, Additional Voting Interest Purchase, Period Business Acquisition, Additional Voting Interest Purchase, Period Fair value of future payments to purchase a business Accrued Liabilities, Current, Payments To Acquire Businesses Accrued Liabilities, Current, Payments To Acquire Businesses Goodwill, purchase price allocation adjustments Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Gain on settlement of SGM liability (see Note 2) Business Combination, Bargain Purchase, Gain Recognized, Amount Ripple Brand Collective, LLC [Member] Ripple Brand Collective, LLC [Member] Ripple Brand Collective, LLC [Member] KRAVE Pure Foods, Inc. KRAVE Pure Foods, Inc. [Member] KRAVE Pure Foods, Inc. [Member] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Business Acquisition and Divestitures [Line Items] Summary of Purchase Consideration Allocation to Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Percentage of LIFO inventory Percentage of LIFO Inventory LIFO inventory amount LIFO Inventory Amount Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Stock Compensation Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Revenue Recognition [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Sales Revenue, Goods, Net [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Customer Concentration Risk Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] McLane Company, Inc. McLane Company, Inc. [Member] McLane Company, Inc. [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Pension and Other Post-Retirement Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Stock Compensation Costs Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block] Summary of Activity Relating to the Grants of Stock Options Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Fair Value Estimated on the Grant Date and the Weighted Average Assumptions Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Summary of Outstanding Stock Options Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Summary of Activity Relating to Grants of PSUs and RSUs Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Schedule of Information Pertaining to Fair Value of PSUs and RSUs Granted for Potential Future Distribution Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common stock Hershey Common Stock [Member] Hershey Common Stock [Member] Class B common stock Common Class B [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable—trade, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Other intangibles Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued income taxes Accrued Income Taxes, Current Short-term debt Short-term Debt Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Stockholders’ equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock, shares issued: none in 2016 and 2015 Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury—common stock shares, at cost: 147,642,009 in 2016 and 143,124,384 in 2015 Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total—The Hershey Company stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Accounts receivable - trade Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Inventories Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Other non-current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Assets Current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities Short-term debt assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt Other non-current liabilities assumed, principally deferred taxes Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Adjustments Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustments [Abstract] Accounts receivable - trade Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Accounts Receivable Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Accounts Receivable Inventories Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Inventory Other current assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Current Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Current Assets Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchase price allocation adjustments Other intangible assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Other non-current assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Non-current Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Non-current Assets Current liabilities assumed Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Liabilities Assumed, Current Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Liabilities Assumed, Current Short-term debt assumed Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities Other non-current liabilities assumed, principally deferred taxes Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Liabilities, Non-current Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Liabilities, Non-current Goodwill impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Amortization of net actuarial loss (gain) Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss) Amortization of prior service (credit) cost Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments, pre-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments, after-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Pension and post-retirement benefit plans: Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost, pre-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost, after-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Reclassification to earnings, pre-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax Reclassification to earnings, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), Tax Reclassification to earnings, after-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), Net of Tax Cash flow hedges: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax [Abstract] Gains (losses) on cash flow hedging derivatives, pre-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Gains (losses) on cash flow hedging derivatives, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax Gains (losses) on cash flow hedging derivatives, after-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Reclassification to earnings, pre-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax Reclassification to earnings, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Tax Reclassification to earnings, after-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive (loss) income, pre-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Total other comprehensive (loss) income, tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Total other comprehensive (loss) income, after-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to The Hershey Company Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] $33.40 - $60.68 Exercise Price Range One [Member] Exercise Price Range One [Member] $60.69 - $90.39 Exercise Price Range Two [Member] Exercise Price Range Two [Member] $90.40 - $111.76 Exercise Price Range Three [Member] Exercise Price Range Three [Member] $33.40 - $111.76 Exercise Price Range Four [Member] Exercise Price Range Four [Member] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Number Outstanding as of 12/31/15 (shares) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options Weighted- Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted- Average Exercise Price (USD per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Number Exercisable as of 12/31/15 (shares) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options Weighted- Average Exercise Price (USD per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] North America North America Segment [Member] North America Segment [Member] International and Other International and Other Segment [Member] International and Other Segment [Member] Corporate (1) Corporate Segment [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding shares at beginning of year (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Outstanding as of December 31, 2015 (shares) Options exercisable as of December 31, 2015 (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercises (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding (USD per share) Options exercisable (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options outstanding, weighted-average remaining contractual term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Options exercisable, weighted aver remaining contractual term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Machinery and Equipment Machinery and Equipment [Member] Building and Building Improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Amortization Amortization Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Long-term Debt, Current Maturities, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Current Maturities, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Current Maturities, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities, Fair Value Long-term portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Interest expense Interest Expense, Debt Interest Costs Capitalized Adjustment Interest Costs Capitalized Adjustment Loss on early extinguishment of debt Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Investment Income, Interest Interest expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Expected long-term return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Equity [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Noncontrolling Interests in Subsidiaries Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Balance, December 31, 2015 Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive loss - foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance, December 31, 2016 Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Performance and restricted stock options Performance Shares And Restricted Stock Units (RSU) [Member] Performance Shares And Restricted Stock Units (RSU) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Units granted (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Weighted-average fair value at date of grant (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Estimated values (USD per share) Share Price Dividend yields Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Net Sales Revenue, Net Operating Income (Loss) Operating Income (Loss) Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges Goodwill and Intangible Asset Impairment Costs associated with business realignment activities Restructuring Charges Non-service related pension expense (income) Pension Expense, Non-Service Related Pension Expense, Non-Service Related Acquisition and integration costs Business Combination, Integration Related Costs Interest expense, net Other (income) expense, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of year (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (shares) Performance assumption change (shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Performance Assumption Change The change in the number of shares under a share-based award plan other than a stock option plan due to a change in the performance assumptions. Vested (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Outstanding at end of year (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Outstanding at beginning of year (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Performance assumption change Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Performance Assumption Change Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value The weighted average fair value as of the grant date pertaining to a share-based award plan other than a stock option plan due to a change in the performance assumptions. Vested (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (USD per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at end of year (USD per share) Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges Restructuring Costs and Asset Impairment Charges Write-down of equity investments Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Settlement of SGM liability (see Note 2) Other Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Changes in assets and liabilities, net of business acquisitions and divestitures: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable—trade, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Contributions to pension and other benefits plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions Other assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital additions (including software) Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of business Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Equity investments in tax credit qualifying partnerships Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Business acquisitions, net of cash and cash equivalents acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Sale (purchase) of short-term investments Payments for (Proceeds from) Short-term Investments Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Net increase in short-term debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Long-term borrowings Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayment of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Payment of SGM liability (see Note 2) Cash dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Repurchase of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental Disclosure Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid (excluding loss on early extinguishment of debt in 2015) Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid, Net Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Fixed income securities Debt Securities [Member] Other Investments [Member] Other Investments [Member] Target Asset Allocation Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Foreign Tax Authority Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain] Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain] Canada Revenue Agency Canada Revenue Agency [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Partnerships Qualifying For Tax Credits Partnerships Qualifying For Tax Credits [Member] Partnerships Qualifying For Tax Credits [Member] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income tax benefit associated with stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Amount of unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized would affect the effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Net tax expense (benefit) for interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Accrued net interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Assessment related to other cross-border adjustments Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions Income tax receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Noncurrent Expected reduction in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries Investment Tax Credit Investment tax credits and related tax depreciation benefits Income Tax Credits and Adjustments Write-down of equity investments in partnerships qualifying for historic tax credits Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Federal statutory income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State income taxes, net of Federal income tax benefits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Qualified production income deduction Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Qualified Production Activity, Percent Business realignment and impairment charges and gain on sale of trademark licensing rights Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Restructuring Charges, Percent Foreign rate differences Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Historic and solar tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Percent Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation,Other Reconciling Items, Percent Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Foreign Line of Credit Foreign Line of Credit [Member] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Commercial Paper Commercial Paper [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility, accordion feature increase limit Line Of Credit Facility, Accordion Feature Increase Limit Line Of Credit Facility, Accordion Feature Increase Limit Debt instrument, covenant, pre-tax income from operations to consolidated interest expense, minimum Debt Instrument, Covenant, Pre-tax Income From Operations To Consolidated Interest Expense, Minimum Debt Instrument, Covenant, Pre-tax Income From Operations To Consolidated Interest Expense, Minimum Short-term foreign bank loans against the lines of credit Line of Credit, Current Short-term debt, weighted average interest rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Maximum amount of short term borrowing outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Amount Outstanding During Period Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Employee stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Basic earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic, Two Class Method [Abstract] Allocation of distributed earnings (cash dividends paid) Dividends Allocation of undistributed earnings Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic Total earnings—basic Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Basic Total weighted-average shares—basic (shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Earnings Per Share—basic (USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Two Class Method [Abstract] Allocation of total earnings used in basic computation Reallocation of total earnings as a result of conversion of Class B common stock to Common stock Distributed Earnings Reallocation of undistributed earnings Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Diluted Total earnings—diluted Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Diluted Conversion of Class B common stock to Common shares outstanding Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Common Stock Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Common Stock Incremental common shares attributable to dilutive effect of share-based payment arrangements Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Total weighted-average shares—diluted (shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Earnings Per Share—diluted (USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Non-designated Hedges Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedges Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Commodities futures and options Commodity Contract [Member] Foreign exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Interest rate swap agreements Interest Rate Contract [Member] Deferred compensation derivatives Equity Swap [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Gains (losses) recognized in other comprehensive income (“OCI”) (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Gains (losses) reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Gains recognized in income (ineffective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] United States UNITED STATES Other Non-US [Member] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Net sales Long-lived assets Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Summary of Business Realignment And Impairment Charges Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Summary of Business Realignment Activity Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Adjustments for Error Corrections [Axis] Adjustments for Error Corrections [Axis] Adjustments for Error Correction [Domain] Adjustments for Error Correction [Domain] Hedge Accounting Compliance For Cocoa Commodity Derivatives Hedge Accounting Compliance For Cocoa Commodity Derivatives [Member] Hedge Accounting Compliance FOr Cocoa Commodity Derivatives [Member] Recast Adjustment Restatement Adjustment [Member] Gross profit Gross Profit Net income per share - basic (USD per share) Net income per share - diluted (USD per share) Dividends paid per share (USD per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Market price of common stock throughout the quarter (USD per share) Increase to cost of good sold, due to recast adjustment Cost of Goods Sold Lotte Shanghai Food Company Lotte Shanghai Food Company [Member] Lotte Shanghai Food Company [Member] Equity interest ownership percentage prior to acquisition Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Percentage Equity interest ownership percentage, after acquisition Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Including Subsequent Acquisition, Percentage Consideration transferred, including equity interest in acquiree held prior to combination Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Including Equity Interest in Acquiree Held Prior to Combination Equity interest in acquiree, fair value Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Fair Value Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Short-term debt assumed Other noncurrent assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain Amount in excess of cash acquired compared to cash paid in an acquisition Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation Fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets Inventory, Net [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Goods in process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Inventories at FIFO FIFO Inventory Amount Adjustment to LIFO Inventory, LIFO Reserve Total inventories Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Land Land Buildings Buildings and Improvements, Gross Machinery and equipment Machinery and Equipment, Gross Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Pension Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent Income tax receivable Other non-current assets Other Miscellaneous Assets, Non-Current Other Miscellaneous Assets, Non-Current Total other assets Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Payroll, compensation and benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Advertising and promotion Accrued Marketing Costs, Current Due to SGM shareholders Due to Related Parties, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total accrued liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Post-retirement benefits liabilities Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Pension benefits liabilities Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Other Other Miscellaneous Liabilities, Non-Current Other Miscellaneous Liabilities, Non-Current Total other long-term liabilities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Pension and post-retirement benefit plans, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Cash flow hedges, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Net Interest Expense Interest Income and Interest Expense Disclosure [Table Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Common Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance, stockholders' equity Other comprehensive income (loss) Dividends: Dividends, Common Stock [Abstract] Common Stock Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Conversion of Class B Common Stock into Common Stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities, Net of Adjustments Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Exercise of stock options and incentive-based transactions Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net Repurchase of common stock Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Acquisition of Lotte Shanghai Foods Co., Ltd. Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Impact of reclassification to and purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest Reclassifications of Temporary to Permanent Equity Earnings of and contributions from noncontrolling interests, net Ending balance, stockholders' equity Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trademarks Trademarks [Member] Other intangible assets Other Intangible Assets [Member] Non-current deferred tax liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Net assets acquired Selling, marketing and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Acquisition related costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Corporate Debt Securities Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [Member] 5.45% Notes due 2016 Notes 5.45% Due 2016 [Member] Notes 5.45% Due 2016 [Member] 1.50% Notes due 2016 Notes 1.50% Due 2016 [Member] Notes 1.50% Due 2016 [Member] 1.60% Notes due 2018 Notes 1.60% Due 2018 [Member] Notes 1.60% Due 2018 [Member] 4.125% Notes due 2020 Notes 4.125% Due 2020 [Member] Notes 4.125% Due 2020 [Member] 8.8% Debentures due 2021 Debentures 8.8% Due 2021 [Member] Debentures 8.8% Due 2021 [Member] 2.625% Notes due 2023 Notes 2.625% Due 2023 [Member] Notes 2.625% Due 2023 [Member] 3.20% Notes due 2025 Notes 3.20% Due 2025 [Member] Notes 3.20% Due 2025 [Member] Notes 2.30% due 2026 Notes 2.30% Due 2026 [Member] Notes 2.30% Due 2026 [Member] 7.2% Debentures due 2027 Debentures 7.2% Due 2027 [Member] Debentures 7.2% Due 2027 [Member] Notes 3.375% due 2046 Notes 3.375% Due 2046 [Member] Notes 3.375% Due 2046 [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Interest rate, stated percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Summary of Net Sales and Earnings, and Depreciation and Amortization, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Allocation Of Net Derivative Gains Losses From Economic Hedges To Operating Results Of Reporting Segments Table [Table Text Block] Allocation Of Net Derivative Gains Losses From Economic Hedges To Operating Results Of Reporting Segments Table [Table Text Block] Allocation Of Net Derivative Gains Losses From Economic Hedges To Operating Results Of Reporting Segments Table [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cost of Sales Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block] Selling, Marketing and Administrative Expense Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Short-term Investments Marketable Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable - Trade Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Computer Software Internal Use Software, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Currency Translation Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassifications Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Value Hedging Fair Value Hedging [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative asset Derivative Asset Derivative liability Derivative Liability Gross derivative assets, included within derivative liabilities Derivative Asset, Cash Transfers Receivable (Payable), Change In Quoted Market Prices On The Last Day Of Trading Derivative Asset, Cash Transfers Receivable (Payable), Change In Quoted Market Prices On The Last Day Of Trading Derivative liability, gross liabilities Derivative Liability, Cash Transfers Receivable (Payable), Change In Quoted Market Prices On The Last Day Of Trading Derivative Liability, Cash Transfers Receivable (Payable), Change In Quoted Market Prices On The Last Day Of Trading Research and development costs Research and Development Expense Advertising expense Advertising Expense Prepaid advertising expense Prepaid Advertising Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Summary of Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year [Table Text Block] Summary of Weighted-Average Assumptions Used in Computing the Benefit Obligation Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Quarterly Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Rate of increase in compensation levels Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Change in benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Plan amendments Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Actuarial (gain) loss Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Curtailment Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Settlement Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Divestiture Defined Benefit Plan, Divestitures, Benefit Obligation Currency translation and other Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Gain (Loss) Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Projected benefit obligation at end of year Change in plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Settlement Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Plan Assets Divestiture Defined Benefit Plan, Divestitures, Plan Assets Currency translation and other Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets at end of year Funded status at end of year Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets: Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract] Other assets Accrued liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Other long-term liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet Amounts recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax: Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax [Abstract] Actuarial net (loss) gain Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net Gains (Losses), after Tax Net prior service credit (cost) Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), after Tax Net amounts recognized in AOCI Effect on total service and interest cost components, one percentage point increase Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect on total service and interest cost components, one percentage point decrease Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation, one percentage point increase Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation, one percentage point decrease Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted Common stock, shares issued (shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury Stock, Shares [Roll Forward] Treasury Stock, Shares [Roll Forward] Treasury Stock, Shares [Roll Forward] Treasury stock, shares, beginning of the period (shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Stock repurchases: Share Repurchase Program [Abstract] Share Repurchase Program [Abstract] Stock repurchased during the period (shares) Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Treasury stock, shares, end of the period (shares) Stock issuances: Stock Issued or Granted During Period, Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Stock issued during period, shares, share-based compensation (gross) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross Common stock, shares, outstanding (shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance [Abstract] Post-retirement benefit obligations Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits Accrued expenses and other reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Other Stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Derivative instruments Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments Pension Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Pensions Lease financing obligation Deferred Tax Asset, Leasing Arrangements Amount of deferred tax asset attributable to taxable temporary differences from leasing arrangements. Accrued trade promotion reserves Deferred Tax Asset Tax Deferred Expense Accrued Trade Promotion Reserves This element reflects the tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax effects arising from all other reserves, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when losses pertaining to such reserves are actually incurred. Net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Capital loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Gross deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment, net Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Acquired intangibles Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Inventories Deferred Tax Liabilities, Inventory Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred Tax Assets, Net Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Included in: Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Non-current deferred tax assets, net Non-current deferred tax liabilities, net Equity and Noncontrolling Interests Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Quoted prices in active markets of identical assets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant other unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. [Member] Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. [Member] Accounts Receivable Accounts Receivable [Member] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Inventories Inventories [Member] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2017 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months 2018 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years 2019 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years 2020 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information [Table Text Block] Purchase Obligations Covered by Purchase Agreements with Various Suppliers Future Maturity Schedule Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure [Table Text Block] Future Minimum Payments under Non-Cancelable Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Ripple Brand Collective, LLC Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Allocation [Abstract] Ripple Brand Collective, LLC Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Allocation [Abstract] Other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Other current assets Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Table] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Table] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items] Write-down of equity investments in partnerships qualifying for tax credits Foreign currency exchange loss relating to strategy to cap SGM acquisition price as denominated in U.S. dollars Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Loss Gain on acquisition of controlling interest in LSFC Gain on sale of non-core trademark Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Intangible Assets Other (income) expense, net Other Nonoperating, Gain (Loss) Other Nonoperating, Gain (Loss) Total Business Realignment Activities Restructuring, Impairment, and Other Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Liability balance at December 31, 2015 Restructuring Reserve 2016 business realignment charges (1) Restructuring Charges, Business Realignment Reserve Restructuring Charges, Business Realignment Reserve Cash payments Payments for Restructuring Other, net Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Liability balance at December 31, 2016 (reported within accrued liabilities) Performance Shares [Member] Performance Shares [Member] Performance Stock Units and Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance Stock Units and Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance Stock Units and Restricted Stock Units [Member] Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, number of shares authorized (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Employee service share-based compensation, nonvested awards, compensation cost not yet recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Employee service share-based compensation, nonvested awards, compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, expiration period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Weighted-average fair value of options granted (per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Intrinsic value of options exercised (in millions of dollars) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Employee service share-based compensation, nonvested awards, compensation not yet recognized, stock options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options Share based compensation arrangement, by share based payment award, equity instruments other than options, performance score, percentage Share Based Compensation Arrangement, By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Performance Score, Percentage Share Based Compensation Arrangement, By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Performance Score, Percentage Performance stock units for which measurement date has not yet occurred for accounting purposes (shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Nonvested Number Excluded The number of performance stock award units for which the measurement date has not yet occurred for accounting purposes. Intrinsic value of share-based liabilities paid, combined with the fair value of shares vested (in millions of dollars) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Intrinsic Value Of Share Based Liabilities Paid Combined With Fair Value Of Shares Vested Intrinsic value of share-based liabilities paid, combined with the fair value of shares vested (in millions of dollars). Deferred performance stock units, deferred restricted stock units, and directors' fees and accumulated dividend amounts representing deferred stock units outstanding Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Shares Issued Common stock, conversion basis (shares) Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Conversion Basis Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Conversion Basis Lease Obligations Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Total long-term debt Net impact of interest rate swaps, debt issuance costs and unamortized debt discounts Debt Instrument, Impact of Derivatives, Unamortized Discount (Premium), and Debt Issuance Costs, Net Debt Instrument, Impact of Derivatives, Unamortized Discount (Premium), and Debt Issuance Costs, Net Less—current portion Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill, gross Goodwill, Gross Accumulated impairment loss Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill, beginning balance Acquired during the period (see Note 2) Goodwill, Acquired During Period Impairment Accumulated impairment loss Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Goodwill, ending balance Short and Long-Term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation [Member] Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation [Member] Energy [Axis] Energy [Axis] Energy [Domain] Energy [Domain] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Fair Value, Net Asset (Liability) Fair Value, Net Asset (Liability) Schedule of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Asset and Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Pre-tax compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Related income tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense - RIPPLE BRAND COLLECTIVE, LLC [Abstract] - RIPPLE BRAND COLLECTIVE, LLC [Abstract] Revenues Revenues Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Geographic Concentration Risk Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] CHINA CHINA INDIA INDIA Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Impairment of intangible assets (excluding goodwill) Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Summary of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Summary of the Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Hershey Trust Company Hershey Trust Company [Member] Hershey Trust Company [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Common and preferred shares authorized (shares) Common and Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Common and Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares authorized (shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares authorized (shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, par (USD per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, par value (USD per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, voting rights (vote) Common Stock, Number of Votes Common Stock, Number of Votes Common stock voting rights, board election percentage Common Stock Voting Rights, Board Election Percentage Common Stock Voting Rights, Board Election Percentage Dividends, common sock, cash, additional percentage over Class B common stock dividends Dividends, Common Stock, Cash, Additional Percentage Over Class B Common Stock Dividends Dividends, Common Stock, Cash, Additional Percentage Over Class B Common Stock Dividends Common stock, voting percentage Common Stock, Voting Percentage Common Stock, Voting Percentage Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by parent Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Interest Rate Swap Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Expense Interest Expense [Member] Minimum length of time, hedged in cash flow hedge Minimum Length of Time Hedged in Cash Flow Hedge Minimum length of time over which the entity is hedging its exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions, excluding those forecasted transactions related to the payment of variable interest on existing financial instruments, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Maximum length of time, hedged in cash flow hedge Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Cash Flow Hedge Derivative, notional amount Derivative, Notional Amount Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities Derivative, term of contract Derivative, Term of Contract Cash flow hedge gain (loss) to be reclassified within twelve months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Fair value hedges, pre-tax benefit Increase (Decrease) in Fair Value of Hedged Item in Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Business Acquisitions and Divestitures Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Other (Income) Expense, Net Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Preferred stock, shares issued (shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Treasury stock, shares (shares) Severance Employee Severance [Member] Accelerated depreciation and amortization Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization [Member] Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization [Member] Other program costs Other Restructuring [Member] Pension settlement charge Pension Settlement Charge [Member] Pension Settlement Charge [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Operation optimization program China Structure Optimization [Member] China Structure Optimization [Member] 2015 productivity initiative Productivity Initiative 2015 [Member] Productivity Initiative 2015 [Member] Other international restructuring programs Other International Restructuring Programs [Member] Other International Restructuring Programs [Member] Next Century program Next Century Program [Member] Information related to the Next Century program as part of ongoning efforts to create an advantaged supply chain and competitive cost structure. Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Business realignment charges Restructuring Charges [Member] Business realignment charges Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of year Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions for tax positions taken during prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions taken during prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Additions for tax positions taken during the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Expiration of statutes of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Balance at end of year Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Group, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations Disposal Group, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Loss on disposal of business Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal The Allan Candy Company Limited The Allan Candy Company Limited [Member] The Allan Candy Company Limited [Member] Property, plant and equipment acquired Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Customer-related Customer-Related Intangible Assets [Member] Patents Patents [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-lived intangible assets, gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Indefinite-lived intangible assets, excluding goodwill Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Total other intangible assets FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract] FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Number Of Brand Names Number Of Brand Names Number Of Brand Names Number of countries in which products are marketed, sold and distributed (country) Number Of Countries Where Brands Are Martketed, Sold, And Distributed Number Of Countries Where Brands Are Marketed, Sold, And Distributed Number of reportable segments (segment) Number of Reportable Segments North America [Member] North America [Member] Pension Settlement Cost One-time Termination Benefits [Member] Restructuring and related cost, expected cost Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Restructuring and Related Cost, Period of Incurred Restructuring Costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Period of Incurred Restructuring Costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Period of Incurred Restructuring Costs Restructuring and related cost, expected number of positions eliminated (employee) Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Number of Positions Eliminated Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Cash and cash equivalents U.S. all-cap U.S. all-cap [Member] Equity security which comprises equity funds that track the Russell 3000 index. International all-cap International all-cap [Member] Equity security which comprises equity funds that track the MSCI World EX-US index. Global all-cap Global all-cap [Member] Equity Security which comprises equity funds that the MSCI World index. U.S. government/agency US Treasury and Government [Member] Corporate bonds Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Collateralized obligations Collateralized Debt Obligations [Member] International government/corporate bonds Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] Global diversified assets [Member] Global diversified assets [Member] Global diversified assets [Member] Global real estate investment trusts [Member] Global real estate investment trusts [Member] Global real estate investment trusts [Member] Global infrastructure [Member] Global infrastructure [Member] Global infrastructure [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document Information [Table] Document Information [Table] Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Entity registrant name Entity Registrant Name Entity central index key Entity Central Index Key Current fiscal year end date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity filer category Entity Filer Category Document type Document Type Document period end date Document Period End Date Document fiscal year focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document fiscal period focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment flag Amendment Flag Entity common stock, shares outstanding (shares) Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity well-known seasoned issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity voluntary filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity current reporting status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity public float Entity Public Float Maximum contingent consideration amount Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High Fair value of the contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Payment of contingent consideration Payments for Previous Acquisition Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for Trade Receivables Allowance for Trade Receivables [Member] Valuation Allowance of Net Deferred Taxes Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member] Inventory Obsolescence Reserve Inventory Valuation Reserve [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at Beginning of Period Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Charged to Costs and Expenses Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense Charged to Other Accounts Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Other Accounts Deductions from Reserves Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Balance at End of Period Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Repayments of Debt Repayments of Debt Debt instrument, face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Proceeds from Issuance of Other Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Other Long-term Debt Debt instrument repurchase amount Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount Extinguishment of debt amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Gain on fair value hedge ineffectiveness Gain on Fair Value Hedge Ineffectiveness 2017 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five 2022-2026 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Fair Value Measurements Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of the Changes in the Outstanding Shares of Common Stock Schedule of Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Summary of Activity Relating to the Non-controlling Interests and Redeemable Non-controlling Interest Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block] Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Income before income taxes Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate Risk-free interest rates Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected term in years Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Amounts recognized in net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of prior service (credit) cost Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Amortization of net loss (gain) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Curtailment credit Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments Settlement loss Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements Total net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Change in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in AOCI, pre-tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax, [Abstract] Actuarial net (gain) loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Actuarial Gain (Loss), before Tax Prior service (credit) cost Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss, pre-tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Net amounts recognized in periodic benefit cost and AOCI Amount Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Derivative Instruments Derivatives and Fair Value [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of sales Selling, marketing and administrative expense Selling, General and Administrative Expense Business realignment costs Restructuring Charges, Business Realignment Restructuring Charges, Business Realignment Operating profit Provision for income taxes Net income Net income per share—basic: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Net income per share—diluted: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Dividends paid per share: Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Customer Relationships Customer Relationships [Member]