Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] 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] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Amounts recognized in net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost 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) Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements 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] - RIPPLE BRAND COLLECTIVE, LLC [Abstract] - RIPPLE BRAND COLLECTIVE, LLC [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] Ripple Brand Collective, LLC [Member] Ripple Brand Collective, LLC [Member] Ripple Brand Collective, LLC [Member] 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 Other Intangible Assets [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Revenues Revenues Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Cost of Sales Cost of Sales [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Commodities futures and options Commodity Contract [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] North America North America Segment [Member] North America Segment [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Geographic Concentration Risk Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] 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] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Business realignment charges Restructuring Charges [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Margin for Growth Program Margin for Growth Program [Member] Margin for Growth Program [Member] Operation Optimization Program China Structure Optimization [Member] China Structure Optimization [Member] 2015 productivity initiative Productivity Initiative 2015 [Member] Productivity Initiative 2015 [Member] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Facility closing Facility Closing [Member] Contract termination Contract Termination [Member] Severance Employee Severance [Member] Other program costs Other Restructuring [Member] Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization [Member] Accelerated Depreciation and Amortization [Member] Pension Settlement Charge Pension Settlement Charge [Member] Pension Settlement Charge [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring and related cost, expected cost Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Period of expected costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Period of Incurred Restructuring Costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Period of Incurred Restructuring Costs Intangible asset impairment charges Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Cash portion of charges Effect on Future Cash Flows, Amount Expected annual savings Effect on Future Earnings, Amount Expected reduction in workforce percentage Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Number of Positions Eliminated, Percent Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Number of Positions Eliminated, Percent Long-lived asset impairment charges Asset Impairment Charges Impairment of property, plant and equipment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Business realignment charges Restructuring Charges Property, plant and equipment and land use rights Property, Plant and Equipment, Transfers and Changes Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Restructuring and related cost, expected number of positions eliminated (employee) Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Number of Positions Eliminated Incurred costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [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] Foreign exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Interest rate swap agreements Interest Rate Contract [Member] Deferred compensation derivatives Equity Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap Interest Rate Swap [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as Hedging Instrument Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Non-designated Hedges Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedges Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Fair Value Hedging Fair Value Hedging [Member] Interest Expense Interest Expense [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] 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 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 Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedges Recognized in Earnings Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedges Recognized in Earnings Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Net Mark To Market Valuation Of Certain Derivative Positions Recognized In Unallocated Derivative Gains Losses Net Mark To Market Valuation Of Certain Derivative Positions Recognized In Unallocated Derivative Gains Losses Changes in the values of derivative positions that is recorded in unallocated derivative gains (losses). Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] 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 Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities 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 Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] 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 Inventory, Net 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 Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Capitalized software, net Capitalized Computer Software, Net Income tax receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Noncurrent Other non-current assets Other Miscellaneous Assets, Non-Current Other Miscellaneous Assets, Non-Current Total other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Payroll, compensation and benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Advertising and promotion Accrued Marketing Costs, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current 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 Other Liabilities, Noncurrent 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 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax 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] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] 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 Short-term foreign bank loans against the lines of credit Line of Credit, Current Short-term debt Short-term Debt Short-term debt, weighted average interest rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net 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 Equity [Abstract] Treasury Stock Activity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] 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] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] 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 Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, net Goodwill Goodwill Other intangibles Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other assets 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 income taxes Accrued Income Taxes, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Other long-term liabilities 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 at October 1, 2017 and December 31, 2016 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: 149,232,801 at October 1, 2017 and 147,642,009 at December 31, 2016 Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive loss Total—The Hershey Company stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest in subsidiary 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 [Abstract] 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] Employee stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Dividends, Common Stock, 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 Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] International and Other International and Other Segment [Member] International and Other Segment [Member] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] 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] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Net Interest Expense Interest Income and Interest Expense Disclosure [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] 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 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 Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income (loss) including noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss), 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 income (loss), pre-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), tax (expense) benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), after-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total comprehensive income (loss) including noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to The Hershey Company Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Corporate Debt Securities Domestic Corporate Debt Securities [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] 2.30% Notes 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] 3.375% Notes 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 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 Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Table] Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties [Table] 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] Lotte Shanghai Food Company Lotte Shanghai Food Company [Member] Lotte Shanghai Food Company [Member] 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 Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Settlement of SGM liability (see Note 2) Business Combination, Bargain Purchase, Gain Recognized, Amount Other (income) expense, net Other Nonoperating, Gain (Loss) Other Nonoperating, Gain (Loss) Total Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income Statement [Abstract] Net sales Revenue, Net Cost of sales Cost of Goods Sold Gross profit Gross Profit Selling, marketing and administrative expense Selling, General and Administrative Expense Business realignment costs Restructuring Charges, Business Realignment Restructuring Charges, Business Realignment Operating profit Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Other (income) expense, net Income before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) including noncontrolling interest Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to The Hershey Company Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income per share—basic: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Net income per share - basic (USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Net income per share—diluted: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Net income per share - diluted (USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividends paid per share: Dividends, Common Stock [Abstract] Dividends paid per share (USD per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets 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] Derivative asset Derivative Asset Derivative liability Derivative Liability Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Hershey Trust Company Hershey Trust Company [Member] Hershey Trust Company [Member] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] 2016 Share Repurchase Program 2016 Share Repurchase Program [Member] 2016 Share Repurchase Program [Member] 2017 Share Repurchase Program [Member] 2017 Share Repurchase Program [Member] 2017 Share Repurchase Program [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Stock repurchased and retired during period (in shares) Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Treasury stock acquired (in dollars per share) Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Total purchase price of stock repurchased Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Authorized stock repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Remaining authorized repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Business Combinations [Abstract] Business Acquisitions Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Summary of Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] 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, 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 Accounting Policies [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU 2016-09 Accounting Standards Update 2016-09, Excess Tax Benefit Component [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-09, Excess Tax Benefit Component [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-based Compensation, Excess Tax Benefit, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-based Compensation, Excess Tax Benefit, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-based Compensation, Excess Tax Benefit, Amount Increase in net cash flow from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Decrease in net cash flow from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassifications Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Selling, marketing and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Text Block] 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] Pre-tax compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Related income tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Performance and restricted stock units 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] 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) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period 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 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 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) Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] 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] Noncontrolling Interest in Subsidiary Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance, stockholders' equity Other comprehensive income (loss) Dividends: Common Stock Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Exercise of stock options and incentive-based transactions Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Ending balance, stockholders' equity 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 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 Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] 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] 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 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 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 Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] 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] 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] 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) 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) Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] 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 FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract] FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract] Schedule of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Business Realignment Activities Restructuring, Impairment, and Other Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Other (Income) Expense, Net Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments Derivatives and Fair Value [Text Block] Stock repurchased and retired during period (in shares) Total share repurchases (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Shares issued for stock options and incentive compensation (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Gross Net change (in shares) Treasury Stock Change In Shares Change in the number of common shares that were previously issued and that were repurchased by the issuing entity and held in treasury during the period. This stock has no voting rights and receives no dividends. Stock repurchased and retired during period Total share repurchases Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Shares issued for stock options and incentive compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Net change Treasury Stock Change In Value Change in value of common shares of an entity that were issued, repurchased by the entity, and are held in its treasury during the period. Treasury stock is issued but is not outstanding. This stock has no voting rights and receives no dividends. Note that treasury stock may be recorded at its total cost or separately as par (or stated) value and additional paid in capital. Note: number of treasury shares concept is in another section within stockholders' equity. Summary of Treasury Stock Activity Schedule of Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block] 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] Corporate, Non-Segment Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Corporate (1) Corporate Segment [Member] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization 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 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 Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated [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] 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 current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, 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 Current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities Net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill, beginning balance Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Goodwill, ending balance Stock Compensation Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Write-down of equity investments Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Portion Recognized in Earnings, Net Other Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Changes in assets and liabilities, net of business acquisitions: 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 Accrued income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Taxes Payable 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 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 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 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 Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayment of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Payment of SGM liability (see Note 2) Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross 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 Net cash (used in) provided by 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 Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid, Net 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 Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Business acquisition, percentage of voting interests acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Payments to acquire businesses Settlement of SGM liability Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Pension and Other Post-Retirement Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Liability balance at December 31, 2016 Restructuring Reserve 2017 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 October 1, 2017 (reported within accrued and other long-term liabilities) Interest expense Interest Expense, Debt Interest Costs Capitalized Adjustment Interest Costs Capitalized Adjustment Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Investment Income, Interest Interest expense, net Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Net Sales Operating Income (Loss) Unallocated mark-to-market (gains) losses on commodity derivatives Costs associated with business realignment activities Non-service related pension expense Pension Expense, Non-Service Related Pension Expense, Non-Service Related Acquisition and integration costs Business Combination, Integration Related Costs Income before income taxes Units granted (shares) Estimated values (USD per share) Share Price Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Short and Long-Term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] 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] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Net Asset (Liability) Fair Value, Net Asset (Liability) Preferred stock, shares issued (shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common stock, shares issued (shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, shares (shares) Treasury Stock, Shares