Total Assets for Reportable Operating Segments, Corporate and Fresh-Cut Flowers (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 06, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 4,235,239	$ 4,271,322
Fresh Fruit [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	2,099,430	2,129,910
Fresh Vegetables [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	467,432	489,091
Packaged Foods [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	794,430	743,447
Total operating segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	3,361,292	3,362,448
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	868,924	903,851
Fresh-Cut Flowers-Discontinued Operation [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 5,023	$ 5,023