Employee Related Obligations (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Employee-related Liabilities [Abstract]
Pension benefits	$ 4,547	$ 2,950
Postretirement benefits	3,161	2,655
Postemployment benefits	2,062	1,872
Deferred compensation	599	693
Total employee obligations	10,369jnj_EmployeeObligations	8,170jnj_EmployeeObligations
Less current benefits payable	397	386
Employee related obligations — non-current	$ 9,972	$ 7,784

This represents the entire liability recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit pension plans.

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This represents the entire liability recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with other postretirement defined benefit plans (excluding pension plans).

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- Definition

This represents the noncurrent liability for underfunded plans recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement defined benefit plans.

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- Definition

The carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of the obligations recognized for the various benefits provided to former or inactive employees, their beneficiaries, and covered dependents after employment but before retirement.

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