Accounting Policies

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Accounting Policies

1. Accounting Policies

In the opinion of Sensient Technologies Corporation (the “Company”), the accompanying unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments) which are necessary to present fairly the financial position of the Company as of September 30, 2011, and December 31, 2010, the results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, and cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010.  The results of operations for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Expenses are charged to operations in the year incurred.  However, for interim reporting purposes, certain expenses are charged to operations based on a proportionate share of estimated annual amounts rather than as they are actually incurred.

Refer to the notes in the Company's annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2010, for additional details regarding the Company's financial condition and a description of the Company's accounting policies, which have been continued without change.