Segment Information (Reportable Segment Information) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 710,616	$ 714,271
Restructuring and other charges, net	(1,668)	(28)
Operating profit	120,907	133,357
Interest expense	(10,811)	(11,680)
Other income (expense), net	246	(6,056)
Income before taxes	110,342	115,621
Flavors [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	349,887	338,587
Operating profit	79,680	78,954
Fragrances [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	360,729	375,684
Operating profit	56,081	68,704
Global [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating profit	$ (13,186)	$ (14,273)