Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)	12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2012
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles Of Consolidation	*Principles of Consolidation* The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Lancaster Colony Corporation and our wholly-owned subsidiaries, collectively referred to as “we,” “us,” “our,” “registrant,” or the “Company.” Intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation. Our fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30. Unless otherwise noted, references to “year” pertain to our fiscal year; for example, 2012 refers to fiscal 2012, which is the period from July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012.
Use Of Estimates	*Use of Estimates* The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires that we make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Significant estimates included in these consolidated financial statements include allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, net realizable value of inventories, useful lives for the calculation of depreciation and amortization, impairments of long-lived assets, accruals for marketing and merchandising programs, tax contingency reserves for uncertain tax positions, pension and postretirement assumptions, as well as expenses related to distribution and self-insurance accruals. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Cash And Equivalents	*Cash and Equivalents* We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of our cash and equivalents approximate fair value due to their short maturities. As a result of our cash management system, checks issued but not presented to the banks for payment may create negative book cash balances. When such negative balances exist, they are included in other accrued liabilities.
Receivables And The Allowance For Doubtful Accounts	*Receivables and the Allowance for Doubtful Accounts* The carrying amounts of our accounts receivable approximate fair value. We provide an allowance for doubtful accounts based on the aging of accounts receivable balances, historical write-off experience and on-going reviews of our trade receivables. Measurement of potential losses requires credit review of existing customer relationships, consideration of historical effects of relevant observable data, including present economic conditions such as delinquency rates, and the economic health of customers.
Credit Risk	*Credit Risk* Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and equivalents and trade accounts receivable. By policy, we limit the amount of credit exposure to any one institution or issuer. Our concentration of credit risk with respect to trade accounts receivable is mitigated by our credit evaluation process and by having a large and diverse customer base. However, see Note 13 with respect to our accounts receivable with Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Inventories	*Inventories* Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market and are costed by various methods that approximate actual cost on a first-in, first-out basis.
Property, Plant And Equipment	*Property, Plant and Equipment* Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. We use the straight-line method of computing depreciation for financial reporting purposes based on the estimated useful lives of the corresponding assets. Estimated useful lives for buildings and improvements range generally from two to 45 years while machinery and equipment range generally from two to 20 years. For tax purposes, we generally compute depreciation using accelerated methods.
Held For Sale	*Held for* *Sale* As a result of various prior-years’ restructuring and divestiture activities, we have certain “held for sale” properties with a total net book value of approximately $2.2 million at June 30, 2012. We have classified approximately $0.1 million of these “held for sale” assets as current assets and they are included in Deferred Income Taxes and Other Current Assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The remaining balance of approximately $2.1 million is included in Other Noncurrent Assets. In accordance with GAAP for property, plant and equipment, we are no longer depreciating these “held for sale” assets and they are being actively marketed for sale and evaluated for potential impairment.
Long-Lived Assets	*Long-Lived Assets* We monitor the recoverability of the carrying value of our long-lived assets by periodically considering whether indicators of impairment are present. If such indicators are present, we determine if the assets are recoverable by comparing the sum of the undiscounted future cash flows to the assets’ carrying amount. Our cash flows are based on historical results adjusted to reflect our best estimate of future market and operating conditions. If the carrying amounts are greater, then the assets are not recoverable. In that instance, we compare the carrying amounts to the fair value to determine the amount of the impairment to be recorded.
Goodwill And Intangible Assets	*Goodwill and Intangible Assets* As of July 1, 2002, goodwill is no longer being amortized. Intangible assets with lives restricted by contractual, legal, or other means continue to be amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives to general and administrative expense. As of April 30, 2012 and 2011 we completed our goodwill impairment testing, and have determined that our estimated fair value was substantially in excess of the related carrying value. We periodically evaluate the future economic benefit of the recorded goodwill and intangible assets when events or circumstances indicate potential recoverability concerns. Carrying amounts are adjusted appropriately when determined to have been impaired.
Accrued Marketing And Distribution	*Accrued Marketing and Distribution* Various marketing programs are offered to customers to reimburse them for a portion or all of their promotional activities related to our products. Additionally, we often incur various costs associated with shipping products to the customer. We provide accruals for the costs of marketing and distribution based on historical information as may be modified by estimates of actual costs incurred. Actual costs may differ significantly if factors such as the level and success of the customers’ programs, changes in customer utilization practices, or other conditions differ from expectations.
Accruals For Self-Insurance	*Accruals for Self-Insurance* Self-insurance accruals are made for certain claims associated with employee health care, workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. These accruals include estimates that are primarily based on historical loss development factors. Differences in estimates and assumptions could result in an accrual requirement materially different from the calculated accrual.
Shareholders' Equity	*Shareholders’ Equity* We are authorized to issue 3,050,000 shares of preferred stock consisting of 750,000 shares of Class A Participating Preferred Stock with $1.00 par value, 1,150,000 shares of Class B Voting Preferred Stock without par value and 1,150,000 shares of Class C Nonvoting Preferred Stock without par value. Our Board approved a share repurchase authorization of 2,000,000 shares in November 2010. Approximately 1,476,000 shares remained authorized for future purchase at June 30, 2012.
Revenue Recognition	*Revenue Recognition* We recognize revenue upon transfer of title and risk of loss, provided that evidence of an arrangement exists, pricing is fixed or determinable, and collectability is probable. Net sales are recorded net of estimated sales discounts, returns and certain sales incentives, including coupons and rebates.
Advertising Expense	*Advertising Expense* We expense advertising as it is incurred.
Shipping And Handling	*Shipping and Handling* Shipping and handling fees billed to customers are recorded as sales, while our shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales.
Stock-Based Employee Compensation Plans	*Stock-Based Employee Compensation Plans* We account for our stock-based employee compensation plans in accordance with GAAP for stock-based compensation, which requires the measurement and recognition of the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. The cost of the employee services is recognized as compensation expense over the period that an employee provides service in exchange for the award, which is typically the vesting period.
Other Income	*Other Income* During 2012, we received approximately $2.7 million from the U.S. government under the Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act of 2000 (“CDSOA”) compared to $14.4 million received in 2011 and $0.9 million received in 2010. We recognize CDSOA-related income upon receiving notice from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding its intent to remit a specific amount to us. These amounts were recorded as other income in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.
Income Taxes	*Income Taxes* Our income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities and reserves for unrecognized tax benefits reflect management’s best assessment of estimated future taxes to be paid. We are subject to income taxes in numerous domestic jurisdictions. Our annual tax rate is determined based on our income, statutory tax rates and the tax impacts of items treated differently for tax purposes than for financial reporting purposes. Tax law requires certain items be included in the tax return at different times than the items are reflected in the financial statements. Some of these differences are permanent, such as expenses that are not deductible in our tax return, and some differences are temporary, reversing over time, such as depreciation expense. These temporary differences create deferred tax assets and liabilities. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Realization of certain deferred tax assets is dependent upon generating sufficient taxable income in the appropriate jurisdiction prior to the expiration of the carryforward periods. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will be realized and thus we have not recorded any valuation allowance for the years ended June 30, 2012 or 2011. In accordance with accounting literature related to uncertainty in income taxes, tax benefits from uncertain tax positions that are recognized in the financial statements are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Changes in tax laws and rates could also affect recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities in the future. Management is not aware of any such changes that would have a material effect on our results of operations, cash flow or financial position.
Earnings Per Share	*Earnings Per Share* Earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock and common stock equivalents (stock options, restricted stock and stock-settled stock appreciation rights) outstanding during each period. Unvested shares of restricted stock granted to employees are considered participating securities since employees receive nonforfeitable dividends prior to vesting and, therefore, are included in the earnings allocation in computing EPS under the two-class method. Basic EPS excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, which includes the dilutive potential common shares associated with outstanding stock options, restricted stock and stock-settled stock appreciation rights.
Comprehensive Income And Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	*Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss* Comprehensive income includes changes in equity that result from transactions and economic events from non-owner sources. Comprehensive income is composed of two subsets – net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Included in other comprehensive income (loss) are pension and postretirement benefits adjustments.

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)

12 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Lancaster Colony Corporation and our wholly-owned subsidiaries, collectively referred to as “we,” “us,” “our,” “registrant,” or the “Company.” Intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation. Our fiscal year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30. Unless otherwise noted, references to “year” pertain to our fiscal year; for example, 2012 refers to fiscal 2012, which is the period from July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012.

Use Of Estimates

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires that we make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Significant estimates included in these consolidated financial statements include allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, net realizable value of inventories, useful lives for the calculation of depreciation and amortization, impairments of long-lived assets, accruals for marketing and merchandising programs, tax contingency reserves for uncertain tax positions, pension and postretirement assumptions, as well as expenses related to distribution and self-insurance accruals. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Cash And Equivalents

Cash and Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The carrying amounts of our cash and equivalents approximate fair value due to their short maturities. As a result of our cash management system, checks issued but not presented to the banks for payment may create negative book cash balances. When such negative balances exist, they are included in other accrued liabilities.

Receivables And The Allowance For Doubtful Accounts

Receivables and the Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The carrying amounts of our accounts receivable approximate fair value. We provide an allowance for doubtful accounts based on the aging of accounts receivable balances, historical write-off experience and on-going reviews of our trade receivables. Measurement of potential losses requires credit review of existing customer relationships, consideration of historical effects of relevant observable data, including present economic conditions such as delinquency rates, and the economic health of customers.

Credit Risk

Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and equivalents and trade accounts receivable. By policy, we limit the amount of credit exposure to any one institution or issuer. Our concentration of credit risk with respect to trade accounts receivable is mitigated by our credit evaluation process and by having a large and diverse customer base. However, see Note 13 with respect to our accounts receivable with Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Inventories

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market and are costed by various methods that approximate actual cost on a first-in, first-out basis.

Property, Plant And Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. We use the straight-line method of computing depreciation for financial reporting purposes based on the estimated useful lives of the corresponding assets. Estimated useful lives for buildings and improvements range generally from two to 45 years while machinery and equipment range generally from two to 20 years. For tax purposes, we generally compute depreciation using accelerated methods.

Held For Sale

Held for Sale

As a result of various prior-years’ restructuring and divestiture activities, we have certain “held for sale” properties with a total net book value of approximately $2.2 million at June 30, 2012. We have classified approximately $0.1 million of these “held for sale” assets as current assets and they are included in Deferred Income Taxes and Other Current Assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The remaining balance of approximately $2.1 million is included in Other Noncurrent Assets. In accordance with GAAP for property, plant and equipment, we are no longer depreciating these “held for sale” assets and they are being actively marketed for sale and evaluated for potential impairment.

Long-Lived Assets

Long-Lived Assets

We monitor the recoverability of the carrying value of our long-lived assets by periodically considering whether indicators of impairment are present. If such indicators are present, we determine if the assets are recoverable by comparing the sum of the undiscounted future cash flows to the assets’ carrying amount. Our cash flows are based on historical results adjusted to reflect our best estimate of future market and operating conditions. If the carrying amounts are greater, then the assets are not recoverable. In that instance, we compare the carrying amounts to the fair value to determine the amount of the impairment to be recorded.

Goodwill And Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

As of July 1, 2002, goodwill is no longer being amortized. Intangible assets with lives restricted by contractual, legal, or other means continue to be amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives to general and administrative expense. As of April 30, 2012 and 2011 we completed our goodwill impairment testing, and have determined that our estimated fair value was substantially in excess of the related carrying value. We periodically evaluate the future economic benefit of the recorded goodwill and intangible assets when events or circumstances indicate potential recoverability concerns. Carrying amounts are adjusted appropriately when determined to have been impaired.

Accrued Marketing And Distribution

Accrued Marketing and Distribution

Various marketing programs are offered to customers to reimburse them for a portion or all of their promotional activities related to our products. Additionally, we often incur various costs associated with shipping products to the customer. We provide accruals for the costs of marketing and distribution based on historical information as may be modified by estimates of actual costs incurred. Actual costs may differ significantly if factors such as the level and success of the customers’ programs, changes in customer utilization practices, or other conditions differ from expectations.

Accruals For Self-Insurance

Accruals for Self-Insurance

Self-insurance accruals are made for certain claims associated with employee health care, workers’ compensation and general liability insurance. These accruals include estimates that are primarily based on historical loss development factors. Differences in estimates and assumptions could result in an accrual requirement materially different from the calculated accrual.

Shareholders' Equity

Shareholders’ Equity

We are authorized to issue 3,050,000 shares of preferred stock consisting of 750,000 shares of Class A Participating Preferred Stock with $1.00 par value, 1,150,000 shares of Class B Voting Preferred Stock without par value and 1,150,000 shares of Class C Nonvoting Preferred Stock without par value. Our Board approved a share repurchase authorization of 2,000,000 shares in November 2010. Approximately 1,476,000 shares remained authorized for future purchase at June 30, 2012.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue upon transfer of title and risk of loss, provided that evidence of an arrangement exists, pricing is fixed or determinable, and collectability is probable. Net sales are recorded net of estimated sales discounts, returns and certain sales incentives, including coupons and rebates.

Advertising Expense

Advertising Expense

We expense advertising as it is incurred.

Shipping And Handling

Shipping and Handling

Shipping and handling fees billed to customers are recorded as sales, while our shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales.

Stock-Based Employee Compensation Plans

Stock-Based Employee Compensation Plans

We account for our stock-based employee compensation plans in accordance with GAAP for stock-based compensation, which requires the measurement and recognition of the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. The cost of the employee services is recognized as compensation expense over the period that an employee provides service in exchange for the award, which is typically the vesting period.

Other Income

Other Income

During 2012, we received approximately $2.7 million from the U.S. government under the Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act of 2000 (“CDSOA”) compared to $14.4 million received in 2011 and $0.9 million received in 2010. We recognize CDSOA-related income upon receiving notice from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding its intent to remit a specific amount to us. These amounts were recorded as other income in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

Our income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities and reserves for unrecognized tax benefits reflect management’s best assessment of estimated future taxes to be paid. We are subject to income taxes in numerous domestic jurisdictions.

Our annual tax rate is determined based on our income, statutory tax rates and the tax impacts of items treated differently for tax purposes than for financial reporting purposes. Tax law requires certain items be included in the tax return at different times than the items are reflected in the financial statements. Some of these differences are permanent, such as expenses that are not deductible in our tax return, and some differences are temporary, reversing over time, such as depreciation expense. These temporary differences create deferred tax assets and liabilities. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Realization of certain deferred tax assets is dependent upon generating sufficient taxable income in the appropriate jurisdiction prior to the expiration of the carryforward periods. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will be realized and thus we have not recorded any valuation allowance for the years ended June 30, 2012 or 2011.

In accordance with accounting literature related to uncertainty in income taxes, tax benefits from uncertain tax positions that are recognized in the financial statements are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.

Changes in tax laws and rates could also affect recorded deferred tax assets and liabilities in the future. Management is not aware of any such changes that would have a material effect on our results of operations, cash flow or financial position.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share

Earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock and common stock equivalents (stock options, restricted stock and stock-settled stock appreciation rights) outstanding during each period. Unvested shares of restricted stock granted to employees are considered participating securities since employees receive nonforfeitable dividends prior to vesting and, therefore, are included in the earnings allocation in computing EPS under the two-class method. Basic EPS excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, which includes the dilutive potential common shares associated with outstanding stock options, restricted stock and stock-settled stock appreciation rights.

Comprehensive Income And Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Comprehensive income includes changes in equity that result from transactions and economic events from non-owner sources. Comprehensive income is composed of two subsets – net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Included in other comprehensive income (loss) are pension and postretirement benefits adjustments.