Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 01, 2016	Oct. 03, 2015	Oct. 01, 2016	Oct. 03, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 29,201	$ 15,729	$ 23,424	$ 43,705
Net unrealized (gain)/loss on derivative instruments, net of income tax	(378)	1,138	1,249	1,134
Foreign currency translation adjustment	6,811	4	24,226	451
Total other comprehensive loss	6,433	1,142	25,475	1,585
Total comprehensive income/(loss)	22,768	14,587	(2,051)	42,120
Comprehensive (loss)/income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(114)	52	(141)	63
Total comprehensive income/(loss) attributable to Snyder’s-Lance, Inc.	$ 22,882	$ 14,535	$ (1,910)	$ 42,057