2.4.0.81033 - Disclosure - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Restated) (Policies)truefalsefalse1false falsefalseeol_PE9760----1210-K0011_STD_366_20120831_0http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000739608duration2011-09-01T00:00:002012-08-31T00:00:001true 1us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstractus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsexbrli:stringItemTypestringfalse0Accounting Policies [Abstract]2false 2us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Penford and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior years’ financial statements in order to conform to the current year presentation. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for basis of accounting, or basis of presentation, used to prepare the financial statements (for example, US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, Other Comprehensive Basis of Accounting, IFRS).No definition available.false0Basis of Presentation3false 2us-gaap_UseOfEstimatesus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, the allowance for doubtful accounts, accruals, legal contingencies, the determination of fair value of net assets acquired in a business combination, the determination of assumptions for pension and postretirement employee benefit costs, useful lives of property and equipment, the assessment of a potential impairment of goodwill or long-lived assets, and income taxes including the determination of a need for a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets. Actual results may differ from previously estimated amounts. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for the use of estimates in the preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 275 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 9 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6927468&loc=d3e6143-108592 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 275 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 8 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6927468&loc=d3e6132-108592 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 275 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6927468&loc=d3e6061-108592 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Statement of Position (SOP) -Number 94-6 -Paragraph 11, 14 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Use of Estimates4false 2us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and temporary investments with maturities of less than three months when purchased. Amounts are reported in the balance sheets at cost, which approximates fair value. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for cash and cash equivalents, including the policy for determining which items are treated as cash equivalents. Other information that may be disclosed includes (1) the nature of any restrictions on the entity's use of its cash and cash equivalents, (2) whether the entity's cash and cash equivalents are insured or expose the entity to credit risk, (3) the classification of any negative balance accounts (overdrafts), and (4) the carrying basis of cash equivalents (for example, at cost) and whether the carrying amount of cash equivalents approximates fair value.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Cash -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6506951 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Cash Equivalents -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507016 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367179&loc=d3e4273-108586 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 305 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2122427 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Financial Reporting Release (FRR) -Number 203 -Paragraph 02-03 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Technical Practice Aid (TPA) -Number 2110 -Paragraph 6 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 7, 8, 9, 10 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Cash and Cash Equivalents5false 2penx_BookOverdraftsPolicyTextBlockpenx_falsenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Cash Overdrafts Cash overdrafts represent the amount by which outstanding checks issued, but not yet presented to banks for disbursement, exceed balances on deposit in the applicable bank accounts. The changes in cash overdrafts are included as a component of cash flows from financing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaBook overdrafts policy.No definition available.false0Cash Overdrafts6false 2us-gaap_ReceivablesPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Concentration of Credit Risk The allowance for doubtful accounts reflects the Company’s best estimate of probable losses in the accounts receivable balances. Penford estimates the allowance for uncollectible accounts based on historical experience, known troubled accounts, industry trends, economic conditions, how recently payments have been received, and ongoing credit evaluations of its customers. Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010 is as follows (dollars in thousands):   <table style="BORDER-COLLAPSE: collapse" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="92%" align="center">  <tr> <td width="60%"></td> <td valign="bottom" width="6%"></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td valign="bottom" width="6%"></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td valign="bottom" width="6%"></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td valign="bottom" width="6%"></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td style="BORDER-BOTTOM: #000000 1px solid" valign="bottom" colspan="2" nowrap="nowrap" align="center">Balance Beginning of Year</td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td style="BORDER-BOTTOM: #000000 1px solid" valign="bottom" colspan="2" nowrap="nowrap" align="center">Charged to Costs and Expenses</td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td style="BORDER-BOTTOM: #000000 1px solid" valign="bottom" colspan="2" nowrap="nowrap" align="center">Deductions and Other</td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td style="BORDER-BOTTOM: #000000 1px solid" valign="bottom" colspan="2" nowrap="nowrap" align="center">Balance End of Year</td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> </tr>  <tr bgcolor="#CCEEFF"> <td valign="top"> Year ended August 31: </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom"></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top"> 2012 </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">1,305</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">(42</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">) </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">(1,185</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">) </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">78</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> </tr> <tr bgcolor="#CCEEFF"> <td valign="top"> 2011 </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">350</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">958</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">(3</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">) </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">1,305</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top"> 2010 </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">605</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">(218</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">) </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">(37</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">) </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">350</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> </tr> </table> Approximately 36%, 34% and 39% of the Company’s sales in fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, were made to customers who operate in the paper industry. This industry suffered an economic downturn, which has resulted in the closure of a number of mills. In fiscal 2011, the increase in the allowance for uncollectible accounts was related to two paper industry customers. These receivables were written off in fiscal 2012. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for trade and other accounts receivable, and finance, loan and lease receivables, including those classified as held for investment and held for sale. This disclosure may include (1) the basis at which such receivables are carried in the entity's statements of financial position (2) how the level of the valuation allowance for receivables is determined (3) when impairments, charge-offs or recoveries are recognized for such receivables (4) the treatment of origination fees and costs, including the amortization method for net deferred fees or costs (5) the treatment of any premiums or discounts or unearned income (6) the entity's income recognition policies for such receivables, including those that are impaired, past due or placed on nonaccrual status and (7) the treatment of foreclosures or repossessions (8) the nature and amount of any guarantees to repurchase receivables.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 114 -Paragraph 20 -Subparagraph b -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) -Number 92-5 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 310 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2196772 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Statement of Position (SOP) -Number 01-6 -Paragraph 13 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 3-5 -Article 5 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 310 -SubTopic 20 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2196816 false0Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Concentration of Credit Risk7false 2us-gaap_InventoryPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Inventories and Cost of Sales Inventory is stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventory is valued using the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method, which approximates actual cost. Capitalized costs include materials, labor and manufacturing overhead related to the purchase and production of inventories. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for major classes of inventories, bases of stating inventories (for example, lower of cost or market), methods by which amounts are added and removed from inventory classes (for example, FIFO, LIFO, or average cost), loss recognition on impairment of inventories, and situations in which inventories are stated above cost. If inventory is carried at cost, this disclosure includes the nature of the cost elements included in inventory.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 43 -Paragraph 3, 5-10, 15, 16, 17 -Chapter 4 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Financial Reporting Release (FRR) -Number 206 -Paragraph b -Subparagraph i, ii -Chapter 2 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph a -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6361739&loc=d3e7789-107766 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 43 -Section A -Paragraph 9 -Chapter 3 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.6(b)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 330 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6386783&loc=d3e4492-108314 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 330 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2126999 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 330 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6386783&loc=d3e4556-108314 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Statement of Position (SOP) -Number 81-1 -Paragraph 69-75 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Inventories and Cost of Sales8false 2us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets acquired. The Company evaluates its goodwill for impairment annually and whenever events or circumstances make it more likely than not that impairment may have occurred. To determine whether goodwill is impaired, Penford compares the fair value of each reporting unit to that reporting unit’s carrying amount. If the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount goodwill is not considered impaired. If the fair value of the reporting unit is lower than its carrying amount, Penford then compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill, and, if the carrying value is higher than the fair value, an impairment would be recorded. The implied fair value of a reporting unit is determined using a discounted cash flow method considering the Company’s market capitalization. Patents are amortized using the straight-line method over their expected economic useful lives. At August 31, 2012, the weighted average remaining amortization period for patents is four years. Penford has no intangible assets with indefinite lives. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for goodwill and intangible assets. This accounting policy also may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of goodwill and intangible assets.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2144471 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 144 -Paragraph 7-18, 22 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2144439 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 142 -Paragraph 4, 11-23, 26, 34 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets9false 2us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. The Company uses the straight-line method to compute depreciation expense over the estimated useful lives of the depreciable assets. Equipment and vehicles generally have average useful lives ranging from three to twelve years and real estate between twelve to forty-six years. Depreciation, which includes depreciation of assets under capital leases, of $12.7 million, $12.8 million and $13.1 million was recorded in fiscal years 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. For income tax purposes, the Company generally uses accelerated depreciation methods. Interest is capitalized on major construction projects while in progress. During fiscal 2012, the Company capitalized $48,000 in interest costs. No interest was capitalized in fiscal years 2011 and 2010. The Company reviews the net book value of property, plant and equipment for impairment whenever circumstances indicate that the net book value may not be recoverable from estimated future cash flows. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for property, plant and equipment which may include the basis of such assets, depreciation methods used and estimated useful lives, the entity's capitalization policy, including its accounting treatment for costs incurred for repairs and maintenance activities, whether such asset balances include capitalized interest and the method by which such is calculated, how disposals of such assets are accounted for and how impairment of such assets is assessed and recognized.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 360 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2155824 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 22 -Paragraph 12, 13 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) -Number 43 -Section C -Paragraph 5 -Chapter 9 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 12 -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph d -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 144 -Paragraph 7 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.13(a)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 13 -Subparagraph a -Article 5 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 34 -Paragraph 8, 9 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Property, Plant and Equipment10false 2us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Income Taxes The provision for income taxes includes federal and state taxes currently payable and deferred income taxes arising from temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured pursuant to tax laws using the rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The impact on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the date of enactment. A valuation allowance is provided to the extent that it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will not be realized. Tax benefits from uncertain tax positions are recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position. The amount recognized is measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement. The Company recognizes interest and penalty expense associated with uncertain tax positions as a component of income tax expense. The Company has not provided deferred taxes related to its investment in foreign subsidiaries, which are classified as discontinued operations, as it does not expect future distributions from the subsidiaries or repayments of permanent advances. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for income taxes, which may include its accounting policies for recognizing and measuring deferred tax assets and liabilities and related valuation allowances, recognizing investment tax credits, operating loss carryforwards, tax credit carryforwards, and other carryforwards, methodologies for determining its effective income tax rate and the characterization of interest and penalties in the financial statements.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 4 -Paragraph 11 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name FASB Interpretation (FIN) -Number 48 -Paragraph 20 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 25 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21917399&loc=d3e32247-109318 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 19 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32840-109319 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 30 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2144749 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 954 -SubTopic 740 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6491622&loc=d3e9504-115650 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2144681 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 17 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32809-109319 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=21917399&loc=d3e32280-109318 Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 109 -Paragraph 6-34, 43, 47, 49 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Income Taxes11false 2us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Revenue Recognition Revenue from sales of products and shipping and handling revenue are recognized at the time goods are shipped and title transfers to the customer. This transfer is considered complete when a sales agreement is in place, delivery has occurred, pricing is fixed or determinable and collection is reasonably assured. Costs associated with shipping and handling are included in cost of sales. The Company produces certain by-products from its corn starch manufacturing process, primarily germ, fiber and gluten. The proceeds from the sale of these by-products are included in sales in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. See Note 2. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for revenue recognition. If the entity has different policies for different types of revenue transactions, the policy for each material type of transaction is generally disclosed. If a sales transaction has multiple element arrangements (for example, delivery of multiple products, services or the rights to use assets) the disclosure may indicate the accounting policy for each unit of accounting as well as how units of accounting are determined and valued. The disclosure may encompass important judgment as to appropriateness of principles related to recognition of revenue. The disclosure also may indicate the entity's treatment of any unearned or deferred revenue that arises from the transaction.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18726-107790 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) -Number Topic 13 -Section B -Paragraph Question 1 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 605 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SAB TOPIC 13.B.Q1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6600647&loc=d3e214044-122780 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 22 -Paragraph 8, 12, 13 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18823-107790 false0Revenue Recognition12false 2us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpensePolicyus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Research and Development Research and development costs are expensed as incurred, except for costs of patents, which are capitalized and amortized over the lives of the patents. Research and development costs expensed were $5.8 million, $4.8 million and $4.4 million in fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for costs it has incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 730 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2127266 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Research and Development -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6523717 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 2 -Paragraph 8, 12, 13 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name FASB Interpretation (FIN) -Number 6 -Paragraph 5, 6, 8 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 141 -Paragraph 42 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Research and Development13false 2penx_AccruedLiabilitiesPolicyTextBlockpenx_falsenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Accrued Liabilities Components of accrued liabilities are as follows:   <table style="BORDER-COLLAPSE: collapse" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="76%" align="center">  <tr> <td width="82%"></td> <td valign="bottom" width="4%"></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td valign="bottom" width="4%"></td> <td></td> <td></td> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td style="BORDER-BOTTOM: #000000 1px solid" valign="bottom" colspan="6" align="center">August 31,</td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td style="BORDER-BOTTOM: #000000 1px solid" valign="bottom" colspan="2" align="center">2012</td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td style="BORDER-BOTTOM: #000000 1px solid" valign="bottom" colspan="2" align="center">2011</td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> </tr>  <tr bgcolor="#CCEEFF"> <td valign="top"> Employee-related costs </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">4,837</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">3,342</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top"> Other </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">4,305</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom"> </td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">4,221</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> </tr> <tr style="FONT-SIZE: 1px"> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">   </td> <td valign="bottom">   </td> <td> </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">   </td> <td valign="bottom">   </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr bgcolor="#CCEEFF"> <td valign="top"> Accrued liabilities </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">9,142</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">$</td> <td valign="bottom" align="right">7,563</td> <td valign="bottom" nowrap="nowrap">  </td> </tr> <tr style="FONT-SIZE: 1px"> <td valign="bottom"></td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">   </td> <td valign="bottom">   </td> <td> </td> <td valign="bottom">  </td> <td valign="bottom">   </td> <td valign="bottom">   </td> <td> </td> </tr> </table> Employee-related costs include accrued payroll, compensated absences, payroll taxes, benefits and incentives. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaAccrued liabilities policy.No definition available.false0Accrued Liabilities14false 2us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionsAndTranslationsPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Foreign Currency Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries whose functional currency is deemed to be other than the U.S. dollar are translated at year end rates of exchange. Resulting translation adjustments are accumulated in the currency translation adjustments component of other comprehensive income. Statement of operations amounts are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the year. The net foreign currency transaction gain recognized in earnings was $0.4 million for fiscal year 2010. Foreign currency transaction gains or losses in fiscal years 2012 and 2011 were not significant. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for (1) transactions denominated in a currency other than the reporting enterprise's functional currency, (2) translating foreign currency financial statements that are incorporated into the financial statements of the reporting enterprise by consolidation, combination, or the equity method of accounting, and (3) remeasurement of the financial statements of a foreign reporting enterprise in a hyperinflationary economy.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 830 -SubTopic 20 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2175856 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 830 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2175826 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 830 -SubTopic 30 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2175892 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 52 -Paragraph 5, 7-20, 80 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Foreign Currency15false 2us-gaap_DerivativesPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Derivatives Penford uses derivative instruments to manage the exposures associated with commodity prices, interest rates and energy costs. The derivative instruments are reported at fair value in other current assets or accounts payable in the consolidated balance sheets. For derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges, the gain or loss on the derivative instruments as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged firm commitments or inventory are recognized in current earnings as a component of cost of goods sold. For derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instruments is reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable income taxes, and recognized in earnings when the hedged exposure affects earnings. The Company recognizes the gain or loss on the derivative instrument as a component of cost of goods sold in the period when the finished goods produced from the hedged item are sold or, for interest rate swaps, as a component of interest expense in the period the forecasted transaction is reported in earnings. If it is determined that the derivative instruments used are no longer effective at offsetting changes in cash flows or fair value of the hedged item, then the changes in fair value would be recognized in current earnings as a component of cost of good sold or interest expense. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for its derivative instruments and hedging activities.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 08 -Paragraph n -Article 4 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=d3e41620-113959 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1A -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=SL5579245-113959 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=SL5579240-113959 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=d3e41638-113959 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(n)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 7 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=d3e41675-113959 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name FASB Interpretation (FIN) -Number 39 -Paragraph 10 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Derivatives16false 2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationsPolicyus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Acquisitions Acquisitions of businesses are accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and the financial statements include the results of the acquired operations from the date of acquisition. The purchase price of the acquired entity is allocated to the net assets acquired and net liabilities assumed based on the estimated fair value at the date of acquisition. The excess of cost over the fair value of the net assets acquired is recognized as goodwill. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for completed business combinations (purchase method, acquisition method or combination of entities under common control). This accounting policy may include a general discussion of the purchase method or acquisition method of accounting (including for example, the treatment accorded contingent consideration, the identification of assets and liabilities, the purchase price allocation process, how the fair values of acquired assets and liabilities are determined) and the entity's specific application thereof. An entity that acquires another entity in a leveraged buyout transaction generally discloses the accounting policy followed by the acquiring entity in determining the basis used to value its interest in the acquired entity, and the rationale for that accounting policy.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 805 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2303973 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 805 -SubTopic 10 -Section 05 -Paragraph 4 -Subparagraph (a)-(d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6909625&loc=d3e227-128457 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 141R -Paragraph 6 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 141R -Paragraph 7 -Subparagraph a, b, c, d -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) -Number 88-16 -Section SEC Observer Comments -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 141 -Paragraph 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Acquisitions17false 2us-gaap_MajorCustomersPolicyPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Significant Customer and Export Sales The Company has several relatively large customers in each business segment. The Company’s sales of ethanol to its sole ethanol customer, Eco-Energy, Inc., represented approximately 24%, 28% and 23% of the Company’s net sales for fiscal years 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Eco-Energy, Inc. is a marketer and distributor of biofuels in the United States and Canada, is a customer of the Company’s Industrial Ingredients business. Export sales accounted for approximately 7.6%, 7.2% and 7.9% of consolidated sales in fiscal years ended August 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for major customers. Major customers are those that the loss of such customers would have a material adverse effect on the entity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 275 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 20 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6927468&loc=d3e6404-108592 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 275 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 16 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6927468&loc=d3e6327-108592 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 275 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 18 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6927468&loc=d3e6351-108592 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 42 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e9054-108599 false0Significant Customer and Export Sales18false 2us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationOptionAndIncentivePlansPolicyus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Stock-Based Compensation The Company has a long-term incentive plan that provides for stock-based compensation, including the granting of stock options and shares of restricted stock to employees and directors. The Company utilizes the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to determine the fair value of stock options on the date of grant. This model derives the fair value of stock options based on certain assumptions related to expected stock price volatility, expected option life, risk-free interest rate and dividend yield. See Note 12 for further detail. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of accounting policy for stock option and stock incentive plans. This disclosure may include (1) the types of stock option or incentive plans sponsored by the entity (2) the groups that participate in (or are covered by) each plan (3) significant plan provisions and (4) how stock compensation is measured, and the methodologies and significant assumptions used to determine that measurement.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367646&loc=d3e18780-107790 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 123R -Paragraph A240 -Subparagraph a -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b),(f) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6415400&loc=d3e5070-113901 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 718 -SubTopic 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/subtopic&trid=2228939 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) -Number 06-11 -Paragraph 7 -LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy. false0Stock-Based Compensation19false 2us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlockus-gaap_truenadurationfalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterseLabel1falsefalsefalse00<div> Recent Accounting Pronouncements In June 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05, Presentation of Comprehensive Income (“ASU 2011-05”). To increase the prominence of items reported in other comprehensive income, the FASB eliminated the option of presenting components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholders’ equity. ASU 2011-05 requires that all nonowner changes in stockholders’ equity be presented either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements. Regardless of the presentation of the components of other comprehensive income, ASU 2011-05 requires that the Company present on the face of the financial statements the reclassification adjustments for items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income. The amendments in ASU 2011-05 are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011 (fiscal 2013 for Penford). The amendments in this update are to be applied retrospectively and early application is permitted. In December 2011, the FASB indefinitely deferred the effective date for certain requirements included in ASU 2011-05 as they relate to presentation of reclassification adjustments for items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income. The Company is evaluating the impact this update will have on its disclosures. In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-11, Disclosures About Offsetting Assets and Liabilities (“ASU 2011-11”). This update creates new disclosure requirements about the nature of an entity’s rights of setoff and related arrangements associated with its financial instruments and derivative instruments. The disclosure requirements are effective for annual reporting periods, and interim reporting periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2013 (fiscal 2014 for Penford). The Company is evaluating the impact this update will have on its disclosures. </div>falsefalsefalsenonnum:textBlockItemTypenaDisclosure of the adoption of new accounting pronouncements that may impact the entity's financial reporting.No definition available.false0Recent Accounting PronouncementsfalseSummary of Significant Accounting Policies (Restated) (Policies)UnKnownUnKnownUnKnownUnKnowntruefalsefalseSheethttp://www.penx.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsSignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlockPolicies119