CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 30, 2012	Dec. 25, 2011	Dec. 26, 2010
Net income (loss)	$ 174,042	$ (495,690)	$ 90,326
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net of tax	(12)	(1,160)	(226)
Recognition in earnings of a previously unrecognized gain on a derivative instrument designated as a cash flow hedge, net of tax	0	0	(2,565)
Gains (losses) associated with pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax	(22,429)	(21,273)	6,420
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(22,441)	(22,433)	3,629
Comprehensive income (loss)	151,601	(518,123)	93,955
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(192)	1,082	3,185
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Pilgrim's Pride Corporation	$ 151,793	$ (519,205)	$ 90,770