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Fair value measurements
 9 Months Ended
Jul. 31, 2011
Fair value measurements [Abstract]  
Fair value measurements
9. Fair value measurements
     A fair value measurement is determined based on the assumptions that a market participant would use in pricing an asset or liability. A three-tiered hierarchy draws distinctions between market participant assumptions based on (i) observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets (Level 1), (ii) inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly (Level 2) and (iii) unobservable inputs that require the Company to use present value and other valuation techniques in the determination of fair value
(Level 3).
     The following tables set forth our financial assets and liabilities as of July 31, 2011 that are measured on a recurring basis during the period, segregated by level within the fair value hierarchy:
                                 
    Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total  
    (All amounts are presented in thousands)  
Assets at fair value:
                               
Investment in Limoneira Company(1)
  $ 35,833       —       —     $ 35,833  
 
                       
Total assets at fair value
  $ 35,833     $ —     $ —     $ 35,833  
 
                       
 
(1)   The investment in Limoneira Company consists of marketable securities in the Limoneira Company stock. We currently own approximately 15% of Limoneira’s outstanding common stock. These securities are measured at fair value by quoted market prices. Limoneira’s stock price at July 31, 2011 and October 31, 2010 equaled $20.73 per share and $20.24 per share. Unrealized gain and losses are recognized through other comprehensive income. Unrealized investment holding losses arising during the quarter ended July 31, 2011 was $2.2 million. Unrealized investment holding gains arising during the nine months ended July 31, 2011 was $0.8 million.
                                 
    Level 1     Level 2     Level 3     Total  
    (All amounts are presented in thousands)  
Liabilities at fair value:
                               
Salsa Lisa contingent consideration
    —       —     $ 1,573     $ 1,573  
RFG contingent consideration(2)
    —       —     $ 1,554     $ 1,554  
 
                       
Total assets at fair value
  $ —     $ —     $ 3,127     $ 3,127  
 
                       
 
(2)   See Note 11 for further discussion.