DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION (USD $)
In Millions, except Share data
 12 Months Ended
May 29, 2011
Feb. 27, 2011
Document And Entity Information    
Document Type 10-K  
Document period end date May 29, 2011
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011  
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY  
Amendment flag false  
Entity registrant name GENERAL MILLS INC,  
Entity central index key 0000040704  
Entity current reporting status Yes  
Entity voluntary filers Yes  
Current fiscal year end date --05-29  
Entity filer category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity well known seasoned issuer Yes  
Entity common stock shares outstanding   651,216,065
Entity public float   $ 22,384.1