3112 - Grain and Oilseed Milling
If you're exploring the manufacturing sector or involved in agricultural processing, understanding NAICS Code 3112 is vital. This code represents the Grain and Oilseed Milling industry — a cornerstone of food production in the U.S. economy. From milling flour to refining soybean oil, establishments under this code play a crucial role in turning raw grains and oilseeds into staple food products.
What is NAICS Code 3112 - Grain and Oilseed Milling?
NAICS Code 3112 covers establishments primarily engaged in:
- Milling flour, rice, and other grains
- Processing grains into meal and starches
- Producing edible oils such as soybean oil and other vegetable oils derived from oilseeds
This industry transforms raw agricultural commodities into essential food ingredients used in households, bakeries, and food manufacturing.
Sector: Manufacturing
NAICS 3112 falls under the broader Manufacturing Sector (Sector 31-33). Specifically, it relates to food manufacturing sub-sectors that convert raw grains and oilseeds into processed forms for human consumption.
Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 3112
Businesses classified under this industry code typically engage in the following activities:
- Flour Milling: Production of wheat flour for baking and cooking
- Rice Milling: Processing paddy rice into edible forms like white rice
- Oilseed Processing: Extraction and refining of vegetable oils such as soybean, canola, and sunflower oils
- Starch Production: Deriving starches from grains like corn or wheat for food and industrial uses
- Meal Preparation: Producing grain meals used as ingredients or animal feed additives
Small Business Size Standards for NAICS 3112
To qualify as a "small business" under NAICS 3112, the SBA defines size standards based on annual revenue or number of employees:
| Industry Subsector | Size Standard |
|---|---|
| Flour Milling | $38.5 million (annual receipts) |
| Rice Milling | $38.5 million (annual receipts) |
| Oilseed Processing & Refining | $38.5 million (annual receipts) |
| Starch & Vegetable Fats & Oils | $38.5 million (annual receipts) |
These standards help businesses identify eligibility for small business programs, government contracts, and financial assistance.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 3112
Here are typical examples of companies operating within this code:
- Flour Mills: Companies milling wheat into various flour types for commercial or retail sale
- Rice Milling Companies: Processing raw rice for distribution to grocery stores or industrial use
- Soybean Oil Producers: Firms extracting and refining soybean oil for cooking and food manufacturing
- Corn Starch Manufacturers: Businesses producing corn starch as an ingredient in processed foods and other products
NAICS Code 3112 At-a-Glance
| NAICS Code | Title | Description | Sector | Size Standard | Typical Business Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3112 | Grain and Oilseed Milling | Milling flour, rice, grains; producing oilseed products | Manufacturing | $38.5 million (annual receipts) | Flour mills, Rice mills, Oilseed processors |
FAQ: Understanding NAICS Code 3112
Q1: What products are made under NAICS 3112?
A: This includes flour, rice, grain meals, starch, and edible oils from oilseeds such as soybean oil.
Q2: Is NAICS 3112 only about food production?
A: Primarily yes, it focuses on manufacturing edible grain and oilseed products, though starches may serve industrial uses as well.
Q3: What is the importance of this NAICS code for government contracting?
A: NAICS 3112 helps identify businesses in grain and oilseed milling eligible for specific government programs and contracts.
Q4: Can small businesses in this industry access special SBA programs?
A: Yes, businesses with annual revenue under $38.5 million generally qualify as small and can access SBA assistance.
Q5: How is oil extracted in oilseed processing?
A: Oilseed processing typically involves cleaning, crushing, and solvent extraction followed by refining for edible use.
Conclusion
NAICS Code 3112 - Grain and Oilseed Milling is a critical classification within the manufacturing sector, encompassing establishments that turn raw grains and oilseeds into fundamental food products like flour, rice, and vegetable oils. Understanding this code can help manufacturers, service providers, and government contractors accurately identify industry activities, size standards, and opportunities for growth in this essential sector of the economy.
If you're a business owner or stakeholder in grain and oilseed milling, familiarize yourself with NAICS 3112 to leverage available resources and participate in government contracting opportunities effectively.
Keywords: NAICS 3112, Grain and Oilseed Milling, flour milling, rice milling, oilseed processing, soybean oil production, manufacturing sector, small business size standards.
