31122 - Starch and Vegetable Fats and Oils Manufacturing

When it comes to understanding the backbone of many essential food and industrial products, NAICS 31122 - Starch and Vegetable Fats and Oils Manufacturing plays a critical role. This industry classification sheds light on establishments engaged in converting plant sources like corn and potatoes into valuable starches, as well as extracting and refining vegetable oils and fats. Whether you’re a business owner, government contractor, or industry analyst, understanding this NAICS code is key to navigating the manufacturing sector successfully.

What is NAICS Code 31122?

NAICS Code 31122 specifically refers to the starch and vegetable fats and oils manufacturing industry. Businesses under this classification primarily:

• Manufacture starches from various plant sources such as corn, potatoes, and other vegetables.
• Extract and refine vegetable fats and oils for use in food products, industrial applications, and more.

This industry is a vital part of the broader manufacturing sector, supplying critical raw materials used in food production, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biofuels.

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Sector and Typical Business Activities for NAICS 31122

Sector: Manufacturing

This NAICS code falls within the manufacturing sector, emphasizing large-scale industrial processes that transform raw agricultural materials into market-ready products.

Typical Business Activities

Common activities under NAICS 31122 include:

• Corn starch manufacturing: Processing corn into various starch products used for thickening, gelling, and stabilizing food.
• Potato starch production: Extracting starch from potatoes for use in food, paper, and textile industries.
• Vegetable oil extraction and refining: Including oils from soybeans, sunflower, canola, and other plant sources.

These processes often involve sophisticated refining techniques to improve product quality and meet regulatory standards.

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NAICS Code 31122 Size Standards

For businesses interested in federal contracting or regulatory compliance, size standards help determine eligibility and classification:

NAICS Code	Industry Title	Size Standard (Employees)
31122	Starch and Vegetable Fats and Oils Manufacturing	750 employees

Note: These size standards are established by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and may vary over time. Always check current SBA guidelines for precise details.

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Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 31122

• AGRANA USA Inc.: Specializes in potato starch and corn starch production.
• Cargill, Incorporated: Major manufacturer and refiner of vegetable oils.
• Ingredion Incorporated: Provides starches and sweeteners derived from corn, potatoes, and other vegetables.
• Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM): Operates facilities that extract and process vegetable oils and starches.

These companies exemplify the diversity and scale within the starch and vegetable fats and oils manufacturing industry.

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NAICS Code 31122 Code Details Table

Attribute	Description
NAICS Code	31122
Industry Title	Starch and Vegetable Fats and Oils Manufacturing
Description	Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing starches and vegetable fats and oils from plant sources
Sector	Manufacturing
Primary Activities	Corn starch production, potato starch manufacturing, vegetable oil extraction and refining
Size Standard	750 employees
Typical Business Examples	Corn starch plants, vegetable oil refineries, potato starch producers
Related NAICS Codes	31121 - Flour Milling, 31123 - Prepared Flour Mixes and Doughs Manufacturing

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What products are made under NAICS 31122?

Products include various types of starches (corn, potato, vegetable), refined vegetable oils (soybean, canola, sunflower), and fats used in food, cosmetics, and industrial applications.

Who uses the products produced in this industry?

Food manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, cosmetic producers, and biofuel manufacturers are common end users.

Why is NAICS code 31122 important for government contractors?

This NAICS code helps classify businesses in federal contracting, enabling companies to compete for government contracts specific to manufacturing starches and vegetable oils.

How can I verify my business’s NAICS classification?

You can confirm your business's NAICS code via the official U.S. Census Bureau’s NAICS website or through SBA resources.

Are there environmental regulations affecting this industry?

Yes, firms under NAICS 31122 must comply with EPA regulations related to waste management, air emissions, and water usage during manufacturing.

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Conclusion

Understanding NAICS Code 31122 - Starch and Vegetable Fats and Oils Manufacturing is essential for stakeholders involved in the manufacturing sector, especially those engaged with agricultural derivatives. This industry not only provides indispensable raw materials but also contributes to economic growth and innovation within food processing and beyond.

Whether you are looking to classify your business, pursue government contracts, or simply gain industry insights, having a deep knowledge of NAICS 31122 will help you navigate the complexities of starch and vegetable fats and oils manufacturing with confidence.

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Keywords: NAICS 31122, starch manufacturing, vegetable fats and oils, corn starch production, vegetable oil extraction, potato starch, manufacturing sector, size standards, government contracting