31123 - Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing
If you’re involved in the food production industry or considering entering the market, understanding NAICS code 31123 is crucial. This specific classification focuses on the manufacturing of breakfast cereals — a beloved staple for millions. Whether you’re a business owner, supplier, or government contractor, knowing the details of this NAICS code ensures compliance and helps identify opportunities within the food manufacturing sector.
What is NAICS Code 31123?
NAICS Code 31123 refers to Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing. It includes businesses engaged in producing both ready-to-eat and hot cereals made from various grains such as corn, wheat, oats, and rice. This industry transforms raw grains into finished cereal products designed for direct consumer consumption.
Key Aspects of NAICS Code 31123:
- Title: Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing
- Sector: Food Manufacturing (NAICS Sector 31)
- Description: Manufacturing of ready-to-eat cereals (e.g., flakes, puffs), hot cereals like oatmeal, and other processed grain-based breakfast products.
Sector and Typical Business Activities
Sector: Food Manufacturing
Breakfast cereal manufacturing falls under the food manufacturing sector, specializing in grain processing for direct consumer consumption. This sector is integral to the food supply chain, bridging raw agricultural products and packaged consumer goods.
Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 31123:
- Production of ready-to-eat breakfast cereals such as corn flakes, bran flakes, and puffed cereals.
- Manufacture of hot cereals like oatmeal and other cooked grain cereals.
- Processing grains into various shapes and textures including flaked, puffed, or granulated cereal products.
- Packaging and quality control for packaged cereals aimed at retailers and consumers.
Size Standards for NAICS 31123 Eligibility
For small business considerations, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) establishes size standards based on average annual receipts. As of the latest standards:
- Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing (NAICS 31123) size standard:
- A business must have average annual receipts of $41.5 million or less to qualify as a small business under SBA regulations.
This threshold is important for businesses seeking government contracts, loans, or certifications.
Examples of Businesses in NAICS 31123
Here are examples of the types of companies classified under NAICS 31123:
- Large national brands producing iconic cereals such as corn flakes or oatmeal.
- Regional or local companies specializing in artisan or organic breakfast cereals.
- Contract manufacturers that produce cereal products on behalf of private labels.
- Companies innovating with gluten-free or specialty grain cereals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What products are covered under NAICS 31123?
This code covers all ready-to-eat cereals, hot cereals, and processed grain cereals, including flakes, puffs, oatmeal, and other grain-based breakfast foods.
How does NAICS 31123 differ from other grain-related manufacturing codes?
While NAICS code 31123 specifically targets breakfast cereal production, other codes in food manufacturing cover different grain products such as flour milling or snack foods.
Can a bakery fall under NAICS 31123?
No. Bakeries typically fall under NAICS 31181 (Bakeries and Tortilla Manufacturing) unless they specifically manufacture breakfast cereals for retail sale.
Why is understanding the size standard important?
Knowing the SBA size standards helps businesses determine eligibility for small business programs, government contracts, and funding opportunities.
Conclusion
NAICS code 31123 plays a vital role in the food manufacturing sector, covering a diverse range of breakfast cereal products made from grains. Understanding this classification helps businesses stay compliant, identify market opportunities, and navigate industry regulations effectively. Whether you're producing popular ready-to-eat cereals or hot grain cereals, aligning your operations with NAICS 31123 standards is key to thriving in this competitive industry.
Keywords: NAICS 31123, Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing, food manufacturing sector, ready-to-eat cereals, hot cereals, SBA size standards, grain processing, puffed cereals, flaked cereals
