31123 - Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing
If you've ever enjoyed a bowl of your favorite cereal, you indirectly experienced the multifaceted operations under NAICS code 31123 - Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing. This industry plays a critical role in producing a wide array of ready-to-eat and hot cereal products that fuel millions of consumers daily. From crispy corn flakes to hearty oatmeal, companies operating under this code transform raw grains into delicious and nutritious breakfast options.
What is NAICS Code 31123?
NAICS Code 31123 specifically covers the Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing industry. This classification includes establishments primarily engaged in:
- Producing ready-to-eat breakfast cereals
- Manufacturing hot cereals such as oatmeal and cream of wheat
- Processing grains into various forms like flaked, puffed, or shredded cereals
Sector: Food Manufacturing
Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing falls within the broader Food Manufacturing sector, which encompasses the conversion of raw agricultural goods into edible products for human consumption.
Key Business Activities in Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing
Businesses operating under NAICS 31123 typically engage in:
- Production of Ready-to-Eat Cereals: Includes corn flakes, bran flakes, puffed rice, shredded wheat, and multi-grain cereals
- Manufacture of Hot Cereals: Such as oatmeal, cream of wheat, and other cooked grain-based cereals
- Grain Processing: Converting raw grains like corn, wheat, oats, rice, and barley into processed, packaged cereal products
These activities highlight the blend of agricultural processing and advanced manufacturing technologies needed to deliver consistent, shelf-stable breakfast options.
NAICS 31123 Size Standards for Eligibility
When dealing with government contracting or small business programs, size standards help determine eligibility based on revenue or employee count. For NAICS Code 31123, the size standard is typically:
- 1,000 employees (this can vary depending on the contracting agency, so always verify current standards before applying)
This threshold defines whether a company qualifies as a small business within the Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing industry.
Typical Businesses Under NAICS 31123
Examples of companies and establishments classified under this NAICS code include:
- Large-scale cereal producers like Quaker Oats and Kellogg’s (manufacturing plants)
- Specialty producers focusing on organic or gluten-free cereal products
- Facilities converting oats, corn, wheat, or rice into packaged hot or cold cereals
- Contract manufacturers producing cereal for private label or store brands
NAICS Code 31123 Details at a Glance
| NAICS Code | Title | Sector | Description | Size Standard | Typical Business Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31123 | Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing | Food Manufacturing | Production of ready-to-eat and hot cereals made from various grains | 1,000 employees | Ready-to-eat cereal production, hot cereal manufacture, grain processing |
FAQs About NAICS Code 31123
What products are included in Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing?
This category includes ready-to-eat cereals like flakes and puffs, as well as hot cereals such as oatmeal. Products are generally grain-based and packaged for consumer retail.
How does NAICS 31123 differ from other grain product manufacturing codes?
NAICS 31123 focuses exclusively on breakfast cereals, whereas other grain processing NAICS codes cover products like flour milling, rice milling, or pasta manufacturing.
Can small businesses manufacture breakfast cereals under this code?
Yes. Businesses with up to 1,000 employees typically qualify as small under SBA size standards for this industry.
What grains are commonly used in this manufacturing sector?
Common grains include corn, wheat, oats, rice, and barley — all processed into various cereal formats.
Conclusion
Whether it's your morning crunch of corn flakes or a warm bowl of oatmeal, the manufacturing process behind these cereals is complex and vital — encapsulated by NAICS code 31123 - Breakfast Cereal Manufacturing. Understanding this classification helps businesses position themselves for government contracts, market analysis, and industry compliance in the growing food manufacturing sector.
Leverage this knowledge to discover opportunities, streamline operations, or simply appreciate the engineering behind your breakfast table favorites!
