31142 - Fruit and Vegetable Canning, Pickling, and Drying

Introduction

NAICS Code 31142 is a vital classification within the food manufacturing sector, covering businesses that specialize in processing fruits and vegetables through canning, pickling, and drying. This industry plays a crucial role in providing consumers and businesses with preserved produce that extends shelf life and enhances flavors. Whether it's the canned peaches on your grocery shelf or the dried apricots in a snack pack, companies under NAICS 31142 are at the heart of delivering these products.

What is NAICS Code 31142?

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code 31142 pertains to establishments primarily engaged in the preservation of fruits and vegetables using methods such as canning, pickling, and drying. This includes processing fresh produce into convenient, long-lasting forms for both consumer and commercial use.

Industry Description:

• Canning: Sealing food in airtight containers to prevent spoilage.
• Pickling: Preserving fruits or vegetables in a vinegar or brine solution.
• Drying: Removing moisture from fruits or vegetables to enhance preservation.

Sector Overview: Food Manufacturing

NAICS 31142 falls under the broader Food Manufacturing Sector (NAICS 311). This sector encompasses establishments engaged in transforming raw agricultural products into food items that are ready for distribution and consumption.

Typical Business Activities Include:

• Canned Fruit Production: Processing and packaging fruits such as peaches, pears, and cherries.
• Pickled Vegetable Manufacturing: Producing pickles, sauerkraut, and other pickled vegetable products.
• Dried Fruit Processing: Dehydrating fruits like apples, raisins, and apricots for snacks and baking ingredients.

Size Standards for Eligibility

Understanding size standards is essential, especially for businesses seeking government contracts or small business certifications within NAICS 31142.

• Size Standard: The Small Business Administration (SBA) generally defines small businesses in NAICS 31142 as those with 500 employees or fewer.
• This threshold determines eligibility for SBA programs, such as the 8(a) Business Development Program, HUBZone, and other government contracting opportunities.

Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 31142

Here are some typical examples of companies operating within this industry code:

• Canned Fruit Producers – Companies producing canned peaches, fruit cocktail, or tomato sauce.
• Pickled Vegetable Manufacturers – Firms producing pickled cucumbers, beets, kimchi, or sauerkraut.
• Dried Fruit Processors – Businesses drying and packaging raisins, prunes, dried apricots, and other dehydrated fruit snacks.

NAICS Code 31142 Details

Item	Description
NAICS Code	31142
Title	Fruit and Vegetable Canning, Pickling, and Drying
Sector	Food Manufacturing (NAICS 311)
Industry Description	Establishments primarily engaged in canning, pickling, and drying fruits and vegetables.
Typical Activities	Canned fruit production, pickled vegetable manufacturing, dried fruit processing
Size Standard (SBA)	500 employees or fewer
Economic Role	Extends shelf life of produce, adds value to agricultural products, supplies retail and industrial markets

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What types of products fall under NAICS 31142?

Products include canned fruits (peaches, pears), pickled vegetables (pickles, sauerkraut), and dried fruits (raisins, dried apples).

Which sector does NAICS 31142 belong to?

It belongs to the Food Manufacturing sector, specifically focused on preservation and processing of fruits and vegetables.

What is the SBA size standard for NAICS 31142?

Businesses must have 500 or fewer employees to qualify as small under SBA standards.

Can a company engaged in freezing fruits fall under NAICS 31142?

No, freezing falls under different NAICS codes related to frozen fruit and vegetable processing.

How can businesses under NAICS 31142 benefit from government contracting?

Businesses meeting the size standard can pursue certifications like 8(a) or HUBZone, which can open doors to federal contracting opportunities.

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Optimizing your business profile with the correct NAICS code is key for compliance, marketing, and government contracting pursuits. Whether you’re a seasoned manufacturer or a new entrant in the food preservation market, understanding NAICS 31142 helps position your enterprise for success in the fruit and vegetable processing arena.