3115 - Dairy Product Manufacturing
The NAICS code 3115 represents an essential segment of the manufacturing sector, specifically focusing on Dairy Product Manufacturing. This industry plays a vital role in processing raw milk into a wide variety of consumable dairy products that we enjoy daily—ranging from milk and cheese to butter and ice cream. Whether you're a business owner, government contractor, or simply curious about the dairy manufacturing landscape, understanding NAICS 3115 is crucial.
What is NAICS Code 3115?
NAICS code 3115 covers establishments primarily engaged in the manufacturing of dairy products. This includes businesses involved in the transformation of raw milk acquired from farms into processed items suitable for consumer use.
Key Aspects Covered Under NAICS 3115:
- Processing raw milk to consumable products
- Manufacturing products such as:
- Milk (pasteurized, condensed, powdered)
- Cheese varieties (cheddar, mozzarella, etc.)
- Butter and cream
- Ice cream and frozen dairy desserts
Sector and Typical Business Activities
NAICS 3115 falls under the broader Manufacturing Sector, which encompasses a variety of industries dedicated to transforming raw materials into finished goods. Within dairy product manufacturing, businesses focus on complex production processes including pasteurization, fermentation, aging, churning, and freezing.
Common Business Types in NAICS 3115:
- Milk Processing Plants: Facilities that pasteurize, homogenize, and package fluid milk products.
- Cheese Manufacturing Facilities: Businesses dedicated to aging, curing, and packaging various cheeses.
- Ice Cream Production Companies: Producers of ice cream, frozen yogurt, and other frozen dairy desserts.
- Butter and Cream Manufacturers: Companies specializing in the churning and packaging of butter and cream products.
Size Standards for NAICS Code 3115
To qualify for certain government programs or contracts, businesses must meet SBA size standards specific to NAICS codes. For NAICS 3115, size standards are often measured by:
- Employee count: Typically, establishments must have 1,000 employees or fewer to be considered small businesses.
- Annual revenue: Size standards can also be linked to annual receipts, generally around $41.5 million or less—but it's important to check updated SBA guidelines as figures may vary.
Meeting the size standard enables businesses to compete for small business set-asides in government contracting and other federally-supported programs.
NAICS Code 3115 Details Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| NAICS Code | 3115 |
| Title | Dairy Product Manufacturing |
| Sector | Manufacturing |
| Industry Description | Establishments engaged in manufacturing dairy products such as milk, cheese, butter, and ice cream by processing raw milk. |
| Typical Business Types | Milk processing plants, cheese manufacturing facilities, butter producers, ice cream manufacturers |
| Size Standard | ≤ 1,000 employees or ≤ $41.5 million in revenue (subject to SBA updates) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About NAICS Code 3115
What types of products are included under NAICS 3115?
NAICS 3115 includes products such as pasteurized milk, cheese, butter, cream, ice cream, and other frozen dairy products made from raw milk.
Which sector does NAICS code 3115 belong to?
This code falls under the Manufacturing sector.
What businesses fall under NAICS 3115?
Common businesses include milk processing plants, cheese makers, butter manufacturers, and ice cream producers.
How does the SBA define a small business for NAICS 3115?
Typically, a small business under this code has 1,000 or fewer employees or meets specific revenue thresholds, usually around $41.5 million or less, but these standards can change.
Why is knowing your NAICS code important for government contracting?
Understanding your NAICS code helps you identify eligible government contracts, apply for business certifications, and align with sector-specific regulations.
Final Thoughts
With a broad range of products and key roles in the food supply chain, the Dairy Product Manufacturing industry (NAICS 3115) reflects an important facet of the manufacturing sector. Whether you’re managing a milk processing plant, running a cheese production facility, or exploring government contracting opportunities, knowing the specifics of NAICS 3115 can provide valuable insight and a competitive edge.
For businesses in or entering the dairy sector, staying informed about NAICS classifications, size standards, and industry trends is essential for growth and compliance.
