3116 - Animal Slaughtering and Processing

When it comes to understanding industry classifications in the manufacturing sector, NAICS code 3116 stands out as a critical category. Focused on Animal Slaughtering and Processing, this code encompasses businesses integral to the meat supply chain—from slaughtering livestock to preparing meat products for consumers. Whether you're a government contractor, supplier, or business owner, knowing the ins and outs of NAICS 3116 is essential.

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What is NAICS Code 3116?

NAICS code 3116 identifies establishments primarily involved in slaughtering animals and processing meat products. This includes activities such as:

• Slaughtering various types of livestock including beef, pork, and poultry
• Processing meat for distribution and sale
• Preparing a variety of meat products like cuts, ground meat, and specialized products for retail or wholesale

Sector

• Sector: Manufacturing

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Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 3116

This industry group covers a broad range of businesses involved in both slaughtering and meat processing. Here are some of the common activities:

• Beef slaughtering plants specializing in cattle processing
• Poultry processing facilities handling chicken, turkey, or other fowl
• Pork processing establishments focusing on hog slaughter and pork product preparation
• Production of meat cuts, packaged meats, sausage, and other meat-based products

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Size Standards for NAICS 3116

Understanding the small business size standards is important, especially for federal contracting and compliance.

• Small Business Size Standard: Generally, a business involved in NAICS 3116 is considered small if it has 1,000 employees or fewer. However, size standards may vary depending on specific types of meat processing and federal agency requirements.

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Examples of Businesses in NAICS 3116

Here are typical business types classified under NAICS code 3116:

• Large-scale beef slaughtering plants serving regional or national markets
• Medium-sized poultry processing operations supplying grocery chains
• Small pork processing establishments producing artisanal or locally sourced meat products

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NAICS Code 3116 Details Table

Attribute	Description
NAICS Code	3116
Title	Animal Slaughtering and Processing
Sector	Manufacturing
Industry Description	Establishments engaged in animal slaughtering and meat processing activities
Typical Business Types	Beef slaughtering plants, Poultry processing facilities, Pork processing establishments
Size Standard	1,000 employees or fewer (varies by subtype)
Primary Activities	Slaughtering, cutting, processing, packaging meat products

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About NAICS Code 3116

Q1: What types of meat products are included under NAICS 3116?

NAICS 3116 covers all kinds of meat products derived from slaughtered animals—including beef, pork, poultry, processed meats like sausages, and ready-to-cook or packaged meat products.

Q2: Does this industry include seafood processing?

No. Seafood processing is classified under a different NAICS code (e.g., 3117 for Seafood Product Preparation).

Q3: Can poultry processing and beef slaughtering be classified under the same NAICS 3116 code?

Yes. Both poultry and beef slaughtering/processing fall under NAICS 3116 as they are part of the broader animal slaughtering and processing category.

Q4: How can businesses use NAICS code 3116 for government contracting?

Businesses can use NAICS 3116 to identify relevant contracts involving meat processing services and determine eligibility for small business programs based on size standards.

Q5: Are by-products like hides or animal fats included in this industry?

While the primary focus is on meat slaughtering and processing, some establishments may handle by-products. However, these activities may fall under related but separate NAICS codes depending on their primary business.

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Conclusion

NAICS code 3116, Animal Slaughtering and Processing, is a vital classification within the manufacturing sector that encompasses diverse meat industry operations. From beef and pork slaughtering to poultry processing, businesses under this code play a crucial role in the food supply chain. Understanding its definition, typical business activities, size standards, and classification details can help businesses navigate government contracting opportunities and industry regulations effectively.

If you're operating in or supplying to the meat processing industry, aligning your business operations with the appropriate NAICS code—like 3116—ensures clarity, eligibility, and competitive advantage.

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Keywords: NAICS code 3116, animal slaughtering, meat processing, beef slaughtering plants, poultry processing facilities, pork processing establishments, manufacturing sector, meat industry NAICS.