311612 - Meat Processed from Carcasses
The food manufacturing industry is vast and varied, with each segment playing a crucial role in delivering quality products to consumers. One key area is NAICS code 311612, which focuses on Meat Processed from Carcasses. Whether you're a business owner, supplier, or government contractor, understanding this code is essential for compliance, market insight, and business growth.
What is NAICS Code 311612?
NAICS code 311612 represents establishments primarily engaged in processing meat directly from carcasses. This includes activities such as:
- Cutting
- Trimming
- Packaging fresh or frozen meat products
Additionally, these facilities often prepare various processed meat products, including sausages, cured meats, smoked meats, and other specialty items.
Sector: Food Manufacturing
NAICS 311612 falls under the Food Manufacturing sector. This sector is pivotal in producing safe, high-quality food products, playing a vital role in the agricultural supply chain by converting raw inputs into consumable goods.
Detailed Code Description and Products
Businesses operating under NAICS 311612 handle a wide variety of products derived from purchased carcasses. Below is an overview of typical products and services included:
| Product / Service Description | Source of Material |
|---|---|
| Bacon (slab and sliced) | Purchased carcasses |
| Beef stew | Purchased carcasses |
| Beef primal and sub-primal cuts | Purchased carcasses |
| Bologna | Purchased carcasses |
| Boxed beef | Purchased carcasses |
| Boxed meat | Purchased carcasses |
| Collagen sausage casings | Purchased hides |
| Cooked meats | Purchased carcasses |
| Corned meats | Purchased carcasses |
| Cured meats (brined, dried, salted) | Purchased carcasses |
| Dried meats | Purchased carcasses |
| Frozen meat pies (e.g., tourtiere) | Purchased carcasses |
| Canned hams | Purchased carcasses |
| Preserved hams (excluding poultry) | Purchased carcasses |
| Hot dogs (excluding poultry) | Purchased carcasses |
| Lamb primal and sub-primal cuts | Purchased carcasses |
| Luncheon meat (excluding poultry) | Purchased carcasses |
| Meat canning (excluding baby food, pet food, poultry) | Purchased carcasses |
| Meat extracts | Purchased carcasses |
| Meat products canning (excluding baby food, pet food, poultry) | Purchased carcasses |
| Cured or smoked meats (excluding poultry) | Purchased carcasses |
| Fresh or chilled meats (excluding poultry and small game), frozen | Purchased carcasses |
| Pastrami | Purchased carcasses |
| Cooked and pickled pig's feet | Purchased carcasses |
| Pork primal and sub-primal cuts | Purchased carcasses |
| Potted meats | Purchased carcasses |
| Salted meats | Purchased carcasses |
| Meat sandwich spreads | Purchased carcasses |
| Sausage and similar cased products | Purchased carcasses |
| Collagen sausage casings | Purchased hides |
| Smoked meats | Purchased carcasses |
| Variety meats and edible organs | Purchased meats |
| Veal primal and sub-primal cuts | Purchased carcasses |
Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 311612
Businesses commonly associated with this code include:
- Meat packing plants
- Fresh meat processing facilities
- Sausage and other processed meat product manufacturers
These businesses are integral in the supply chain, transforming raw meat carcasses into consumer-ready products for retail, food service, and institutional buyers.
Size Standards for Eligibility
According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), the size standard for NAICS code 311612 is:
- Up to 1,000 employees
This means that companies with 1,000 or fewer employees operating in meat processing from carcasses may qualify as small businesses for government contracting and other program purposes.
Why is Understanding NAICS 311612 Important?
- For business owners: Helps identify industry trends, competitors, and compliance obligations.
- For government contractors: Enables proper classification when bidding on contracts or applying for assistance.
- For suppliers: Assists in market targeting and developing tailored products.
- For researchers and analysts: Provides clear segmentation within the food manufacturing sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of meat does NAICS 311612 cover?
NAICS 311612 covers meat from various animals such as beef, pork, lamb, veal, and other edible meats excluding poultry and small game, focusing primarily on carcass-based processing.
Does this NAICS include poultry processing?
No, this specific code excludes poultry processing, which is covered under different NAICS classifications.
Are sausage manufacturers included?
Yes, manufacturers of sausage and similar processed meat products made from purchased carcasses fall under NAICS 311612.
What is the employee size limit for a small business under this NAICS?
Establishments with up to 1,000 employees are classified within the size standard for this industry.
Can a business producing collagen sausage casings be classified here?
Yes, if the collagen casing is made from purchased hides related to meat processing, it fits under this code.
Conclusion
NAICS code 311612 serves as a cornerstone classification in the food manufacturing industry for businesses engaged in meat processing directly from carcasses. Understanding its scope, classification details, and size standards is essential for businesses, contractors, and stakeholders involved in this vital sector. Whether you operate a meat packing plant or manufacture processed meat products, this code helps ensure accurate market positioning and regulatory compliance.
For more information on NAICS codes and government contracting, explore additional resources and consult with industry experts to optimize your business strategy.
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