NAICS 31161 - Animal Slaughtering and Processing

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Key Terms

NAICS 3116 NAICS 311 animal slaughtering meat processing meat byproducts rendered fats USDA certified meat packing boxed meats government contracts military food supply food safety compliance processed meats institutional feeding disaster relief food

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Related NAICS Codes for NAICS 31161

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What is NAICS 31161

NAICS code 31161 covers establishments primarily engaged in animal slaughtering and processing activities. This industry includes businesses that slaughter animals, prepare processed meats and meat byproducts, and render or refine animal fats, bones, and meat scraps. Additionally, it encompasses facilities that engage in assembly cutting and packing of meats, such as boxed meats, sourced from purchased carcasses. Businesses operating under this NAICS code range from large meatpacking plants to smaller specialized processors. Government agencies contract these services to ensure a reliable supply of meat products for military personnel, federal institutions, and disaster relief efforts, where food safety and quality standards are critical.

Industry Classification for NAICS 31161

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in one or more of the following: (1) slaughtering animals; (2) preparing processed meats and meat byproducts; and (3) rendering and/or refining animal fat, bones, and meat scraps. This industry includes establishments primarily engaged in assembly cutting and packing of meats (i.e., boxed meats) from purchased carcasses.

Breakdown for NAICS 31161

  • Includes slaughtering and processing of animals for meat production.
  • Covers preparation of processed meats and meat byproducts.
  • Encompasses rendering and refining of animal fats, bones, and scraps.
  • Includes assembly cutting and packing of boxed meats from carcasses.
  • Subject to USDA regulations and food safety standards.
  • Relevant for both large-scale meatpacking and specialized processing operations.

Included Activities for NAICS 31161

  • Slaughtering livestock and poultry.
  • Processing meats into various cuts and products.
  • Rendering animal fats and refining byproducts.
  • Cutting and packaging boxed meats for distribution.
  • Ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
  • Coordinating supply logistics for government contracts.
  • Maintaining quality control and traceability systems.
  • Providing meat products for institutional and military use.

Business Types for NAICS 31161

  • Meatpacking plants
  • Animal slaughterhouses
  • Meat processing companies
  • Rendering facilities
  • Specialized meat packers
  • Food manufacturing contractors

Government Buyers for NAICS 31161

Government agencies such as the Department of Defense, the Department of Agriculture, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Department of Veterans Affairs frequently purchase animal slaughtering and processing services. These agencies require consistent, high-quality meat products to support military food programs, institutional feeding in federal hospitals and prisons, and emergency food supply chains during disasters or crises. Contracting with certified processors helps government buyers meet stringent health and safety regulations while maintaining supply chain stability.

Contract Types & Procurement for NAICS 31161

Contracts in this sector commonly include firm-fixed-price and indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) agreements, often awarded through competitive bidding processes. Procurement methods typically involve sealed bids and requests for proposals (RFPs) that emphasize compliance with USDA regulations, food safety certifications, and delivery capabilities. Contract values vary widely based on volume and scope, ranging from small orders for institutional use to large-scale contracts supporting military feeding operations, which can amount to millions of dollars annually.

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