Some publications and databases allow you to search by classification code, so it is essential to know which codes will be relevant to your research. The Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) system was established by the U.S. Government to provide a uniform means for collecting, presenting, and analyzing economic data. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), adopted in 1997 by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, replaced the SIC system and is the new standard for economic data. Please see our Guide to Industry Research to learn more about industry classification codes.​

Here you will find a selection of the most frequently encountered acronyms associated with the ice cream and frozen food industry:

• AFA    American Franchise Association
• ARS    Agricultural Research Service
• CUS    Cost per unit sweetness
• DSD    Direct-to-store delivery
• FDA     Food & Drug Administration
• HFCS  High-fructose corn syrup
• ICV      Industrial catering vehicle
• IDFA    International Dairy Foods Association
• IQF      Individually quick frozen
• MFPV  Mobile food preparation vehicle
• NAC    National Association of Concessionaires
• NRA    National Restaurant Association
• NSA    No-sugar-added
• POS    Point-of-sale
• QSR    Quick service restaurant
• USDA  United States Department of Agriculture