FDA - SS NOI - 1229273.doc

FDA-Sole Source-1229273 Continuation of Research and Development Project - Yuma Valley Sampling for Foodborne Pathogens

The Food and Drug Administration intends to make a sole source award for the continuation of a research and development project to understand the causes of foodborne pathogen outbreaks associated with produce in the Yuma, Arizona growing area. The award will be made to:

University of Arizona, Maricopa Agricultural Center 37860 W. Smith-Enke Rd.

Maricopa, AZ 85138 In accordance with FAR 6.302-3 (a)(2)(ii), FAR 13.106(b) and FAR 5.203, this solicitation contains circumstances permitting other than full and open competition for developmental and/or research capabilities.

To support the FDA’s FSMA office and the Produce Safety Rule, there is a need to have a greater understanding of the presence, persistence, seasonality and diversity of foodborne enteric pathogens within produce production areas such as the Yuma Valley growing region. This research project is a continuation of work previously performed through an Interagency Agreement with the USDA and University of Arizona. As a of changes in the interpretation in the use of IAA’s, the previous agreement mechanism cannot be used. In order to continue this research and development project, the FDA requires the assistances of the University of Arizona’s agricultural extension, which maintains established relationships with private growers and water rights holders, in order to conduct environmental microbiology sampling and analysis in the Yuma, Arizona area. Without the involvement of the University of Arizona, the FDA will not be able to gain access to get critical samples needed to help understand the full problem of enteric pathogen contamination of romaine lettuce in the region. In accordance with FAR 6.302-3, a sole source award shall be made to the University of Arizona to maintain an essential research and development capability to be provided by an educational institution. There are no other performers available for performance of this requirement, therefore in is in the best interest of the government to plan an award in the estimated amount of $228,000.00 to the University of Arizona.

This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotes. However, all responsible sources may submit a capability statement within fifteen (15) days after the publication of this synopsis which shall be considered by the agency. Responses received after 15 days or without the required information may not be considered. For information concerning this acquisition contact:

Nikola Zuber Contract Specialist Nikola.Zuber@fda.hhs.gov

(301) 796 - 9671 A determination by the Government not to compete because of information received is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

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