QA_001_-_SOL-OAA-15-000173.pdf

17 September 2015

Q&A 001

The following are answers to questions received from potential offerors. The answers provide clarification only and DO NOT constitute an amendment to the solicitation.

1. In Section D.1-B Secondary Markings (outer container), the artwork shows the word

“Product of U.S.A.” The RFP, however, does not indicate the product must be manufactured in the United States. Shall the HEB be manufactured in the United States?

ANSWER: In accordance with Section H.3 AIDAR 752.225.70 Source and Nationality

Requirements (February 2012), the authorized source for procurement is Geographic Code 937

(worldwide). The HEBs does not have to be made in the USA

2. Will USAID procure HEB on a regular basis? If so, what would be the estimated annual quantity and order frequency?

ANSWER: This is the first time USAID is procuring HEBs. The Agency intends to procure more HEBs however the quantity and frequency is unknown until after the first procurement.

3. Does a HEB sample need to be submitted with the RFP?

ANSWER: Although it is not a requirement of the RFP, Offerors may submit a sample of HEB with their proposal.

4. The RFP does not indicate the need for a “Start-Up Phase”. Does this mean that only

“Analytical Requirements” (Section 3.6) are needed, even for new manufacturers?

ANSWER: The requirements in the RFP are as stated. This particular RFP does not have a startup phase

5. Does the HEB production require zoning and pathogen & environmental monitoring

(PEM)?

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

SOL-OAA-15-000173

ANSWER: The requirements in the RFP are as stated.

6. In reference to Section 3.3.3., table 1 (Micronutrient Rate and Chemical Form), can

Magnesium Phosphate for the “Magnesium”, and Potassium iodide for the “Iodine” be used?

ANSWER: It is expected compliance with the requirements in the RFP, in terms of chemical forms of micronutrients. Offerors can propose equivalent forms with if scientific evidence is provided

7. Section 3.4.2 (Secondary Package), reads: “About 15-20 bags of silica gel of at least 1 Kg each should be placed in each container in order to absorb moisture.” Should the silica gel bags be 1 g each, instead of 1 Kg each?

ANSWER: The amount of moisture scrubbing silica is meant to be 15-20 1-gr (no a 1-kg) small pouches per carton.

8. Can offerors use their partner/subcontractor’s experience to meet the solicitation requirement as described in Section M.3-Evaluation Factors for Award, Factor 1-Technical

Acceptability, item 4-Experience?

ANSWER: Yes, the offeror can use its partner/subcontractor experience manufacturing and shipping products under NAICS code 31182 (Cookie, Cracker, and Pasta Manufacturing, including noncommercial) to meet the requirement.

9. What are the main changes between SOL-OAA-15-000117 (cancelled) and SOL-OAA-15-

000173 (current)?

ANSWER: The main changes between solicitation SOL-OAA-15-000117 (cancelled) and the current one (SOL-OAA-15-000173), are but not limited to: a) level of onsite inspection. b) there was a slight change in the formula. c) Changes in zoning and pathogen & environmental monitoring (PEM) Offerors shall not assume that this response provides the entire magnitude of the changes. It is the offerors’ sole responsibility to ensure the correct solicitation package (SOL-

OAA-15-000173) is used for the development of their proposals.