CRISPR-Based Genetic Test Kits for Seafood Species Identification

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service Office of Law Enforcement is conducting market research to identify contractors capable of developing rapid, CRISPR-based genetic test kits for identifying imported seafood species. The primary objective is to combat seafood mislabeling and fraud, which represent significant economic and public health threats given that the United States imports $25-$30 billion in seafood annually. Interested vendors must demonstrate qualifications and relevant experience with genetic identification technology, specifically the development of test strips that provide species identification results within approximately 30 minutes without requiring specialized laboratory equipment, similar to COVID-19 test kits. The capability statement submission serves as the evaluation criterion, requiring vendors to provide a five-page document detailing company information and specific examples demonstrating capabilities aligned with the stated goals. Critical deadlines include April 10, 2026 by Noon EDT for questions and April 15, 2026 by Noon EDT for capability statement submissions to jenna.tolman@noaa.gov and kristen.picariello@noaa.gov.

No set-aside designation has been applied to this pre-solicitation notice, and no incumbent contractor is identified in the available materials. The base year effort (September 18, 2026 through September 17, 2028) requires development and validation of CRISPR-based assays for Pacific white shrimp and four tuna species, structured across three stages with specific deliverables including sequence analysis, detailed assay development notes, laboratory validation results, and field tests. An option year (September 18, 2028 through September 17, 2030) permits development of assays for an additional species to be mutually agreed upon by NOAA and the selected vendor. Base year production requirements include 1,000 test strips and 12 field kits with associated equipment, with all work to be performed at the vendor's facility using no government-furnished resources. No specific award value or budget range is disclosed in this pre-solicitation notice, as this is market research only and no contract will be awarded based on this announcement.