2025-2026 School Nutrition - Milk & Dairy Products

The Furlow Charter School Nutrition Program in Talbot County, Georgia, is soliciting sealed bids for milk and dairy products for the 2025-2026 school year. The procurement is an Invitation for Bid (IFB #Milk 2025) seeking one or more vendors to supply a comprehensive range of dairy products, including 1% and skim white milk, chocolate and strawberry flavored milk, lactose-free milk, buttermilk, cottage cheese, sour cream, and butter. Bids are due by May 14, 2025, at 4:00 PM, with the contract period running from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and potential extension options for up to three additional months and possible renewal for four additional one-year terms. Evaluation criteria will focus on lowest responsive and responsible bid pricing, with considerations for product quality, delivery capabilities, and compliance with specifications. Key requirements include adherence to the Buy American provision, maintaining product freshness with 8-10 day post-delivery expiration dates, and providing products in clean, sanitary packaging. Vendors must also comply with federal and state regulations and be prepared to provide credits for product shortages, defective packages, or unsatisfactory items.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The bid specifications require vendors to demonstrate capability to consistently deliver high-quality dairy products, with strict documentation requirements including delivery driver and school nutrition employee initialing of any product deficiencies. While specific budget ranges are not detailed, the bid list includes multiple product types across various unit sizes, suggesting a potentially significant procurement value. The contract allows for pricing to remain firm for 90 days after award, with potential subsequent adjustments based on market conditions verified through USDA Agricultural Marketing Service reports or the Consumer Price Index. Notably, the flavored milk products have a specific nutritional requirement of containing no more than 10 grams of added sugars per 8 fluid ounces, indicating a health-conscious procurement approach. The Furlow Charter School Nutrition Program reserves the right to accept or reject any bids and will make award decisions based on a comprehensive evaluation of vendor capabilities and pricing.