27NUTRL7 | Dried Cranberries | RFR

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is requesting proposals for a processor to supply low-sugar dried cranberries made exclusively from cranberries grown and harvested in Massachusetts in two flavors (Fruit Punch and Raspberry Lemonade) under RFR 27NUTRL7, with responses due August 3, 2026 at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. A Massachusetts location preference and Small Business Purchasing Program participation preference apply where eligible vendors meet best value criteria.

The scope requires dried cranberries packaged in cases containing 200 packets of 1.16 ounces each with a maximum of 12 grams of sugar per packet. Products must meet cup fruit requirements for Child Nutrition regulations, be peanut free, Buy American compliant, and contain no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or sweeteners. Bidders must provide product specification sheets, proof of 100 percent Massachusetts-grown and harvested sourcing, current Massachusetts Department of Public Health operating licenses and inspection reports, three professional references, a detailed company profile, and comprehensive Continuity of Operations Plans with Food Defense and Recall Procedures. All products will be warehoused and delivered to state-contracted facilities in compliance with Massachusetts Department of Public Health Regulations 105 CMR 500.00 and 21 CFR Part 110.00.

Pricing is submitted on a per-case delivered basis as all-inclusive. The initial contract term runs from approval through June 30, 2027, with renewal options available for up to four additional one-year periods (maximum 12 months each) through June 30, 2031. Year 1 pricing is firm; price increases in renewal years are capped at five percent based on the Boston-Cambridge-Newton Consumer Price Index, subject to departmental approval and 30-day notice.

Evaluation uses a 100-point scoring system: financial resources to sustain operations (25 points), unit cost reasonableness (25 points), contract manageability including delivery logistics (20 points), relevant experience and performance history with DESE (20 points), and Massachusetts location preference (10 points). Bidders must meet six mandatory qualifications including adequate warehouse space and vehicles, current Massachusetts operating licenses, and documented Food Defense and Recall Procedures. DESE reserves the right to award to a single vendor or multiple vendors. Questions are due July 28, 2026 at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. No pre-bid conference is scheduled. All responses must be submitted through COMMBUYS; email submissions will not be accepted.