Bridgeport Bread

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Contracts and Procurement Department is soliciting bids for a blanket purchase order to supply sliced bread for the Bridgeport Unit. The procurement involves 33,000 loaves of white or wheat sandwich-style sliced bread, each 20 oz, to be delivered to the facility's Food Service department. Bread must be sliced, wrapped in original packaging, and clearly marked, with whole grain as a primary ingredient and meeting FDA enrichment standards. The bid opening is scheduled for September 22, 2025, at 3 P.M., with a contract period from September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2026, and an option for mutual one-year renewal potentially extending through August 31, 2027. Pricing will be dynamically adjusted based on a baseline index from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, allowing for unit price fluctuations. Vendor responsibilities include providing rack/tray systems, maintaining product quality, ensuring timely delivery, and replacing any defective products. Strict security requirements mandate that delivery staff have limited interactions with inmates and are prohibited from introducing contraband onto TDCJ facilities.

The solicitation does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must complete comprehensive documentation, including Texas Identification Number, Federal Employer's Identification Number, and vendor maintenance documentation. The TDCJ will evaluate bids based on multiple factors including previous performance, quality, conformance to specifications, and overall best value, reserving the right to reject any or all submissions. While a specific budget range is not detailed, the procurement involves a substantial annual bread supply for a correctional facility. Vendors must comply with state and federal regulations, provide mandatory certifications, and meet specific electronic and information resources accessibility requirements. The contract includes provisions for electronic funds transfer, indemnification, and recycled product considerations. Potential bidders must proactively submit their contact information to ensure receipt of any solicitation amendments, with updates posted on the Electronic State Business Daily.