Cheese Variety Shredded and Low Sodium Sliced

The Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) Purchasing/Contracts Division has issued an Invitation to Bid (ITB) for procuring two specific cheese products: Cheese, Shredded Blend and Cheese, Low Sodium Sliced. The solicitation targets a total estimated quantity of 120,000 pounds of shredded blend cheese and 80,000 pounds of low sodium sliced cheese. Detailed product specifications include requirements for sodium content, protein levels, packaging standards, and delivery protocols. Bids are due by August 17, 2021, with ODOC planning to award one or more contracts to the lowest responsive and responsible bidders. Evaluation criteria will focus on pricing, product quality, and compliance with specified nutritional and packaging requirements. Vendors must be prepared to provide product samples, nutritional information, and necessary certifications upon request, and demonstrate full compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations governing food product procurement.

The ITB includes provisions for potential preference considerations, specifically allowing up to a 10% preference for Oregon-made goods and resident bidders. ODOC reserves the right to adjust order quantities based on budgetary constraints, which introduces flexibility in the procurement process. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the volume of cheese being procured suggests a significant contract value. The solicitation appears open to various vendors capable of meeting the stringent product specifications, with no explicit restrictions limiting participation to disadvantaged or small businesses. Vendors will be expected to facilitate "Will Call" pickup options and demonstrate the capability to consistently meet the Department of Corrections' precise product requirements. The procurement is specific to Marion County, Oregon, and targets institutional food service needs for the corrections system.