Child Nutrition Program 2025-2026 School Year Bids

The St. James Parish School Board is conducting a comprehensive Child Nutrition Program procurement for the 2025-2026 school year, soliciting competitive bids across five distinct categories: Bread and Bread Products, Dry Food Items, Frozen and Refrigerated Foods, Milk and Milk Products, and Non-Food Supplies, Chemicals and Services. The bid opportunity covers procurement for eight school cafeterias, with a contract period spanning July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. Vendors must provide products that comply with USDA's Buy American Provision, mandating that goods are produced or substantially processed in the United States. Specific product requirements include detailed specifications for nutritional content, packaging, freshness, and delivery parameters, with vendors expected to provide comprehensive documentation including nutritional analysis sheets, independent price determination certificates, and compliance certifications. The bid opening is scheduled for May 1, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., with potential for contract extension through mutual agreement and the school board's ability to adjust quantities up to 10% of the total estimated contract value. Delivery requirements include strict temperature control, weekly delivery schedules, and adherence to food safety regulations.

While the procurement documents do not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, bidders must complete multiple federal procurement compliance forms, including Lobbying Certification and Buy American Provision Certification. The total estimated value of the procurement appears substantial, with the milk products bid alone estimated at approximately $150,000, suggesting significant potential contract opportunities for qualified vendors. The school board reserves the right to award items separately, group items, or reject any or all bids, providing flexibility in the procurement process. Vendors must demonstrate comprehensive capabilities across product categories, including ability to consistently meet nutritional standards, packaging requirements, and delivery logistics across multiple school locations. Though specific incumbent vendors are not identified, the detailed bid specifications indicate a rigorous evaluation process focused on product quality, compliance, and operational reliability. The multi-category procurement approach suggests the school board is seeking comprehensive food service supply partners capable of meeting diverse nutritional and operational needs for the upcoming school year.