Columbus County Schools Fresh Milk Products Bid Invitation

Columbus County Schools Child Nutrition Department is seeking bids for fresh milk products to support its School Nutrition Program for the 2025-2026 academic year. The procurement opportunity, identified as Bid Number 171-171-25-006, solicits approximately 325,950 half-pints of 1% white milk, 519,050 half-pints of fat-free chocolate milk, 90,358 half-pints of fat-free strawberry milk, 5 gallons of skim milk, and 216 half-pints of lactose-free milk. Vendors must provide U.S. Grade A fresh, pasteurized, homogenized milk products that are vitamin D enriched and packaged in one-half pint paper or plastic containers. The contract period runs from August 1, 2025 to July 31, 2026, with an option to extend for up to four additional years in one-year increments. Bid evaluation will be based on multiple criteria including purchase price, vendor reputation, ability to provide quality goods and services, compliance with contract requirements, and alignment with school nutrition program needs. The public bid opening is scheduled for July 29, 2025 at 2:00 pm, with bids to be submitted to Kim Clontz, Child Nutrition Director. Vendors must provide nutrition fact information and conduct criminal background checks on employees.

The procurement does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must comply with federal and state regulations, including the Buy American provision, which requires the use of domestic commodity products. While no incumbent vendors are listed, the bid requires strict adherence to various regulatory standards, including nutritional guidelines and employee screening protocols. The contract will involve delivering milk products to multiple school locations within Columbus County, with pricing required to remain firm for at least 90 days from the bid opening date. The school district reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive formalities in the bidding process. Though a specific budget range is not provided, the estimated product quantities suggest a substantial annual procurement value. Potential bidders should be prepared to demonstrate comprehensive capabilities in milk product distribution, quality control, and compliance with educational institutional standards.