Emergency Notice - Halal Meals

The Illinois Department of Corrections has awarded an emergency purchase contract for certified prepackaged halal meals to Performance Food Group (doing business as Vistar) on June 22, 2026, with a total estimated cost of $1,856,493.90 and a final accounting due by July 10, 2026 if actual costs differ.

The emergency purchase was triggered by a significant variance in scoring during evaluation of a competitive long-term halal meals solicitation, which extended the procurement timeline beyond the Department's current inventory coverage. The Department requires a continuous supply of 47,688 cases of certified prepackaged halal meals containing meat to accommodate the religious dietary requirements of individuals in its custody.

The scope comprises seven certified menu items: Scrambled Eggs and Pancake, Lubiah Stew, Biryani Chicken, Chicken Thigh with Rice and Onion, Italian Chicken Rice Lentil, Lentil Stew with Lamb, and Chicken Thighs with Tandoori. All meals must meet halal certification requirements.

Performance Food Group was selected based on its existing relationship as a commissary provider for the Department, immediate access to certified halal meals meeting required dietary specifications, and established delivery operations familiar with correctional facility security and logistical requirements. The Department reviewed all applicable certified Business Enterprise Program and Veteran Business Program vendors and determined that no company provided certified halal meals, limiting available vendors due to the short-term nature of the purchasing cycle and the required halal certifications. Vistar is located in Sparks, Nevada.

The contract is funded through state appropriation funds. This procurement is structured as an emergency purchase under an estimated-cost basis; final invoicing will adjust for actual variance if necessary.