Fresh, Frozen Turkeys

The Arkansas Department of Corrections is seeking a contract for the procurement of approximately 75,000 pounds of fresh frozen turkeys to be used for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals in state correctional facilities. The solicitation, identified as S000000437, was issued on June 19, 2025, with bid responses due by July 18, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. Central Time through the ARBuy eProcurement system. Specific turkey requirements include Tom turkeys weighing 20-25 pounds and Hen turkeys weighing 10-15 pounds, packaged two and four per case respectively. Delivery is specified for October 24-31, 2025, with strict performance standards including temperature maintenance between 0-15F during transport and a mandatory recall program. Contractors must comply with Act 617 of 2017, which encourages state agencies to spend 20% of their budget on local Arkansas farm or food products. Performance penalties include a 20% credit on invoices for quality issues and an additional 5% credit plus $100 per day for late deliveries.

The procurement opportunity includes several important restrictions and compliance requirements for potential vendors. Contractors must certify they do not boycott Israel, knowingly employ illegal immigrants, or boycott energy, fossil fuel, firearms, or ammunition industries. The contract includes a Contract and Grant Disclosure form requiring transparency about potential conflicts of interest, including current or former government positions held by the contractor or their immediate family members. The initial contract term will be for one year, with potential renewals for up to six additional one-year terms, not to exceed a total of seven consecutive years. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the procurement involves supplying 75,000 pounds of turkeys for state correctional facilities. Subcontractor provisions are also outlined, requiring detailed disclosure and compliance with the same certification requirements as the primary contractor. The state reserves the right to negotiate with the lowest bidder and may consider extended delivery dates if deemed in the best interest of the state.