Fresh Produce - Request for Quote

The Colorado Department of Corrections is requesting quotes for fresh produce delivery to seven correctional facilities statewide, with quotes due September 30, 2026 at 12:30 p.m. MST via bidnetdirect.com/cdoc and written inquiries due September 28 at 4:00 p.m. MST.

Deliveries are scheduled over three days in October 2026: Buena Vista Correctional Complex on October 5; Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility and Central Warehouse on October 6; and Denver Women's Correctional Facility, Denver Reception & Diagnostic Center, and Limon Correctional Facility on October 7. The scope includes 30 produce line items (apples, bananas, oranges, potatoes, salad mix, and vegetables including broccoli, carrots, lettuce varieties, peppers, and tomatoes) with specified quantities, grades, sizing, and quality parameters, including minimum 10-day shelf life for salad mix and shredded lettuce upon delivery to the warehouse. All products must meet current USDA standards, be properly labeled and date-coded, and carry approved brands subject to CDOC review of nutritional specifications and fact sheets. Bidders must submit itemized unit costs and extended costs on Exhibit D with pricing FOB Destination, fully inclusive of shipping and taxes; shipping costs are the vendor's responsibility. No minimum order quantities or dollar amounts are guaranteed.

Price and cost are the primary evaluation factors, supplemented by sample quality and delivery lead time. Award determination rests with the responsible bidder whose acceptable quote is most advantageous to CDOC. The Notice of Intent to Award and Purchase Order execution are both estimated for September 30, 2026, with the PO start date also September 30. Pricing must remain firm for the initial PO term. Vendors must register in CORE through Vendor Self Service, provide proof of Good Standing with the Colorado Secretary of State, and submit an insurance certificate (workers' compensation, commercial general liability of at least $1 million per occurrence, and automobile liability if vehicles are used on state property) prior to PO execution. Vendors must also complete CDOC Enhanced Criminal Background Investigation within 30 days of award or risk contract termination. All exhibits A through G must be completed and returned, including Exhibits B (vendor information), C (W-9), E (out-of-state performance disclosure), F (conflict of interest certification), and G (consent to search). Failure to deliver on three separate occasions may result in disqualification from future CDOC solicitations for three years or indefinitely.