FS2026-02 fresh and pre-cut produce bid

The Franklin Parish School Board is soliciting sealed bids for a fresh and pre-cut produce contract for the 2025-2026 school year, targeting its Child Nutrition Program. The procurement covers 153 different produce items, including fresh fruits, vegetables, snack packs, and shell eggs, to be delivered to seven school sites and the school board office. The bid requires vendors to provide produce that meets strict Buy American provisions, mandating that products be grown or processed in the United States with over 51% domestic content. Vendors must submit detailed documentation about product origins and comply with federal civil rights regulations. The bid specifications include specific packaging, quality, and delivery requirements, with the contract period running from August 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. Sealed bids must be submitted by 12:00 noon on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at the Franklin Parish School Board Office, with bids to be opened at 12:05 pm the same day. Potential bidders can obtain bid documents from the school board office or online at bidnetdirect.com and can contact Nan Lee or Sheila Nolan at 318.435.9046 for additional information.

The procurement appears to be open to all qualified vendors, with the Franklin Parish School Board reserving the right to reject any bids and award the contract to the lowest responsive bidder meeting all specifications. The contract is predominantly federally funded, with 97% of the Child Nutrition Program's budget coming from federal sources including the National School Breakfast and Lunch Fund, USDA Commodity Distribution Program, and Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program. The estimated contract value is $97,423.87, with the potential for monthly price adjustments beginning September 19, 2025. The Franklin Parish School Board is an equal opportunity employer, suggesting a commitment to fair and open competition. Vendors must demonstrate the ability to meet comprehensive produce delivery requirements, including detailed documentation, quality standards, and compliance with federal nutritional guidelines. The bid process emphasizes transparency, competitive pricing, and adherence to strict nutritional and sourcing standards for school food service provisions.