HHS0015894 Consumer Microbiology Testing

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB) No. HHS0015894 for Consumer Microbiology Testing Supplies, seeking competitive bids for specialized laboratory testing products primarily from Charm Sciences. The procurement targets specific microbiology testing kits and supplies used in food, water, dairy, and shellfish testing, including items such as Charm SL Quantitative Aflatoxin Test, Penicillin-G Standards, Beta Lactam Test Kits, Aflatoxin M1 Standards, and Tetracycline SL Kits. The initial contract term will run from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026, with potential for four additional one-year renewals extending through August 31, 2030. Bids are due on June 16, 2025, at 10:30 AM, and all submitted products must have a minimum of 4 months of expiration upon receipt. Vendors must comply with laboratory standards including ISO 17025:2017, TNI 2016, and FDA requirements, and must provide a letter from Charm Sciences confirming their authorized bidder status. Evaluation will likely focus on compliance with technical specifications, pricing, and adherence to the extensive solicitation requirements outlined in the procurement documents.

The solicitation emphasizes opportunities for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) and includes comprehensive legal and regulatory compliance requirements. Bidders must complete multiple exhibits, including Solicitation Affirmations (Exhibit A), Online Bid Room Information (Exhibit D), and a detailed Price Sheet, with failure to submit these documents resulting in bid disqualification. Vendors must verify no felony convictions, comply with E-Verify requirements, and adhere to state-specific regulations including restrictions on doing business with certain entities. The historical spend for similar goods is $94,531.07 for the period 2022-2025, though HHSC does not guarantee specific purchase volumes. Pricing must remain firm and fixed for the contract duration, with potential adjustments based on Consumer Price Index (CPI-W or CPI-U) subject to HHSC's discretion. The procurement contact is Courtney Meads, reachable at 512/406-2478, and the procurement uses NIGP Class Item 19314 for scientific testing supplies. Potential vendors must navigate a two-step registration process through the Enterprise Portal, which can take up to five business days to complete.