IFB 25-0004, OIM out-of-country and out-of-state inspections

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has issued Invitation for Bid (IFB) 25-0004 for out-of-country and out-of-state inspections of Organic Input Material (OIM) manufacturing facilities. The contract will cover on-site inspections for facilities located outside California and its bordering states, with a specific focus on facilities producing liquid OIM with nitrogen guarantees over 3%. Contractors will be required to conduct 4 U.S. locations with single annual inspections, 6 U.S. locations with two annual inspections, 4 international locations with single annual inspections, and 8 international locations with two annual inspections per year. Prospective bidders must be National Organic Program (NOP) accredited and comply with ISO standards, with key deliverables including comprehensive inspection reports submitted within 10 business days of each inspection. The contract will run from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2030, with proposals due by April 11, 2025. Inspection requirements include verifying documentation, observing production processes, reviewing ingredient sourcing, checking cleanout procedures, and conducting laboratory sample analyses for high-nitrogen products.

The solicitation includes a 3% Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) participation goal and requires small business certifications. Contractors must adhere to a detailed Non-Disclosure Agreement that prohibits sharing confidential information and imposes strict confidentiality requirements. While specific total contract value is not explicitly stated, the cost proposal documents indicate reimbursement for travel expenses at state-defined rates, including lodging, meals, incidentals, and mileage. Potential bidders will be compensated based on a structured cost proposal that accounts for inspection fees, equipment, supplies, shipping, and potential laboratory analyses. The contract includes provisions for potential administrative penalties, including product quarantine or registration cancellation for non-compliance. Bidders must complete multiple state-mandated forms and comply with California Food and Agricultural Code, federal organic production standards, and various state contracting requirements, including labor and non-discrimination laws.