Potato/Corn Chips, Pretzels, and Snack Items (FAU16-89-20)

The California Department of General Services - Procurement Division has issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) numbered FAU16-89-20 for a mandatory one-year contract to supply potato/corn chips, pretzels, and various snack items to multiple state institutions, including the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), Department of Developmental Services (DDS), Department of Mental Health (DMH), California Highway Patrol (CHP), and Veterans Homes. The procurement seeks individually packaged and bulk snack products such as potato chips, corn chips, tortilla chips, pretzels, sunflower seeds, trail mixes, and other related snack items to be delivered to various state facilities. The contract will run from April 1, 2016, through March 31, 2017, with a potential one-year extension by mutual agreement. Bidders must submit responses by February 19, 2016, at 2:00 PM, with pricing requirements mandating FOB destination delivery, a minimum order quantity of $500 per delivery, and no more than one delivery per month. The contract will be awarded on an "All or None" or "All or None By Group" basis to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder meeting all specified requirements.

The solicitation includes provisions for small business preference (5%) and Target Area Contract Preference Act (TACPA) preferences, indicating opportunities for disadvantaged or local businesses. All products must be trans-fat free and comply with California regulations, with specific requirements for ingredients, packaging, and food safety. Third-party food safety inspections are mandatory for facilities outside California, and California-based facilities must hold appropriate state licensing. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the bid suggests potential significant annual volume across multiple state institutions. The procurement does not specify an exact budget range, but the multi-agency scope and comprehensive product requirements indicate a substantial contract value. Bidders must demonstrate compliance with detailed product specifications, including packaging standards, ingredient quality, and delivery capabilities across various state facilities throughout California.