Produce

The state and local contract opportunity is an Invitation for Bids (IFB) issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections for an Inmate Feeding Program, specifically targeting fresh produce procurement for January 2013. The procurement covers multiple produce items including oranges, apples, bananas, tangerines, grapefruit, salad mix, tomatoes, carrots, celery, cucumbers, onions, peppers, potatoes, cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. Quantities range from 18 to 450 cases per item, with delivery schedules set from January 3 to January 31, 2013. The bid opening is scheduled for December 17, 2012, at 1:00 pm, with a submission deadline on the same date. Required qualifications include the ability to provide high-quality, fresh produce meeting specific grade, size, packaging, and shipping requirements. All prices are designated as FOB destination, indicating the seller is responsible for delivery costs and risk until the goods are received. The procurement covers jurisdictions within Montgomery County, including Arona Borough, and is specifically focused on supplying fresh produce for the Department of Corrections' inmate feeding program.

The IFB documentation does not explicitly mention any set-aside designations, disadvantaged enterprise requirements, or restrictions on vendor participation. No incumbent vendors or current contractors are identified in the available documentation. The document provides detailed specifications for each produce item but does not outline specific award values or comprehensive budget ranges. While the procurement is for a specific one-month period (January 2013), there are no indications of potential contract renewals or extension options. The procurement appears to be a straightforward, competitive bidding process for fresh produce supply, with the primary evaluation criteria likely centered on meeting the specified produce quality standards, delivery capabilities, and competitive pricing. Potential vendors would need to carefully review the detailed specifications for each produce item and ensure their ability to meet the Department of Corrections' stringent requirements for quantity, quality, and delivery timing.