Request for Proposal No. 2025-1034 Fresh Produce for Child Nutrition Program

McAllen Independent School District in Hidalgo County, Texas is issuing Request for Proposal No. 2025-1034 for Fresh Produce for its Child Nutrition Program, seeking vendors to supply a comprehensive range of fresh fruits and vegetables across 89 line items. The procurement covers produce requirements for nearly 20,000 students across 31 campus locations, with strict delivery requirements mandating deliveries to all sites before 6:30 AM and ensuring a minimum 5-day shelf life for all products. Vendors must provide USDA-approved facilities, HACCP plans, produce inspection reports, and comply with the Buy American Provision, which requires domestic commodity sourcing where practical. The evaluation criteria will prioritize price (50 points), product quality (20 points), ability to meet district needs (16 points), with additional points allocated for long-term cost, vendor reputation, and business characteristics. Key submission deadlines include February 21, 2025 at 10:00 AM (CT) for questions and February 26, 2025 at 3:00 PM (CT) for final proposal submissions, with all materials to be submitted electronically through the IonWave system.

The solicitation encourages participation from Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs), with 1 evaluation point specifically allocated for HUB participation. Vendors must submit comprehensive documentation including a completed W-9, proof of insurance, conflict of interest questionnaire, Form 1295, HUB certificate (if applicable), Buy American Provision Exception Request Form, recent produce inspection report, HACCP plan, recall procedures plan, and USDA Approved Facilities Certificate. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the contract will cover a one-year term with provisions for potential price adjustments and monthly produce quote solicitations. Geographic preference may be given to local farmers within 50 miles of McAllen, Texas, and the district emphasizes a preference for domestic produce. Vendors must be prepared to provide detailed product substitution documentation and comply with extensive federal child nutrition program requirements, with award information expected to be available within 90 days of the proposal opening.