RFQ 25AG0001 - Canned Tomatoes

The California Department of State Hospitals-Atascadero is conducting a Request for Quotation (RFQ 25AG0001) for canned tomato products to be delivered to the Atascadero State Hospital. The procurement seeks four specific tomato product types: 336 cases of diced tomatoes, 224 cases of tomato puree, 56 cases of whole tomatoes, and 112 cases of tomato sauce. The contract period will run from July 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025, with potential quantity variations up to 15% per line item. Vendors must provide detailed nutritional facts and ingredients, ensure no added spices beyond salt, use standard #10 cans (6 cans per case), and guarantee product freshness for at least six months past delivery. Bid evaluation will prioritize lowest cost, with specific requirements including strict sodium content specifications, packaging standards, and explicit prohibitions against "Our House" brand tomatoes. The solicitation includes a May 15, 2025 due date, with monthly delivery schedules to be provided to the awarded vendor. A unique evaluation criterion involves recycled content, with the Department of State Hospitals reserving the right to award to a vendor meeting recycled products content requirements, even if not the absolute lowest bidder (within 10% of lowest total cost).

The procurement includes potential incentives for Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE), with participation credits ranging from 3% to 5%. Bidders must complete mandatory forms including Darfur Contracting Act Certification, Payee Data Record, and Postconsumer-Content Certification. The solicitation also features a distinctive GenAI Disclosure requirement, mandating that bidders notify the state if they intend to use Generative Artificial Intelligence in contract performance. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the procurement covers multiple product lines across approximately 728 total cases of tomato products. The contract is specifically targeted to vendors in San Luis Obispo County, California, with a focus on competitive bidding and sustainable procurement practices. Potential bidders must demonstrate compliance with various state contracting requirements, including environmental considerations and ethical sourcing standards. The procurement represents a targeted approach to securing high-quality canned tomato products for the state hospital's nutritional needs.