S16012534 - Milk Testing Services

The California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) is seeking a state-certified food product testing laboratory to perform comprehensive milk testing services for raw and finished milk products at the CALPIA Dairy - Milk Processing Enterprise located at California State Prison, Corcoran. The procurement involves testing various milk types including 1% milk, 2% milk, whole milk, non-fat milk, and chocolate milk, with a comprehensive range of microbiological and quality assessments such as SPC, Pseudomonas, Fat, and Somatic Cell tests. Bidders must demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience in similar services and provide references for three comparable projects completed within the last three years. The contract will be awarded based on best value, considering factors like cost, past performance, and experience. The bid is due on October 21, 2025, by 3:00 PM, with the successful bidder expected to be notified by October 22, 2025. The proposed contract term is two years with an option to extend for an additional one year, with a potential start date of November 4, 2025. The selected contractor will be responsible for weekly sample pickup from the Corcoran facility and conducting all tests at their own licensed laboratory.

The procurement opportunity appears open to all qualified laboratories meeting the specified criteria, with no explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises mentioned in the documents. Contractors must maintain current accreditations from agencies like the California Department of Food & Agriculture and comply with various state regulations, including the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and economic sanctions policies. The successful bidder must provide proof of insurance and adhere to strict security provisions when working within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation facility, including mandatory gate clearance procedures and background checks. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the contract will involve detailed pricing for various milk testing services as outlined in the cost sheet. Contractors must also navigate complex security requirements, including restrictions on interacting with incarcerated individuals, maintaining distinct clothing, and following institutional rules. Additional compliance requirements include maintaining a drug-free workplace, adhering to nondiscrimination policies, and meeting ethical conduct expectations as outlined in the General Provisions document.