Winter prepared food bid

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Department of Human Services, specifically the Ebensburg Center, is seeking a food service vendor to provide prepared meals for a winter appreciation event in December 2025. The procurement is a competitive Invitation for Bid (IFB) targeting the supply of specific food items: 800 Italian Subs (11-inch), 10 All Veggie Subs (11-inch), 3 Gluten Free Chef Salads, and 200 US Pounds of Potato Salad. The bid is open from October 7, 2025, to October 22, 2025, with a closing time of 2:00 PM, and requires electronic submission through the PA Supplier Portal. Evaluation criteria focus on the lowest overall price, with strict compliance requirements including the use of only Acceptable Brands listed in the specification sheet and adherence to specific pack sizes and product codes. Vendors must provide precise ingredient specifications for each menu item, including bread type, cheeses, meats, and garnishes. The Dietary Director retains the right to adjust quantities to meet consumer needs, and bidders must respond to mandatory questions regarding representations and authorizations.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions on vendor types. However, participation is limited to vendors registered on the PA Supplier Portal, which may implicitly create some barriers to entry. An interesting option allows bidders to identify Pennsylvania-produced agricultural products in their bid, potentially providing a slight competitive advantage. The total procurement value is less than $10,000, positioning this as a relatively small-scale catering contract for a specific winter event located at 4501 Admiral Peary Highway in Ebensburg, PA. Additional documentation includes specifications, terms and conditions, workers protection forms, and an executive order. While no incumbent vendors are mentioned, the detailed specifications suggest a structured approach to meal preparation with specific dietary considerations, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Vendors must be prepared to meet exact specifications and deliver meals that comply with the precise requirements outlined in the bid documents.