Congregate and Unitized Traditional Korean Meals

Howard County, Maryland, is soliciting bids under IFB 2026-01 for a qualified contractor to provide congregate and unitized traditional Korean meals for the older adult population through its Senior Nutrition Program. The contract, which has an effective date of October 1, 2025, requires the contractor to prepare, package, and deliver hot, cold, or frozen meals to various locations, including the Bain 50+ Center. To ensure quality and safety, the contractor must operate a commercial kitchen located within 25 miles of the Bain 50+ Center, maintain a Maryland Department of Health approved HACCP plan, and employ staff with ServSafe certification and at least one year of experience. All meals must adhere to strict Maryland Department of Aging nutritional standards and temperature requirements, with hot foods maintained at or above 135 degrees Fahrenheit and cold foods at or below 41 degrees Fahrenheit. The award will be based on the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) methodology, prioritizing the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. The agreement is structured as a requirements contract for an initial one-year term, with the County holding the sole discretion to renew for up to five additional one-year increments. Bidders must submit their proposals electronically via the eProcurement system by August 13, 2025. Required submissions include a Contractor Qualification Information Form, nutritional analysis certifications signed by a registered dietitian, and various affidavits regarding non-collusion and ethical compliance. Additionally, the County offers a price preference of up to 5 percent for the use of environmentally preferable products.