Food Service Providers RFSQ

The County of San Mateo has issued a Request for Statement of Qualifications (RFSQ 165256) to establish a two-year registry of certified food service providers to support a variety of County events and programs. This pre-qualification process invites San Mateo County Environmental Health Services-certified food providers to join a vendor listing that County staff can access when planning catering or food service needs, ranging from casual food trucks and grab-and-go meals to formal dinners. Participation does not involve submitting formal proposals or bids but requires vendors to provide necessary certifications, licenses, and compliance documentation to qualify and be listed. The resulting registry serves as a resource for County departments to quickly identify and contract local food providers capable of meeting diverse culinary and dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Qualified vendors must demonstrate full compliance with California Food Code and County health regulations, including maintaining proper permits, general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and adherence to food safety and allergen handling protocols. Packaging must meet California SB 1383 requirements for compostability and surplus food recovery, reflecting the County’s sustainability goals. Vendors will be evaluated on responsiveness, regulatory compliance, service capability, and culinary qualifications, with awards made on a best-value basis rather than lowest price. Deliveries and services will be conducted throughout San Mateo County, with payment terms set at Net 30 invoicing directly to County departments. The solicitation opens on September 17, 2025, with responses accepted until September 17, 2027. This initiative provides a streamlined method for the County to engage trusted, local food vendors to support public events in a compliant, efficient, and flexible manner.