Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Produce Bid#1630 Nov. 1, 2026 - Jan. 31, 2027

The East Baton Rouge Parish School System Child Nutrition Program is soliciting bids for the purchase of whole and pre-cut fresh produce for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program. This fixed-price, all-or-none contract is estimated at approximately 251,362.75 dollars and covers a performance period from November 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027. Bids are due by October 13, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. CST. Awards will be based on the lowest price among responsive and responsible vendors, with a preference for domestic products and the potential for two vendors to be awarded routes to ensure weekly Monday deliveries to all schools. Only items from the pre-approved brands list will be awarded. Successful bidders must comply with various federal and state regulations, including the Buy American Provision, Louisiana Administrative Code Title 28, and several USDA and civil rights laws. Deliveries are F.O.B. Destination, requiring refrigerated insulated enclosed trucks for produce and specific delivery protocols for school cafeterias and warehouse facilities. Vendors must maintain the ability to trace produce back to the farm and adhere to HACCP temperature requirements. Administrative requirements include submitting invoices in quadruplicate, with a separate invoice required specifically for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program. Required submission documents include the Buy American Provision Certification, a Certificate of Independent Price Determination, and certifications regarding debarment and lobbying. General liability insurance of at least 1,000,000 dollars per occurrence is required.