Contracts Awarded under Section 32 Canned and Frozen Apricots for use in Domestic Food Assistance Programs

This contract solicitation, issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), invites bids for Section 32 canned and frozen apricots intended for domestic food assistance programs. The solicitation number is 12-3J14-26-B-0278, and it is a combined synopsis/solicitation, meaning this announcement serves as the only solicitation with no separate written solicitation to follow. The deadline for responses is May 29, 2026, and the procurement is set aside for small business concerns. The contract incorporates standard provisions and clauses accessible electronically through the government acquisition website, and it targets suppliers within the NAICS code 311421 related to canned fruit production. The USDA emphasizes fair and timely contract award processes and encourages resolution of procurement concerns through its internal Ombudsman Program for Agency Protests (OPAP). Interested parties should first address concerns with the Contracting Officer and may escalate unresolved issues to the Ombudsman through informal or formal protest procedures. Formal protests require prior efforts to resolve disputes and must adhere to FAR filing requirements, with a goal of resolution within 35 calendar days. Protesters filing a matter with the USDA agree not to pursue simultaneous protests with external bodies such as the Government Accountability Office to avoid dismissal of their agency protest. Contact details for procurement inquiries are provided, with Nicholas Cavazos serving as the primary point of contact.