STEC Detection

The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a sources-sought Request for Information (RFI) to identify commercially available kits for the detection and identification of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in raw beef and other food products. The agency is specifically interested in technologies capable of identifying stx/eae carrying strains regardless of serogroup, with a particular focus on the granularity of stx subtype information. This market research effort seeks detailed data on technical capabilities, performance characteristics such as sensitivity and specificity, operational requirements, and per-kit technology costs. The place of performance is identified as Athens, Georgia, under NAICS code 334516 for Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing. Interested respondents must submit their capability statements and associated literature to Eric Schnitzler by 12:00 PM Eastern Time on December 8, 2026. Submissions must include comprehensive company identification, SAM registration details, and socioeconomic status certifications. Additionally, respondents must demonstrate the ability to comply with stringent IT security standards, including FISMA 2014, NIST SP 800-53 Revision 5, and HSPD-12 for remote access, as well as Revised 508 Standards for accessibility. This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a formal solicitation, request for quote, or commitment by the government to enter into a contract.