Request for Proposal - Produce

The purpose of this solicitation is to procure fresh produce that:

• Meets USDA quality standards
• Is delivered fresh
• Supports North Carolina agriculture whenever practical
• Complies with all USDA procurement regulations

Using Agency: Catawba County Board of Education (CCBE), Catawba County School Nutrition (CCSN). Quotes, subject to the conditions made a part hereof, will be received at this office, The Catawba County School Nutrition Department, 2285 North Anderson Avenue, Newton, NC 28658 until **November 9, 2026 at 9:00 AM**, for furnishing and delivering the commodity as described herein.

Scope of Work

Vendor shall provide:

• Fresh fruits
• Fresh vegetables
• Locally grown seasonal produce

Products shall be:

• USDA Grade No. 1 (when applicable)
• Free from decay
• Clean
• Properly packed
• Properly refrigerated

Food Safety Requirements

Vendor shall provide GAP Certification and GHP Certification or equivalent documentation.

Vendor shall maintain:

• Traceability
• Recall procedures
• Lot identification
• Temperature logs

District reserves the right to inspect production facilities.

Delivery Requirements

Delivery Days – Tuesday or Thursday. Delivery Hours – 6:30AM – 2PM.

Vendor shall:

• Deliver inside designated receiving area
• Credit shortages within 48 hours
• Provide product specifications and formulations
• Notify school district of substitutions or shorts

Buy American Requirement

Vendor shall comply with the USDA Buy American Provision. Domestic agricultural commodities shall be supplied whenever available unless an allowable exception applies. Documentation shall be provided upon request.

Quotes will be received until **November 9, 2026 at 9:00 AM**. Failure to execute/sign quote prior to submittal shall render quote invalid. Late quotes are not acceptable.

Bid pricing valid November 16, 2026 through July 31, 2027.

Award Criteria

The right is reserved to award this contract to a single bidder for all goods or services for the period of November 16, 2026 through July 31, 2027. The following criteria will be used to evaluate the proposals but not necessarily in the order given: Total Program Cost. Maximum Total Points 100 pts.

Tabulation of quotes and award information will be emailed to all bidders once complete.

All transportation charges must be included in the quoted price.

Full payment of the selected Vendor's invoices shall be made after the requested work has been completed and is accepted by CCSN. CCSN will make payment after invoices are approved on a net 30-day basis.