AI Camera Technology
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for AI Camera Technology. This RFI, titled "AI Camera Technology" (RFI Number: FSIS-FY26-0002), seeks to enhance FSIS's capabilities in detecting pathogens, contaminants, and conducting visual inspections in food processing environments. The information gathered will inform future procurement strategies and technology implementations. Responses are due by February 20, 2026.
Scope of Interest
FSIS is interested in AI Camera Technology solutions that can improve food safety by accurately detecting pathogens, identifying contaminants, and performing real-time visual inspections. Respondents should address:
- Pathogen Detection: Capabilities, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and limitations.
- Contaminant Identification: Effectiveness in detecting physical, chemical, and biological contaminants.
- Visual Inspection: Ability to identify defects, foreign objects, and anomalies, including resolution, speed, and accuracy.
- Cost Estimates: Detailed breakdown of equipment, setup, maintenance, and potential ROI.
- Implementation Timeline & Models: Proposed deployment timeline and different implementation approaches (FSIS-led vs. plant-led).
- Data Security & Regulatory Compliance: Measures for data security, privacy, and adherence to food safety regulations.
- Training and Support: Available programs for FSIS personnel and technical support services.
- User Feedback & Scalability: Mechanisms for feedback and the technology's ability to accommodate varying volumes.
- Integration with Existing Systems: Compatibility with current FSIS infrastructure, including environmental parameters (temperature, condensation, fog), cleaning solutions, blind spot avoidance, lighting, storage, and image quality/throughput.
Requested Information
Respondents are encouraged to provide detailed information on their AI Camera Technology solutions, including case studies, past performance, cost models, recommendations for Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and potential implementation barriers. Information on Government FTE time required to support the contract should also be included.
Reverse Industry Day
FSIS will host a Reverse Industry Day (anticipated for the last week of February 2026) in Beltsville, Maryland. This event, aligned with FAR 15.201, aims to gain a deeper understanding of industry capabilities and best practices. Industry participants will present their perspectives directly to FSIS teams. Interested parties should submit their interest by February 13, 2026. Questions for the Reverse Industry Day were due by February 9, 2026.
Submission Instructions
Responses to the RFI must be submitted electronically in PDF format to George.Baptist@usda.gov and monika.masei@usda.gov by February 20, 2026. The submission should include company name, POC, an executive summary (1 page max), detailed responses to the scope areas (10 pages max), optional white papers/case studies, relevant experience, and an indication of interest in attending the Reverse Industry Day.
Disclaimer
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or obligation. No compensation will be provided for responses.