Cheese Products and String Cheese Mozzarella for use in Domestic Food Assistance Programs
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 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Marketing Service, has issued a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (Invitation for Bid - IFB) for Cheese Products and String Cheese Mozzarella to be used in Domestic Food Assistance Programs. This acquisition, identified as Solicitation Number 12-3J14-26-B-0223, includes a HUBZone Set-Aside and up to a 35% Small Business Set-Aside for Mozzarella item 110396. Offers are due by April 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
This opportunity seeks bids for the supply of various cheese products, specifically including String Cheese Mozzarella, intended for distribution through domestic food assistance initiatives. The acquisition aims to secure high-quality dairy products to support federal programs.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Invitation for Bid (IFB) / Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
- Solicitation Number: 12-3J14-26-B-0223
- Set-Aside: Historically Underutilized Business (HUBZone) Set-Aside (FAR 19.13) and up to 35% Small Business Set-Aside for Mozzarella item 110396.
- Offers Due: April 28, 2026, 6:00 PM ET
- Published: April 14, 2026, 6:59 PM ET
Evaluation
As an Invitation for Bid (IFB), award will typically be made to the responsible bidder whose bid conforms to the solicitation and is most advantageous to the Government, considering only price and price-related factors. The solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference, accessible at www.acquisition.gov.
Additional Information
The USDA encourages interested parties to utilize its Ombudsman Program for Agency Protests (OPAP) to address concerns regarding solicitations or awards. This program offers an alternative dispute resolution process, allowing for informal discussions or formal protests with the Ombudsman or Contracting Officer. Protests must adhere to FAR 33.104 timelines and information requirements, and formal protests under OPAP should be submitted electronically to SPE.inquiry@usda.gov and the Contracting Officer.