Food Safety Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Systems
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. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Human Foods Program (HFP), Office of Laboratory Operations and Applied Science (OLOAS) is seeking Food Safety Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Systems. This is an unrestricted, Full and Open competition for a Firm Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. Quotes are due by June 26, 2026, at 1:00 PM Central Time.
Scope of Work
The FDA requires multiple Food Safety Real-Time PCR Systems for its facility in Jefferson, AR. Key deliverables include the newly manufactured, latest model PCR systems compatible with current validated Applied Biosystems 7500 Fast Real-Time PCR System assays. Technical requirements specify detection of at least six distinct targets simultaneously, an optical system with a minimum of 6 decoupled excitation and emission filter channels, and a 96-well, 0.1ml thermal block with independent temperature control zones. Systems must offer USB, Wi-Fi, and LAN connectivity, an 8.5-inch touchscreen user interface, and software with multi-level user access management and electronic audit trail. Ancillary services include familiarization training for up to 4 users per lab, shipping, handling, delivery, and installation. Acceptance criteria include Installation Qualification (IQ), Operational Qualification (OQ), and Performance Qualification (PQ).
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Single award Firm Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ)
- Period of Performance: Base year plus four (4) one-year option years
- Estimated Quantity: Minimum of 1 system, maximum of 50 systems
- Delivery: FOB Destination, inclusive of inside delivery, shipping, handling, delivery, installation, and training, expected within 120 days after contract award.
- Submission Deadline: June 26, 2026, at 1:00 PM Central Time
- Published Date: June 16, 2026
Set-Aside & Eligibility
- Set-Aside: Unrestricted, Full and Open competition
- NAICS Code: 334513 - Instruments and Related Products Manufacturing for Measuring, Displaying, and Controlling Industrial Process Variables
- Small Business Size Standard: 750 employees
- Registration: Offerors must be registered and active in SAM.gov and include their Unique Entity ID (UEI).
Evaluation
Award will be based on best value, with Technical Acceptability being more important than price, though price remains a significant consideration. Technical acceptability will be determined by reviewing submitted descriptive material, literature, and brochures to ensure compliance with all technical requirements. The total price for the basic requirement and all options will be evaluated. Prices must be held firm through September 30, 2026.
Additional Notes
Submissions must not contain macros. A Small Business Subcontracting Plan is required for all offerors except small businesses and must be submitted via the HHS Small Business Customer Experience (SBCX) system. For inquiries, contact Howard Nesmith at howard.nesmith@fda.hhs.gov.