Dried Fruit for use in Domestic Food Assistance Programs

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking bids for dried fruit to be used in domestic food assistance programs. This acquisition is a partial set-aside for small business concerns. The solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference, and the full text of these provisions and clauses can be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov. • The USDA is committed to issuing solicitations and awarding contracts in a fair and prompt manner. • The Ombudsman Program for Agency Protests (OPAP) is available to address protest issues within the agency. • Interested parties are encouraged to resolve concerns through the USDA's internal Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process before pursuing external forums. • The USDA has established an informal forum with the Ombudsman for interested parties to address their concerns. • A formal agency protest with the Ombudsman is also available, and the agency's goal is to resolve protests within 35 calendar days from the date of filing.