Notice of Intent to Award IFB 26-2150-P005 Produce

This contract establishes statewide agreements with produce distributors to buy, store, and deliver fresh fruits and vegetables to Mississippi’s school nutrition programs. The Department of Education will set a maximum fee per item, while actual costs are negotiated based on distributor price requests and USDA market data. Two vendors share responsibility by region, ensuring coverage across all seven state regions for a two‑year term with a possible one‑year extension. • Scope: Procurement, warehousing, and distribution of fresh produce for K‑12 school meals. • Award Method: Lowest responsive bid under an Invitation for Bid (IFB). • Pricing Structure: Fixed maximum fee per item, with actual costs tied to market bulletins (unit‑price style).