Federal government procures fresh pears for food donation programs

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $3,868,864 ($3.9M)

Contractor: Wescott Agri Products, Inc

Awarding Agency: Department of Agriculture

Start Date: 2026-03-27

End Date: 2026-05-27

Sector: Other

Official Description: COMMODITIES FOR USG FOOD DONATIONS: 2000011217/4100033910/PEARS DANJOU FRESH CTN-40 LB,PEARS FRESH PKG-12/3 LB,PEARS BOSC FRESH CTN-40 LB

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Agriculture obligated $3.9 million to WESCOTT AGRI PRODUCTS, INC for work described as: COMMODITIES FOR USG FOOD DONATIONS: 2000011217/4100033910/PEARS DANJOU FRESH CTN-40 LB,PEARS FRESH PKG-12/3 LB,PEARS BOSC FRESH CTN-40 LB Key points: 1. Contract awarded to Wescott Agri Products, Inc. for a significant volume of pears. 2. Focus on providing essential food items through donation channels. 3. Potential for supply chain disruptions or quality control issues with fresh produce. 4. Ensuring equitable distribution and meeting nutritional needs are key considerations.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The value of this contract is substantial, indicating a significant quantity of pears being procured. The government is likely seeking competitive pricing for these commodities.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract appears to be awarded through a full and open competition process, suggesting multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid.

Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayers benefit from the efficient procurement of nutritious food for donation programs.

Public Impact

Increased availability of fresh fruit for individuals and families in need. Support for agricultural producers through government purchasing programs. Potential for improved public health outcomes due to increased fruit consumption.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Perishability of fresh produce requires careful logistical planning.
Ensuring consistent quality and freshness across all deliveries.
Managing transportation costs for perishable goods.

Positive Signals

Supports domestic agriculture and food supply chains.
Directly benefits food banks and charitable organizations.
Promotes healthy eating habits through accessible produce.

Sector Analysis

This procurement falls within the agricultural sector, specifically focusing on the acquisition of fresh produce for federal food assistance and donation initiatives.

Small Business Impact

Information regarding small business participation or set-asides was not specified in the provided data. Further review would be needed to determine if small businesses were involved.

Oversight & Accountability

The Agricultural Marketing Service likely oversees the quality and distribution of these donated commodities. Regular audits and performance reviews would ensure accountability.

Related Government Programs

Commodities for USG Food Donations
Fresh Pears

Risk Flags

Perishability
Logistics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Agriculture awarded $3.9 million to WESCOTT AGRI PRODUCTS, INC. COMMODITIES FOR USG FOOD DONATIONS: 2000011217/4100033910/PEARS DANJOU FRESH CTN-40 LB,PEARS FRESH PKG-12/3 LB,PEARS BOSC FRESH CTN-40 LB

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is WESCOTT AGRI PRODUCTS, INC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Agriculture (Agricultural Marketing Service).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $3.9 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-03-27. End: 2026-05-27.

Analysis insight 1

The contract specifies different types of fresh pears, including Danjou and Bosc varieties, in both cartons and packages.

Analysis insight 2

The contract duration spans two months, indicating a focused procurement period for these specific items.

Analysis insight 3

The award to Wescott Agri Products, Inc. suggests they are a key supplier for agricultural commodities in this program.