In vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion and Fermentation Model System for Evaluating Military Rations
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 US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command - Soldier Center (DEVCOM-SC) is conducting a Sources Sought to identify potential sources for an in vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion and Fermentation Model System for evaluating military rations. This effort seeks to establish a standardized method for Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) rations, followed by batch fermentation of digestates and characterization of the microbial community. Responses are due June 4, 2026.
Scope of Work
DEVCOM-SC is seeking technologies or capabilities to provide an integrated approach that simulates the gastrointestinal tract, focusing on the gastric phase and subsequent downstream fermentation processes. Key requirements include:
- Physiologically relevant in vitro digestion methodology capable of accommodating various processed military rations.
- Bioreactor system or comparable technology for conducting batch fermentations on digestates, allowing for delivery of fermentates to Soldier Center scientists for additional analyses.
- Characterization of microbial community changes due to different ration products being evaluated.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought Announcement (BAA preproposal)
- Product/Service Code: AJ12 (General Science And Technology R&D Services; General Science And Technology; Applied Research)
- Set-Aside: None specified (Sources Sought)
- Response Due: June 4, 2026, 5 PM EDT
- Published: May 20, 2026
Evaluation
This is a Sources Sought Announcement for information and planning purposes only, intended to identify interested sources. It is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded from this announcement. Responses will be used to assist DEVCOM-SC in identifying potential sources and capabilities. Unsolicited proposals will not be accepted.
Additional Notes
Interested parties should submit a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) preproposal as outlined in DEVCOM-SC BAA W911QY-25-R-0023, specifically referring to Section VI - Scientific and Technical Areas of Interest, A. Combat Ration Research and Development. Submissions must be emailed to gregory.j.weber19.civ@army.mil and jean.m.trumpis.civ@army.mil. Responders should include their business size (socioeconomic status), applicable NAICS code, and CAGE code. Questions for clarification are due by June 2, 2026, 5 PM EDT, to the same email addresses.