Molecular Transport Media Tubes used for HPAI testing

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a decision to restrict competition for the procurement of PrimeStore®MTM LH-PS-MTM-05 1.5mL cryotubes. This restriction is justified by the unique, proprietary capabilities of the PS-MTM cryotube, specifically its FDA Class 2 clearance for microbial nucleic acid storage and stabilization, which is not available in other commercially available products. These cryotubes are crucial for the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in analyzing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) by preserving and stabilizing pathogen RNA and DNA. The product's features, including inactivation of pathogens, preservation of nucleic acids, optimization for molecular testing, and cost-effectiveness, are deemed essential for accurate HPAI confirmation, genetic sequencing, and containing outbreaks to prevent significant financial harm to the dairy industry. Market research conducted confirmed that no other alternative product meets the required FDA Class 2 clearance. This sole-source acquisition is necessary to meet the agency's mission to protect animal health and the nation's dairy supply.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is issuing a solicitation for the acquisition of 50,000 units of PrimeStore®MTM (molecular transport media). This media is crucial for supporting responses to African Swine Fever (ASF) and High Path Avian Influenza outbreaks, specifically for inactivating pathogenic samples while preserving and stabilizing DNA and RNA. The product eliminates the need for a cold chain during transport, rapidly inactivates viruses like ASF and Classical Swine Fever virus (CSFv), and is essential for molecular diagnostics currently employed in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. This firm-fixed-price GSA commercial supply delivery order requires delivery within 14 days of award to the USDA-APHIS-VS-NVSL warehouse in Ames, IA. Invoices will be submitted electronically via the Invoice Processing Platform (IPP), and contractors must be escorted while at the facility.

This Request for Quote (RFQ) 12639526Q0066, issued by USDA APHIS, is for the procurement of PrimeStore®MTM LH-PS-MTM-05 1.5mL of solution in 5mL tubes. The solicitation, identified under NAICS code 541714 with a 1,000 employee size standard, is unrestricted. Offers are due by March 19, 2026, at 1700 ET. The primary point of contact is Julia Lackey at 971-237-6110. Delivery is required 14 days after award to USDA-APHIS-VS-NVSL in Ames, IA. The solicitation incorporates FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-3, 52.212-4, and 52.212-5 by reference or attachment. The purpose is to acquire 1000 units of the specified solution, inclusive of shipping and handling.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) APHIS National (NCAH) is soliciting bids for 50,000 PrimeStore®MTM LH-PS-MTM-05 1.5mL Molecular Transport Media Tubes for HPAI testing, to be delivered in bags of 50, in master cartons of 1,000. This is a brand-name requirement, necessitating clear traceability to the OEM, Longhorn Vaccines and Diagnostics. The solicitation, number 12639526Q0066, will result in a Firm Fixed Price Contract awarded based on Lowest Price, Technically Acceptable (LPTA) evaluation criteria, including price, technical acceptability, and past performance. Quotes and questions are due to julia.lackey@usda.gov by March 19, 2026, and March 18, 2026, respectively. Delivery is required within 14 days of award to Ames, IA. The solicitation includes various FAR and AGAR clauses, notably those related to anti-discrimination, DEI compliance, and prompt payment to small business subcontractors.