How to respond to the Purina Dog Food RFI for the General Services Administration

What the GSA is researching

The General Services Administration is gathering information from vendors that may supply 27 approved Purina dog food products for military working dogs. Estimated demand is about 5,500 bags per year in the continental United States, based on recent ordering history.

This is market research, not a solicitation, request for quote, or request for proposal. The GSA is considering a five-year contract, but the notice says the acquisition strategy and terms may change.

Deadline and what it means

Responses are due November 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. ET. Send your response by that time to both listed GSA contacts.

This RFI does not ask vendors to submit a formal bid. The GSA may use responses to assess vendor capability and interest and to shape a possible future solicitation. It will not reimburse vendors for response costs.

Who this opportunity may suit

This opportunity may suit Purina distributors, resellers, or suppliers that can provide some or all of the listed products, including veterinary diet products that require authorization. Vendors should be ready to explain any products they cannot supply and any supply concerns.

The listed category is NAICS 311111, Dog and Cat Food Manufacturing. All interested firms may respond; the GSA is using the market research to consider whether a small-business or socioeconomic set-aside may be appropriate.

How to access the opportunity

Use the portal’s “View original source” option to open the opportunity. If the first click takes you to the portal homepage, click the option again to reach the bid.

A free account may be needed to view documents, though some opportunities do not require one. The notice refers to an attached Purina Food Plan, so check the opportunity documents for the product list.

Prepare a useful response

Include your company name, point of contact, email and phone number, Unique Entity ID if available, SAM.gov registration status, business size and socioeconomic status if applicable, and whether you are an authorized Purina distributor, reseller, or supplier. The notice encourages vendors to have an active SAM.gov registration that includes NAICS 311111.

Answer the GSA’s questions directly: identify which listed products you can provide, whether you can fulfill veterinary diet orders requiring authorization, any availability or supply issues, and a commercially reasonable pricing structure and CONUS delivery timeframe. Also state whether you can provide MIL-STD-129R labeling if required and whether you would use the Government vendor portal for tracking and order updates.

Keep the response brief and specific. For pricing, labeling, delivery, and portal use, explain any practical effects on your costs, lead times, or ability to participate rather than making unsupported commitments.