The Defense Logistics Agency is procuring a six-month advanced meat supply for its Department of Defense customers to provide relief to the drought-stricken agriculture industry, at the direction of the U.S. government.
The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support Subsistence supply chain is asking its top three prime vendors to purchase, store and distribute chicken, pork, beef, lamb and catfish items, said Tom Daley, deputy director. He estimates purchases will amount to more than $100 million. Subsistence officials are negotiating with prime vendors on additional storage and distribution fees, estimated to be between $2.4 and $3.3 million. The prime vendors will store the additional meat, which will be frozen to maximize shelf-life.
Purchases will be based on forecasted demand. Subsistence is also working with the suppliers to identify the specific meat items to purchase. "We are focusing on high-demand items with long shelf-life and items that will make an immediate impact on the industry," said Daley.
