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SYNOPSIS: This Sources Sought Announcement is to assist the US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command - Soldier Center (DEVCOM-SC) to identify potential sources to provide innovative product development research and/or consumer research and/or demonstration food samples in the area of alternative proteins. The Government requests responders submit a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) preproposal as outlined in DEVCOM-SC BAA W911QY-25-R-0023 located at: https://sam.gov/opp/a5ec94e2baee40df9951f864a8665e71/view Please refer to Section VI - Scientific and Technical Areas of Interest, A. Combat Ration Research and Development. Submit the BAA preproposal to: michael.s.wiederoder.civ@army.mil, richard.j.green.civ@amry.mil and jean.m.trumpis.civ@army.mil by 15 May 2026, 5:00 PM EDT. OBJECTIVE: DEVCOM-SC seeks product development, consumer research, and prototype demonstrations of current and emerging alternative protein technologies that could be integrated into military rations. BACKGROUND: The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center (DEVCOM-SC), Combat Feeding Division (CFD), is seeking information from industry and academia on capabilities related to alternative proteins. The U.S. Army is exploring how the emerging alternative-protein sector can help meet several objectives, including enhancing food supply chain resilience, enabling biomanufacturing of foodstuffs in combat-forward environments, and providing tailored, high-quality nutrition to the Warfighter. DEVCOM-SC CFD has unique expertise in the development and assessment of shelf-stable ration components, as well as food safety and palatability for the joint warfighter. We are looking to partner with the commercial and academic sectors to advance technology development in this area. AREAS OF INTEREST: DEVCOM-SC is seeking information from offerors that can provide capabilities in one or more of the following areas. Please note, for the purposes of this RFI, we are specifically excluding solutions related to cell-cultured, lab-grown meat or insect protein. 1. Innovative technologies for alternative protein development to reduce Soldier load: Seeking advanced technologies and processes, involved in fermentation, precision fermentation, or other novel biomanufacturing methods, that enhance the production of alternative proteins. Additional funding in specific components of the research would significantly accelerate advancements in technology and/or manufacturing readiness levels, enabling faster transition to operational use. These technologies should focus on creating lightweight and nutrient-dense ration solutions to reduce logistical burdens and physical load on warfighters while maintaining or enhancing nutritional value and operational performance. 2. Innovative Product Development: The development of innovative meat-alternative products specifically designed for inclusion in military rations, meeting stringent requirements for nutrition, shelf stability…

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