Managing Linux system package (e.g., Ubuntu's apt-get) requirements for web apps

On many projects, you see package manifests that detail what's needed for the application. For e.g.:

• Python: pip and requirements.txt


• Javascript: bower and `bower.json


• Ruby: bundle and Gemfile

You use the appropriate command to install your prerequisites.

Is there something similar for system package requirements? I.e., a way to provide a manifest of required apt-get or yum packages?

My current thinking is adding an appropriate command to Makefile but I do not want to re-invent the wheel if there's already something out there that addresses this.