Territory Manager Scott Cooper hosted a taste test for 30 residents on July 2, 2013 at Craiglee Nursing Home , a 169 bed long-term care facility located in Scarborough, Ontario.
This well-received event came about after Cooper met with Craiglee foodservice manager Roger Burke, who was beginning the process of identifying products for their new menu. Burke works with a resident food council to ensure that menu choices are satisfactory, and Cooper suggested doing a taste test with residents to garner feedback on some food options and help shape the new menu. Craiglee prides itself on providing services to promote a home-like atmosphere for its residents, so hosting an inclusive taste test was a natural fit.
Cooper welcomed the residents to the event and spent some time explaining the Maple Leaf Foodservice products that they would be tasting. With the help of Craiglee staff members Moses Cruze and Viviana Szabo, the team provided samples of four popular products for the residents to try: Turkey Pot Pie, Turkey Sausage, Ready Link Breakfast Sausage and Healthy Selections Beef Burgers. Cooper and the Craiglee staff engaged the residents to elicit feedback and obtain comments on each menu choice. Questionnaires were also used so residents could rate each product and add commentary as needed.
All four options were highly rated and well-enjoyed. The day’s favourite and highest rated item was the comforting and delicious Turkey Pot Pie. Residents commented that all of the products were very tasty and easy to eat. All of this feedback will help Burke develop the new menu.
Having residents provide input into the menu is a great idea for everyone involved. It helps the foodservice manager plan the menu, and it ensures that the residents will enjoy the food selections that are made. If you would like to plan a similar taste test at your facility, please contact your Maple Leaf Foodservice Territory Manager.