The Face of Cassia

Cassia culinary team members taste and evaluate food samples during a US Foods food show.

Food Show Aims to Improve Residents’ Culinary Experiences

Culinary team members from Cassia communities throughout Minnesota mulled about trying new food offerings during the US Foods/Cassia food show. They shared notes about what they liked, what they thought residents would like and what they would like to put on menus.

“It’s coming together and seeing a lot of products so they can provide input to us on what they think the menu should be,” says Ricco Mejia, Cassia’s corporate chef.

He values getting all these team members together in the same room. They can get to know each other better and find ways to collaborate.

“The more we can get these people together, the more they can rely on each other to solve problems and bounce things off of each other,” Ricco says. “A lot of them have the same issues and, sometimes, they don’t realize it. The more they meet each other and know each other, the better it is.”

More than 50 Cassia employees mingled with multiple food vendors and Erin Gonzalez, food fanatic chef for US Foods’ Upper Midwest division.

“Our goal is that all those location representatives leave with fresh ideas, inspired to use new products and bring helpful, exciting new menu items to your residents,” Erin says.

Regional director of operations Sheri Ruehle called the event a success.

“This helps the resident, it helps the staff,” Sheri says. “It’s nice to come together and have a good experience. Food is fun. We’re fortunate that US Foods is opening the doors just for Cassia.”