We are proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking new role: our REAL Food Mission Ambassador. This new position will be led by our longtime team member, Liz Oba, who will lead efforts to deliver nutrient-dense, scratch-cooked meals while driving positive change in food systems both within our company and beyond.
According to the American Council on Science and Health, nearly 60% of the average American diet consists of processed foods, contributing to increased risks for chronic illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. At Thomas Cuisine, we recognize this challenge and have taken a proactive stance by creating the REAL Food Mission Ambassador role. Liz will lead this initiative to inspire both our internal teams and external partners to embrace a REAL food philosophy that focuses on nutritious, whole foods and sustainable practices.
As the REAL Food Mission Ambassador, Liz will focus on enhancing Thomas Cuisine’s food integrity by embedding REAL food standards into our procurement practices and culinary operations. She will also work to inspire our team members and partners to align with these values. Her work will help position Thomas Cuisine as an industry leader in food advocacy through participation in conferences, strategic partnerships, and public engagements.
Liz brings a wealth of expertise to this position. A registered dietitian, former collegiate athlete, accomplished project manager, and skilled culinarian, Liz has been a key contributor to the Thomas Cuisine team since 2017. Her resume includes serving as Food Service Director at the Eating Recovery Center in Denver, where she helped patients rebuild their relationship with food and solidified her own belief in food as medicine.
“Liz is, without question, one of the most passionate and inspiring team members I’ve had the privilege to work with,” says Alison Patt, President & CEO of Thomas Cuisine. “Her expertise as a dietitian, culinarian, and leader makes her the perfect champion for our REAL food mission. Not only is this role a first for Thomas Cuisine, but it also marks a significant step forward for our industry.”
Looking ahead, this role will expand to include creating a REAL Food Certification Program and strengthening collaborations with like-minded organizations to advocate for systemic change on a national level. With Liz leading this initiative, Thomas Cuisine is set to inspire innovation and champion healthier, more sustainable food choices across the industry.
