Thomas Cuisine was proud to be featured on the Tips from the Trestle podcast, where our REAL Food Mission Ambassador, Liz Oba Killinger, joined host Aaron Fish to talk about the future of healthy foodservice in senior living.
In this insightful episode, Liz shares how Thomas Cuisine is redefining what foodservice can look like for senior communities. From her background as a registered dietitian and former foodservice director to her current leadership role, Liz offers a firsthand look at how scratch-made, nutrient-dense meals are making a real impact on resident wellness and satisfaction.
“Real food for me has to be something that is recognizable, right? You see it in a store or on a plate. You know exactly what it is. I know that my body is going to know what to do with it, and it’s going to have a positive impact.”
At Thomas Cuisine, REAL food is our foundation for delivering healthy, purpose-driven foodservice in senior living. Liz explains how our teams are focused on using ingredients that are grown, raised, caught, or harvested—and how every recipe is created to support health, flavor, and connection.
She walks through examples of how we’ve transitioned senior living communities from processed, ready-made foods to house-made, chef-crafted meals. From getting resident buy-in during menu changes to engaging with lifestyle teams for hands-on experiences, Liz highlights the value of education, transparency, and community.
Programs like our Cultivate Teaching Kitchen are a prime example of how Thomas Cuisine delivers healthy foodservice that goes beyond the plate. Residents aren’t just being served—they’re learning about what they’re eating from dietitians and chefs working together. These experiences strengthen resident engagement and bring wellness education directly to the table.
Watch the full episode below to hear how Thomas Cuisine is setting a new standard for foodservice in senior living.
Special thanks to Tips from the Trestle for having us on the podcast. We’re honored to share our story and help bring REAL food to more communities across the country.
