The Nutrition Services Department at JFL welcomed representatives from the Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) for a comprehensive walkthrough of our dietary operations. The VIDE team, led by John Gumbs, Director of Food Services, and joined by Assistant Commissioner Victor Somme, explored how our team delivers safe, nutritious, and medically tailored meals to patients every single day.
Our very own Yvette Edwards, Director of Nutrition Services, led the charge, guiding a group of 15 through the heart of our kitchen operations. The walkthrough included demonstrations and discussions on food safety protocols, sanitation techniques, kitchen workflows, and the critical role of dietary restrictions in patient care.
“We don’t just cook or serve food. We are scientists,” said Director Edwards. Her words reflect the depth of expertise and precision required in nutrition services. It’s not just about feeding patients, it’s about aiding in their recovery, respecting their medical needs, and contributing to their overall health outcomes.
Yvette Edwards, Director of Nutrition Services at JFL, details the importance of cooler temperature logs for food safety.
Though the department operates largely behind the scenes, its impact is key to the patient experience. From customized meal planning to clinical nutrition assessments, the Nutrition Services team is an essential part of the continuum of care at JFL.
The collaboration served a greater purpose. It was a chance to share best practices and inspire operational excellence. The Department of Education will use JFL’s dietary operations and insights as a model to strengthen and improve the School Lunch Program. By adopting key practices in sanitation, safety, and nutritional standards, the goal is to elevate the quality and consistency of meals served in schools.
A heartfelt thank you to the hardworking men and women of JFL’s Nutrition Services Department for their dedication, and to the Department of Education for allowing us to share our passion and knowledge. Together, we’re building a healthier future, one meal at a time.
