Episode 282: Jessica Foust and Jill Overdorf

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In a world where fast food has long been synonymous with unhealthy indulgences, a surprising shift is taking place, led by an unexpected pioneer – Little Caesars. The popular pizza chain is breaking new ground by championing healthy changes in the way America eats, proving that convenient and delicious food doesn’t have to compromise on health.

Little Caesars’ commitment to change how America eats is sending ripples across the fast-food industry. By embracing healthier ingredients, providing transparency in nutrition information, offering portion control options, and encouraging healthier choices, they are setting an example that other chains are starting to follow. On today’s episode with will speak with Jessica Foust, RDN Director, Global Product Development & Menu Management for Little Caesars and Jill Overdorf, a Culinary & Foodservice Expert and founder of The Produce Ambassador

In this Episode:

“In large commercial operations, people can’t have local purchasing to satisfy all of their needs, but you can do it in a smaller venue. And so to have those things run parallel, you can support your small local farmers and bring in commercial operations that still supplement fresh produce. And produce is what fills the plate. I can’t fill a plate with protein, with animal protein, but I can fill a plate with produce and have it be flavorful and delicious.” Jill Overdorf

“Brands like McDonald’s and Little Caesars are feeding the world every single day. So the impact that you can have through these small changes in recipes, in menus, in unlocking opportunities for customers to enjoy the food that they already love and possibly add a little bit of fruit and veggie to that menu experience has tremendous potential.” Jessica

“Starting from very humble roots as a family business, now we’re just a much bigger family business. So still owned by the Illich family who are very intimately involved in every aspect of our business. We have grown tremendously from the time that the business was opened. And it’s just impressive to see this family business continue to grow and thrive and hold on to the values that originally, you know, the company was founded on.” Jessica

“We’re now in over 27 countries around the world, serving thousands and millions of guests on just about every continent and have continued to innovate on our brand and the way customers can access our food.” Jessica

Notable Quotes:

“In large commercial operations, people can’t have local purchasing to satisfy all of their needs, but you can do it in a smaller venue. And so, to have those things run parallel, you can support your small local farmers and bring in commercial operations that still supplement fresh produce. And produce is what fills the plate. I can’t fill a plate with protein, with animal protein, but I can fill a plate with produce and have it be flavorful and delicious.” Jill 

“Brands like McDonald’s and Little Caesars are feeding the world every single day. So the impact that you can have through these small changes in recipes, in menus, in unlocking opportunities for customers to enjoy the food that they already love and possibly add a little bit of fruit and veggie to that menu experience has tremendous potential.” Jessica

“Starting from very humble roots as a family business, now we’re just a much bigger family business. So still owned by the Illich family who are very intimately involved in every aspect of our business. We have grown tremendously from the time that the business was opened. And it’s just impressive to see this family business continue to grow and thrive and hold on to the values that originally, you know, the company was founded on.” Jessica

“We’re now in over 27 countries around the world, serving thousands and millions of guests on just about every continent and have continued to innovate on our brand and the way customers can access our food.” Jessica

Resources:

Website:Little Caesars® Pizza: Best Value Delivery and Carryout

Facebook: Facebook Little Caesars

Instagram:Little Caesars (@littlecaesars) • Instagram photos and videos

About Lori

Lori Taylor is the Founder & CEO of The Produce Moms. For ten years she sold fresh produce to over 300 grocery stores throughout the United States, and today she is fully focused on working with the produce supply chain, media, and government to increase fresh produce access & consumption in the US and around the globe. Connect with Lori on LinkedIn.

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