Welcome, Jon!
Team Lovin’ recently added a new Food Rescue Coordinator in Hampden County. Get to know Jon Burdick in this Q&A.
How did you arrive at Lovin’ Spoonfuls?
I lost my job because of the pandemic. While looking for work, I found Lovin’ Spoonfuls, which really stood out to me because of it being part of a solution to food waste, a problem that I have seen throughout my career in kitchens and food service.
Tell us about your background! How did you become interested in food rescue?
I’ve worked most of my life in professional kitchens, so working hard at reducing as much waste as possible has always been a part of my job.
What passions do you bring to the job?
I love food, music, and culture, which I feel all lend themselves to this job.
Have there been any surprises for you in the food you’ve rescued so far?
Absolutely! I was very surprised at first at how great the food is that we pick up. And everyone I’ve met is so nice!
Do your friends/family consider you a good cook? Any signature recipes?
Yes, I occasionally get phone calls from relatives asking for advice on how to make certain dishes, like eggs benedict or how long something should be cooked for. I’m usually the one who carves the Thanksgiving turkey, also. I guess I’d have to say that my signature dish for summer is Strawberry Thyme Sorbet.
What would we find in your fridge now?
Mostly healthy snack foods like yogurt cups, fruit, and string cheese sticks for grab n’ go because I’m always on the move.
What’s your favorite childhood food memory?
My grandmother making her famous Bay Leaf Soup whenever we would visit. She also had a meadow on her land where strawberries and thyme grew wild.
Who are your heroes?
My dad. He’s someone I’ve always looked up to.
Learn more about Jon and the rest of Team Lovin’ on our staff page.