Why Scratch Cooking Matters - Mallard Point Senior Living

Ask how you can save as a new resident! CONTACT US

Skip to Content

February 27, 2026

Why Scratch Cooking Matters

Category: Culinary

Author: Kale Crawford, Culinary Director

In senior living, dining goes far beyond a meal. It supports comfort, wellness, routine, and daily enjoyment. At Mallard Point Senior Living, we prioritize from-scratch cooking and source fresh ingredients each week. Our culinary team prepares meals that are flavorful, nutritious, and thoughtfully tailored to resident needs. From house-made soups and sauces to freshly prepared entrées and sides, we focus on quality you can see and taste. As Culinary Director, I value how fresh sourcing and scratch cooking strengthen residents’ health, satisfaction, and overall daily experience.

In my kitchen, from-scratch cooking means preparing meals the way you would at home. We cook thoughtfully, intentionally, and with family in mind.

Fresh ingredients support resident health and nutrition. Whole foods retain their natural nutrients and flavor. We avoid relying on canned or heavily processed products that can compromise quality. By cooking from scratch, we maintain control over ingredients and preparation methods.

Two many-layered cakes with frosting and crumb coating.

Listening and Adapting to Residents

I adapt our menus by listening closely to resident feedback. During table touches, I ask questions and gather input about flavor, portion size, and preferences. That feedback guides daily adjustments in the kitchen.

We balance comfort foods with fresh, heart-healthy options. Each day, residents can choose from several lighter selections alongside classic, home-cooked favorites. This approach gives them the freedom to enjoy what fits their tastes and health goals.

One resident favorite made entirely from scratch is our deli-style hot roast beef sandwich. It remains a comforting classic and a consistent standout on the menu.

Why Scratch Cooking Matters

Scratch cooking requires time, skill, and attention to detail. That extra effort makes a difference. Freshly prepared meals support wellness, enhance satisfaction, and create a dining experience that feels personal and familiar.

At Mallard Point Senior Living, our culinary team prepares meals with intention and pride. We use fresh ingredients and uphold a strong commitment to quality. In senior living, food is more than nourishment. It brings comfort, fosters connection, and helps residents truly feel at home.

Welcome to Mallard Point Senior Living, conveniently located near George Wyth State Park and the Hartman Reserve Nature Center in Cedar Falls, IA. Our vibrant senior living community offers independent living, with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, transportation services, and more. In addition, our community expands beyond our campus as it is close to retail shops, restaurants, medical services, parks, and entertainment venues. Come experience the enriching lifestyle and exceptional service that Mallard Point Senior Living has to offer. Schedule a tour today and discover why our community is the perfect choice for your retirement journey.

Schedule your tour of Mallard Point Senior Living today

Join the Mallard Point Senior Living team

Follow Us

Inclusion: where everyone belongs.

Mallard Point Senior Living serves and employs individuals of all faiths, regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age or handicap, except as limited by state and federal law.

Copyright © 2026 Arrow Senior Living. All rights reserved.