EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – Prairie Farms Dairy announced today that Rob Lagerlof, its Director of Technical Service and Corporate Chef, was inducted as a member of La Chaine des Rotisseurs Society, Balliage de France. Upon induction, he was granted the title Chef Rotisseur, which represents sous chefs, chefs de partie, and culinary educators. With its founding dating back to 1248 in Paris, the prestigious Chaine des Rotisseurs is one of the most esteemed food and wine societies in the world.
The induction ceremony was held earlier this year in the cave of a 13th-century chateau in La Celle-Guenand, France. Chef Lagerlof’s Chaine, a medal denoting his rank, was presented by his mentor, Sidney Bond of Le Calabash Cookery School. There were 18 inductees, including Sophie Auconie, a French National Assembly delegate representing Indre-et-Loire's 3rd constituency. Nearly 100 guests attended the ceremony which was followed by a celebratory banquet.
"I was shocked that I would even be nominated let alone inducted into La Chaine. Furthering knowledge of good food, wine and the pleasures of the table is something I've always believed in and will gratefully continue to do in these new opportunities that come along with being a Chaine member both here and abroad," said Chef Lagerlof.
"Prairie Farms is thrilled that Chef Lagerlof’s commitment to culinary arts has been rewarded by his induction into La Chaine,” said Rebecca Leinenbach, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Prairie Farms. "This remarkable achievement is the result of hard work, passion, and willingness to share his knowledge and talent in so many ways. He accomplishes all of this in a humble manner, without seeking personal recognition.”
Chef Lagerlof has gained an array of international culinary experience by working with famous chefs in Africa, France, Italy, Scandinavia and the United Kingdom. Not only is he a top chef, but he is also a charitable chef. Chef Lagerlof shares his passion and knowledge for cooking by giving back to his community in a number of ways. Each year he volunteers for dozens of events which include cooking for families at the Ronald McDonald House, serving as a guest chef at charity functions and speaking to aspiring culinary students.
Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. is one of the largest and most successful dairy cooperatives in the Midwest, with over 900 farm families, 5700 employees, 44 manufacturing plants, over 100 distribution facilities and annual sales of over $3 billion. Prairie Farms is a nationally recognized leader in the dairy industry and is known for setting the standard for milk flavor innovations and producing award-winning milk, cheese, and cultured dairy products. With headquarters in Edwardsville, Ill., the Prairie Farms distribution footprint covers over 30 percent of the United States; products are available in grocery chains, mass merchandiser stores, club stores, convenience stores, dollar stores, drug stores, schools, food service outlets and warehouse distribution centers. Prairie Farms charitable giving program, Our Caps, Your Cause, supports a variety of non-profit organizations. Prairiefarms.com
Source: Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.