Cafeteria sales have dropped 13% during the past three weeks. What should the dietetic technician first review to determine the possible explanation for the decrease in sales?

The first action the dietetic technician should take is to review customer comment cards. These cards provide direct feedback from patrons regarding their experiences, preferences, and any complaints they may have. Since sales have decreased, understanding customer sentiments can reveal specific issues such as dissatisfaction with food quality, taste, variety, or service, which may be contributing to the drop in sales.

Collecting and analyzing this feedback is crucial in identifying immediate concerns that need addressing. By focusing on customer comments first, the technician can gather insights that can inform changes or improvements to enhance customer satisfaction and potentially boost sales. This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to meeting customer needs and adapting the cafeteria offerings accordingly.

Reviewing production sheets, food specifications, or standardized recipes, while important for ensuring quality and consistency in food service, may not provide as immediate or relevant insights into customer preferences that are essential for reversing the trend in declining sales.