This article draws on a critical evaluation of a knowledge exchange (KE) project, "Food for Thought," devised to promote and develop awareness of the use of food within children's residential and foster care services. From the 22 qualitative interviews conducted, reflections on the differing forms of knowledge incorporated into the design of the project and its outputs are discussed and the limitations of current thinking on knowledge exchange are explored. Finally, links are made to show how this reflective approach to practice operationalised and enlivened local and national food and care policies.