As the makers of Crispy Fruit, the #1 freeze-dried fruit brand in the U.S., we’ve always believed in Using Food as a Force for Good. That’s why we’ve teamed up with some of the most inspiring dietitians around the country—not just in March but throughout the year. You’ll often find us at ShopRite stores in northern New Jersey sampling our Crispy Fruit snacks during Customer Appreciation Days and Nutrition Fairs, thanks to incredible RDs who invite us to be part of their mission.
This spring, we’re continuing to spotlight the work of these food-loving, myth-busting health champions, especially where it matters most: in the grocery aisles.
Here’s a look back at five RDs we featured this National Nutrition Month and the nutrition wisdom they share for you to use throughout the year.
Melissa Dawson, MS, RDN – ShopRite of Wyckoff, NJ
🧠 Nutrition Myth-Buster & Food-Flexibility Queen
Melissa is on a mission to help shoppers realize that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing their favorite foods. She brings a practical, positive approach to eating that makes nutrition feel way more manageable.
“We work with you to create a plan that includes your favorite foods, not one that takes them away.”
Her top tip? Focus on what you can add, not what to cut. Think more veggies, more healthy fats, more fruits. It’s not about restriction—it’s about nourishment.
Melanie Taylor, MS, RDN, CD – Harmons Grocery, UT
🌯 Breakfast Burrito Enthusiast & Nutrition Simplifier
Melanie turned a personal challenge—Type 1 Diabetes—into a lifelong mission to empower others through food. She loves making nutrition feel doable and ditching the overwhelm around “eating right.”
“Healthy eating isn’t just about counting calories—it’s about giving your body the nutrients it needs to thrive.”
Melanie reminds us that nutrition is about more than numbers. From spiralized veggies to an occasional treat, her approach is realistic, balanced, and delicious.
Caitlin Rulli, MS, RDN, CDN – ShopRite of Northvale, NJ
🥦 Plant-Pusher & Grocery Store Guru
For Caitlin, the grocery store is her classroom—and she’s the friendly teacher helping you ace nutrition without extra homework. Her favorite part of the job? Watching people light up when they find a product that supports their goals.
“Frozen, fresh, canned, or dried—just eat more plants!”
She encourages shoppers to lean into plant-based choices—beans, seeds, greens, grains—and reminds us that every little plant counts toward better health.
Kaysha Quiles, RD – American Diabetes Association (ADA)
💪 Food Freedom Fighter & Wellness Coach
Kaysha’s all about breaking free from restrictive food rules. As the Manager of Nutrition and Wellness for the ADA, she works nationwide to help people feel empowered by their food choices, not limited by them.
“It’s not about what you have to take away—it’s about what you can add to your plate.”
Her go-to advice? Build meals that fuel you. With whole grains, quality proteins, and plenty of produce, it’s easier than you think to turn your plate into your personal power source.
Kristen Carli, MS, RD – Camelback Nutrition & Wellness, AZ
🌱 Veggie Cheerleader & Wellness Realist
Kristen didn’t start her career in nutrition—but once she discovered the joy of helping people love their food and feel better, she never looked back. Her goal? Help you find healthy habits that are simple, enjoyable, and totally sustainable.
“We’re not the food police. We’re your partner in building habits that feel good.”
Kristen swears by veggies at every meal (yes, even breakfast!) and quick wins like roasted deli veggies and a sprinkle of seeds to upgrade any dish—no kale-massaging required.
Final Bite: What Do All These RDs Have in Common?
They’re not here to shame your snack stash.
They’re not pushing rules and restrictions.
They’re here to help you enjoy food more, feel better in your body, and make healthy living actually work for you.
From sampling Crispy Fruit in ShopRite aisles to helping customers create personalized meal plans, these RDs are doing incredible work—and we’re lucky to be part of it.
The Takeaway? RDs Are Your Grocery Store Superpower.
Whether you’re confused by labels, curious about new trends, or just want help planning easy meals, retail dietitians are here for you. They’re approachable, encouraging, and ready to meet you wherever you are on your wellness journey.
So the next time you see one at your local grocery store—or featured on our Instagram—say hi, ask a question, and know that you’ve got a real-life food ally in your corner.
Want to keep the nutrition inspiration going? Follow us on Instagram @crispygreensnacks and stay tuned as we continue partnering with RDs throughout the spring and beyond—and get inspired to build your own balanced plate (snacks included).
✨ Because when it comes to healthy eating, you don’t have to go it alone. You’ve got the pros (and snacks) to help you out.
