For Caitlin Rulli, MS, RDN, CDN, a simple trip to the grocery store changed everything.
Back in college, Caitlin was shopping with her mom when she noticed a sign that read “Dietitian” inside their local ShopRite. Intrigued, she walked straight into the office and asked if she could shadow the store’s dietitian. That moment sparked a journey that led her to become a Registered Dietitian at ShopRite of Northvale, NJ, where she now helps shoppers turn everyday grocery runs into opportunities for better health—without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
“Each day brings a different challenge, a new person to help, and a chance to make nutrition approachable for everyone. It really feels like a dream come true!”
Helping Shoppers Find Their ‘Aha!’ Moment
There’s nothing Caitlin loves more than seeing a shopper’s face light up when they discover a new food, product, or tip that fits their lifestyle.
“It’s all about showing people what they can eat, not what they have to take away. When they realize they can enjoy delicious foods while supporting their health, it’s a game changer.”
Instead of restrictive diets, Caitlin helps customers add more goodness to their plates—whether it’s more fiber-packed beans, heart-healthy fish, or cancer-fighting cruciferous veggies.
Caitlin’s #1 Nutrition Tip
🌱 Add more plants!
Even if you don’t change anything else about your diet, more fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes will do wonders for your health.
✔️ Toss some berries in your breakfast
✔️ Swap in chickpeas or lentils for extra protein
✔️ Grab a handful of nuts or seeds for a nutrient-packed snack
Caitlin’s motto? “Frozen, fresh, canned, or dried—just eat more plants!”
The #1 Question Shoppers Ask
“Is this healthy?”
Caitlin’s answer? It depends!
“What’s healthy for a five-year-old picky eater isn’t the same as what’s healthy for an older adult managing diabetes or kidney disease. My job is to help people find foods that fit their individual goals and lifestyle.”
That’s why grocery store dietitians are such a hidden gem—they can help shoppers make informed choices that actually work for them.
Caitlin’s Go-To Quick Meal
When time is short, salmon + roasted veggies + potatoes is her secret weapon.
🥔 Roasted potatoes
🐟 Salmon
🥦 Green veggies
Everything gets tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper (plus whatever seasonings she’s in the mood for) and roasted together. Minimal effort, maximum nutrition.
Her Must-Have Grocery Item? Pumpkin Seeds! 🎃
Lately, Caitlin has been singing the praises of pumpkin seeds—and for good reason!
🔹 Packed with magnesium (great for sleep and muscle recovery)
🔹 More protein than an egg per serving
🔹 Rich in fiber to keep digestion on track
You can buy them raw, roasted, or flavored—or even roast your own during pumpkin season!
3 Must-Have Items in a Healthy Shopping Cart
🫘 Beans & Lentils – Canned, dried, frozen—however you like them, just eat more!
🐟 Fatty Fish (Salmon or Tuna) – Omega-3s for brain & heart health.
🥦 Cruciferous Vegetables – Think broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts… all great for gut and immune health!
What Shoppers Don’t Realize About Grocery Store RDs
“Most people don’t even know we exist!”
Caitlin meets customers every day who are surprised to learn that a dietitian is available right inside the store to help them shop smarter, plan meals, and find foods that fit their needs—often for free!
If you’re grocery shopping and have questions about labels, meal ideas, or nutrition goals, don’t be shy—your local ShopRite dietitian might just be your new best resource.
Want more expert grocery shopping tips?
Follow Caitlin on LinkedIn for insider advice, product recommendations, and healthy meal ideas straight from the aisles of ShopRite!
