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mini-fridge 

makeover

10 healthy choices to keep in your dorm mini-fridge*

Stock your dorm-room fridge with a variety of healthy foods. That way, when you need a quick breakfast or study 

snack, you’ll have plenty of options on hand.

Go to www.ChooseMyPlate.gov

for more information.

10

tips

Nutrition 

Education Series

Fruits Grains

Vegetables Protein

Dairy

 

DG TipSheet No. 27

April 2013 Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion 

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

 

United States

Department of 

Agriculture

 eggs

 Eggs in a dorm room? If you have a refrigerator, yes! 

 Use a microwave safe bowl or mug to scramble eggs for 

a quick, convenient breakfast or snack. Toss in raw veggies and 

a tablespoon of cheese for added flavor! 

milk and yogurt 

Fat-free (skim) or low-fat milk can be added 

 to oatmeal or whole-grain cereals for a 

filling, nutritious breakfast. Individual containers 

of low-fat yogurt or low-fat Greek yogurt are 

convenient and portable. Mix yogurt with fruit and nuts for an 

energizing breakfast or top with a few chocolate chips and 

cinnamon for a healthy dessert. 

hummus 

Hummus can be paired with almost anything! Enjoy 

dipping red pepper slices, carrots, or other raw veggies 

into this delicious dip. Spread hummus onto a whole-wheat pita 

with tomatoes and cucumbers for an easy, nutritious lunch.

salsa

A fresh salsa with tomatoes, jalapenos, cilantro, and 

onions is a fun and yummy way to incorporate veggies 

into your diet. Pair low-sodium salsas with a small serving of 

whole-grain tortilla chips or raw veggies.

 use the Nutrition Facts label

Use the Nutrition Facts label to choose beverages 

 and foods at the store. The label contains information about total sugars, fats, and calories. Reading the Nutrition 

Facts labels on packaged foods can help you make better 

choices.

* Refrigerators should be set to maintain a temperature of 40 °F or 

below. Keep an appliance thermometer in the refrigerator to monitor 

the temperature.

low-fat cheese

Pair 1 slice cheese with 100% whole-grain bread for 

an easy snack or munch on a cheese stick for a quick 

bite between classes. Low-fat cheeses can even be used 

when making omelets and quesadillas in your dorm 

microwave!

vegetables

Pre-washed and pre-cut varieties are 

convenient for quick snacks and meals. 

Try incorporating green, red, orange, and yellow vegetables 

into your diet. Pair veggies with your favorite dips, such as 

carrots with hummus or celery with peanut butter. Add them 

to omelets and quesadillas. 

fruit

Remember that fresh, frozen, dried, and canned 

fruits all count. Just watch out for varieties 

with added sugars or syrups. Add a tablespoon of

raisins or dried apricots to your morning oatmeal 

or yogurt and grab an apple for a natural source 

of energy during a late night study break.

 water

 Keep water in your fridge. Investing in a water-filter 

 pitcher is a great way to store water in your dorm 

room. Drinking water instead of sugary drinks is a healthy 

choice.

nuts and nut butters 

These will last longer when stored in the fridge.

Try walnuts, almonds, peanuts, 

hazelnuts, pistachios, or cashews. Peanut 

butter and almond butter are delicious on 

apple slices or whole-grain toast.