During their freshman year, both Steve Jobs and his friend Kottke adopted a strict vegetarian lifestyle. Kottke noted that Jobs became particularly dedicated, living mainly on Roman Meal cereal and making frequent visits to farmers' co-ops. He would purchase a box of cereal that would last him a week, along with various health foods in bulk, such as dates, almonds, and an abundance of carrots.

Jobs also invested in a Champion juicer, using it to make nutritious carrot juice and salads. His intense carrot consumption led to a rumor that he turned orange from it, and some friends confirmed that at times he did have an orange tint to his skin, reminiscent of a sunset.