By Jennifer Whitlock
Field Editor
Most Americans say summer cookouts are not complete without the sizzle of hot dogs hitting the grill, according to a recent survey.
The survey showed most Americans, or 75%, say grilling is their favorite way to cook a hot dog, and 73% of those surveyed said they do not believe cookouts are “complete” without hot dogs on the menu.
“As Americans kick off grilling season, it only makes sense that one of our country’s most iconic foods is front and center,” Eric Mittenthal, vice president of sustainability at North American Meat Institute (NAMI) and president of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NDSC), said. “The people have spoken, and frankly, nothing else cuts the mustard.”
Speaking of mustard, that’s America’s favorite way to top a hot dog, with 68% of respondents saying they prefer their wieners with mustard. Ketchup was a close second at 61%, followed by onions (44%), relish (41%), chili (30%), cheese (29%), sauerkraut (20%), mayo (19%), bacon (14%), jalapeños (13%) and coleslaw (12%).
NHDSC noted there is a proper way to “dress the dog.”
Hot dog toppings should always be applied in the following order, according to the group: wet condiments like mustard or chili, chunky condiments like relish or onions next and cheese on top.
For those who may be leery of consuming hot dogs because they contain “mystery meat,” NHDSC said they can rest assured. Most of the meat used in hot dogs comes from muscle meat, similar to what can be purchased in meat cases across the country. U.S. Department of Agriculture standards require manufacturers to declare other meats, such as organ meats, on the package with statements like “with variety meats” or “with meat by-products,” and they must specify which variety meat is included in the ingredient list.
This year, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, NAMI said Americans are expected to consume an estimated 7 billion hot dogs.
The study was commissioned by NHDSC and NAMI.
For more hot dog facts, visit NHDSC.