According to National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (yes, that’s real advice), the average American eats 70 hot dogs a year. Eating them every once in a while is totally fine, but 70 hot dogs equals more than one a week. The average frankfurter has 190 calories, 17 grams of fat, 7 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbohydrates and 500 milligrams of sodium, without condiments or buns. So, for hot dog lovers everywhere, we looked for ones that still have flavor but have less salt, fat and calories. These fat-free and low-fat hot dogs are perfect for your heart and taste buds.
What makes a healthy, fat-free or low-fat hot dog?
So that our approved productssummer meal list, every healthy hot dog should:
- Amazing taste, of course.
- Fall into “low-fat hot dog” territory, with 6 grams of fat or less per serving (half the fat of typical hot dogs).
- Also land in the “low sodium “hot dog” category, with less than 500 milligrams of sodium per serving.
- Be widely available, because what good is a healthy hot dog if you can’t find it? All of these products are sold at major retailers.
Best low-fat hot dog made with beef: Ball Park Lean Beef Hot Dogs
For 1 franc (50 g): 80 calories, 5 g total fat (2 g saturated fat), 6 g protein, 2 g carbohydrates, 480 mg sodium
These healthy hot dogs are made from 100% beef and contain no artificial colors or flavors. Just enough salt and a pinch of paprika extract ensures the spice is good; the results are similar to the franks you enjoyed at baseball games or meals when you were a kid. (Cracker Jacks and homemade s’mores are optional but recommended to complete the nostalgic experience.)
Best Classic Turkey Dog: Jennie-O Turkey Franks
For 1 franc (34 g): 70 calories, 6 g total fat (2 g saturated fat), 4 g protein, 1 g carbohydrates, 380 mg sodium
Are turkey hot dogs healthy? It’s possible, but it’s important to take a close look at the nutritional value and ingredient list. This recipe is based on turkey raised without antibiotics or hormones. That doesn’t mean it lacks flavor, though. Its natural aroma of paprika and smoke will remind you grill recipes you enjoyed at more indulgent parties.
Best Healthy Plant-Based Hot Dog: Lightlife Vegan Smart Dogs Veggie Protein Links
For 1 franc (43 g): 60 calories, 2 g total fat (0 g saturated fat), 8 g protein, 2 g carbohydrates, 270 mg sodium
Eat plant-based is a growing food trend, and these low-sodium, low-fat hot dogs are a shining example of delicious vegetarian living. With every bite, you can rest assured that the dogs are completely vegan, meaning they also contain no cholesterol or saturated fat. Soy Protein Isolate and Pea Protein boost protein to trump all the other franks on this list.
Best Low-Calorie Beef Hot Dog: 97% Fat-Free Hebrew National Beef Franks
For 1 franc (45 g): 45 calories, 1 g total fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 6 g protein, 2 g carbohydrates, 490 mg sodium
If you bought the case of meat at a major supermarket, you may have asked yourself, “Are Hebrew National hot dogs healthy?” They’re practically ubiquitous, and we admit that not all of their products get top nutritional ratings. But these low-fat hot dogs are also very low in calories and are built around a kosher beef base and soy proteinthen seasoned with paprika, garlic and more to meet our health criteria.
Fun fact
According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, mustard is by far the most popular topping for hot dogs nationwide. Hot dog etiquette requires that mustard and other wet toppings be applied to the hot dog first (never on the bun), followed by larger condiments and finally shredded cheese.
Best Healthy Unsalted Hot Dog: Applegate Naturals Unsalted Turkey Hot Dogs
For 1 franc (47 g): 80 calories, 5 g total fat, 1 g saturated fat, 1 g carbohydrates, 470 mg sodium
Minimally processed and with a very short ingredient list, these low-fat hot dogs will delight both healthy eaters and foodies. Containing humanely raised turkey, sea salt, vinegar, cherry powder (for color), spices and nothing else, these dogs are ones you can share with your family. (By the way, they’re gluten-free and Whole30 approved, if you need that.)
Best low-calorie vegetarian hot dog: Yves Veggie Cuisine The Good Dog
For 1 franc (38 g): 45 calories, 1 g total fat (0 g saturated fat), 7 g protein, 2 g carbohydrates, 260 mg sodium
Looking for hot dog brands that are low in sodium and fat? Vegetarian recipes are often your best bet. These made from tofu and soy vegan dogs have the least salt on this list and they contain more protein than an average egg. Tomato extract gives them their vibrant hot dog hue, while mustard and other seasonings spice things up.
Healthy Hot Dog Condiment Choices
Now that you have several options for healthier hot dogs, including low sodium, low fat and beyond, let’s talk toppings. It’s also important to think about how you dress your dog so you don’t undo all your efforts in finding a healthy one. Commercial condiments are often loaded with unnecessary extra sugar and sodium, so we recommend going the DIY route. Each of these homemade condiments has less than 50 calories, 5g of fat, 4g of carbs, and 70mg of sodium.
