Additional Coverage:
- 6 Worst Hot Dog Brands at the Grocery Store (blog.cheapism.com)
Summer is synonymous with grilling, and hot dogs often top the cookout menu. But not all franks are created equal.
While a premium hot dog can rival a burger or steak, some supermarket brands leave consumers feeling burned. We surveyed Reddit to find out which hot dogs shoppers love to hate.
Gwaltney Great Dogs Original: Marketed as a lower-fat, budget-friendly option, these chicken franks are readily available at major retailers like Walmart and Food Lion. While the price is appealing (around $1.50-$2 per pack), Redditors report a disturbing appearance in the pan and a flavor best described as “horrific.”
FUD Hot Dogs: Often found in stores catering to Hispanic communities, FUD hot dogs fall in the mid-price range ($2.50-$3). However, online reviewers warn that the mechanically separated chicken and pork mixture delivers a rubbery texture and bland taste that many find inedible.
Bar-S Classic and Beef Franks: This ultra-budget brand, widely available for under $1.50, earns its place as a top seller through price alone. Reddit and Chowhound users describe these franks, made with mechanically separated chicken, turkey, pork, and beef hearts, as everything from “mushy” and “too sweet” to “possessed.”
Oscar Mayer Classic Wieners: While Oscar Mayer boasts “no fillers,” the ingredient list reveals mechanically separated chicken, turkey, and pork. Despite a nostalgic following, many Redditors consider these a “default bad hot dog,” citing an unappetizing color and overall disappointing experience.
Ball Park Franks: Ubiquitous at cookouts and convenience stores, the standard Ball Park frank, a blend of mechanically separated chicken and pork, receives consistent criticism for its soft texture and overly sweet flavor. However, the beef varieties, particularly the Grillmaster line, earn more positive reviews.
Jennie-O Turkey Franks: Marketed as a healthier choice, these turkey franks fail to impress. Redditors report a dry, dense texture and a distinct lack of flavor, despite being widely available in the $3-$4 price range.
Read More About This Story:
- 6 Worst Hot Dog Brands at the Grocery Store (blog.cheapism.com)