Memorial Day Weekend Kicks Off Summer of Seven Billion Hot Dogs
Washington, D.C. May 26, 2016—There are many ways to cook a hot dog, but new research commissioned by the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC) suggests that Americans prefer their dogs straight off the grill. Of the 90 percent of Americans who say they prepare hot dogs, 63 percent say grilling is their favorite way to cook a hot dog, far outpacing other cooking methods such as steaming (12 percent), microwaving (9 percent) or frying in a pan (8 percent).
Plenty of people will take advantage of their grills this summer as the NHDSC estimates that Americans will consume more than seven billion hot dogs between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.
“Hot dogs are the staple of an American summer,” said NHDSC President Eric Mittenthal. “The smell of a hot dog cooking on the grill awakens us from the soggy spring doldrums and arouses joyful memories, as well as a growling stomach.”
The research was conducted online in May 2016 among more than 2,000 U.S. adults ages 18 and older by Harris Poll for the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC).
While Americans are most likely to grill a hot dog, the research also finds that many people prefer to enjoy it inside their home with 34 percent of hot dog eaters saying that’s their favorite place to eat a hot dog, Twenty-two percent prefer eating hot dogs in their backyard, while 19 percent most enjoy their hot dogs while tailgating or inside a sporting event. Thirteen percent of hot dog eaters say they are best enjoyed at a picnic.
“Home is where the heart is, so it’s no surprise that Americans are primarily enjoying hot dogs at home,” said Mittenthal. “No matter where they eat one, we know it is with a smile on their face.”
The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council has many resources for summer hot dog lovers including a full guide to regional hot dog styles, a list of the hot dogs found at Major League ballparks and tips on hot dog etiquette. All the materials can be found at www.hot-dog.org and fans can also get daily hot dog news at www.facebook.com/NHDSC or on Instagram @HotDogCouncil.
Survey Methodology
The survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Poll on behalf of NHDSC from May 17-19, 2016 among 2,026 adults ages 18 and older. The survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact Eric Mittenthal.
About The Harris Poll
Over the last 5 decades, Harris Polls have become media staples. With comprehensive experience and precise technique in public opinion polling, along with a proven track record of uncovering consumers’ motivations and behaviors, The Harris Poll has gained strong brand recognition around the world. Contact us for more information.
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Established in 1994, the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council conducts scientific research to benefit hot dog and sausage manufacturers. The Council also serves as an information resource to consumers and media on issues related to quality, safety, nutrition and preparation of hot dogs.
