Do you love hot dogs? Well, you don’t have to give them up when following the low FODMAP diet! We have all the guidelines to help you enjoy this beloved food while still adhering to your diet.
How to Buy Low FODMAP Hot Dogs
When it comes to buying low FODMAP hot dogs, label reading is key. Hot dogs usually have many ingredients, so it’s important to understand what you see on the ingredient labels.
Pick Your Protein
First, decide what type of hot dog you want. You can choose from all-beef, pork, a blend of the two, or even chicken or turkey. By choosing a specific category, you can limit your label reading to that type of hot dog.
For vegetarian hot dogs, the main ingredients are often isolated soy protein and vital wheat gluten. Isolated soy protein is low FODMAP, while vital wheat gluten is untested but likely low in FODMAPs.
Cured vs. Uncured
Hot dogs can be labeled as “cured” or “uncured.” The word “cured” refers to meats preserved with synthetic nitrites, such as bacon. Synthetic nitrites are low FODMAP.
On the other hand, “uncured” hot dogs are cured using alternative methods, such as celery powder or juice. These types of hot dogs have not been tested by Monash University and are not recommended. It’s best to consult with a registered dietitian before trying them.
Skinless or With Skins/Casing
Hot dogs can be skinless or have a casing. Casings can be natural or manufactured, with natural casings derived from animal intestines. Skinless hot dogs are initially formed with a casing but are sold without it.
How to Cook a Hot Dog
Hot dogs are pre-cooked, so heating them up is all you need to do. You can steam, gently simmer, grill, or pan-fry them. If you prefer pan-frying, splitting the hot dogs before cooking can enhance the texture.
Hot Dog Ingredients
Meat or poultry ingredients in hot dogs are low FODMAP, but you need to be aware of other ingredients. Here’s what you might find on hot dog labels:
- Sweeteners: Avoid high fructose corn syrup but simple corn syrup and various sugars are fine.
- Spices, Seasonings, Flavorings, Garlic & Onion: Many spices and herbs are low FODMAP, but garlic and onion are high FODMAP. Be cautious when you see “natural flavorings” or “flavorings” as they may contain hidden garlic and onion derivatives.
- Coloring: Some hot dogs contain colorants like cherry powder or beet powder. It’s best to consult with a registered dietitian before trying hot dogs with these ingredients.
Other Common Hot Dog Ingredients & Terms
Here are some other typical hot dog ingredients and terms you may come across on labels:
- Antibiotic Free: No issue in regards to FODMAPs. This is a personal choice.
- Ascorbic Acid/Sodium Ascorbate: Low FODMAP.
- Autolyzed Yeast Extract: Untested but likely low FODMAP.
- Citric acid: Low FODMAP.
- Dextrose: Low FODMAP.
- Hormone Free: No issue in regards to FODMAPs. This is a personal choice.
- Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein: Untested. Discuss with your registered dietitian to assess sampling.
- Lactate/Diacetate: Untested. Discuss with your registered dietitian to assess sampling.
- Lactose and Milk Products: Avoid unless you have passed the lactose Challenge.
- Lauric Arginate: Untested. Discuss with your registered dietitian to assess sampling.
- Maltodextrin: Approach with caution. Consult with your registered dietitian before trying foods with this ingredient.
- Modified Food Starch: Low FODMAP.
- Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): Untested but likely low FODMAP. Monitor personal tolerance.
- Oleoresin of Paprika: Untested but likely low FODMAP.
- Organic: No issue in regards to FODMAPs. This is a personal choice.
- Phosphates: Untested but likely low FODMAP.
- Salt: Low FODMAP.
- Smoke Flavoring: Untested but likely low FODMAP.
- Sodium Erythorbate: Untested but likely low FODMAP.
- Sorbitol: Avoid.
- Soy Protein: Untested. Discuss with your registered dietitian to assess sampling.
Hot Dog Buns
Most people enjoy hot dogs with buns, so it’s crucial to read the labels carefully. Look for gluten-free versions and avoid fillers like inulin and certain sweeteners. Alternatively, you can wrap your hot dog in lettuce for a low FODMAP option.
Brands of Hot Dogs & Buns We Recommend
Please note that none of these hot dogs have been lab tested for FODMAP content. We recommend them based on knowledge of their ingredient FODMAP content. However, individual experiences may vary.
Hot Dog Brands That Might Be Tolerable for FODMAPers
- Hoffman German Brand Franks (less than 2% “flavorings”)
- Oscar Meyer Classic Beef Uncured Franks (less than 2% cherry powder and “flavorings”)
- Oscar Meyer Premium Beef Franks (less than 2% “flavor”)
- Oscar Meyer Premium Jumbo Beef Franks (less than 2% celery juice, cherry powder, and “flavor”)
- Oscar Meyer Jumbo Angus Beef Uncured Franks (less than 2% celery juice, cherry powder, and “flavor”)
- Oscar Meyer Turkey Uncured Franks (less than 2% celery juice, cherry powder, and “flavor”)
- Wellshire Uncured Cocktail Franks (“Natural flavorings” is the last ingredient)
- Zweigle’s Frankfurts Lite (less than 2% “flavorings”)
- Quorn Hot Dogs (the “Mycoprotein” in Quorn is low FODMAP, but note that the hot dogs may contain onion and garlic derivatives)
Vegan Carrot Hot Dogs! Yes, You Read That Right
If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can try vegan carrot hot dogs. Make sure to find recipes that suit your low FODMAP needs.
Potential Low FODMAP Hot Dog Buns
- Franz Gluten Free Hot Dog Buns
- Canyon Bakehouse Gluten Free Hot Dog Buns
- Udi’s Gluten Free Hot Dog Buns (contains “sugarcane fiber” but many people tolerate them well)
Get Creative with Hot Dogs – The Low FODMAP Way!
Why stick to the traditional ways of enjoying hot dogs when you can get creative? Here are some ideas to spice up your low FODMAP hot dog experience:
- German Style: Add sauerkraut and spicy mustard.
- Cheese Dog: Melt a slice of American or cheddar cheese on top.
- Mexican Style: Use low FODMAP salsa instead of ketchup.
- BBQ Dog: Top it with low FODMAP BBQ sauce.
- Everything Dog: Combine mustard, ketchup, and relish for maximum flavor.
Remember, you are in charge of your body and what you choose to eat. If your IBS symptoms are stable and you understand your own digestive process, you can try these hot dogs as a way to assess your own reactions. However, it’s always best to consult with a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coming soon…
Conclusion
Hot dogs can still be a part of your low FODMAP diet if you choose the right ingredients and follow the guidelines. Enjoy this classic favorite while keeping your digestive health in check. Stay mindful of the ingredients, get creative with toppings, and savor every bite. Happy hot dog eating!
Note: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance on your low FODMAP diet.