With the additives and seasonings in most hot dogs, it can be a challenge to find a gluten-free version. Thankfully, if you are one of the many people who live with Celiac or a gluten sensitivity, there are several options available to you.
Companies That Make Gluten-Free Hot Dogs
You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that many brands of hot dogs are already gluten-free. Some others have gluten-free options available as well.
Applegate Farms
Applegate Farms is the producer of six different types of organic hot dogs, all of which are gluten-free. There is also no gluten used in the facility where the hot dogs are manufactured, so there is little concern with cross contamination.
Bar-S
Bar-S hot dogs on their own contain no gluten ingredients. They may be manufactured in the same facility as their corn dogs, however, which do contain gluten.
Boar's Head
Boar's Head, which makes luncheon meats, uses no gluten-containing ingredients in any of their foods, except soups. The company works with its suppliers to make sure the ingredients coming into its plants also do not contain any gluten.
Dietz & Watson
Dietz & Watson's hot dogs are completely gluten-free. The company is certified gluten-free by the Celiac Sprue Association, ensuring the quality of their foods.
Kunzler
Kunzler's plain hot dogs do not contain any gluten-based ingredients. They are also made in a separate gluten-free room, away from potential contaminants.
Nathan's Famous
Nathan's Famous hot dogs have been completely gluten-free for several years. The company uses a gluten-free facility for manufacturing as well.
Organic Prairie
Organic Prairie makes hot dogs that are completely gluten-free. Their packaging may contain some corn gluten, however, so stay away if you are sensitive to corn.
Sabrett
Sabrett's hot dogs are completely gluten-free. They are also certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization.
Wellshire Farms
Wellshire Farms is also certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization. The company specializes in making allergen-free foods, and uses practices which help to contain the spread of cross-contamination within the factories as well.
Avoiding Hidden Gluten in Hot Dogs
Many other hot dog brands may also offer some products that are free of gluten but not certified or explicitly gluten-free. If you are checking for gluten on the label, look for potentially hidden sources in these words:
- Dextrose
- Maltodexterin
- Modified food starch
- Modified starch
If you are uncertain, you can either contact the company directly, or play it safe and purchase one of the brands listed above.
Hot Dog Buns and Extras
Of course, the hot dog is only a part of the big picture. What's a hot dog without a bun and some condiments?
Gluten-Free Buns
There are a few brands that make gluten-free buns, including the following:
- Udi's Gluten-Free, which makes a soft, classic style bun
- Pure Knead, who makes a gluten and dairy free bun
Condiments Without Gluten
Be sure to screen any products you add such as mustard, ketchup or relish because of possible gluten-containing additives. Products that are safe to eat include the following:
- French's line of mustards, which are completely gluten-free
- Several products, including ketchup and relish in the Heinz lineup
Enjoy Your Barbecue
With the growing awareness of celiac disease, companies have responded by offering foods which are safe for those with food allergen issues. The result is a wide range of possibilities for you to choose from the next time you get ready to cook out.
