Whether it’s a quick snack at home, lunch cooked on the grill, or a ballpark frank at your favorite stadium, there are a variety of hot dog alternatives that are tasty, nutritious, and easy to prepare. Made with plant-based ingredients, these dogs contain less fat and cholesterol, and fewer calories than conventional versions, but they maintain the classic hot dog flavor and provide a number of essential vitamins and minerals.

Variety Counts

Founded in 1985 with the hope of spreading the word about soy, Yves (www.yvesveggie.com) has since become a market leader in soy-based, meatless products. “Yves Veggie Dogs are a great alternative to usual hot dogs and perfect for grilling season,” says Michael Goose, brand manager at Yves. “With four varieties, Yves offers great-tasting, non-meat entrees that are low in fat and cholesterol free. They’re ideal for vegetarians, health-conscious consumers, and kids whose parents are watching what they eat.”

Lightlife Foods (www.lightlife.com) also produces healthy meat-free products boasting significantly reduced fat and cholesterol. The company’s Smart Dogs, for example, advertise the same hot dog flavor with 0 grams of fat and cholesterol and only 45 calories. “Smart Dogs offer consumers all the great taste of hot dogs without the fat and cholesterol,” says Susan Rolnick, director of marketing. “In fact, Smart Dogs were the first ever fat-free hot dog—meat or meat free—ever made. Since it is all natural, it has no nitrates, preservatives, or artificial flavors or colors. With Smart Dogs, there is no mystery—you know what you are getting and you can feel good about it.”

Another wise choice? America’s Original Veggie Dogs from Morningstar Farms (www.kelloggs.com/brand/msfarms), which contain 11 grams of protein and no cholesterol. Also look for the company’s Corn Dog Veggie Dogs.

A Healthy Home Run

Even while watching America’s favorite pastime, you can enjoy a variety of soy-based products now available at baseball concession stands. The Chicago White Sox began selling veggie dogs during the 2000 season at Comiskey Park in response to the rising number of people buying meat alternatives (22 percent in 2000 compared to 7 percent in 1992). By the following season, six additional stadiums had responded to the growing demand for meat-free alternatives. The nutritious trend has even found its way to minor league venues. Although not yet in every ballpark nationwide, the meatless hot dog revolution continues to spread throughout the country.

For summer cookouts, be sure to sample some of the hot dog alternatives available in the produce section at your favorite supermarket.