Top-tier Hot Dog Brands You Need to Try

Hot dogs are a beloved staple at barbecues, sporting events, and summer picnics across the country, making the choice of brand a key component for a delicious experience. Over the years, several brands have stood out for their flavor, quality, and variety, catering to diverse preferences and regional tastes. From artisanal and gourmet options to classic household names, the hot dog market offers something for every palate. If you’re eager to discover which brands have topped the charts this year, check out our comprehensive list below.

Illustration of hot dogs

Best brands of hot dogs in 2025

Nathan's Famous

Nathan's Famous is renowned as one of the top hot dog brands, boasting a strong heritage since its inception in 1916. The company's Branded Product Program, which accounts for 63.3% of its sales, saw a significant increase in hot dog volume by approximately 2% and a 7% rise in average selling price in fiscal 2024, driven by its premium pricing and unique offerings. Nathan's hot dogs, made from 100% beef and featuring the original recipe, are sold in approximately 79,000 locations across the U.S.. The brand's taste superiority, as acknowledged by Consumer Reports and Bon Appetit, justifies its premium pricing and enhances its market position. Despite facing challenges like fluctuating beef prices, Nathan's maintains healthy margins and robust free cash flow. For more details, visit their hot dog product page.

Hebrew National

Hebrew National is a renowned brand in the hot dog industry, known for its high-quality, all-beef kosher hot dogs that have been a staple since 1905. The brand, acquired by Conagra Foods in 1993, generated $170 million in sales in 2020 and is recognized for its cultural significance and the popular slogan "We answer to a higher authority." Hebrew National hot dogs are made with kosher beef, appealing to both Jewish and non-Jewish consumers, with 3/4 of kosher hot dog consumers being non-Jewish. The brand's sales have been growing at twice the rate of the total hot dog category, highlighting its strong market presence. Hebrew National hot dogs are rich in protein, containing 20g per serving, and are widely consumed at various events, including baseball stadiums and backyard cookouts. For more information, visit their official website.

Oscar Mayer

Oscar Mayer, a subsidiary of the Kraft Heinz Company, is a leading producer of hot dogs, known for its high-quality products such as Classic Wieners and other meat items. In 2017, Oscar Mayer held a 17.5% share of the cold cuts and processed meats market. The company has a long history, dating back to 1883, and has been a significant player in the industry, especially with its hot dog products which are widely popular globally. The hot dog market, where Oscar Mayer is a key player, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2024 to 2030, reaching a market size of USD 27.93 billion by 2030. Oscar Mayer's hot dogs have also undergone recipe changes to eliminate added nitrates, nitrites, and artificial preservatives, enhancing consumer appeal. For more details about Oscar Mayer and its products, visit the Oscar Mayer page on the Kraft Heinz website.

Ball Park

Ball Park, a renowned brand in the hot dog industry, is a significant player in the global hot dog market, which was valued at USD 20.94 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% until 2030. The brand is part of the larger market dominated by North America, where the hot dog and sausages market was valued at USD 39.85 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 51.39 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.7%. Ball Park hot dogs are popular for their convenience and are often consumed during peak summer months, with over 7 billion hot dogs consumed between Memorial Day and Labor Day in the United States. The brand benefits from the increasing demand for convenient and ready-to-eat food products, particularly in the supermarket and hypermarket distribution channels, which account for a significant share of the market. With the rising preference for premium and natural products, Ball Park continues to innovate and expand its product line.

Hillshire Farm

Hillshire Farm is a leading brand in the hot dog and sausage market, renowned for its high-quality products. As part of Hillshire Brands, it dominates the US market, with Hillshire Farm being the dinner-sausage leader and Ball Park Franks, another brand under the company, leading in hot dog sales. Hillshire Brands generates significant revenue, with Hillshire Farm and Jimmy Dean each being approximately $1 billion segments. The company's focus on innovation, such as acquiring Aidells gourmet sausage, has facilitated rapid product development and market growth. Hillshire Farm's products, like Lit'l Smokies, are popular for their taste and convenience.

Boar's Head

Boar's Head is a renowned brand in the hot dog industry, known for its high-quality products made from the finest ingredients. Founded in 1905 by Frank Brunckhorst, the company has maintained its commitment to exceptional flavor and superior bite, as seen in their USDA Choice Beef Frankfurters and proprietary spice blend. Boar's Head is among the dominant players in the deli and hot dog market, with the global hot dog market expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2024 to 2031, reaching USD 8.63 billion by 2031. The brand's products are popular across various regions, including North America, which is expected to dominate the hot dog market due to increasing urbanization and consumption trends. Boar's Head's dedication to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among consumers. For more details on their offerings, visit Boar's Head Frankfurters page.

Applegate Naturals

Applegate Naturals is renowned as one of the best producers of hot dogs, offering a range of organic and non-GMO options that cater to health-conscious consumers. Since its founding in 1987, the brand has committed to using high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients, with over 90% of its products being certified organic. Applegate Naturals hot dogs are free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors, making them a preferred choice for those seeking healthier alternatives. The brand has also been recognized for its environmental stewardship, reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% since 2015. With a strong focus on transparency and sustainability, Applegate Naturals continues to lead the market in natural and organic meat products.

Johnsonville

Johnsonville is a leading brand in the hot dog market, known for its high-quality, fully cooked skinless hot dogs that offer a traditional flavor experience. The company has experienced significant growth, with domestic and international sales of its fully cooked sausage products increasing substantially in recent years, maxing out manufacturing capacity at its headquarters campus in Johnsonville. In 2016, Johnsonville became the national share leader in Canada's sausage market, achieving a 15% increase in dollars and a 19% increase in units sold. Johnsonville's products are widely available, including distribution in major retailers like Walmart, and the company continues to expand its market presence through innovative marketing strategies and product launches. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among consumers. You can explore their full range of high-quality hot dogs on their website.

Sabrett

Sabrett is renowned as one of the best producers of hot dogs, particularly celebrated for its all-natural and skinless products that contain no added nitrates, gluten, or preservatives. Ranked as the best hot dog brand by Delish.com in 2019, Sabrett's hot dogs are known for their distinctive flavor and "snap" when bitten into. The company has been introducing health-conscious hot dog lines, such as those launched in 2015, which feature low sodium content. Sabrett's products are highly regarded, with some rankings placing them above other popular brands like Nathan's and Hebrew National. Their hot dogs are a staple in New York City and are often featured at events and in local cuisine.

Vienna Beef

Vienna Beef is a renowned producer of high-quality hot dogs, celebrated for its traditional recipes and premium ingredients. Since 1893, the company has been making food memories, particularly with its Chicago Style Hot Dog, which gained fame during the Great Depression. Vienna Beef hot dogs are known for their firm and juicy texture, made from fresh domestic meat with no antibiotics, hormones, fillers, artificial colors, or flavorings. The brand's products are widely available in various packaging options, including 10 lb. boxes for foodservice and convenient retail packages. Vienna Beef continues to be a significant player in the hot dog market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2024 to 2031. For more details, explore their range of hot dogs on their official website.