According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (yes, that’s a real thing), Americans eat an average of 70 hot dogs per year. An occasional hot dog is no big deal—but 70 a year means you’re having more than one every single week.
Here’s the issue: a typical frank packs about 190 calories, 17 grams of fat, 7 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbs, and 500 milligrams of sodium—and that’s before the bun and condiments.
To help satisfy hot dog lovers everywhere, we’ve rounded up the best-tasting hot dogs that are lower in fat, sodium, and calories—without sacrificing flavor. These fat-free and low-fat picks are kinder to your heart and still delicious enough for a backyard BBQ.
What Makes a Healthy Fat-Free or Low-Fat Hot Dog?
To earn a spot on our summer-approved healthy hot dog list, each option must:
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Taste amazing—of course.
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Qualify as a “low-fat hot dog”, with 6 grams of fat or less per serving (roughly half the fat of a regular hot dog).
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Meet “low-sodium” standards, with under 500 milligrams of sodium per link.
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Be widely available, because what good is a healthy hot dog if you can’t find it?
🥇 Best Low-Fat Beef Hot Dog: Ball Park Lean Beef Franks
Per link (50g): 80 calories, 5g total fat (2g saturated), 6g protein, 2g carbs, 480mg sodium
Made with 100% beef and free of artificial colors or flavors, these Ball Park hot dogs deliver nostalgic flavor with smart nutrition. A touch of salt and chili extract gives them a classic kick—just like the ones you remember eating at ballgames or summer cookouts.
🌱 Best Plant-Based Healthy Hot Dog: Lightlife Vegan Smart Dogs
Per link (43g): 60 calories, 2g total fat (0g saturated), 8g protein, 2g carbs, 270mg sodium
Plant-based eating is more popular than ever, and these low-sodium, low-fat vegan hot dogs are proof that meat-free doesn’t mean flavor-free. Made with soy protein isolate and pea protein, these dogs boast the highest protein content on the list—no cholesterol, no saturated fat, just pure plant goodness.
🔥 Best Low-Calorie Beef Hot Dog: Hebrew National 97% Fat-Free Beef Franks
Per link (45g): 45 calories, 1g total fat (0.5g saturated), 6g protein, 2g carbs, 490mg sodium
If you’ve ever browsed the meat aisle, you’ve probably wondered: “Are Hebrew National hot dogs healthy?” Not all of them, but this one is. Made with kosher beef and soy protein, this link is spiced with paprika and garlic and manages to keep both calories and fat impressively low.
🦃 Best Uncured Healthy Hot Dog: Applegate Naturals Organic Uncured Turkey Hot Dogs
Per link (47g): 60 calories, 3g total fat, 1g saturated fat, 1g carbs, 470mg sodium
These minimally processed turkey hot dogs have a clean, simple ingredient list—just humanely raised turkey, sea salt, vinegar, cherry powder (for color), and spices. They’re organic, Whole30-approved, and ideal for light eaters or picky kids. A solid choice for a natural, no-fuss BBQ option.
🌿 Best Low-Calorie Veggie Hot Dog: Yves Veggie Cuisine The Good Dog
Per link (38g): 45 calories, 1g total fat (0g saturated), 7g protein, 2g carbs, 260mg sodium
Looking for the lowest-sodium and lowest-fat hot dog brand? Veggie options often win out, and these tofu- and soy-based vegan dogs are no exception. They even offer more protein than a medium egg. Tomato extract gives them that hot-dog color, while mustard and spices add savory depth.
Whether you’re firing up the grill or making a quick weeknight meal, these hot dog options offer a healthier spin without losing the flavors you crave. Let me know if you’d like a side-by-side comparison chart or serving ideas!