What hotdog brand is gluten-free?

November 26, 2025 •

4 min read

According to Celiac.com, multiple major hotdog manufacturers now produce gluten-free products, making it easier than ever to enjoy a safe summer cookout. This guide will help you determine what hotdog brand is gluten-free and which ones are safest for those with sensitivities and celiac disease.

Quick Summary

A comprehensive list of hotdog brands that are gluten-free, including certified options and crucial tips for checking labels to avoid cross-contamination for a safe eating experience.

Key Points

Check for Certification: Certified gluten-free brands like Dietz & Watson and Sabrett offer the highest assurance with third-party verification.
Read Labels Religiously: Manufacturers can change ingredients or processes, so always read the ingredient list, even on brands you trust, to confirm gluten-free status.
Beware of Cross-Contamination: For severe sensitivities or celiac disease, consider brands that test for gluten or use dedicated production facilities, like Applegate Farms.
Understand Labeling Nuances: A product labeled "no gluten ingredients" is not the same as a certified gluten-free product, which has more rigorous testing standards.
Don't Forget the Bun: Always pair your gluten-free hotdog with a certified gluten-free bun and check condiments for hidden gluten sources.
Recognize Brand Changes: Some brands, like Nathan's Famous, have changed their recipe's gluten status over time; current labels are key.
Be Product-Specific: Some companies, like Bar-S, have gluten-free hotdogs but other products (e.g., corn dogs) that contain wheat.

Your Guide to Navigating Gluten-Free Hotdog Brands

For those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, or wheat allergies, finding safe food options can often be a challenge, and hotdogs are no exception. Historically, hotdogs were a source of concern due to potential fillers, binders, or seasonings containing wheat or other gluten ingredients. However, the market has seen a significant shift, and today, many major manufacturers offer reliably gluten-free products. This guide breaks down which hotdog brands are safe and what you need to know to make an informed purchase, focusing on reading labels, understanding certifications, and identifying potential cross-contamination risks.

Certified Gluten-Free Options

For the highest level of assurance, particularly for those with severe celiac disease, seeking out certified gluten-free products is the safest bet. These brands go through third-party testing to ensure their products consistently meet strict gluten-free standards.

Dietz & Watson: A highly reliable choice, with almost all of their products being gluten-free. They are certified by the National Celiac Association, guaranteeing less than 5 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.
Sabrett: Another certified option, Sabrett hotdogs are certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO), confirming they contain less than 10 ppm of gluten.
Applegate Farms: Many of Applegate's organic and natural hotdogs are considered gluten-free (under 20 ppm) and are manufactured in a gluten-free facility. They also offer gluten-free corn dogs.

Widely Available and Major Hotdog Brands

Many household-name hotdog brands are also now safely gluten-free. Always double-check the labels, as formulations can change, and some brands have specific product lines that are not gluten-free.

Nathan's Famous: The hotdogs sold in supermarkets are typically labeled as gluten-free and are made in a gluten-free facility. However, always confirm by reading the package, as the recipe has changed over the years.
Hebrew National: These hotdogs are kosher and widely available, and are considered gluten-free. The company discloses any gluten-containing ingredients on the label.
Boar's Head: A reliable deli brand, Boar's Head lists all its products, including hotdogs, as gluten-free.
Bar-S: The majority of Bar-S hotdogs—including beef, chicken, and turkey varieties—are explicitly labeled as gluten-free. The company clearly states this, but warns that its corn dogs do contain wheat.
Kirkland (Costco): The store-brand hotdogs at Costco are also a popular and reliable gluten-free option, as confirmed by consumers.
Oscar Mayer: Some Oscar Mayer varieties are gluten-free, but as a Kraft company, the policy is to list any gluten on the label. Always check the specific product's ingredients.
Kunzler: Many of Kunzler's hotdog products contain only naturally gluten-free ingredients and are often made in a separate, dedicated gluten-free area.

Comparison of Popular Gluten-Free Hotdog Brands

To help you decide, here is a quick comparison of some of the most popular gluten-free brands.


Brand	Gluten-Free Certification	Product Range	Key Considerations
Dietz & Watson	Certified (NCA)	Beef, chicken, deli meats	Extremely low gluten PPM; avoids most common allergens.
Sabrett	Certified (GFCO)	Beef, natural casing franks	Highly reliable certification; classic New York street vendor taste.
Applegate Farms	Not certified, but tested GF	Organic beef, chicken, turkey	No gluten used in facility; check for corn dog exceptions.
Hebrew National	Not certified, but widely considered GF	All-beef, kosher options	Kosher and free of artificial colors/flavors.
Nathan's Famous	Not certified, but tested GF	Beef, all-beef varieties	Long history but check label for any recent changes in formulation.
Bar-S	Not certified, but explicitly labeled GF	Beef, chicken, turkey, classic	Great value; must avoid their corn dog products.
Kirkland (Costco)	Not certified, but widely considered GF	All-beef, kosher	Good value and taste; check labels for potential changes.

Potential Risks of Cross-Contamination

Even with a product labeled gluten-free, there is a risk of cross-contamination in facilities that also process gluten-containing products. While some brands operate in dedicated gluten-free facilities (like Applegate), others might not. If you have a severe gluten allergy or celiac disease, looking for a brand that is third-party certified (like Dietz & Watson or Sabrett) provides the strongest assurance against trace amounts of gluten. For most people with sensitivities, a clearly labeled product is sufficient, but always read the fine print. Verywell Fit's Gluten-Free Hotdog Guide provides an excellent overview of brands and their practices.

The Importance of Gluten-Free Buns and Condiments

It's easy to focus on the hotdog itself and forget about the bun. Make sure to purchase certified gluten-free hotdog buns from brands like Schär, Udi's, or Katz. For condiments, most ketchup, mustard, and relish brands are naturally gluten-free, but it is always wise to read labels to confirm. Some specialty sauces may contain hidden gluten.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Hotdogs Safely

Today's market offers numerous safe and delicious options for a gluten-free hotdog experience. By prioritizing brands with third-party certification like Dietz & Watson and Sabrett, or carefully reading the labels of trusted brands like Applegate Farms and Hebrew National, you can confidently enjoy your meal. Always remember that due to the risk of cross-contamination, especially for individuals with celiac disease, checking the ingredient list for every purchase is the most critical step to ensure a safe, tasty, and worry-free hotdog.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all hotdogs are gluten-free. While many brands no longer use gluten-containing fillers or binders, some still do, and cross-contamination is a risk. Always check the ingredients list and look for a gluten-free label.

Yes, Hebrew National hotdogs are considered gluten-free. As a subsidiary of ConAgra Foods, the company's policy is to clearly disclose any gluten ingredients on the product label. Many people with gluten sensitivities and celiac disease consume them safely.

Many people with gluten sensitivities can safely consume products labeled gluten-free, even if not certified. However, for severe celiac disease, certified products offer a higher level of safety against cross-contamination, as they are tested by a third party.

Yes, Nathan's Famous hotdogs sold in supermarkets are considered gluten-free and are made in a gluten-free facility. However, they have changed their recipe in the past, so checking the nutritional panel for the most current information is always recommended.

"No gluten ingredients" means no gluten was intentionally added to the product. "Certified gluten-free" means the product has been tested by a third party and meets a strict standard for gluten content (e.g., less than 5, 10, or 20 ppm).

Brands that carry third-party certifications like Dietz & Watson (NCA certified) and Sabrett (GFCO certified) are generally the safest options for those with celiac disease due to more rigorous testing and lower gluten standards.

For a complete gluten-free meal, you need certified gluten-free buns from brands like Schär or Udi's. Most basic condiments like ketchup and mustard are gluten-free, but always read the label on any sauces or toppings you use.