Heinz, Hot Dog Champ Protest ‘Mistreatment’ of Franks

Heinz has launched the “Hot Dogs Are Not a Contest” movement to end the mistreatment of hot dogs – depriving them of necessary condiments – once and for all. Just minutes after the world’s most famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, the brand and six-time Hot Dog-Eating Contest Champion, Takeru Kobayashi, rallied for justice by giving runners-up a chance at redemption. The first losing finalist who eats a hot dog the right way – with love, admiration, and of course, Heinz condiments – will win $10,000, matching the Hot Dog Eating Contest’s prize money.

While 94 percent of fans prefer their hot dogs covered in crave-worthy condiments, every year, contestants continue to mistreat hundreds of franks. They dunk the buns in water and swallow dozens of franks whole – all without condiments and the joy they bring. Now Heinz is taking a stand against the horror in partnership with grassroots organizer, Francis Weiner and Kobayashi.

“After participating in this contest for many years, I can attest to the mistreatment of hot dogs first-hand and admit to doing it myself,” says Kobayashi. “I recognize now that I was woefully misguided, and I want to make it right by joining the movement. I am done with Hot Dog Eating Contests, and I encourage contestants and fans everywhere to see the light – hot dogs aren’t hot dogs without condiments.”

Immediately following The Hot Dog Eating Contest, Heinz gave losing finalists a chance at redemption – by simply enjoying a frank properly – dressed in Heinz condiments. The first runner-up to film themself savoring a hot dog with at least one Heinz condiment and direct message it to the @Heinz Instagram will win. The prize includes $10,000 – a match to the contest’s official prize money – and all the condiment-filled bragging rights.

“After recently launching our new global creative platform, ‘It Has to be Heinz ,’ this is a perfect moment to continue shining a light on the irrational love that fans have for Heinz ,” says Megan Lang, director of brand communications, Heinz . “There’s an entire contest dedicated to how people eat hot dogs. As the condiment category leader, we’re sure our fans agree that hot dogs are best when enjoyed with Heinz.”

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