As consumer preferences continue to drive foodservice megatrends such as plant-forward options, global foods and better-for-you choices, operators may face a challenge when menuing comfort foods such as hot dogs. But hot dogs remain a menu staple across many segments and offer a versatile option for foodservice facilities who want to have something familiar in the lineup.
To freshen up menu choices, operators in noncommercial foodservice facilities can offer customizable toppings bars, offer themed hot-dog meals and highlight quality ingredients in order to keep diners interested and satisfied. Check out three ways operators can give hot dogs a new look for summer.
Choose your own adventure
Consumers love variety and customization. In fact, according to Technomic’s 2017 Value and Pricing Consumer Trend Report, nearly half (48%) of consumers say that food variety is important for creating a good value at foodservice locations, while about one in five say the same about customization. Give diners the option to top their own hot dogs with an array of trending ingredients and tasty toppings. Some of the fastest-growing ingredients paired with hot dogs, according to Technomic’s MenuMonitor, include jalapeno (+8% year-over-year), cheddar cheese (+8%), spicy mustard (+5%), sauerkraut (+4%) and cole slaw (+3%). Offer options that give diners an array of flavor choices, from pickled/sour to hot and spicy, rich and creamy, crunchy and more.
Go global
According to Technomic’s 2018 Ethnic Food & Beverage Consumer Trend Report, 46% of consumers who are eating more unique types of ethnic foods now versus two years ago say they are doing so because they want to try new flavors or flavor combinations. Hot dogs may not seem like the best base for global flavors—but they are! For instance, offer a Korean-inspired hot dog topped with kimchi and gochujang, or a Mexican street corn-inspired hot dog, topped with corn, cotija cheese, lime juice and chili powder. Thinking Greek? Top hot dogs with tzatziki sauce, cucumbers, onions and tomatoes for a refreshing Mediterranean twist on this cookout classic.
Highlight health
Finally, stick to the basics and offer traditional hot dogs—but highlight quality ingredients. Consumers are increasingly interested in foods that are responsibly sourced or made from all-natural ingredients, so using all-natural hot dogs can be a great way to attract these health-focused diners. Look for hot dogs made with no fillers or extenders, no meat substitutes, no byproducts, no nitrates or nitrites, no milk solids or potato starch and no MSG.
Make sure signage near the hot dogs reflects the quality, too—highlight the amount of protein in each hot dog, mention better-for-you ingredients and reference sourcing, if applicable. The more consumers trust the food they’re eating, the more likely they are to come back for another meal.
Hot dogs are a backyard barbecue favorite for several reasons, but for noncommercial foodservice operators, they present a unique opportunity. Offering familiar, comfort food flavor while being endlessly customizable—including options with ethnic flair—hot dogs are a versatile menu item perfect for lunch or dinner. And, with higher quality ingredients, consumers who seek out better-for-you meals win, too.
This post is sponsored by Eisenberg