subject: Are Hot Dogs Good For Toddlers? [print this page] Hot dogs are a traditional summer food that many of us enjoy; what would a day at the ball park be without one? They are also a food that many children love - they're fun to eat and easy to chew. There are some concerns regarding hot dogs, however, that parents should be aware of before serving up a hot dog.
What's in a Hot Dog?
Although it's a common joke that hot dogs are made from questionable or odd bits of meat, it's easy to select hot dogs that are made from 100% beef, as well as chicken or turkey, or a blend. It's unlikely that today's hot dogs contain anything frightening. The best quality hot dogs will cost a little more, but will also taste a lot better!
Hot Dogs and Nitrites
Much concern has been raised regarding nitrites, preservatives that are used in cured meats such as hot dogs and bacon. When hot dogs are cooked, these nitrites can create carcinogens that have been linked to cancer. Consumption of more than 12 hot dogs per month was linked in one study with an increased chance of childhood leukemia.
This is frightening, but the good news is that not all hot dogs contain nitrites. Choosing a hot dog that is free of nitrites is an excellent safety measure that will allow your child to consume this favorite food without fear of cancer-causing chemicals. The same goes for many other cured meats such as bacon, pepperoni, and some sausages. Look for options that are labeled as being free of nitrites. These meats will have a shorter shelf life due to the lack of the preservative power of nitrites, but they are much healthier for your family.
Hot Dogs are a Choking Hazard
Of the many things that can pose a choking hazard to children under 4, hot dogs are one of the top ten foods identified by the AAP. Their round shape makes them a perfect culprit for getting stuck in a child's narrow throat and blocking the airway. Never serve hot dogs to your child whole, or even cut into rounds. Hot dogs should always be cut lengthwise for safety.
Some hot dogs have a thicker skin than others, which can make it a little harder for your child to chew. Try to choose options with a thinner, easier to chew skin. Even so, it's still necessary to cut lengthwise to prevent choking.
Hot Dogs and Nutrition
As long as you select hot dogs made from good meat sources and free of nitrites, hot dogs are safe enough and actually do provide a source of nutrition for your toddler. It counts as a serving of protein, and can provide several vitamins and minerals. Hot dogs are generally fairly high in sodium, and beef choices contain more saturated fat than leaner chicken or turkey franks.
Serve hot dogs on a whole wheat bun for added nutrition rather than a white bun, and go easy on high sugar condiments like ketchup.
As long as you follow the rules of buying all-meat, nitrite free hot dogs and cut them lengthwise for safety, there is no real reason your toddler can't enjoy his favorite food. They aren't the best choice for a serving of meat, however, so keep hot dog consumption to a moderate amount.
