Simple Truth Hot Dogs

Your Guide to the Healthier Franks Taking Over Grocery Store Shelves

Hot dogs are a staple of summer barbecues and baseball games, but most traditional brands are loaded with artificial ingredients, preservatives, and mystery meat. That’s why more health-conscious consumers are reaching for Simple Truth hot dogs – the all-natural, organic franks from the Simple Truth brand by Kroger.

But what exactly are Simple Truth hot dogs and what makes them stand out? Are they really a healthier choice for you and your family? I’ll answer all those questions and more in this in-depth look at Simple Truth’s lineup of nitrate-free, non-GMO hot dogs.

An Introduction to Simple Truth

First, a little background. Simple Truth is Kroger’s natural and organic brand, offering products free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Simple Truth launched in 2012 and covers everything from produce and meat to snacks and packaged goods.

The driving force behind Simple Truth is the belief that everyone deserves easy access to affordable, high-quality organic and natural foods. The brand focuses on transparency – they want you to feel good about what’s in your food.

What Sets Simple Truth Hot Dogs Apart

When you browse the hot dog section these days, you’ll notice more and more natural and organic options next to the traditional brands many of us grew up with. So what makes Simple Truth hot dogs special compared to other “healthier” franks?

Simple Truth hot dogs contain no nitrates or nitrites, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. They are made with high-quality organic grass-fed beef and are Certified Humane. The hot dogs are non-GMO and contain no by-products.

Many leading hot dog brands contain sodium nitrite, which stabilizes color and extends shelf life but has been linked to cancer. Simple Truth uses natural celery powder instead of sodium nitrite to achieve the same effects.

On top of better ingredients, Simple Truth hot dogs have impressive nutritional stats. A 56g original Simple Truth hot dog contains just 50 calories, 1.5g fat, and 280mg sodium. Compare that to a typical hot dog with around 150 calories and over 600mg sodium.

Where to Buy Simple Truth Hot Dogs

Simple Truth products are sold exclusively at Kroger stores across the U.S. You can find Simple Truth hot dogs at Kroger, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Fry’s, and other Kroger-owned chains.

Kroger has over 2,800 stores across 35 states. Use the Kroger store locator to find a location near you carrying Simple Truth. The hot dogs are usually stocked in the fresh meat section or with other organic/natural refrigerated items.

In addition to original, Simple Truth makes turkey, chicken, and plant-based hot dog varieties so everyone can get in on the fun! Check your local Kroger for the full selection.

Ingredients That Make the Cut

We know Simple Truth hot dogs are nitrate-free and non-GMO, but what else is in them? Let’s look at the ingredient list for the original beef hot dogs:

• Beef
• Water
• Sea Salt
• Celery Powder
• Natural Flavors
• Lactic Acid Starter Culture
• Cherry Powder
• Onion Powder
• Garlic Powder
• Ascorbic Acid

That’s it – no weird chemicals or fillers! The beef is 100% organic and grass-fed for superior nutrition and flavor. Simple Truth adds just a handful of natural ingredients like sea salt, spices, and lactic acid culture.

Other Simple Truth varieties use organic chicken or turkey, vegetables, and spices. There are no mystery meats here!

How Do They Taste?

Going natural with hot dogs doesn’t mean sacrificing that signature flavor. According to reviewers, Simple Truth hot dogs taste just like the real deal!

Customers say they can’t tell the difference between Simple Truth franks and traditional hot dogs. The all-beef hot dogs are perfectly plump and juicy when grilled or boiled. Even kids gobble them up.

The celery powder gives Simple Truth hot dogs that nostalgic pink hue without cancer-linked nitrites. And the natural spices like garlic and onion powder replicate the classic hot dog flavor we know and love.

Nutrition Facts

Let’s crunch the numbers and see how Simple Truth hot dogs compare nutritionally to standard brands:

• Calories: Simple Truth beef hot dogs are 50 calories each. Standard hot dogs average about 150 calories.
• Fat: 1.5g in Simple Truth versus about 13g in regular hot dogs.
• Sodium: 280mg in Simple Truth versus 600+ mg in many leading brands.
• Nitrates: 0mg in Simple Truth. Most others contain sodium nitrite.
• Preservatives: None in Simple Truth. Many others contain preservatives like sodium phosphates.

So across the board, Simple Truth hot dogs are nutritionally superior. You’ll slash calories, fat, sodium, and unwanted ingredients compared to conventional franks.

Special Diet Compatibility

The natural ingredients and clean nutrition labels make Simple Truth a smart choice for many special diets as well:

• Gluten-free: Simple Truth hot dogs are Certified Gluten-Free.
• Keto and Paleo: With just 1.5g carbs and no added sugar, these fit into low carb lifestyles.
• Dairy-free and Vegan: Dairy-free and suitable for plant-based diets. Try the meatless Simple Truth hot dogs made with pea protein.
• Kid-friendly: No nitrates, artificial colors, etc. Ideal for health-conscious parents.
• Food allergies: With fewer ingredients, less risk of allergic reactions.

How to Cook Simple Truth Hot Dogs

You can cook Simple Truth franks just like regular hot dogs! Follow these tips for grilling, boiling, and more:

• Grilling: Heat grill to medium-high. Place hot dogs on oiled grates and cook 4-6 minutes until charred. Turn occasionally.
• Boiling: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add hot dogs and simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Place hot dogs in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water. Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds.
• Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 380°F. Cook hot dogs 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add hot dogs and cook, turning periodically, for about 10 minutes until browned.

Let cooked hot dogs rest 1-2 minutes before serving for the juiciest bite! Top with your favorite condiments and buns.

How to Store Simple Truth Hot Dogs

Unopened packs of Simple Truth hot dogs:

• Refrigerator: Use by date on package (at least 30 days)
• Freezer: 6 months

Once opened, store leftover hot dogs:

• Refrigerator: 3-5 days
• Freezer: 2-3 months

Reheat fully cooked hot dogs before eating. Simple Truth hot dogs contain no preservatives so be sure to consume within the recommended timeframes above for safety.

Simple Truth Hot Dog Varieties

Beyond the popular original beef franks, Simple Truth offers hot dog options for every diet:

• Turkey: Made with organic turkey and turkey broth. 60 calories each.
• Chicken: Organic chicken and chicken broth. 50 calories each.
• Plant-based: Pea protein, beets, and spices. 110 calories each. Vegan!
• Raw dog food: Frozen, raw beef hot dog patties. Grain-free.
• Kid-size: Mini uncured beef hot dogs perfect for little hands!

There are also different packaging options. Grab a pack of 8, value pack of 16, or jumbo pack of 38 hot dogs to fuel the whole family or team!

Are Simple Truth Hot Dogs Worth It?

Simple Truth hot dogs cost more than cheap conventional hot dogs – but they do go on sale frequently. Here are the usual prices:

• Beef hot dogs: $4.99 for pack of 8 ($0.62 each)
• Turkey or chicken: $5.99 for pack of 8 ($0.75 each)
• Plant-based: $4.99 for pack of 4 ($1.25 each)

Paying a little extra gives you the peace of mind that comes with:

• Organic, humanely raised meat
• No nitrates, artificial ingredients, or by-products
• Clean, non-GMO ingredients
• Superior nutrition

Based on thousands of glowing reviews, most agree Simple Truth hot dogs are totally worth it for the natural quality!

The Verdict on Simple Truth Hot Dogs

At the end of the day, Simple Truth offers a delicious hot dog that even picky eaters love – but without all the junk that goes into traditional franks. They find that perfect balance between taste, nutrition, and safety.

Simple Truth gives you real food made with real ingredients you recognize. No mystery meat or chemical preservatives. Plus, you’ll feel good supporting their commitment to organic, sustainable practices.

So grill up some Simple Truth hot dogs at your next backyard barbecue or game day party! Just run to your local Kroger first and stock up on these healthier, natural franks. Your friends and family will thank you.