Grills to Sizzle Over Holiday Weekend

This weekend as Americans fire their grills to celebrate Memorial Day and the unofficial start of summer, consumers will make hot dogs and hamburgers the sizzling centerpieces, according to new poll data released by the American Meat Institute (AMI) and the National Hot Dog & Sausage Council (NHDSC).

According to the poll, hamburgers grabbed the top spot with 43 percent of the vote. Hot dogs pulled in a fairly close second at 34 percent. Other popular items included chicken (31 percent) and ribs (28 percent).

"Throughout the years, hamburgers and hot dogs have maintained their 'rolls' as great American foods," according to Janet Riley, senior vice president of public affairs and professional development for AMI and president of the NHDSC. "Not only are they delicious and nutritious, they are cultural icons."

The polling was completed May 22-24, 2007, by Opinion Dynamics Corporation, which conducted telephone interviews with 1,000 consumers.

For more fun facts, like hot dog eating etiquette, visit http://www.hot-dog.org. For food safety tips, go to http://www.meatsafety.org.

AMI is the nation's oldest and largest meat and poultry trade association, and was founded in 1906. AMI's members produce 95 percent of the beef, pork, lamb and veal products and about 70 percent of the turkey products in the US.

Established in 1994, the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council conducts scientific research to benefit hot dog and sausage manufacturers. The Council also serves as an information resource to consumers and media on issues related to quality, safety, nutrition and preparation of hot dogs and sausages. July 2007 marks the 50th anniversary of the Council's annual National Hot Dog Month. As part of the celebration, the Council also sponsors National Hot Dog Day, celebrated on July 18, 2007