Summer is grilling season, and vegan hot dogs can be one of the easiest ways to enjoy it. From backyard barbecues and pool parties to camping trips and simple weeknight dinners on the patio, my guide will frankly be a great resource for this summertime favorite.
The plant based hot dog category has evolved over the past year with some brands expanding, longtime favorites still holding steady, one iconic brand gone, and another that may be making a return. If you’re wondering which vegan hot dogs are still available in 2026, here’s a look at current availability in the USA.
As I always say, everyone has their own good and choosing the right hot dog for you is very personal. Each has its own flavor, texture, and ingredients to consider, so my guide is designed to help you discover what’s available and then you can decide which ones may deserve a spot at your next cookout.
Vegan Hot Dog Options for 2026
Impossible Foods
Impossible Hot Dogs continue to be one of the most recognizable names in the category. Many shoppers enjoy their juicy texture and traditional ballpark style flavor, while others appreciate their signature snap. Availability has improved since they first launched, although they can still be difficult to find depending on where you live. If your regular grocery store doesn’t carry them, check retailers like Sprouts or other natural food markets. Store locator here.
MorningStar Farms
MorningStar Farms Veggie Dogs remain one of the most widely available vegan hot dogs on the market. They’re easy to find at Walmart and many traditional grocery stores, making them a convenient choice for everyday meals and summer cookouts. Where to buy here.
Field Roast
Field Roast continues to produce both Stadium Dogs and Smoked Frankfurters. Their hearty texture makes them especially popular for grilling, and they’ve built a loyal following over the years. Store locator here.
Lightlife
Lightlife Smart Dogs have been around for decades and continue to be a familiar option in grocery stores across the country. They’re still one of the longest running available products in this category. Learn more here.
Upton’s Naturals
Upton’s Naturals Updog is a seitan based hot dog featuring an algae based casing that creates an impressive snap when grilled. Inspired by classic Chicago style hot dogs, it’s a unique option for anyone looking to try something a little different. They’re also celebrating 20 years in business this year! Here’s where to buy.
Better Balance
Better Balance Better Dogs are one of the newer brands out there and are made with pea protein and avocado oil and continue to expand into regional grocery chains including Gelson’s, Metropolitan Market, Pete’s, Cermak, and at Albertsons, Vons, Safeway and Pavilions throughout California. Learn more here.
Loma Linda Big Franks
Loma Linda Big Franks gave longtime fans a scare after parent company Atlantic Natural Foods filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection earlier this year. Fortunately, the company has confirmed that Big Franks are continuing production. The only change is that the larger family size can is no longer being produced. Get them at some supermarkets or order here.
Kroger’s Simple Truth Brand
Simple Truth Plant Based Veggie Dogs remain a dependable option for shoppers at Kroger and its family of stores, offering another affordable choice that’s easy to find in many parts of the country. Use the Kroger or affiliate store’s app to find them near you.
Brands That Have Left the Market
The biggest change came when Yves Veggie Cuisine was discontinued by Hain Celestial after more than four decades. There is still hope for the future, however, as Maple Leaf Foods acquired the Yves trademark in early 2026, and recent trademark filings include vegan hot dogs among the products that could return. Read more about that acquisition here. Oscar Mayer NotHotDogs seem to be long gone although not officially announced as discontinued, while Sweet Earth as a brand seems to be in a zombie-like state with no active SKUs I can find anywhere effectively making them gone from retail currently.
Build Your Perfect Vegan Hot Dog
One of the best parts of hot dogs is making them your own! There’s a huge debate about mustard only or if ketchup is even allowed for traditionalists. I love a bit of both on mine but it’s a very personal choice.
You can keep it classic with yellow mustard, ketchup, relish, or diced onions. Go Chicago style with yellow mustard, neon relish, chopped onions, tomato wedges, a pickle spear, sport peppers, celery salt, and a poppy seed bun. Prefer New York style? Add sauerkraut, spicy brown mustard, and simmered onions.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, pile on vegan chili, creamy coleslaw, and diced onions. You can also get creative with caramelized onions, grilled mushrooms, sauerkraut, pickled jalapeños, avocado, crispy onions, vegan cheese sauce, queso, barbecue sauce, or even crushed potato chips for extra crunch.
There are no rules, and everyone has their own preferences for what’s perfect to them.
Complete Your Summer Cookout
A great vegan hot dog deserves great side dishes and I have you covered. If you’re planning a barbecue, picnic, or casual summer dinner, my recipes pair perfectly with just about any hot dog.
Potato Salads
Macaroni Salads
Summer Side Favorites
Homemade Sauces
As the vegan hot dog category continues to evolve, there are still plenty of choices available. Some familiar brands may have disappeared, others continue to grow, and hopefully new products will find their way to store shelves in the future. The good news is you can still build an incredible vegan cookout.
Whether you enjoy a classic veggie dog with mustard and relish or load yours with homemade sauces and creative toppings, I hope this guide helps you discover a new favorite for your summer menu.
