Meat straws are more than the viral Hot Dog Straw

While the Oscar Mayer Hot Dog Straw has captivated the conversation, meat straws are not necessarily a new concept to hit the glass. In a world that is moving away from the single use plastic, is an edible straw the flavorful solution?

One TikTok video has had many people raising eyebrows about using a hot dog as a straw. Although the social media platform has brought many people curious food creations and conversations, this idea of a hot dog in a beer still has people talking.

When Oscar Mayer launched its Hot Dog Straw, the concept was a variation on that viral video. Instead of using an actual frank, it has the appearance of the frank.

Speaking to the concept, Kelsey Rice, Associate Director, Oscar Mayer, said “While the viral ‘Hot Dog Straw’ divided the internet, we salute the brave man who paved the way to enjoy his hot dog as he wishes. Taking inspiration from a classic Oscar Mayer dog, the silicone Hot Dog Straw is designed for optimal sipping, and we hope it brings a friendly reminder that we don’t need to take enjoying a delicious hot dog seriously. Some things are just meant to be fun.”

Although there is some humor in that sip, it does not takeaway from the concept that beer and hot dogs go together. Whether enjoyed at a game, in the backyard, or wherever people choose, some simple food and beverage pairings are classics.

In a way, meat straws are a classic in another beverage pairing, the Bloody Mary. While some cocktails are served with a whole meal piled on top of that glass, others have a more simple presentation. But, one option is often a popular choice, the meat straw.

The hollowed out meat stick is a common choice in a Bloody Mary. While some people use it to consume the cocktail, others just eat the garnish. In either way, the meat straw does add flavor and fun to the consumption. Sometimes, it pays to be a little extra with the cocktail.

Whether or not meat straws take over other the bar or are just a sometimes option, the reality is that people should not dismiss one person’s take that might be a little unusual. Like the old phrase, don’t knock it until you try it, it might hold a more flavorful sip than anyone realized.