Here at Osbourn, there is a ‘question of the day’ board in the library. One day, I went with my friend and saw the question ”Are hot dogs sandwiches?” We disagreed and debated about it.

We were both biased towards our own opinions and knew we had to find the true answer.

Some people classify them as sandwiches, but most don’t. “Hot dogs are not sandwiches because their structure and cultural identity set them apart. A sandwich typically consists of two separate slices of bread with fillings layered between, whereas a hot dog uses a single partially split bun that cradles the sausage. This bun acts more like a vessel than a traditional sandwich foundation. Beyond the mechanics, hot dogs have carved out a distinct culinary category with unique toppings, preparation methods, and a cultural presence that separates them from the sandwich
world,” said Analiyah Esparza

“I personally think that, just because stuff is between two pieces of bread, it doesn’t make it a sandwich. Secondly, a sandwich is like, straight up, while a hot dog is sideways,” Janail Bullock said.

Hot dogs are not sandwiches. The reason why is because an actual sandwich is not long like a hot dog. Another reason why I think they shouldn’t be classified as a sandwich is because of the sandwich and hot dog methods of folding paper,” Sandy Doris Huinac Barrios said, bringing up a very valid point.

“If a hot dog is a sandwich, then why is there a hot dog and a sandwich way for folding paper? It’s because hot dogs are different from sandwiches; they’re not sandwiches, they’re just hot dogs,” Sandy explained.

“I personally don’t think they’re sandwiches because they’re in their own category. Just like bagels aren’t called sandwiches, but just bagels,” Yahir Alvarez said.

Anything can be sandwiched between bread, but does that really make it a sandwich? Sometimes, the bread and toppings matter. “They are not sandwiches because a sandwich has multiple toppings held by two different pieces of bread. A hot dog is just one sausage being held in between one semi-cut piece of bread,” Allison Avila said.

“Hot dogs are not sandwiches because sandwiches have bread that is separated into two parts. Also, you do not put lettuce or tomatoes on hot dogs. You don’t put the usual sandwich toppings on hot dogs because it’s not between two pieces of bread, so the toppings might fall out or to the side, completely missing the point of sandwiches. It’s sandwiched, so everything in between doesn’t fall. Hot dogs don’t have that, they are not sandwiches,” said Gisselle Flores.

“Calling a hot dog a sandwich is like calling a taco a wrap- technically close, but missing the point,” said Analiyah.

“It’s like saying a taco is a sandwich just because it has toppings and it’s sandwiched between two shells,” said Janail.

However, not everybody is that specific. Some people see toppings and bread and just call it a sandwich. “Hot dogs are basically sandwiches because they both have all the same ingredients that tortas have, and tortas are considered sandwiches,” said Savannah Santiago and Allison Recinos.

“Hot dogs are sandwiches because they have buns and meat. They have buns and they have toppings and meat, just like any other sandwich,” said Fatima Melgar.

Are hot dogs really sandwiches? Personally, I don’t think they are. I think the most distinct part about sandwiches is the fact that they’re between two pieces of bread and go from top to bottom, not sideways like a hot dog. 

What do you think? Tell us in the comments!