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NPR's Book of the Day

Jamie Loftus' 'Raw Dog' investigates the social and culinary history of the hot dog

Nov 20, 2023
Comedian Jamie Loftus investigates the social and culinary history of the hot dog, discussing immigrant roots, labor conditions in meatpacking, the symbolism of hot dogs as an American icon, and ethical ways to consume them.
07:52

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Jamie Loftus' book 'Raw Dog' explores the labor exploitation and disingenuous marketing campaigns behind the hot dog industry.
  • Hot dogs have deep cultural roots in America, originally popularized by poor immigrants and evolving into a diverse and beloved staple across the country.

Deep dives

The Hot Dog: A Symbol of America

Comedian Jamie Loftus talks about her book 'Raw Dog' which explores the significance of hot dogs in American culture. Loftus delves into the history and labor conditions surrounding the hot dog industry, shedding light on its disingenuous marketing campaigns and labor exploitation. Despite the ethical concerns, Loftus acknowledges that hot dogs are ingrained in American traditions and hopes readers gain a deeper understanding of the dish's cultural context.

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