Slits Down Sides of Hot Dogs Reduces Choking Hazard

The American Academy of Pediatrics says hot dogs can be dangerous because young children can choke on them.  At least one design change can reduce that risk:  "Make incisions down the sides so that, as it heats, the dog will open into a floral-type design that will more easily break apart if stuck in the throat."  But don't expect to see redesigned hot dogs in stores just yet.  Janet Riley, president of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, said: "I think a wholesale redesign of the hot dog from its iconic shape as a long, tubular food product is a bit unlikely."  Read more.