A recent study has brought hot dogs back into the spotlight, with some unsettling findings. According to Clear Labs, a nonprofit that analyzes food at the molecular level, human DNA was found in approximately 2 percent of 345 hot dog and sausage samples tested. The study covered products from 75 brands sold across 10 retailers.

Clear Labs analyzed these products for hygiene, safety, and the accuracy of their labels, looking at factors like carbs, fat, and protein. They did not name specific poor-performing brands, but some major brands, including Butterball, Boar’s Head, and Hebrew National, received high ratings.

The human DNA found in the hot dogs was considered a hygienic issue, likely stemming from hair or skin particles that entered the product during manufacturing. Notably, two-thirds of the human DNA was found in vegetarian hot dogs. In total, 14.4 percent of the hot dogs and sausages tested were flagged for containing unexpected ingredients or hygiene issues.

While the news sparked alarm, especially on social media, it’s important to note that the FDA does not list DNA as a product defect, and such occurrences are viewed as natural, non-hazardous contamination during food processing. Other substances, like rodent hair and maggots, are also allowed in processed foods by the FDA as long as they don’t pose a health risk.