It’s National Hot Dog Day today, Yuma

How do you like your hot dogs prepared?

No summer barbecue would be complete without grilling up a few hot dogs.

In fact, the menu item is such a summer staple that there’s even a National Hot Dog Day in celebration — today, July 19.

The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council reports that in 2016, people spent more than $2.4 billion on hot dogs at U.S. supermarkets. That’s a lot of hot dogs!

There’s a peak hot dog season — from Memorial Day to Labor Day — during which time Americans consume around 7 billion hot dogs, the council notes.

And interestingly, Los Angeles residents ate more hot dogs than any other city, including New York and Philadelphia.

The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council offers hot dog etiquette tips to help people enjoy the day.

The council notes that people should always put their toppings of choice on the hot dog itself — not the bun. And there’s an order to the condiments, too. “Wet” condiments like mustard should go first, followed by “chunky” condiments like onion, followed by cheese, topped by spices, like pepper, the council notes.

But when it comes to toppings, the council says that ketchup is only acceptable for kids — once you turn 18, you have to leave the ketchup behind. Mustard, relish, onions, cheese and chili are still OK, however.

The council also reports that all hot dogs should be finished within five bites, although for foot-longs, seven bites are acceptable — who knew?

And if you should go to a barbecue today, don’t bring wine. The council notes that beer, soda, lemonade and iced tea are preferable beverages.

How do you enjoy your hot dog, Yuma? Are you a ketchup and mustard connoisseur, or do you pile on the relish and hot sauce?

Or do you go for a Sonoran dog, wrapped in bacon and covered in salsa, mayo, beans, onions, peppers, tomatoes, relish, mustard and shredded cheese?

Let us know, readers! Share your favorite hot dog toppings at letters@yumasun.com, or comment on this editorial at www.YumaSun.com.