Think you know what’s really in your tailgate spread? Tailgating is basically a food group of its own, and here’s the twist: they come with surprising health secrets (both good and bad). Here are 10 eye-opening truths about your favorite tailgate foods.
10. Tailgate Hack: Frozen Water Bottles
World champion pitmaster Josh Cooper revealed this trick: use frozen water bottles as your ice packs. They keep your food and other drinks chilled for hours. After a long day, you also get a supply of ice-cold water to help you rehydrate and recover. It’s genius, right?
9. The Truth About Popeyes Blackened Tenders
Not all fast foods are a nutritional disaster. In fact, Popeyes Blackened Tenders have emerged as a healthy tailgating option. Recommended by dietitians, these non-battered, non-breaded tenders have a nutritional profile that’s almost similar to grilled skinless chicken breast. A three-piece serving delivers just 170 calories, zero grams of saturated fat, and 26 grams of protein.
8. The Tailgate Debate: Beer vs. Seltzer
For many years, beer has been the undisputed king of tailgating beverages. But a major shift is happening: hard seltzers are replacing beer as the drink of choice. It’s all about health and convenience. Hard seltzers are often gluten-free and contain fewer calories than most beers. Looks like sports fans are also leaning towards healthier habits.
7. The Secret to Safer BBQ: Your Marinade
We love the smoky flavor of grilled meat, but that delicious char comes with a danger. Grilling meat at high temperatures can create carcinogenic compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs). A way to reduce the risk? Marinating. Soak your meat in a marinade containing antioxidant-rich herbs and spices like rosemary and thyme, and you’ll reduce the formation of HCAs.
6. The Nutritional Power of Chicken Wings
When thinking of chicken wings, we think greasy, unhealthy indulgence. But the truth is they’re actually nutritious when un-breaded. Aside from delivering protein, they’re also a great source of vitamin B12, which supports nerve health. Of course, the preparation method matters. Go for grilled or baked wings with a dry rub or a light, vinegar-based sauce for a healthy option.
5. The Potato Salad That Heals Your Gut
Recent research discovered that this humble side dish is a gut-healing food. The magic happens when you cook and then cool the potatoes. This process creates resistant starch, a type of fiber that your body can’t digest. Instead, it travels to the large intestine, where it becomes food for your good gut bacteria. Potato salad is the prebiotic boost you didn’t know you needed.
4. The One-Hot-Dog-a-Day Health Warning
Hot dogs are a classic tailgating food, but have you seen the recent wave of research? A 2025 study found that eating just one hot dog per day can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 11%. Additionally, frequent consumption of processed meats like hot dogs has also been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. This is a clear reminder to enjoy these meats in moderation.
3. The Great Tailgate Migration
Based on statistics, it looks like tailgate is where the real action is. A recent survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 24% attended a tailgate without having tickets to the game, and 22% stayed at the tailgate instead of going into the stadium. For many, the tailgate has become the main event, and a chance to enjoy great foods and drinks with friends.
2. Greek Yogurt Takes Over
For years, mayonnaise has been the creamy heart of countless tailgate dishes. But this time, a healthier alternative is taking over: Greek yogurt. Dietitians now recommend plain Greek yogurt as a substitute for mayo in almost any recipe. It offers the same creamy texture and tangy flavor, but with fewer calories and more protein.
1. The 75% Less Fat Sausage Swap You Need
If you love sausage but not the fat and calories, we have good news for you. Chicken sausage is rising as a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage. On average, chicken sausage contains 50% fewer calories and 75% less saturated fat. It’s also low in carbs and gluten-free. And with various flavors available, from apple and gouda to spicy Italian, it makes you think you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor for health again.