🌭 The Gist: Joey Chestnut, the top champion of Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, was banned from this year’s event because he made a deal with a vegan hot dog company, Impossible Foods.

🍔 Why It Matters: Chestnut’s absence is a big deal for the contest, which is a popular American tradition on July 4th each year. His participation attracts many fans and media attention.

🍽️ What’s Happening:

Chestnut signed a deal with Impossible Foods to promote their vegan hot dogs.
Nathan’s, known for its beef hot dogs, saw this as a conflict of interest.
This is not strictly about vegan vs. non-vegan. Nathan’s would take issue of Chestnut signed a deal with any competing company.

📜 Catch Up Quick:

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest has been a July 4th tradition since 1916.
Joey Chestnut has been the top champion, setting many records over the years.