Joey Chestnut has been banned from the 2024 Nathan s Famous hot dog eating contest due to his deal with Impossible Foods, which produces vegan hot dogs.
Chestnut expressed his disappointment on social media, saying he was "gutted" to learn of the ban through the media.
The ban arises from the fact that Chestnut does not have a contract with Major League Eating (MLE) or Nathan's, and they are altering rules regarding partnerships with other brands.
Despite the ban, Chestnut emphasized his love for the event and his fans, and reassured them he would compete again in the future.
Joey Chestnut has won the Nathan s hot dog eating contest 16 times, winning consecutively since 2016.
In past contests, Chestnut set a record by eating 76 hot dogs in 2021 and consumed 62 hot dogs in 2023.
Impossible Foods issued a statement supporting Chestnut, advocating for the acceptance of new food options in competitive eating.
Major League Eating expressed its disappointment in Chestnut's decision to represent a rival brand, which led to his exclusion from the 2024 contest.