Question about fake hot dogs...

[alsoSarah]

We're not a vegetarian family, but we eat a lot of meatless meals. My dh loves the Morningstar Farms mini "corn dogs" when we're feeling junk-foody. I'm pretty sure that 18month old ds would enjoy them as a snack sometimes, too. My question is, I know that those corn dogs don't have meat in them, but do they still have the nitrates or nitrites, or whatever that creepy stuff is that's in "real" hot dogs? They do taste very, um, hot-doggish, and I wondered if nitrates were the reason?
Btw, are there any standard size fake hot dogs that taste really good? I'm feeling chili-cheese-doggish, myself.
Thanks!
alsoSarah

[Arduinna]

we like the boca "sausages", they have smoked, bratwurst and italian.

[Quirky]

They don't have nitrates/nitrites as far as I can tell, but (even though I love them) they're still pretty much junk food. They have artificial colors, and I've heard some kids can be sensitive to those.

All things in moderation - as long as they're only an occasional treat I think they're OK.

[smeta]

There are a few different brands of tofu hot dogs you can get - The Good Dog or Smart Dog or someting like that. Dh and dd lived off them for a couple months and had a hot dog overload. I think dd may be ready for them again, cuz she's been wanting something to dip in ketchup! They are great for toddlers - just pop in microwave for 15 seconds, cut up and they can dip!

[alsoSarah]

Thank you for the information/suggestions!!