Oscar Mayer rolls out iconic improvement to hot dogs

Oscar Mayer hot dogs are an American classic -- they even have their own song. Now, the brand has rolled out major improvements "for the love of hot dogs."

The radical change makes the wieners the first on the market without added nitrates or nitrites, no artificial preservatives in the meat, and no by-products.

"Oscar Mayer is America's most iconic hot dog brand, and, as the equity leader, we felt it was time to take a stand for the love of a better hot dog," said head of marketing at Oscar Mayer, Greg Guidotti in an emailed statement.

"We heard from hot dog fans across the country that they wanted a hot dog without artificial preservatives in meat or added nitrates and nitrites -- all without compromising on taste."

This was not an easy task for the company -- but it was worth it. After over a year of recipes and testing, they've improved the product while being the same great hot dog we know.

Watch Oscar Mayer announce the big changes:

To celebrate the launch of the new wieners, Oscar Mayer is getting help by its fleet of Wienermobiles. The Hotdoggers are taking them across the United State into uncharted hot dog territories all summer long.

For the next few months, the six Wienermobiles will be taking the road in hopes of getting a hot dog in every hand. In addition to hundreds of events across the country to attend, fans are encouraged to use #ForTheLoveOfHotDogs to express their affection for the new Oscar Mayer wieners!

Check out photos of the new hot dogs