For the past five years, Zacky’s Hot Dogs & BBQ has built up a following in Carmel.
Owner Zachary Darring has overcome many obstacles as he started his family-run business. He rebuilt after a fire destroyed his storefront. He endured slow months. He considered selling the business so he could focus more time on his ministry but ultimately decided against selling.
Now Darring said business has been negatively affected by a report by the World Health Organization that hot dogs and other processed meats can cause cancer.
As a result, Darring said he’s going to rebrand his business with a focus on chicken wings, fish, shrimp and barbeque. Some hot dogs will still be available, but it won’t be the focus. The new name for the company is Zacky’s Hot Chicken: Nashville, TN Style.
“You can expect the same quality, service and smiles,” Darring said.
The World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research claim processed meat found in foods like hot dogs can increase your risk of colorectal cancer by 21 percent. Some news outlets reported on this finding with headlines that claimed hot dogs were just as bad for you as cigarettes.
Darring said he thinks the media has been sensational in its reporting on this report. He points out that doctors say that hot dogs are still OK in moderation, and people might chain smoke cigarettes, but consuming food is very different.
“If eating hot dogs causes cancer, then the whole city of Chicago would be in trouble,” he said with a laugh.
The re-launch date has yet to be announced.
