Eat Smart Expert Ruth Houston is available for interviews on the risks and dangers of hot dog eating contests and other competitive eating events. With over 112 eating contests taking place nationwide this 4 th of July weekend, Houston feels people deserve to know the truth. Although hot dog eating contests are generally viewed as harmless fun, the sad truth is that people have lost their lives at some of these types of events.  Houston maintains that lives are at risk because the public remains unaware of the health risks and the immediate dangers of participating in competitive eating events. Last year, Joey Chestnut, the winner of Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest (the world's most famous eating competition) won $10,000 for downing 75 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes.