Burgers, Steak Beef Up July 4 Barbecues

ARLINGTON, Va.Approximately 80 percent of adults planning to host or attend a cookout on July 4, making Independence Day the No. 1 holiday for grilling and outdoor cooking, according to results from a new 2010 Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) national grilling poll.

The backyard cookout is an all-American pastime and a time-honored tradition that brings family and friends together in patriotic celebration, said Leslie Wheeler, HPBA communications director. The majority of Americans turn to outdoor cooking on the Fourth of July and throughout the warmer months because it provides a fun, easy and affordable way to create delicious meals while spending time together outdoors.

HPBAs consumer poll and industry survey findings, the most popular foods for grilling are burgers (85 percent), steak (80 percent), hot dogs (79 percent), chicken (73 percent), sausage/bratwurst (55 percent) and ribs (53 percent). As for top toppings, 66 percent of Americans report that they reach for the ketchup while 62 percent say they add on mustard.