<P> The competitors stand on a raised platform behind a long table with drinks and Nathan 's Famous hot dogs in buns . Most contestants have water on hand , but other kinds of drinks can and have been used . Condiments are allowed , but usually are not used . The hot dogs are allowed to cool slightly after grilling to prevent possible mouth burns . The contestant that consumes ( and keeps down ) the most hot dogs and buns ( HDB ) in ten minutes is declared the winner . The length of the contest has changed over the years , previously 12 minutes , and in some years , only three and a half minutes ; since 2008 , 10 minutes . </P>
<P> The competitors stand on a raised platform behind a long table with drinks and Nathan 's Famous hot dogs in buns . Most contestants have water on hand , but other kinds of drinks can and have been used . Condiments are allowed , but usually are not used . The hot dogs are allowed to cool slightly after grilling to prevent possible mouth burns . The contestant that consumes ( and keeps down ) the most hot dogs and buns ( HDB ) in ten minutes is declared the winner . The length of the contest has changed over the years , previously 12 minutes , and in some years , only three and a half minutes ; since 2008 , 10 minutes . </P>
what 's the time limit for the nathan 's hotdog eating contest
what 's the time limit for the nathan 's hotdog eating contest
since 2008 , 10 minutes
since 2008 , 10 minutes