As one of the world’s largest fast-food chains, Subway has built a reputation for serving fresh, customizable sandwiches that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. While the brand’s commitment to quality ingredients and customer satisfaction is well-known, there’s one aspect of their menu that has long been shrouded in mystery: the type of oil used on their subs. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Subway’s signature flavor, exploring the history, ingredients, and nutritional implications of their proprietary oil blend.
A Brief History of Subway’s Oil Blend
Subway’s oil blend has been a staple of their menu since the brand’s inception in the 1960s. The original recipe, developed by Subway’s founder Fred DeLuca, was designed to enhance the flavor and texture of their sandwiches while keeping costs low. Over the years, the formula has undergone several revisions, with the company continually seeking to improve the taste and nutritional profile of their oil blend.
The Evolution of Subway’s Oil Blend
In the early days, Subway’s oil blend was a simple mixture of vegetable oils, including soybean and canola oil. However, as consumer preferences shifted towards healthier options, the company began to explore alternative ingredients. In the 1990s, Subway introduced a new oil blend that featured a higher proportion of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. This change was part of a broader effort to reposition the brand as a leader in the healthy fast-food market.
A Shift Towards Healthier Options
In recent years, Subway has continued to refine their oil blend, incorporating more sustainable and nutritious ingredients. In 2015, the company announced plans to remove artificial preservatives and flavors from their menu, including their oil blend. This move was part of a larger initiative to appeal to the growing demand for clean label products.
What’s in Subway’s Oil Blend?
So, what exactly is in Subway’s oil blend? While the company has never publicly disclosed the exact formula, we can make some educated guesses based on their ingredient list and nutritional information.
A Blend of Vegetable Oils
Subway’s oil blend is a proprietary mixture of vegetable oils, including:
- Canola oil: A good source of monounsaturated fats, canola oil is a popular choice for its mild flavor and high smoke point.
- Soybean oil: A versatile oil with a neutral flavor, soybean oil is rich in polyunsaturated fats and is often used in food applications.
- Olive oil: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil is prized for its rich flavor and high levels of monounsaturated fats.
Additional Ingredients
In addition to these vegetable oils, Subway’s oil blend may contain other ingredients, such as:
- Flavor enhancers: Natural flavorings, such as garlic and onion powder, may be added to enhance the flavor of the oil blend.
- Preservatives: While Subway has committed to removing artificial preservatives from their menu, they may still use natural preservatives, such as vitamin E, to extend the shelf life of their oil blend.
Nutritional Implications of Subway’s Oil Blend
So, how does Subway’s oil blend impact the nutritional profile of their sandwiches? Here are some key takeaways:
A Balance of Fats
Subway’s oil blend is a mix of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered healthier than saturated fats. However, it’s worth noting that the blend is still relatively high in calories, with approximately 120 calories per tablespoon.
A Comparison of Subway’s Oil Blend to Other Fast-Food Chains
| Fast-Food Chain | Oil Blend | Calories per Tablespoon |
| — | — | — |
| Subway | Proprietary blend | 120 |
| McDonald’s | Canola oil | 110 |
| Burger King | Soybean oil | 115 |
Conclusion
While the exact formula of Subway’s oil blend remains a trade secret, we can infer that it’s a proprietary mixture of vegetable oils, including canola, soybean, and olive oil. With a balance of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, Subway’s oil blend is a relatively healthy option compared to other fast-food chains. However, it’s still important to consume it in moderation, given its high calorie content. Whether you’re a loyal Subway customer or just a curious foodie, understanding the ingredients and nutritional implications of their oil blend can help you make informed choices about your diet.
What kind of oil does Subway use on their subs?
Subway uses a proprietary blend of oil, which is a combination of canola oil and a small amount of other oils. The exact composition of the oil blend is not publicly disclosed, but it is designed to provide a unique flavor and texture to their subs. The oil is applied to the bread during the toasting process, which helps to bring out the flavors of the various ingredients used in the sandwich.
The use of canola oil as the primary component of the oil blend is likely due to its mild flavor and high smoke point, making it an ideal choice for high-heat applications such as toasting bread. Additionally, canola oil is a relatively healthy option compared to other oils, which aligns with Subway’s brand image of promoting healthy and nutritious food options.
Is Subway’s oil blend available for purchase?
Unfortunately, Subway’s proprietary oil blend is not available for purchase by the general public. The company has chosen to keep the exact composition of the oil blend a trade secret, and it is only available for use in Subway restaurants. This helps to maintain the unique flavor and quality of their subs, which is a key factor in the brand’s success.
However, fans of Subway’s signature flavor can try to replicate it at home by using a combination of canola oil and other ingredients. There are many recipes available online that claim to mimic the flavor of Subway’s oil blend, but it’s worth noting that these are just approximations and may not taste exactly the same as the real thing.
What is the purpose of the oil on Subway’s subs?
The oil on Subway’s subs serves several purposes. Firstly, it helps to bring out the flavors of the various ingredients used in the sandwich, such as the meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The oil also helps to toast the bread to a crispy golden brown, which adds texture and crunch to the sandwich.
In addition to its flavor and textural benefits, the oil also helps to keep the bread fresh for a longer period. By applying a thin layer of oil to the bread, Subway is able to extend its shelf life and prevent it from becoming stale or dry. This is particularly important for a fast-food chain like Subway, where bread is a critical component of their menu items.
Is Subway’s oil blend healthy?
Subway’s oil blend is generally considered to be a relatively healthy option compared to other oils. Canola oil, which is the primary component of the blend, is low in saturated fats and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats are considered to be healthier than saturated fats, as they can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
However, it’s worth noting that even healthy oils can be detrimental to our health if consumed in excess. Subway’s oil blend is still high in calories, and excessive consumption can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. As with any food, moderation is key, and it’s essential to balance our diets with a variety of nutrient-dense foods.
Can I ask Subway to hold the oil on my sub?
Yes, you can ask Subway to hold the oil on your sub. In fact, many customers request this modification to reduce the calorie count of their sandwich or to accommodate dietary restrictions. Simply let the sandwich artist know that you would like to hold the oil, and they will prepare your sub without it.
Keep in mind that holding the oil may affect the flavor and texture of your sub. The oil helps to bring out the flavors of the ingredients and toast the bread to a crispy golden brown. If you choose to hold the oil, your sub may taste slightly different, but it will still be a delicious and satisfying meal.
Does Subway use the same oil blend for all their menu items?
Subway uses the same oil blend for most of their menu items, including their subs, flatbreads, and salads. However, some menu items may use different oils or cooking methods. For example, their fried menu items, such as their chicken strips and fries, use a different type of oil that is designed for high-heat frying.
In addition, some Subway locations may offer specialty oils or seasonings that can be used in place of the standard oil blend. These options may include olive oil, avocado oil, or other flavorful oils that can add a unique twist to your sub. If you’re interested in trying a different oil, be sure to ask your local Subway restaurant if they offer any specialty options.
Can I use Subway’s oil blend for cooking at home?
While Subway’s oil blend is not available for purchase, you can try to replicate it at home using a combination of canola oil and other ingredients. There are many recipes available online that claim to mimic the flavor of Subway’s oil blend, but keep in mind that these are just approximations and may not taste exactly the same as the real thing.
If you’re looking to use a similar oil blend for cooking at home, you can try using a high-quality canola oil or a blend of canola and other oils. Look for oils that are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, as these are considered to be healthier options. You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices to create a flavor profile that’s similar to Subway’s signature taste.