Behind the Slices: The Truth About Subway’s Real Cheese

When you order a sandwich from Subway, you might wonder if the cheese used in your meal is the real deal. Many customers are curious about the type of cheese that goes into the iconic subs. This article will shed light on the question: does Subway use real cheese?

Understanding the Cheese at Subway

Subway uses cheese in most of their sandwiches, but the exact type can vary. The default cheese used at Subway is processed cheddar, which is a common practice in fast-food chains to ensure consistent texture and longevity. Processed cheese is made by melting a blend of natural cheese with emulsifiers, water, and milk.

Characteristics of Processed Cheddar at Subway

At Subway, processed cheddar is typically sliced into thin pieces, often with a standardized thickness of about 60% cheese to 40% other ingredients, such as emulsifiers and stabilizers. These slices are designed to quickly melt and maintain a uniform texture, making them ideal for fast-food environments where freshness and consistency are crucial.

Swiss Cheese at Subway

When it comes to cheese slices, Subway also offers a version that closely resembles Swiss cheese, recognizable by its characteristic holes. This type of cheese is softer and has a milder flavor, which can be a preferred option for some customers. The holes in Swiss cheese are formed during the cheese-making process, a phenomenon caused by the production of carbon dioxide by bacteria.

Mozzarella at Subway

While the primary cheese used at Subway is processed cheddar, they may also offer mozzarella on a case-by-case basis. Mozzarella is a soft, unripened cheese with a high moisture content, providing a blend of flavor and texture that can complement certain sandwiches.

Why Processed Cheese?

The use of processed cheese at Subway serves several purposes:

Consistency: Ensures that the texture and taste of the cheese remain consistent across all stores. Longevity: Processed cheese has a longer shelf life, which is important for a franchise with widespread distribution. Cost-effective: It allows for more cost-effective inventory management and preparation.

While many customers prefer the authentic taste of real cheese, the use of processed cheese in fast-food chains is a common practice that prioritizes consistency and efficiency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Subway primarily uses processed cheddar and Swiss-like cheese for their sandwiches, they can also include mozzarella on certain occasions. The decision to use processed cheese is strategic, balancing the need for consistency, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. Understanding these factors can help dispel any doubts about the cheese used in Subway sandwiches.