The Mystery of the 11-Inch Subway Sub

Have you ever ordered an 11-inch sub at Subway? Perhaps you did and it left a lasting impression. Today, we explore some personal experiences and insights into this seemingly minor, yet occasionally controversial aspect of the popular sandwich chain.

Personal Experiences with the Sub Size

Subway is a fast-food empire known for its customizable sandwiches and subs. However, have you ever gotten an 11-inch sub and wondered if it was the right size for you?

For some, like myself, the 11-inch sub is a thing of the past. A few years ago, I did measure a sub to find it was indeed 11 inches long, using a ruler for confirmation. While I didn't make a fuss, I did mention it to the shift manager, and it was, in fact, free. However, that incident occurred around 2014, when I was more conscious about the ingredients being served—specifically, the azodicarbonamide scandal. It advised me to be more vigilant about what I was eating at Subway.

The Veg Delight Approach

Admittingly, I have stood by the Veg Delight at Subway. For me, it is the lightest and lest filling option. I find that most of the sandwich options like the 6-inch, 11-inch, and even the regular 12-inch (footlong) subs have more filling than I need for a light meal. While I haven't had an 11-inch sub recently, I can recall past instances where the portion sizes seemed a bit too large for my taste.

Perhaps you have eaten a 11-inch sub and found it too large for your liking. For many, it's the overabundance of filling that makes the sandwich overwhelming. I, however, prefer the Veg Delight's lighter approach, which includes a variety of vegetables and some lean protein.

Behind the Scenes: Bread Stretching and Proofing

So, why do some subs appear to be 11 inches when they should be 12 inches? This is a question that often arises during periods of hype or controversy. From a technical standpoint, the bread used in Subway subs follows strict procedures. Once the bread sticks are thawed, they must be stretched to a specific length before proofing. Bread is then baked after 45 to 60 minutes of proofing.

The stretching ensures the correct size for a 12-inch or footlong sub. This process is critical to maintain the quality and integrity of the bread. Interestingly, when bread is over-proofed and measures more than 12 inches, no one complains because it still has the same amount of ingredients. However, when the bread isn't stretched correctly, it can lead to perception issues where people feel they are getting less for their money.

In 2015 and 2016, various media outlets sparked a debate over the 11-inch subs. The controversy was further fueled by lawsuits and the azodicarbonamide scandal, which made people more wary of what they were consuming. It all seemed like a display of ignorance and a waste of time.

Conclusion

While the 11-inch Subway sub might seem like a minor issue, it touches on the broader theme of food perception and the lengths people go to ensure they are getting value for their money. Whether you're a fan of the Veg Delight or a 12-inch sub, understanding the bread making process can help put these size controversies in perspective.

References:

Azodicarbonamide Scandal: Azodicarbonamide Scandal