Subway is one of the most popular fast-food chains globally, with a vast menu that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. Among their offerings, the Steak and Cheese sandwich is a fan favorite, with its tender and flavorful meat paired with melted cheese on toasted bread. However, have you ever wondered what kind of meat is actually in Subway’s Steak and Cheese? In this article, we’ll delve into the ingredients, nutritional content, and production process of Subway’s steak to give you a comprehensive understanding of what you’re eating.
What is Subway’s Steak Made Of?
Subway’s steak is made from a proprietary blend of beef, which is a combination of various cuts and trimmings. According to Subway’s website, their steak is made from 100% beef, with no fillers or by-products. However, the exact composition of the steak is not publicly disclosed.
Beef Cuts and Trimmings
Subway’s steak is likely made from a combination of beef cuts and trimmings, which are sourced from various suppliers. The beef cuts may include:
- Top round: A lean cut from the hindquarters, known for its tenderness and flavor.
- Top sirloin: A cut from the rear section, prized for its rich flavor and firm texture.
- Flank steak: A lean cut from the belly, often used in stir-fries and fajitas.
The beef trimmings, on the other hand, may include:
- Beef strips: Thinly sliced beef, often used in stir-fries and salads.
- Beef shreds: Shredded beef, commonly used in tacos and burritos.
Meat Processing
Subway’s steak undergoes a series of processing steps to enhance its texture and flavor. The beef is first trimmed and cut into thin strips, then seasoned with a proprietary blend of spices and marinades. The meat is then cooked in large batches, either by grilling or sautéing, to achieve the desired level of doneness.
Nutritional Content of Subway’s Steak
Subway’s steak is a relatively lean protein source, with a moderate amount of calories and fat. According to Subway’s nutrition information, a 3-ounce serving of their steak contains:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total carbohydrates: 0g
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 20g
Comparison to Other Fast-Food Steaks
Subway’s steak is relatively lean compared to other fast-food steaks. For example:
- McDonald’s Grilled Steak: 150 calories, 4g fat, 1g saturated fat, 30mg cholesterol
- Burger King’s Steak Sandwich: 180 calories, 6g fat, 2g saturated fat, 40mg cholesterol
Production Process
Subway’s steak is produced in large quantities by their suppliers, who follow a strict set of guidelines to ensure consistency and quality. The production process involves:
- Sourcing: Beef cuts and trimmings are sourced from various suppliers, who must meet Subway’s quality and safety standards.
- Trimming and cutting: The beef is trimmed and cut into thin strips, which are then seasoned with a proprietary blend of spices and marinades.
- Cooking: The meat is cooked in large batches, either by grilling or sautéing, to achieve the desired level of doneness.
- Packaging: The cooked steak is then packaged in airtight containers and shipped to Subway restaurants worldwide.
Quality Control
Subway has a robust quality control system in place to ensure that their steak meets the highest standards of quality and safety. This includes:
- Regular inspections: Subway’s suppliers are regularly inspected to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
- Testing: The steak is tested for quality and safety parameters, such as texture, flavor, and microbial contamination.
- Certification: Subway’s steak is certified by third-party organizations, such as the USDA, to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
Conclusion
Subway’s Steak and Cheese is a popular menu item that has captured the hearts of many fast-food enthusiasts. While the exact composition of the steak is not publicly disclosed, it is likely made from a proprietary blend of beef cuts and trimmings. The steak undergoes a series of processing steps to enhance its texture and flavor, and is cooked in large batches to achieve the desired level of doneness. With a moderate amount of calories and fat, Subway’s steak is a relatively lean protein source that can be part of a healthy diet. Whether you’re a fan of Subway’s Steak and Cheese or just curious about what’s in their meat, this article has provided a comprehensive overview of the ingredients, nutritional content, and production process of Subway’s steak.
Recommendations
If you’re looking to make a healthier version of Subway’s Steak and Cheese at home, here are some recommendations:
- Use leaner beef cuts, such as sirloin or round, and trim any visible fat.
- Season the steak with herbs and spices instead of marinades or sauces.
- Grill or sauté the steak using minimal oil and cook to the desired level of doneness.
- Pair the steak with whole-grain bread and plenty of vegetables for a nutritious and filling meal.
By following these recommendations, you can create a healthier and more flavorful version of Subway’s Steak and Cheese that suits your dietary needs and preferences.
What is the controversy surrounding Subway’s Steak and Cheese?
The controversy surrounding Subway’s Steak and Cheese revolves around the composition of their steak. In 2017, a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) investigation found that Subway’s steak contained only 53.6% beef, with the remaining 46.4% consisting of soy and other ingredients. This sparked widespread concern among consumers, who felt misled by the chain’s marketing claims. The issue raised questions about the authenticity and quality of Subway’s steak, leading to a re-evaluation of their ingredients and manufacturing processes.
Subway responded to the controversy by reformulating their steak recipe, increasing the beef content to 100%. However, the incident damaged the chain’s reputation and led to a decline in sales. The controversy also prompted a broader discussion about food labeling and transparency, with many consumers calling for greater accountability from food manufacturers and restaurants.
What is in Subway’s Steak and Cheese?
According to Subway’s website, their Steak and Cheese sandwich features a steak patty made from 100% beef. The patty is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, then cooked to order on a flat-top grill. The sandwich also features melted cheese, served on a toasted sub roll with a variety of toppings. However, it’s worth noting that the exact composition of Subway’s steak may vary depending on the location and country.
In addition to the steak, Subway’s Steak and Cheese sandwich may contain other ingredients such as preservatives, fillers, and flavor enhancers. Consumers with dietary restrictions or preferences should consult Subway’s nutrition information and ingredient list to ensure that the sandwich meets their needs. It’s also important to note that Subway offers a range of customization options, allowing consumers to modify their sandwich to suit their tastes.
Is Subway’s Steak and Cheese healthy?
Subway’s Steak and Cheese sandwich can be a relatively healthy option, depending on the toppings and condiments chosen. The steak patty is a good source of protein, and the sandwich can be customized with a range of vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and bell peppers. However, the sandwich also contains a significant amount of sodium and saturated fat, primarily from the cheese and steak.
To make Subway’s Steak and Cheese a healthier option, consumers can opt for a whole-grain sub roll, choose lower-fat cheese, and load up on vegetables. It’s also important to be mindful of portion sizes, as the sandwich can be high in calories. A 6-inch Steak and Cheese sandwich from Subway contains approximately 380 calories, while a 12-inch sandwich contains around 760 calories.
Can I customize my Subway Steak and Cheese?
Yes, Subway offers a range of customization options for their Steak and Cheese sandwich. Consumers can choose from a variety of cheeses, including cheddar, Swiss, and mozzarella, as well as a range of sauces and condiments. The sandwich can also be customized with a variety of vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
In addition to toppings, consumers can also modify the steak patty itself. For example, they can ask for the steak to be cooked to a specific temperature or request that it be served without seasonings. Subway also offers a range of bread options, including whole-grain and gluten-free sub rolls. By customizing their sandwich, consumers can create a meal that meets their dietary needs and preferences.
How does Subway’s Steak and Cheese compare to other fast-food options?
Subway’s Steak and Cheese sandwich is generally considered a healthier option compared to other fast-food chains. The sandwich contains more protein and fewer calories than many other fast-food options, and it can be customized with a range of vegetables. However, it’s worth noting that the nutritional content of the sandwich can vary depending on the toppings and condiments chosen.
In comparison to other fast-food chains, Subway’s Steak and Cheese sandwich is generally lower in calories and fat. For example, a Steak and Cheese sandwich from Arby’s contains around 940 calories, while a similar sandwich from Quiznos contains around 820 calories. However, it’s worth noting that these sandwiches may contain more protein and other nutrients than Subway’s option.
Has Subway’s Steak and Cheese recipe changed over time?
Yes, Subway’s Steak and Cheese recipe has changed over time. In response to the 2017 controversy surrounding their steak, Subway reformulated their recipe to increase the beef content to 100%. The chain also modified their manufacturing processes to improve the quality and consistency of their steak.
In addition to the changes made in response to the controversy, Subway has also introduced new ingredients and cooking methods over time. For example, the chain has introduced a range of new sauces and seasonings, and they have modified their cooking procedures to improve the texture and flavor of their steak. However, the core ingredients and composition of the Steak and Cheese sandwich have remained relatively consistent.
Is Subway’s Steak and Cheese available at all locations?
Subway’s Steak and Cheese sandwich is a core menu item and is available at most Subway locations worldwide. However, it’s worth noting that menu items can vary depending on the location and country. Some Subway locations may offer modified versions of the Steak and Cheese sandwich or may not offer it at all.
Consumers can check with their local Subway restaurant to confirm availability of the Steak and Cheese sandwich. They can also use Subway’s website or mobile app to check menu items and nutrition information for their local restaurant. It’s also worth noting that Subway often offers limited-time promotions and menu items, so the availability of the Steak and Cheese sandwich may vary over time.