The popular fast-food chain Subway has long been known for its supposedly healthy and freshly prepared meals. One of the most popular menu items is their chicken breast, which is often advertised as being grilled to perfection. But is this really the case? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Subway’s chicken and explore the truth behind their grilling claims.
A Brief History of Subway’s Chicken
Subway’s chicken breast has been a staple on their menu for decades. The chain has always prided itself on using only the freshest ingredients and cooking methods to prepare their meals. However, in recent years, there have been some concerns raised about the authenticity of their grilling claims.
In 2017, a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) investigation found that Subway’s chicken breast contained only about 53.6% chicken DNA. The remaining 46.4% was made up of other ingredients, including soy and water. This sparked a wave of controversy and led many to question the quality of Subway’s chicken.
What Does “Grilled” Really Mean?
So, what does it mean for chicken to be “grilled”? Grilling is a cooking method that involves exposing food to high heat, usually from an open flame or electric heating element. This process is meant to sear the outside of the food, locking in juices and flavors.
However, the term “grilled” can be somewhat misleading. Many restaurants and food manufacturers use the term to describe cooking methods that don’t necessarily involve an open flame or high heat. For example, some foods may be cooked on a flat-top grill or in a pan with a small amount of oil.
Subway’s Grilling Process
So, how does Subway cook their chicken? According to the company’s website, their chicken breast is cooked on a flat-top grill. However, this process is somewhat different from traditional grilling methods.
Subway’s chicken is first marinated in a mixture of seasonings and preservatives. It’s then cooked on a flat-top grill, where it’s seared for a short period of time. However, the chicken is not cooked over an open flame, and the heat is not as high as traditional grilling methods.
The Science Behind Subway’s Chicken
To better understand the science behind Subway’s chicken, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients and cooking process.
Subway’s chicken breast contains a mixture of chicken, water, salt, and sodium phosphates. The sodium phosphates are added as a preservative to help extend the shelf life of the chicken.
When the chicken is cooked on the flat-top grill, the sodium phosphates help to retain moisture and create a tender texture. However, this process also involves the use of a small amount of oil, which can add extra calories and fat to the dish.
Nutritional Comparison
So, how does Subway’s chicken breast stack up nutritionally? Here’s a comparison of the nutritional values of Subway’s chicken breast versus a traditional grilled chicken breast:
| Nutrient | Subway Chicken Breast | Traditional Grilled Chicken Breast |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 360 | 260 |
| Protein | 30g | 35g |
| Fat | 10g | 6g |
| Sodium | 1040mg | 250mg |
As you can see, Subway’s chicken breast contains more calories, fat, and sodium than a traditional grilled chicken breast. However, it’s also worth noting that Subway’s chicken breast is often served on a sandwich with a variety of toppings, which can add extra calories and fat.
Conclusion
So, is Subway’s chicken really grilled? The answer is somewhat complicated. While the company does cook their chicken on a flat-top grill, the process is somewhat different from traditional grilling methods.
However, it’s also worth noting that Subway’s chicken breast is still a relatively healthy option compared to other fast-food chains. The company has made efforts in recent years to improve the quality of their ingredients and cooking methods.
Ultimately, whether or not Subway’s chicken is “really” grilled is a matter of semantics. What’s more important is the nutritional value and quality of the ingredients. If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal, Subway’s chicken breast is still a good option – just be mindful of the toppings and sauces you add.
What Can You Do?
If you’re concerned about the quality of Subway’s chicken, there are several things you can do:
- Ask questions: If you’re unsure about the cooking methods or ingredients used by Subway, don’t be afraid to ask. The company is transparent about their ingredients and cooking processes.
- Choose wisely: Opt for a traditional grilled chicken breast or a different protein source, such as turkey or vegetarian options.
- Customize your meal: Be mindful of the toppings and sauces you add to your meal. Choose healthier options, such as vegetables and whole grains.
By being informed and making smart choices, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious meal at Subway – even if their chicken isn’t “really” grilled.
Is Subway chicken really grilled?
Subway chicken is not entirely grilled. While the company claims to serve grilled chicken, the reality is that their chicken is cooked using a combination of grilling and other methods. The chicken is first cooked in large batches in a factory, then frozen and shipped to Subway restaurants. Once at the restaurant, the chicken is reheated using a toaster oven or microwave, and then briefly grilled on a flat-top grill to give it a crispy exterior.
This process is far from the traditional grilling method that many customers expect. While the chicken may have some grilled flavor, it is not cooked entirely on a grill. This has led to controversy and criticism from customers who feel misled by Subway’s advertising claims.
How is Subway chicken cooked in the factory?
Subway chicken is cooked in large batches in a factory using a process called “par-cooking.” This involves cooking the chicken to a temperature of around 160°F (71°C), which is not hot enough to kill all bacteria. The chicken is then frozen and shipped to Subway restaurants, where it is reheated to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
The factory cooking process involves a combination of steaming and cooking in large vats of oil. The chicken is then seasoned with a blend of spices and preservatives to enhance flavor and extend shelf life. While this process allows for efficient mass production, it has raised concerns about the nutritional value and safety of Subway chicken.
Is Subway chicken healthy?
Subway chicken is often marketed as a healthy option, but the reality is more complex. While chicken is a lean protein, the cooking process and added ingredients can greatly impact its nutritional value. Subway chicken contains a significant amount of sodium, preservatives, and saturated fat, which can be detrimental to cardiovascular health.
Additionally, the factory cooking process and reheating methods used by Subway can lead to a loss of nutrients and an increase in advanced glycation end (AGE) products, which have been linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. While Subway chicken may be a better option than some other fast food choices, it is not as healthy as many customers assume.
Can I request grilled chicken at Subway?
Yes, customers can request grilled chicken at Subway, but it may not be cooked entirely on a grill. As mentioned earlier, Subway chicken is cooked using a combination of methods, including factory cooking, reheating, and brief grilling. However, customers can ask for their chicken to be grilled for a longer period or cooked on the flat-top grill without being reheated in the toaster oven or microwave.
It’s worth noting that not all Subway locations may accommodate special requests, and the quality of the grilled chicken may vary depending on the restaurant and the staff. Customers who want to ensure their chicken is cooked to their liking may want to ask questions and observe the cooking process.
Has Subway faced criticism for their chicken cooking methods?
Yes, Subway has faced criticism and controversy over their chicken cooking methods. In 2017, a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) investigation found that Subway chicken contained only 53.6% chicken DNA, with the remaining 46.4% consisting of soy and other fillers. This led to a lawsuit and a settlement, in which Subway agreed to strengthen their quality control measures.
Subway has also faced criticism from customers and health advocates who claim that the company’s cooking methods and ingredients are misleading and unhealthy. The company has responded by introducing new menu items and cooking methods, such as their “clean label” initiative, which aims to remove artificial preservatives and flavors from their menu.
Are there any alternatives to Subway chicken?
Yes, there are many alternatives to Subway chicken for customers who want to avoid the company’s cooking methods or ingredients. Other fast food chains, such as Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread, offer grilled chicken options that may be cooked using more traditional methods. Customers can also opt for plant-based protein sources, such as veggie burgers or salads, which can be a healthier and more sustainable option.
Additionally, customers can consider cooking their own chicken at home using fresh ingredients and traditional grilling methods. This can be a healthier and more cost-effective option, and allows customers to control the ingredients and cooking methods used.
Will Subway change their chicken cooking methods?
It’s unclear whether Subway will change their chicken cooking methods in response to customer criticism and controversy. The company has introduced new menu items and cooking methods in recent years, such as their “clean label” initiative, which aims to remove artificial preservatives and flavors from their menu.
However, Subway has not announced any plans to change their factory cooking process or reheating methods, which are at the center of the controversy. Customers who want to see changes to Subway’s chicken cooking methods may want to continue to voice their concerns and advocate for healthier and more transparent options.