What Kind of Oil Does Subway Use in 2024? Your Full Guide

Subway restaurants are renowned for serving up mouthwatering submarine sandwiches. But what gives their sandwiches that signature flavor? One key ingredient is the oil used to dress each sub. Subway uses a strategic blend of oils to balance cost, health, and taste. Read on for a deep dive into the oils Subway uses in 2024 and why.

Subway‘s Standard Oil Blend

According to Subway‘s corporate office, their classic sandwich oil consists of a mix of 90% canola oil and 10% olive oil as of early 2023. By using mostly canola oil, which is inexpensive, Subway is able to keep costs down. The addition of olive oil brings in some distinctive flavor and aroma that customers love.

Subway uses food-grade oils containing no artificial flavors or preservatives. This classic oil blend does not contain modified palm oil, which is used in some bread items.

Nutritional Profile

Here is the nutrition breakdown for Subway‘s classic oil blend (based on 1 tablespoon):

As you can see, the oil is high in healthy unsaturated fats, with no trans fat or cholesterol. The canola oil component supplies omega-3 fatty acids as well.

Specialty Herb Garlic Oil

In recent years, some Subway locations have also begun offering a signature herb garlic oil. First debuting in 2018, this oil contains a proprietary blend of roasted garlic, basil, and Italian herbs.

The exact oil base is not disclosed, but it likely contains a mix of canola and olive oils similar to the classic blend. The added herbs and spices give this oil a robust, aromatic flavor profile that takes sandwiches to the next level.

According to Subway, over 1,500 U.S. restaurants now feature this herb garlic oil as of 2023. They plan to continue expanding availability due to its popularity.

Sustainable Palm Oil Practices

While canola and olive oil dominate, Subway uses a small amount of palm oil in certain bread recipes. Palm oil gives breads an ideal taste and texture. However, palm oil production has raised environmental concerns around deforestation and loss of wildlife habitat.

In light of this, Subway has taken action to source palm oil sustainably. Since 2015, Subway has purchased GreenPalm certificates covering 100% of the palm oil used in their breads and cookies.

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) issues these certificates to producers following best practices that:

• Protect rainforests and habitats
• Reduce climate impact
• Respect human and workers rights
• Improve transparency and traceability

This enables Subway to play an active role in driving the palm oil industry toward sustainability.

Vegan-Friendly Oils

Subway‘s classic and herb garlic oils are completely vegan and avoid animal products or byproducts. For vegans and vegetarians, these plant-based oils are perfect for customizing sandwiches.

In 2022, approximately [2.5% of U.S. adults] identified as vegan, up from just 1% in 2019. Subway is smart to cater to this growing demographic with vegan-friendly options like their oils.

Oil Topping Combinations

While the classic pairing is with vinegar, Subway‘s oils also complement other toppings:

Don‘t be afraid to get creative and invent your own perfect oil topping combo!

Can You Buy Subway‘s Oils?

Unfortunately, Subway does not currently offer their proprietary oil blends for retail sale. Some locations will provide a free cup of oil if asked. But to enjoy these oils regularly, your best bet is to order them as a topping on your favorite Subway creations.

The Bottom Line

When craving a Subway sandwich, don‘t forget to drizzle on some of their signature oil blend for enhanced flavor and moisture. Subway uses a strategic mix of canola and olive oils to craft the ideal taste and nutrition profile. Responsible sourcing of palm oil and vegan options also make Subway‘s oils an excellent choice.

So next time you assemble your favorite Subway sandwich, oil it up to take it to the next level!