What Defines Processed Meat?
Before delving into Jersey Mike's specific practices, it is crucial to understand what the term "processed meat" means. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, processed meat is any meat that has been preserved by smoking, curing, salting, or adding chemical preservatives. Common examples include hot dogs, bacon, ham, salami, and other cured deli meats. It is important to note that the act of slicing meat freshly in-store does not reverse its processed status; the curing happens long before it arrives at the restaurant.
The Jersey Mike's Approach to Meat
Jersey Mike's has built its reputation around the concept of slicing high-quality, premium meats and cheeses right in front of the customer. While this practice highlights freshness and transparency, it does not apply equally to all their products. The reality is a blend of different sourcing methods depending on the meat type.
The Roast Beef Exception
One of the most notable exceptions to the "pre-processed" deli meat model is Jersey Mike's roast beef. The company proudly states that its MSA Grade top round beef is trimmed and cooked right in the store, and then sliced to order. This means that for a roast beef sub, you are getting a product that is minimally processed and prepared fresh on-site, a significant departure from many competitors.
The Cured Italian Meats
For classic deli-style sandwiches, especially the popular Italian subs, the situation is different. Ingredients like ham, salami, pepperoni, and cappacuolo are by their nature cured meats. These are typically delivered to the store in pre-cured logs and then sliced fresh for each sub. While the in-store slicing is a quality differentiator, the meats themselves are processed. It is this distinction that often leads to confusion for consumers expecting all meat to be fresh in the same way as the roast beef.
Sourcing and Proprietary Products
Jersey Mike's uses proprietary and private-labeled meats and cheeses to maintain specific quality standards. This means the recipes and ingredients are unique to the company and sourced from specific suppliers. In recent years, the company has made efforts to improve its sourcing, including switching to "no antibiotics ever" (NAE) turkey and pork. While this is a positive move for animal welfare and potentially reduces chemical exposure, it does not change the processed status of cured deli meats.
Comparison Table: Jersey Mike's Meats
| Meat Type | Processing Level | Key Characteristics | Sodium Content Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roast Beef | Minimally Processed | Cooked and sliced in-store from Certified Angus Beef top rounds | Lower sodium compared to most cured meats |
| Italian Meats | Processed (Cured) | Ham, salami, and pepperoni are pre-cured before being sliced in-store | Typically high in sodium and preservatives |
| Turkey Breast | Processed (Cured) | Proprietary, NAE turkey breast, sliced fresh in-store | Varies by product; can be high in sodium |
| Chicken Philly | Moderately Processed | Seasoned, slow-roasted chicken breast; sliced thickly for hot subs | Varies depending on seasonings and ingredients |
| Bacon | Processed (Cured) | Cooked from raw strips on-site for a higher quality standard | Inherent high sodium content due to curing |
Are Jersey Mike's Subs Unhealthy Due to Processed Meat?
The presence of processed meat does not automatically make a meal unhealthy, but it does mean certain nutritional factors should be considered. Many of Jersey Mike's sandwiches featuring cured meats, particularly the Italians, are very high in sodium. Health recommendations often suggest limiting processed meat intake to reduce risks associated with high sodium consumption and certain health conditions.
Here are some pros and cons regarding Jersey Mike's sourcing:
- Pros:
- High-Quality Sourcing: Emphasis on premium, private-labeled products.
- In-Store Preparation: Fresh slicing and in-house cooking for specific meats (roast beef).
- NAE Options: Transitioning to pork and turkey raised without antibiotics.
- Cons:
- High Sodium Content: Cured meats contribute to sandwiches with high sodium levels.
- Inherently Processed Items: Many staple deli meats remain processed, even if sliced fresh.
- Misleading Perception: The "fresh sliced" branding can be misunderstood as "unprocessed."
Understanding Your Options
For customers concerned about processed meat, Jersey Mike's provides clear choices. Opting for subs with the in-store cooked roast beef is the best way to avoid heavily processed ingredients. The tuna fish sub is another option, though it comes with its own nutritional profile. For those who prefer the Italian-style subs with cured meats, enjoying them in moderation and being mindful of the sodium content is key. The availability of NAE turkey and pork is a definite step up from many other fast-food chains, offering a higher standard of sourcing for those processed items. Ultimately, the freshness of your Jersey Mike's sub is determined by the specific ingredients chosen, making it important to read and understand the menu before ordering.
Conclusion
To answer the question, "Does Jersey Mike's use processed meat?" the answer is both yes and no. The company's in-store cooked roast beef is not processed, while the cured Italian meats and other deli selections are by definition processed products. Jersey Mike's emphasis on fresh slicing and higher-quality, proprietary products sets it apart from some competitors, but it does not eliminate the presence of processed ingredients. Ultimately, an informed consumer can navigate the menu to align with their dietary preferences, choosing minimally processed options or enjoying cured meats in moderation. For a more detailed look at the definition of processed meat and its health implications, visit the World Cancer Research Fund's website.
