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Does Jersey Mike's have gluten free subs? Your definitive guide

3 min read

Since 2017, Jersey Mike's has offered individually wrapped, certified gluten-free sub rolls nationwide. While the answer to 'Does Jersey Mike's have gluten free subs?' is a resounding yes, it's crucial for those with celiac disease or severe sensitivities to understand the potential risks and necessary ordering procedures to ensure a safe and delicious meal.

Quick Summary

Jersey Mike's offers gluten-free sub options using individually wrapped Udi's bread and adheres to specific protocols to reduce cross-contact. Customers can also choose a "Sub in a Tub" option for a bread-free meal. The risk of cross-contamination still exists since it is not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.

Key Points

  • Certified GF Bread: Jersey Mike's offers certified, individually wrapped Udi's gluten-free sub rolls nationwide.

  • Cross-Contact Protocols: Staff is trained to change gloves, wipe surfaces, and use a dedicated knife to minimize contamination.

  • Not a Dedicated GF Kitchen: Acknowledge that because it is a shared kitchen, there is still a risk of cross-contamination, especially for celiac individuals.

  • Sub in a Tub Option: A safe and popular alternative is the "Sub in a Tub," which serves the fillings in a bowl without the bread.

  • In-Person Ordering is Best: For severe allergies, ordering in person and observing staff taking all necessary precautions is highly recommended.

  • Avoid Certain Menu Items: The Meatball and Chicken Parmesan subs are not gluten-free and should be avoided.

  • Packaged Options Available: Jersey Mike's also offers packaged gluten-free items like Udi's cookies and certain chips.

In This Article

Jersey Mike's Gluten-Free Commitment

Jersey Mike's offers certified gluten-free sub rolls at all locations, using individually wrapped Udi's Gluten Free bread to minimize contamination risks. While the bread is not baked in-house, the use of pre-packaged rolls is a key step in their gluten-free protocol. The Udi's bread is also dairy-free but contains egg. Some customers find toasting improves the texture of the bread.

Understanding Cross-Contamination Procedures

Jersey Mike's operates a shared kitchen space, so they have procedures to reduce cross-contamination. These include staff changing gloves, wiping down the preparation area and lining it with parchment paper, using a dedicated knife for gluten-free orders, and using squeeze bottles for condiments. While some locations may wipe down the slicer, this can vary. The effectiveness of these procedures can also vary, and those with celiac disease are encouraged to observe the preparation of their food.

How to Order a Safe Gluten-Free Sub

To ensure a safe gluten-free experience, consider ordering in person to communicate directly with staff. Clearly state that you have a gluten allergy and request that employees change gloves, wipe down the work area, and use a dedicated knife. For hot subs, you can also ask for the grill to be wiped down. If you have high sensitivity, request toppings from new containers or the back to avoid potential crumbs. Using squeeze bottle condiments is also recommended.

The "Sub in a Tub" Alternative

The "Sub in a Tub" is a popular, safe alternative where your choice of meat, cheese, and toppings is served in a bowl without the bread. This option is often considered the safest for individuals with celiac disease as it eliminates contact with bread during assembly.

What to Order: Menu Options and Items to Avoid

Most subs on the menu can be made gluten-free using the Udi's roll.

Gluten-Free Friendly Options

  • Most Cold Subs
  • Most Hot Subs
  • Breakfast sandwiches (where available)
  • Sub in a Tub
  • Packaged Udi's Cookies
  • Many chip varieties

Items to Avoid

  • #15 Meatball and Cheese Sub: Contains gluten.
  • #18 Chicken Parmesan Sub: Breading contains gluten.
  • Wraps and Standard Breads: Not gluten-free.

Comparison: Gluten-Free Sub vs. Sub in a Tub

Feature Gluten-Free Sub (Udi's Roll) Sub in a Tub (Bowl)
Gluten-Free Bread Yes, individually wrapped Udi's roll No
Cross-Contact Risk Low to moderate Very low
Preparation Process Requires specific staff precautions Minimizes contact with high-risk surfaces
Carb Count Higher Lower
Celiac Safety Potential risk depending on location Generally safest option

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

Jersey Mike's does offer gluten-free subs with specific precautions to reduce cross-contact, making it a suitable choice for many. For those with mild sensitivities, requesting standard precautions when ordering in person is likely sufficient. However, for individuals with celiac disease or severe allergies, clear communication, observing food preparation, and considering the "Sub in a Tub" are highly recommended for the safest experience. Jersey Mike's efforts to cater to dietary needs are positive, but individual safety ultimately depends on location practices and personal vigilance.

More information on allergens and nutrition facts can be found on the Jersey Mike's website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jersey Mike's uses certified gluten-free sub rolls from Udi's Gluten Free. The rolls are individually wrapped to ensure they remain safe from gluten contamination during storage.

Jersey Mike's takes many precautions, but it is not a 100% gluten-free facility. While they follow protocols like using clean surfaces and changing gloves, there is always a risk of cross-contact in a shared kitchen. For maximum safety, it is best to communicate clearly with staff and consider ordering the "Sub in a Tub".

You should avoid the #15 Meatball and Cheese sub and the #18 Chicken Parmesan sub, as their fillings contain gluten-based ingredients.

A "Sub in a Tub" is Jersey Mike's term for a sub served without bread in a bowl. It is a safe, low-carb, and gluten-free alternative that can be ordered with any sub filling.

Staff is trained to use new gloves, wipe down the preparation counter, use a dedicated knife for cutting, and place the sub on parchment paper to create a barrier.

Yes, Jersey Mike's typically offers packaged gluten-free chips from brands like Lay's and Doritos. They also sometimes carry individually wrapped Udi's gluten-free cookies for dessert.

When ordering a hot sub, make sure to state your allergy clearly. You can request that the staff wipe down the grill and take all the standard precautions for a cold sub, such as using new gloves, a dedicated knife, and fresh toppings if needed.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.