Your Dairy-Free Options at Jersey Mike's
Navigating the menu at a sandwich shop with dietary restrictions requires specific knowledge of ingredients. For those needing to avoid dairy, Jersey Mike's offers several bread and wrapping options that are free of milk products. However, it is important to know which choices to pick, as not all of their popular options are suitable.
The Dairy-Free Bread Selections
When placing an order, customers can request their subs on a few different dairy-free breads and wraps. The most common and reliable dairy-free choices are:
- Wheat Bread: This is a classic and safe option for those avoiding dairy. It contains no milk products.
- Seeded Italian Bread: This artisan-style bread is also a vegan-friendly and dairy-free choice.
- Udi's Gluten-Free Roll: Made for those with gluten sensitivities, this roll is also dairy-free. However, it is important to note that it contains egg, making it unsuitable for those following a vegan diet.
- Wraps: Jersey Mike's offers a variety of wraps that are suitable for a dairy-free diet, including the white, wheat, spinach herb, and tomato basil wraps.
Breads That Contain Dairy
To ensure you make a safe choice, be aware of the following breads which contain dairy and should be avoided:
- Rosemary Parmesan Bread: This bread is not dairy-free as it contains cheese, and should be avoided entirely.
Understanding Other Common Allergens
It is important to remember that 'dairy-free' does not automatically mean 'vegan'. While the wheat and seeded Italian breads are also vegan, the gluten-free bread contains egg. Furthermore, the traditional white bread contains honey, which means it is not considered vegan, though it is typically dairy-free.
Ordering Safely for Severe Allergies
For individuals with severe dairy allergies, cross-contamination is a potential risk that must be addressed. While Jersey Mike's takes steps to minimize this, all menu items are prepared in a shared kitchen space. To reduce risk, customers can take the following precautions:
- Request that your sub be made with fresh gloves.
- Ask for new paper to be placed down on the counter before preparation.
- Order a "Sub in a Tub"—a bread-free alternative served in a bowl with all your preferred toppings, which eliminates the bread cross-contamination risk altogether.
Comparison of Jersey Mike's Bread Options
| Bread Type | Dairy-Free? | Vegan? | Other Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheat | Yes | Yes | Safe for both dairy-free and vegan diets. |
| Seeded Italian | Yes | Yes | Safe for both dairy-free and vegan diets. |
| Udi's Gluten-Free | Yes | No | Contains egg, making it not suitable for vegans. |
| Original White | Yes | No | Contains honey, making it not vegan. |
| Rosemary Parmesan | No | No | Contains cheese. |
Building Your Perfect Dairy-Free Sub
To enjoy a dairy-free sub at Jersey Mike's, the process is straightforward. First, select one of the safe bread options mentioned above. Second, choose your fillings, carefully avoiding any items containing dairy, such as cheese or certain sauces. The standard “Mike's Way” toppings—onions, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and the red wine vinegar and olive oil blend—are all dairy-free. All toppings are also confirmed to be gluten-free.
Conclusion
For those wondering, "Is Jersey Mike's Sub bread dairy free?," the answer is a reassuring yes, with a few caveats. Your best bet is to choose the wheat, seeded Italian, or gluten-free bread options, all of which are made without dairy ingredients. You should avoid the Rosemary Parmesan bread entirely. If you have a severe dairy allergy, taking precautions against cross-contamination or opting for a 'Sub in a Tub' is the safest route. By making these informed choices, you can enjoy a delicious meal that fits your dietary needs.
