Answering the Bread Question: It's Udi's Gluten Free
For anyone adhering to a gluten-free diet, the most important piece of information is that Jersey Mike's uses Udi's Gluten Free sub rolls for its sandwiches. This partnership, which began in 2017, made Jersey Mike's a significant fast-casual option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance nationwide. Udi's is a brand that specializes exclusively in gluten-free products, which helps ensure a dedicated production process for the bread itself.
The Udi's rolls are baked and individually wrapped off-site before being delivered to each restaurant. This critical step helps protect the product from cross-contamination during transport and storage. When an order is placed, a staff member will use one of these individually sealed baguettes. It's a far more reliable method than relying on bread baked in a shared kitchen, which is standard practice for the chain's regular bread.
Cross-Contamination Procedures at Jersey Mike's
While Udi's provides a safe, pre-packaged product, the preparation of the sandwich still happens in a kitchen with gluten-containing ingredients. Jersey Mike's has established specific protocols to help minimize the risk of cross-contact, but it's important for customers to be vigilant.
Standard safety procedures often include:
- Handwashing and Glove Changes: Employees are trained to wash their hands and put on fresh gloves before handling any gluten-free order.
- Designated Equipment: The use of a separate knife and other utensils specifically for gluten-free orders helps prevent the transfer of crumbs.
- Protective Barrier: Staff will place a sheet of parchment paper down on the prep counter to create a clean surface for the sandwich.
- Bottle Condiments: For spreads like mayonnaise, they should use a squeeze bottle rather than a shared tub to prevent cross-contamination.
It's important to remember that these are internal company guidelines, and the execution can vary by location and employee training. For individuals with severe gluten allergies or celiac disease, communicating your needs to the staff is crucial. Ordering during non-peak hours can also help ensure the kitchen is less rushed and procedures are followed meticulously.
Ordering Beyond the Gluten-Free Roll
For those who wish to avoid bread entirely or have concerns about kitchen safety, Jersey Mike's offers the popular Sub in a Tub option. This allows you to get all the fillings of any sub—meats, cheese, and toppings—served in a bowl without the bread. This can be an even safer option, especially if you also ask for fresh toppings from the back to avoid the shared bins at the counter.
There are a few items, however, that are not gluten-free even without the regular bun. The Meatball and Cheese sub (#15) and the Chicken Parmesan sub (#18) both contain wheat and should be avoided. For dessert, Udi's gluten-free cookies are available and come in individual, sealed packaging.
Comparing Gluten-Free Sandwich Options
For those managing a gluten-free diet, Jersey Mike's is a strong option, but how does it stack up against other possibilities? Here is a quick comparison of the Udi's rolls used at Jersey Mike's against other common gluten-free alternatives.
| Feature | Udi's Roll (at Jersey Mike's) | DIY Alternative (e.g., Almond Flour Bread) | Lettuce Wrap | "Sub in a Tub" (Jersey Mike's) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High (order at restaurant) | Low (requires prep) | High (if at home) | High (order at restaurant) |
| Cross-Contamination Risk | Low-Moderate (requires protocols) | Low (if prepared safely at home) | Very Low | Very Low |
| Texture | Soft, slightly chewy | Can vary based on recipe | Crisp and fresh | None |
| Nutritional Profile | Varies, can be higher carb | Can be customized (e.g., keto-friendly) | Very low calorie, high fiber | Varies, depends on fillings |
| Taste | Generally well-regarded | Depends on ingredients and recipe | Depends on toppings | Depends on toppings |
| Menu Customization | Any eligible sub | Full control | Full control | Any eligible sub |
Conclusion: A Reliable Choice with Careful Ordering
Jersey Mike's is a strong option for those seeking a gluten-free sandwich, with its use of Udi's individually wrapped rolls and established cross-contamination protocols. However, it's essential to remember that it is not a 100% gluten-free facility. For individuals with celiac disease or high sensitivity, clear communication with the staff and ordering during quieter times is highly recommended. The "Sub in a Tub" remains the safest bet for a completely bread-free experience. Ultimately, Jersey Mike's commitment to offering a dedicated gluten-free roll, combined with staff training, makes it a reliable and accessible choice for many following a gluten-free diet. For more information, you can always check out Udi's website for product details.
