The Evolving Plant-Based Menu at Subway
Subway has introduced various plant-based protein options in different markets over the years, such as the Beyond Meatball sub in North America and a 'T.L.C.' (Tastes Like Chicken) sub in the UK. These items were often limited-time offers and are not consistently available. The menu frequently changes, and while there isn't a permanent, global vegan chicken item, regional or temporary options do appear.
Regional Variations of Vegan Options
Vegan options, including chicken alternatives, vary significantly by region.
- United States: The Veggie Patty is the most common vegan protein, though availability varies. The Veggie Delite sub is a reliable vegan choice. Past limited-time offers like the Beyond Meatball sub are generally not available.
- United Kingdom: The standard plant-based protein is the Plant Patty. The 'T.L.C.' sub was a limited-time offering in 2021 and is no longer available. The Plant Patty is used in items like the Rockin' Moroccan Wrap.
- Switzerland: As of late 2025, Subway Switzerland offered a vegan teriyaki chicken sandwich through a partnership with Planted. This highlights the regional availability of specific vegan chicken products.
Building a Vegan Meal at Subway
Since specific meat alternatives may not be consistently available, customizing your order is often the best approach. Focus on fresh vegetables and selecting vegan-friendly ingredients. Vegan bread and wrap choices often include Italian (White), Hearty Italian, 9-Grain Wheat, and Plain Wraps, although options can differ. Commonly vegan sauces may include Sweet Onion Sauce, Garlic & Herb Sauce, Marinara Sauce, Sweet Chilli Sauce, and Yellow Mustard. All standard vegetables are vegan. Some regions may also offer a vegan cheese alternative.
Vegan Protein Alternatives: A Regional Comparison
| Item / Region | United States | United Kingdom | Switzerland | Australia | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegan Chicken Alternative | Not a standard item; past limited-time offers (e.g., Beyond Meatball). | 'T.L.C.' was limited-time; not available. | Vegan Teriyaki Chicken with Planted protein launched in 2025. | Falafel in some locations. | Beyond Meatball was limited-time; not available. |
| Standard Vegan Protein | Veggie Patty (availability varies). | Plant Patty. | Planted Teriyaki chicken (as of Oct 2025). | Veggie Patty. | Veggie Patty (availability varies). |
| Reliable Vegan Meal | Veggie Delite sub or salad. | Veggie Delite sub or salad; Rockin' Moroccan Wrap. | Veggie Delite sub or salad. | Veggie Delite sub or salad. | Veggie Delite sub or salad. |
Making a Healthy Vegan Choice at Subway
A healthy vegan choice involves maximizing vegetables for vitamins and fiber. Choose a multigrain bread and the Plant Patty (if available) for a more balanced meal. Be mindful of sauce choices to manage calorie and sugar intake. For strict vegans, cross-contamination is a potential concern due to shared tools and surfaces. Requesting that employees change gloves and use clean utensils and paper can help mitigate this risk.
Conclusion
While a permanent, global vegan chicken option is not standard at Subway, the availability of vegan chicken alternatives depends on the specific region, often appearing as limited-time specials. The most reliable way to create a nutritious vegan meal is to customize a sub or salad using the Plant Patty or Veggie Delite as a base, loaded with fresh vegetables and vegan sauces. Always check the local menu or ask staff for the most current options and to address concerns about cross-contamination. Resources like VegNews.com can provide updated information on vegan fast food options.