Unpacking the "Olive Oil Blend"
When you order a sub "Mike's Way," a key component of its flavor profile is "The Juice," a mixture of red wine vinegar and an "olive oil blend". However, the name is a bit misleading. The oil is no longer predominantly olive oil. According to former and current employees, the company switched to a new formula during the COVID-19 pandemic, likely to offset rising costs and supply chain issues related to olive oil. The new blend is primarily composed of cheaper, more neutral-tasting seed oils.
The Shift from Olive Oil to Seed Oils
Before the pandemic, the oil blend used on subs was rumored to be a mix that was heavily weighted towards olive oil, with some claiming it was up to 75% olive oil. However, the formula has been dramatically altered. The current version, as listed on the nutritional information, contains "soybean oil and/or canola oil" and olive oil. Sources close to the matter suggest that the ratio has flipped, with soybean oil now making up the bulk of the mix, possibly as high as 75%. This change has noticeably impacted the flavor of the subs, leading some loyal customers to voice their disappointment. The robust, fruity flavor of olive oil has been replaced with the bland neutrality of seed oils, changing the overall taste profile that many had come to love.
Comparing the Old vs. New Oil Blends
To better understand the impact of the change, consider the key differences between the original and the current oil blends.
| Feature | Original Oil Blend (pre-COVID) | Current Olive Oil Blend (post-COVID) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Oil | Mostly Olive Oil | Primarily Soybean and Canola Oils |
| Olive Oil Content | Estimated 75% or higher | Reportedly around 25% |
| Cost | More expensive | More cost-effective |
| Flavor Profile | Robust, fruity, and flavorful | Neutral and less distinctive |
| Nutritional Value | Generally considered healthier | Contains higher levels of polyunsaturated fat |
| Impact on Sandwich | Enhanced the taste of fresh ingredients | Contributes to the overall flavor, but with less prominence |
The Function of Oil in "The Juice"
The oil in "The Juice" plays a crucial role beyond just flavor. It combines with the red wine vinegar and oregano to create a balanced, tangy dressing for the sandwiches. The oil's primary functions are:
- Carrying Flavor: The oil helps to distribute the flavor of the vinegar and oregano throughout the sub, ensuring every bite has a savory kick.
- Adding Moisture: It adds a layer of moisture that helps to prevent the sandwich from being too dry.
- Improving Texture: The oil blend adds a silky texture to the ingredients, particularly the shredded lettuce and tomatoes.
Options for Customizing Your Sub
While the standard "Mike's Way" now includes the updated oil blend, customers have options. You can request a sandwich without the oil and vinegar, or ask for extra of other toppings to make up the difference in flavor. Some customers have even taken to bringing their own high-quality olive oil to drizzle on their subs for that desired authentic taste. This personalization allows diners to control the ingredients they consume and recapture some of the original sub's essence.
A Deeper Look at Seed Oils
The inclusion of more seed oils, like soybean and canola, has been a point of contention for some customers concerned about health and ingredient quality. Soybean oil, in particular, has been a subject of scrutiny due to its high omega-6 fatty acid content. While some studies suggest a link between high consumption of seed oils and health issues, the occasional consumption of a sandwich is unlikely to cause a significant negative health impact for most people. However, those with specific dietary restrictions or health goals should be aware of the oil's composition.
Conclusion
In summary, the cooking oil that Jersey Mike's uses is now an "olive oil blend" predominantly made from cheaper soybean and/or canola oils, with a smaller percentage of olive oil. This shift occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic due to economic pressures and ingredient costs. While the company's official stance refers to it simply as a blend, savvy customers and online sources have revealed the change in composition. For those seeking the original, olive oil-forward flavor, customization is an option. However, for most diners, the new blend continues to fulfill its purpose in creating the familiar taste of a Jersey Mike's sub.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Did Jersey Mike's always use a soybean and canola oil blend? A: No. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the oil blend reportedly contained a much higher percentage of olive oil. The shift to a blend with more inexpensive seed oils occurred more recently.
Q: Why did Jersey Mike's change their oil? A: The change was likely a cost-saving measure in response to the dramatic increase in olive oil prices and general supply chain disruptions that occurred during and after the pandemic.
Q: What is the "Juice" in Jersey Mike's subs? A: "The Juice" is the signature combination of red wine vinegar and the company's olive oil blend, topped with seasonings like oregano and salt.
Q: Can I order a sub without the oil blend? A: Yes, you can ask for your sub to be made without the oil and vinegar, or just without the oil. All subs are made to order and can be customized to your preference.
Q: Are the seed oils used by Jersey Mike's unhealthy? A: While refined seed oils like soybean and canola oil have different nutritional properties than olive oil, they are generally safe for consumption in moderation. Concerns often relate to their higher omega-6 content compared to olive oil.
Q: Does the oil change affect the taste of the sub? A: Yes, many customers have noted a difference in flavor, as the robust, fruity notes of the previous olive oil-heavy blend have been replaced by the more neutral taste of seed oils.
Q: What is "Mike's Way"? A: "Mike's Way" is the standard preparation for many Jersey Mike's subs, which includes shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oil, vinegar, and spices.
