The Current Vegan "Meat" Options at Subway
Subway's menu and vegan offerings are highly localized, meaning availability differs significantly by region and even individual store. The most common vegan "meat" is the Veggie Patty, but it's not available everywhere, and some locations have stopped carrying it. Checking with your local Subway is essential. Keep in mind that some plant-based items, like the Beyond Meatball sub, were limited-time offers and are no longer available.
US Vegan Meat Options
In the United States, the main vegan protein choice is the Plant-Based Veggie Patty. It was reformulated to be fully plant-based in 2021. However, not all US locations carry it, so always confirm availability. The Beyond Meatball Marinara sub was a limited-time item in select locations in 2019 and is no longer offered.
UK and European Vegan Meat Options
The UK and parts of Europe generally have more consistent vegan meat substitutes. Options may include a Plant Patty and limited-time specials like the Plant Picante and Plant-based Teriyaki Steak, which have featured plant-based meat from The Vegetarian Butcher. The UK menu also includes the Rockin' Moroccan Wrap with a spiced plant patty.
Ordering Vegan Without a Dedicated Meat Sub
If a vegan meat patty isn't available, the Veggie Delite sub is a reliable, customizable vegan option. You can create a filling meal by adding a variety of fresh vegetables.
To build a vegan Veggie Delite sub:
- Choose Vegan Bread: Options in the US typically include Artisan Italian (white), Hearty Multigrain, and Sourdough. Avoid wraps and flatbreads as they often contain milk.
- Add Plenty of Veggies: Load up on lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, red onions, black olives, jalapenos, banana peppers, and avocado.
- Select Vegan Sauces: Yellow mustard, sweet onion sauce, oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper are generally vegan. Ask about other regional options like BBQ or buffalo.
Vegan "Meat" vs. Veggie Delite: A Comparison
| Feature | Vegan Veggie Patty Sub (if available) | Standard Veggie Delite | What to Expect | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | Spiced vegetable-based patty | All fresh vegetables | Heartier, more substantial sub | Light, fresher tasting sub |
| Availability | Inconsistent; depends on location | Universally available | Requires checking with a staff member | Can be ordered anywhere |
| Flavor Profile | Earthy, savory, sometimes spicy | Fresh, crisp, and clean | More of a "sandwich meal" feel | Classic fresh vegetable taste |
| Cost | Typically higher than the Veggie Delite | Standard menu price for a veggie sub | Varies based on regional pricing | Affordable and customizable |
Other Vegan-Friendly Ingredients
- Vegan Sauces: Yellow Mustard, Deli Brown Mustard, Sweet Onion Sauce, Oil & Vinegar, Sweet Onion Teriyaki, and Herb Garlic Oil are usually vegan. Check for regional variations.
- Vegan Sides: Plain Lay's potato chips, Baked Lay's, SunChips, and apple slices are vegan options in the US. The UK may offer Hash Browns and Crinkle Wedges.
- Breads: In the US, Artisan Italian, Hearty Multigrain, and Sourdough are typically vegan. In the UK, most breads are vegan except Italian Herb & Cheese and Honey & Oat.
Conclusion
Finding vegan meat at Subway can depend heavily on your location. While the vegan Veggie Patty is available in some US stores, its presence is inconsistent. The UK and Europe tend to have more consistent vegan patty options and limited-time plant-based specials. If no vegan meat substitute is available, the Veggie Delite remains a dependable choice that can be customized with various vegetables and vegan sauces on approved bread. By being informed about regional menus and checking ingredients, vegans can still enjoy a satisfying meal at Subway.
