Subway’s Head Chef, Paul Fabre, shares the inspiration behind Protein Pockets
April 30, 2026
Protein has been one of the most talked-about food trends of the past year. At Subway, it’s been central to our menu for more than 60 years. When the culinary team launched Protein Pockets in January 2026, it wasn’t about chasing a trend. It was about responding to what guests were asking for in a way that felt true to how we already think about food.
We caught up with Paul Fabre, Senior Vice President of Global Culinary Innovation, about what went into the launch and what guests have been saying since.
1. What inspired Protein Pockets?
It all started with our guests. Across the country, 61% of Americans increased their protein intake in 2024, and we saw this wasn’t limited to one type of guest or a specific eating occasion (Cargill, The 2025 Protein Profile). It was reflected across a wide range of lifestyles and routines.
So, we asked ourselves: how do we build on Subway's protein legacy in a way that fits how people eat today? Protein Pockets was the answer. Packed with fan-favorite proteins like chicken and steak, each pocket has 20 grams of protein and is priced at $3.99*, convenient enough for guests to grab any time of day, whatever their routine looks like.
2. What problem were you trying to solve?
The gap we kept seeing was that high-protein options in the restaurant space tend to be expensive, fried, or both. Guests shouldn’t have to choose between eating well and eating affordably. Protein Pockets were built to close that gap.
3. From a culinary perspective, what makes them work?
It starts with ingredients people already trust. We took quality proteins and paired them with fresh vegetables and familiar Subway sauces brought together in a format that travels well. Getting the balance right across texture, flavor and portion size is what separates something filling and energizing from something that just markets protein on the packaging.
4. What have guests been saying?
The response has been really encouraging. Guests are excited about having a protein-packed option for $3.99*. They’re also telling us the pockets are genuinely filling and fit easily into different parts of their day. That’s exactly what we were hoping for.
5. Do you have a personal favorite, or is that like asking a chef to pick a favorite child?
That’s a tough one. If I had to choose, I’d say the Italian Trio. Salami, pepperoni, and ham each bring something different. Salami and pepperoni are bold and punchy, while the ham adds substance and garlic ties it all together.
* Prices higher in CA, WA, AK & HI.
