A delicious debate: What makes the perfect sandwich?

NEW YORK — Nestled between two golden slices of freshly-baked artisanal bread, the enchanting sandwich has a grip on those who take a delicious bite. In fact, two in three Americans (67%) claim they could live on sandwiches alone for a full week, according to new research. The survey also found that the average American craves a sandwich four times a week. 

It seems that the best solution for your tastebuds and your wallet is a sandwich, as 42 percent of those polled are actively looking for ways to cut down the cost of food, with sandwiches being a good money-saving option for 67 percent of respondents, according to a survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Buddig.

The perfect sandwich, according to a survey of 2,000 Americans, consists of tomato (54%), cheddar cheese (39%), and Black Forest ham (39%).

For favorite ingredients, barbecue sauce, mayonnaise, and honey mustard topped the list, all at 58 percent. The least favorite was ranch (26%). Regular ham, honey turkey, honey ham, and Black Forest ham all rank equally as favored meat options (39%).

Following cheddar, Swiss cheese (36%) and American cheese (36%) were top choices. Respondents’ least favorite cheese was Gruyere (1%). The top vegetables included onions (54%), and cucumbers (51%).

Among the respondents, whole wheat bread (37%) was the top choice for their favorite sandwich stacker. Sourdough bread (36%) followed closely, while multigrain bread (33%) was the third most popular option. Half of those polled said they also like to have their sandwich toasted (58%).

a sub sandwich
(Photo by Raphael Nogueira on Unsplash)

When it comes to sandwich personalities, people have different preferences and tastes. Twenty-nine percent identified as “minimalists” who prefer simple toppings. Another, 27 percent identified as “savory lovers,” and 15 percent said they have a “sweet tooth” sandwich personality.

Fifty-nine percent said the best time to enjoy a sandwich is outside of traditional lunchtime.

“Today, people are working differently than before and lunchtime can be different times of day for different people based on their circumstances. A sandwich provides an affordable and convenient option no matter what time they can take a moment to eat in their busy schedule,” says executive vice president of marketing, Tom Buddig, in a statement.

According to 38 percent of those polled, sitting on the beach is the best place to bite into a sandwich. Other prime spots are at home (36%) or in a park (36%).

“Given the rising cost of groceries, the majority of those polled have switched over to preparing meals at home with 67 percent saying sandwiches are a good value, with lunchmeat providing consumers with protein options that are both tasty and affordable,” adds Buddig.  

Survey methodology:

This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Buddig between July 19 and July 21, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

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Sophia Naughton

Meet StudyFinds’ Associate Editor, Sophia Naughton. Sophia graduated Magna Cum Laude from Towson University with a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication directly focused in journalism and advertising. She is also a freelance writer for Baltimore Magazine. Outside of writing, her best buddy is her spotted Pit Bull, Terrance.

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