Have you ever heard the urban legend that Arby’s roast beef isn’t actually beef at all? That it’s made from gels, liquids, or pastes formed into a vaguely meat-shaped lump?
It’s a disgusting thought, but is there any truth to it? We did some digging to find out what Arby’s roast beef is really made of.
And while we can confirm that it is indeed beef, there are some surprising facts about its processing and nutritional value that may make you think twice before indulging in that classic roast beef sandwich.
So, let’s dive in and uncover the truth about Arby’s roast beef.
What Is Arby’s Roast Beef Really Made Out Of?
Arby’s roast beef is made from 100% USDA-inspected beef that is slow-roasted in its own juices. The roast beef is the round-roast cut of beef, which arrives at the restaurant pre-packaged in a self-basting solution. This solution is a gelatinized broth that ensures the beef stays juicy throughout the shipping, roasting, and slicing process.
There have been rumors suggesting that Arby’s roast beef is imitation meat made from liquid, gelatin, etc. However, Arby’s quality assurance team confirms that these claims are just rumors. The self-basting solution that the beef is pre-packaged in is made from real ingredients and does not contain any imitation meat.
It’s important to note that while Arby’s roast beef is made from real beef, it is still ultra-processed. This means that it is linked to a higher risk of dying earlier from a variety of health concerns. In fact, the classic roast beef sandwich contains 970 milligrams of sodium, which is over half of the recommended daily intake for adults. And the half-pound roast beef sandwich contains a whopping 2,040 milligrams of sodium.
While Arby’s does offer some healthier choices like salads, the options are few and far between. Most options there “don’t fulfill a full veggie portion and are very high in sodium — some with more than a day’s recommended sodium,” according to Willow Jarosh, MS, R.D.
The History Of Arby’s Roast Beef
The history of Arby’s roast beef dates back to the founding of the fast food chain in 1964. The Raffel Brothers, Leroy and Forrest, were in the restaurant equipment business before they decided to open a fast-food restaurant to compete with the likes of McDonald’s and KFC. After sampling a roast beef offering from a Massachusetts sandwich shop one evening, they set to work perfecting the item before introducing it in their very first outlet.
The first Arby’s opened with only one item on the menu: a roast beef sandwich “and no french fries,” according to co-founder Leroy Raffel. At 69 cents apiece, the sandwich distinguished itself from the burgers at McDonald’s, which were going for 15 cents each. The roast beef used in that first sandwich was slow-roasted in its own juices, and it was made from the round-roast cut of beef.
Today, Arby’s roast beef is still made from 100% USDA-inspected beef that is slow-roasted in its own juices. The roast beef arrives at the restaurant pre-packaged in a self-basting solution that is a gelatinized broth. This solution ensures that the beef stays juicy throughout the shipping, roasting, and slicing process.
Despite rumors suggesting that Arby’s roast beef is imitation meat made from liquid and gelatin, Arby’s quality assurance team confirms that these claims are just rumors. The self-basting solution that the beef is pre-packaged in is made from real ingredients and does not contain any imitation meat.
While Arby’s roast beef is made from real beef, it is still ultra-processed and linked to a higher risk of dying earlier from a variety of health concerns. The classic roast beef sandwich contains 970 milligrams of sodium, which is over half of the recommended daily intake for adults. And the half-pound roast beef sandwich contains a whopping 2,040 milligrams of sodium.
How Arby’s Roast Beef Is Made
Arby’s roast beef is made using a slow-cooking process that allows the beef to retain its natural juices and flavor. The round-roast cut of beef arrives at the restaurant pre-packaged in a self-basting solution, which is a gelatinized broth. This broth ensures that the beef stays juicy throughout the shipping, roasting, and slicing process.
Once it arrives at the restaurant, the roast beef is slow-roasted in an oven at a low temperature for three hours. This process ensures that the beef is cooked thoroughly and evenly, while retaining its natural flavor and tenderness. After roasting, the beef is sliced thin and served on a toasted sesame seed bun for the signature Arby’s roast beef sandwich.
It’s important to note that while Arby’s roast beef is made from real beef, it does go through an ultra-processing stage. This means that it is linked to higher health concerns, including an increased risk of premature death. It’s recommended to limit consumption of ultra-processed foods and opt for healthier options when possible.
The Nutritional Value Of Arby’s Roast Beef
Arby’s roast beef sandwich is a popular menu item that contains 360 calories, 14 grams of fat, and 37 grams of carbohydrates. The sandwich also has 970 milligrams of sodium, which is over half of the recommended daily intake for adults. Additionally, the sandwich contains 5 grams of sugar and 23 grams of protein.
It’s important to note that while the roast beef is made from real beef, it is still considered ultra-processed. This means that it is linked to a higher risk of dying earlier from a variety of health concerns. The sandwich is also high in calories and carbohydrates, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
While the nutritional value of Arby’s roast beef sandwich may not be ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy diet, it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It’s important to consider the nutritional content of all foods and make informed choices based on individual dietary needs and preferences.
Controversies Surrounding Arby’s Roast Beef
Despite Arby’s confirming that their roast beef is made from real beef, controversies surrounding its preparation and ingredients have been circulating for years. One of the most persistent rumors is that the meat starts out as a paste, powder, liquid, or gel, which then gets reconstituted before shaping, roasting, cooling, and slicing. However, this claim has been debunked by Arby’s quality assurance team and confirmed by Snopes.
Another controversy surrounding Arby’s roast beef is its ultra-processed nature. While it may be made from real beef, the meat is still highly processed and contains a significant amount of sodium. This has led to concerns about its impact on health and a higher risk of early death from various health conditions.
Despite these controversies, Arby’s continues to be a popular fast-food chain known for its succulent meats inside sandwiches. While the health implications of consuming their roast beef may be concerning, it remains a favorite among many fast-food enthusiasts.
Alternatives To Arby’s Roast Beef
If you’re looking for an alternative to Arby’s roast beef, there are a few options to consider. First, you could try making your own roast beef at home using a high-quality cut of beef and slow-roasting it to perfection. This will allow you to control the ingredients and avoid any added preservatives or excessive sodium.
Another option is to look for pre-packaged ultra-thin sliced roast beef in the refrigerated meat section of your grocery store. Some brands, such as Hillshire Farm and Land ‘O Frost, offer thinly sliced roast beef that comes reasonably close in flavor to Arby’s roast beef. However, be sure to read the label and check for any added preservatives or high levels of sodium.
If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, you could try a vegetarian or vegan sandwich option at Arby’s or another fast-food chain. Many restaurants now offer meatless options made from plant-based proteins such as soy, pea protein, or mushrooms. These options can be lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than traditional meat-based sandwiches.
Ultimately, the best alternative to Arby’s roast beef will depend on your personal preferences and dietary needs. It’s important to read labels carefully and choose options that fit within your overall health goals.
