Just Salad CEO Defends Controversial Decision to End Chopped Salads | Eater NY

"After The Post reported the change, I learned that Just Salad’s CEO Nick Kenner is defending a new no-chop policy as “a better experience categorically.” The chain began phasing out the chopped option at most stores last year and will end chopping entirely after the five remaining locations stop in June; Kenner says stores that already eliminated chopping saw a 20 percent sales increase, which he attributes to faster service, improved taste, and better service. The new prep cuts toppings into smaller, bite-sized pieces so salads don’t need the mezzaluna, though spinach and mixed greens will not be pre-cut and will be extra leafy because the director of culinary development believes leaving them whole improves “the integrity and flavor.” Kenner also argues the change removes the “crazy acoustics of chopping,” reduces franticness and confusion over whose salad is whose, prevents bruising from the rounded mezzaluna, and that side-by-side photos in The Post’s story were misleading because they were taken at a location that still chops; the chain supplied its own comparison photos." - Kayla Kumari Upadhyaya