Should you always use a sawing motion to cut bread?

Using a sawing motion to cut bread is beneficial because it helps maintain the integrity of the bread structure, particularly for fresh loaves that may be crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. A sawing motion allows the knife to gently bite into the crust without squashing the soft interior, resulting in cleaner, more even slices. This technique reduces the risk of tearing the bread, which can happen with a straight down cut. The precision gained from this method is especially important in a context like Jimmy John's, where the presentation of sandwiches matters, and the quality of each slice impacts the overall experience for the customer.

Options suggesting not using a sawing motion or limiting its use could lead to undesirable outcomes, such as uneven or crushed slices. Additionally, some types of knives may not be suited for a sawing or slicing motion, impacting the effectiveness of the cut. Thus, employing a sawing motion is generally the most effective technique for cutting bread.