Panera Bread Allergen Menu Guide & Options
This guide helps you find safe food at over 2,000 Panera locations in the U.S. and Canada. It shows you how to pick safer options and gives you the latest info. This way, you can order with confidence.
Panera has made changes to their menu, removing some items. This includes dairy-free milk and some vegan options. Always check with staff or use Panera’s website or app for the latest menu.
This guide will teach you how to use Panera’s allergen chart. You’ll learn about common allergens, dairy-free, and vegan choices. It also covers gluten, salads, and kids’ meals. Remember, always check with staff to avoid cross-contamination.
Overview of Panera Bread Allergen Policies and Risks
Panera offers clear allergen guidance for guests. They list ingredients on panerabread.com and in the Panera app. In-store binders also have this information.
Menus and ingredients change. In 2024, they removed the dairy-free milk upcharge and added more plant-based options. But, they also cut some items. Always check current details before ordering.
Panera has both company-owned and franchised locations. This can lead to differences in ingredients and practices. Even online information might not match every location’s offerings.
Cross-contamination is a risk in commercial kitchens. Breads, nuts, dairy, eggs, and soy are often prepared together. Items labeled as free-from are based on ingredients, not a sterile environment. For severe allergies, talk to a manager for extra precautions.
Here’s where to find the latest ingredient lists and allergy-friendly menu options:
- Panera’s official website and the Panera app for searchable ingredient and allergen charts.
- In-store ingredient binders and location managers for immediate confirmation.
- Panera.ca for Canadian program and legal specifics when ordering in Canada.
Before ordering, ask staff about the cooking and preparation methods. Franchise owners might make local changes. Always confirm allergen information with the team to avoid surprises.
panera bread allergen menu
Knowing what’s on the panera bread allergen menu helps you choose safer meals. This guide explains common ingredients, how to read Panera’s ingredient details, and the limits of any published chart.
What an allergen menu typically shows: Panera’s online resources list ingredients for sandwiches, salads, soups, baked goods, beverages, and spreads. Each item includes flags for common allergens like milk, eggs, wheat/gluten, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. The listing breaks down components by part — bread, dressing, protein, and toppings — so you can see where allergens appear.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Turkey Sandwich | House turkey, lettuce, tomato on country white bread | 420 | $7.49 |
| Fuji Apple Salad | Greens, apples, grapes, walnuts, chicken, vinaigrette | 490 | $8.99 |
| Bakery Chocolate Chip Muffin | Large muffin with chocolate chips | 590 | $3.29 |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Bowl) | Creamy soup with broccoli and cheddar | 320 | $6.49 |
| Avocado, Egg & Cheese Sandwich | Egg, avocado, cheddar on asiago bagel | 520 | $6.99 |
| Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich | Hummus, cucumber, feta, tomato on tomato basil | 400 | $7.79 |
| Steel Cut Oatmeal | Oats, brown sugar, fruit topping | 220 | $3.99 |
| Chipotle Chicken Caesar | Grilled chicken, romaine, parmesan, chipotle dressing | 610 | $9.49 |
| Almond Croissant | Buttery croissant filled with almond cream | 430 | $3.99 |
| Iced Coffee with Almond Milk | Cold brew style coffee with almond milk | 90 | $2.99 |
How to read Panera’s allergen chart: Look for clear ingredient lists and allergen flags beside each menu item. Check components like bread, dressing, or spread, as allergens may appear only in one part. Note variants and modifiers — choices like “no cheese” or “sub almond milk” may change allergen presence but require confirmation on the chart.
Limitations of the allergen menu: The panera bread allergen chart reflects known formulations at the time of posting. Items may be reformulated between updates. Local bakery or kitchen practices can cause cross-contact that a printed chart will not capture. Some ingredient derivations, such as cultures or natural flavors, may not be fully disclosed but can contain allergens.
The panera bread menu allergens list is a strong starting point for planning. Use it alongside direct questions to staff and recent ingredient updates to make the safest choice for your needs.
Common allergens at Panera: dairy, eggs, gluten, nuts, soy
Panera’s menu clearly shows where common allergens are found. This guide helps you spot dairy, eggs, gluten, tree nuts, peanuts, and soy. This way, you can confidently use the panera bread menu allergens, dietary restrictions menu, and food sensitivities information.
Many pastries, flatbreads, specific bagels, creamy soups, and some dressings or spreads contain milk. For example, Classic White Miche and Croissant include dairy. Several creamy soups, such as certain squash and cheesy varieties, list milk in ingredients. The pumpkin muffin was reformulated and now contains a butter blend and milk-derived natural flavors.
Panera has removed some milk-containing sauces in the past. Some current options like Chipotle Aioli are milk-free. But spreads such as pesto, buffalo, and ranch may contain milk.
Eggs: baked goods and prepared items
Most breads, bagels, smoothies, and many specialty coffee drinks are egg-free. Some baked goods and prepared kids’ items use Classic White Miche or include egg in fillings. Chicken noodle soup contains egg and cannot be customized out in many locations.
Scrambled eggs and egg whites are generally cooked without dairy and often prepared in canola oil. You should confirm practices at your local bakery-cafe.
Gluten: breads, bagels, and cross-contact
Core breads like Artisan Ciabatta, Country Rustic Sourdough, and French Baguette contain gluten. Bagels, including plain, everything, and sesame, are gluten-containing. Croutons are made from Black Pepper Focaccia and include gluten while not containing milk.
Cross-contact risk is present due to shared toasters, ovens, and prep surfaces. Panera does not broadly promote dedicated gluten-free kitchens. People with celiac disease should use the panera bread dietary restrictions menu and local staff guidance before ordering.
Nuts and peanuts: labeling and salad inclusions
Ingredient lists indicate which salads and baked goods contain tree nuts. Salads such as Fuji Apple and some seasonal items list tree nuts; those items can often be ordered without nuts on request. Most menu items are peanut-free by ingredients, but severe allergies require confirmation of handling and preparation at the location.
Use panera bread food sensitivities resources and staff questions to confirm safety for tree-nut or peanut allergies.
Soy and other allergens
Soy shows up in some dressings, spreads, and processed components. Watch for soy lecithin, soybean oil, and soy protein on ingredient lists. Panera’s allergen chart flags soy-containing items, so review that chart and the panera bread dietary restrictions menu when checking sauces, dressings, and packaged ingredients.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plain Bagel | No | No | No | Wheat |
| Croissant | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Classic White Miche | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Fuji Apple Salad | No | No | No | Tree Nuts, Dairy (dressings vary) |
| Chicken Noodle Soup | No | No | No | Egg, Wheat |
| Pesto Spread (seasonal) | No | No | No | Dairy, Tree Nuts |
| Chipotle Aioli | No | No | No | Soy (may vary) |
| Pumpkin Muffin (reformulated) | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Black Pepper Focaccia Croutons | No | No | No | Wheat |
| Smoothies (many varieties) | Some options | No | No | May contain Dairy, Soy (varies) |
- Always check the panera bread menu allergens chart for current ingredient updates.
- Ask staff about handling and cross-contact if you have severe food allergies.
- Use the panera bread dietary restrictions menu when customizing orders online or in store.
- Confirm local kitchen practices for egg and dairy preparation when necessary.
Dairy-free and vegan options with customization
Panera offers many dairy-free and vegan choices for breakfast and lunch. You can make meals fit a plant-based or dairy-free diet by removing cheese and choosing fresh fruit or oatmeal. Always check ingredients at the counter or in the app for cross-contact risks.
Adapting breakfast choices is easy. Many breakfast sandwiches work without cheese if you ask. Steel Cut Oatmeal with Strawberries & Pecans is dairy-free. Fresh Fruit Cup, Summer Fruit Cup, apples, bananas, and kettle-cooked chips are safe picks.
Smoothies may include Greek yogurt in flavors like Mango, Strawberry, and Strawberry Banana. Ask for almond milk and a clean blender to lower cross-contact risk. This helps when you rely on the panera bread dairy-free options listed on menus.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel Cut Oatmeal with Strawberries & Pecans | Oats topped with strawberries and pecans; dairy-free | 260 | $3.99 |
| Fruit Cup (small) | Seasonal fruit medley; no dairy | 60 | $2.99 |
| Ciabatta Egg Sandwich (no cheese) | Egg and bread; request no cheese to make dairy-free | 370 | $4.79 |
| Apple | Whole apple; portable snack | 95 | $0.99 |
| Kettle-Cooked Chips | Crunchy potato chips; ingredient-based dairy-free | 210 | $1.49 |
Panera’s breads include many egg- and dairy-free choices. Options like Artisan Ciabatta, Country Rustic Sourdough, and French Baguette are often egg-free. But, Blueberry, Multigrain Bagel Flat, Black Pepper Focaccia, and Tomato Basil Miche may contain honey or other non-vegan ingredients. Always verify each loaf before ordering.
Vegan sandwiches and salads are possible with simple swaps. The Mediterranean Veggie can be made vegan by removing cheese and choosing a vegan-friendly bread. Mediterranean Greens with Grains and some salad bases work without animal components when you ask for no cheese and no animal proteins.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean Veggie (no cheese) | Yes | No | No | Dairy (if not removed), Sesame |
| Mediterranean Greens with Grains (no cheese) | Yes | No | No | Tree Nuts (depending on toppings), Dairy |
| Asian Sesame (no chicken) | Yes | No | No | Soy, Sesame |
| Fuji Apple (no chicken, no cheese) | Yes | No | No | Tree Nuts (if added), Dairy |
| French Baguette (as sandwich base) | Yes (verify) | No | No | Wheat |
| Artisan Ciabatta | Yes (verify) | No | No | Wheat |
| Plain Bagel | Yes (verify) | No | No | Wheat |
| Blueberry Bagel | Depends (verify for honey) | No | No | Wheat |
| Tomato Basil Miche | Yes (verify) | No | No | Wheat |
| Multigrain Bagel Flat | Yes (verify) | No | No | Wheat, Seeds |
Beverage options support plant-based choices. Almond milk and other nondairy milks can be used in lattes and cold drinks without an upcharge. Syrups like cane, caramel, and Madagascar vanilla are dairy-free. But, chocolate syrup contains milk, so avoid it when you seek vegan choices.
For safe customization, use clear, short requests. Say “no cheese,” “no aioli,” or name a specific dairy-free dressing swap like Balsamic Vinaigrette or Greek Dressing. Ask staff for a clean utensil or separate prep surface when possible. Confirm substitutions in the app and at pick-up to align with the panera bread allergy-friendly menu guidance.
- Request almond milk and a clean blender for smoothies.
- Order sandwiches without cheese and choose verified vegan breads.
- Check each pastry or seasonal item; formulations change.
- Avoid items that cannot be modified, such as some kids’ menu dishes and certain soups.
Panera has expanded dairy-free substitutions, but vegan pastries and complete plant-based lines vary by location. Always review ingredient lists and ask staff about cross-contact to match your dietary needs. This ensures you make confident choices from panera bread vegan choices and panera bread dairy-free options on menus.
Gluten-free considerations and options
Panera offers a variety of choices for those with wheat sensitivities. Many soups, salads, and sides are naturally wheat-free. It’s important to check the menu and talk to staff before ordering to confirm ingredients.
Most breads and bagels at Panera have gluten. Items like Artisan Ciabatta and Country Rustic Sourdough are made with wheat. But, fruit cups and some protein toppings are often gluten-free. Always check the allergen chart for the latest information.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seasonal Fruit Cup | Mixed fresh fruit, no bread or dairy added | 70 | $3.49 |
| Kettle-Cooked Chips | Sea salt potato chips, pre-packaged | 150 | $1.99 |
| Greek Salad (no croutons) | Greens, tomatoes, olives, feta optional | 320 | $7.29 |
| Turkey Breast Protein Pack | Sliced turkey, cheese optional, fruit side | 260 | $6.99 |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup (cup) | Creamy soup contains wheat in roux | 190 | $3.99 |
| Pick-Two Salad + Soup | Choose salad and soup; request no croutons | Varies | $8.49 |
| Apple | Whole apple, single-serve | 95 | $0.99 |
| Roasted Turkey Sandwich (no bread) | Served as salad or protein plate on request | 310 | $8.49 |
For those with celiac disease or severe food sensitivities, cross-contact is a big concern. Panera does not have a separate gluten-free kitchen. This means there’s a risk of gluten exposure.
Ask staff to prepare your food carefully to avoid cross-contact. Request that your sandwich or salad be made in a clean area. While these steps help, they can’t completely eliminate the risk.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fruit Cup | Yes | No | Yes | None |
| Kettle-Cooked Chips | Yes | Yes | Yes | May contain trace dairy |
| Greek Salad (no croutons) | No | No | Yes* | Dairy (feta), olives |
| Chicken Cobb Salad (no croutons) | No | No | Yes* | Egg, Dairy (cheese) |
| Roasted Turkey (protein plate) | No | Yes | Yes | None |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Apple | Yes | No | Yes | None |
| Protein Pack (Turkey) | No | Yes | Yes | Dairy optional |
| Vegetable Soup (cup) | Yes | No | Varies | May contain soy |
| Side Salad (no croutons) | Yes* | No | Yes | May contain nuts in dressings |
For strict gluten-free diners, packaged items like fruit cups and chips are safer choices. Opt for salads without bread or croutons and confirm the dressings. If you have severe celiac disease, it might be safer to avoid Panera unless they can assure special preparation.
- Check the panera bread dietary restrictions menu online or in-store for the latest ingredient updates.
- Tell staff about your panera bread food sensitivities and ask which items have the lowest cross-contact risk.
- Request separate prep when possible and decline shared toasters or ovens.
Salads, dressings, spreads, and allergen notes
Panera’s salads are full of bright flavors. They offer easy swaps for common sensitivities. Always check the panera bread allergen menu before you order.
Ask the staff to remove cheese or nuts. This makes many salads dairy-free or nut-free.
The Fuji Apple Chicken and Strawberry Poppyseed salads often have nuts. Say “no nuts” to avoid allergens. Salads like Asian Sesame, Balsamic Greens with Grains, Mediterranean Greens with Grains, and Strawberry Caprese become dairy-free without cheese.
Dressings and spreads change often. Look at the panera bread dressings allergen chart when picking a dressing. Many vinaigrettes, like Asian Sesame and Balsamic, are dairy-free.
But, some dressings have dairy. Ranch and Green Goddess have dairy. Also, Buffalo Sauce, seasonal pesto, and some salsa verde or spreads have milk or milk-derived ingredients. Panera’s Caesar dressing is not dairy-derived, but check locally for severe allergies.
Croutons and crunchy toppings might have hidden ingredients. Croutons are made from Black Pepper Focaccia and are milk-free. Frizzled onions are also milk-free. But, cured meats like soppressata might use starter cultures with unclear origins. Always ask staff for clarification to avoid hidden allergens.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuji Apple Chicken Salad (no nuts) | Greens, chicken, apples, dried cherries, vinaigrette; request no nuts | 550 | $8.49 |
| Strawberry Poppyseed Salad (no nuts) | Greens, strawberries, poppyseed dressing; request no nuts | 480 | $7.99 |
| Asian Sesame Salad (no chicken) | Crisp greens, sesame vinaigrette; omit chicken for dairy-free | 420 | $7.49 |
| Balsamic Greens with Grains (no cheese) | Mixed greens, grains, balsamic vinaigrette; remove cheese for dairy-free | 360 | $6.99 |
| Mediterranean Greens with Grains (no cheese) | Greens, olives, grains, lemon dressing; request no cheese | 390 | $7.29 |
| Caesar Dressing (side) | Classic Caesar listed as not dairy-derived by Panera; verify locally | 180 | $0.75 |
| Green Goddess Dressing (side) | Creamy herb dressing that contains dairy | 210 | $0.75 |
| Croutons (Black Pepper Focaccia) | Toasted focaccia cubes; milk-free by ingredient | 110 | $0.50 |
| Frizzled Onions | Crispy onion topping; milk-free | 95 | $0.75 |
| Seasonal Pesto Spread | Herb and nut spread; may contain dairy and nuts | 140 | $0.85 |
| Apple Cider Vinegar BBQ Sauce | Tangy barbecue sauce that is dairy-free | 60 | $0.50 |
| Poppyseed Dressing | Sweet poppyseed dressing listed as dairy-free by ingredient | 170 | $0.75 |
| Greek Dressing | Olive oil and herb vinaigrette; dairy-free | 120 | $0.75 |
| Italian Dressing | Classic Italian vinaigrette; dairy-free | 110 | $0.75 |
| Buffalo Sauce | Spicy sauce listed with dairy in some formulations | 80 | $0.60 |
| Soppressata (topping) | Cured meat; may contain starter cultures with ambiguous derivations | 130 | $1.25 |
Use the panera bread allergen menu and panera bread dressings allergen chart as guides. Always confirm ingredients at your local café for the latest details. If unsure, ask staff to review ingredient files to avoid allergens.
Kids menu, soups, and seasonal items: special alerts
Panera’s family offerings change often. Families should know which kid items, soups, and seasonal dishes pose higher allergen risks. Always read labels and talk to staff before ordering to reduce exposure to hidden dairy, egg, or nut ingredients.
Kids menu allergens and limitations
Kids’ sandwiches use Classic White Miche, which contains milk. Many kid-sized soups and sandwiches mirror adult recipes and include milk or egg. Custom requests for kid-specific items are not always possible in every bakery-cafe, so confirm options at the counter.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kids Grilled Cheese | Classic White Miche with cheddar | 450 | $4.99 |
| Kids Turkey Sandwich | Turkey on Classic White Miche | 380 | $5.49 |
| Kid Chicken Noodle Soup | Chicken, noodles, carrot, celery | 120 | $3.99 |
| Applesauce Cup | Unsweetened applesauce | 50 | $1.49 |
| Kids Mac & Cheese | Pasta with cheddar cream sauce | 330 | $4.99 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kids Grilled Cheese | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Kids Turkey Sandwich | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy (bread ingredients) |
| Kid Chicken Noodle Soup | No | No | No | Egg, Wheat |
| Applesauce Cup | Yes | No | Yes | None (packed in facility may vary) |
| Kids Mac & Cheese | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Brothy Chicken Soup | No | No | Sometimes | May contain Soy, Celery |
| Broth-Based Vegetable Soup | Sometimes | No | Sometimes | Varies by season (check label) |
| Creamy Squash Soup | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Fireside Chili (seasonal) | No | No | No | May contain Soy, Milk (check season) |
| Pumpkin Muffin (seasonal) | No | No | No | Dairy, Egg (reformulated) |
Soup allergens and creamy bases
Creamy soups like squash or cheesy varieties use milk or butter. French Onion Soup contains butter and cheese. Chicken Noodle Soup lists egg in the noodles and cannot be customized to remove egg in many locations.
Broth-based soups, including some seasonal broths and Fireside Chili, may be dairy-free. Seasonal shifts change recipes. Always check the current ingredient list for panera bread soup allergens before ordering.
Seasonal items and reformulations
Seasonal offerings can be reformulated between years. The pumpkin muffin once lacked dairy, but later included a butter blend with milk and natural flavors. Salads such as Strawberry Poppyseed and Fuji Apple may return with new dressings or nut options.
For the latest panera bread seasonal items allergen updates, confirm ingredient lists at the cafe or request printed allergen charts. Staff can highlight recent reformulations and suggest safer alternatives for children or guests with allergies.
- Ask whether kid menu items can be modified before ordering.
- Request ingredient lists for any soup you plan to serve to a child.
- Verify seasonal product recipes each visit to spot reformulations.
Keep conversations brief and direct. A clear question about panera bread kids menu allergens, panera bread soup allergens, or panera bread seasonal items allergen updates helps staff provide accurate guidance.
Ordering tips, in-store communication, and safety checklist
Clear communication and careful ordering are key to managing panera bread food sensitivities. Start by mentioning your allergy and the specific allergen. Then, ask if they can prepare your order in a clean area with separate utensils.
How to talk to staff and what to ask
- Be specific: say “milk,” “egg,” “tree nuts,” “peanuts,” “wheat/gluten,” or “soy.”
- Request exact modifications: “no cheese,” “use oat milk,” or “no nuts in salad.”
- Ask if the cook can change gloves, use a clean surface, and avoid shared utensils for your order.
- Confirm ambiguous ingredients, such as starter cultures or lactic acid, and ask a manager about local procedures.
Online and app ordering best practices
- Use the app modifier fields to enter specific panera bread ordering tips like “no cheese” or “dairy-free milk.”
- Note that online menus show standard recipes and may not log special prep steps; call the store for severe allergies.
- Redeem loyalty rewards as needed. Keep in mind program terms may differ by country.
When to avoid ordering at Panera
- Avoid ordering if cross-contact risk is unacceptable for life-threatening allergies because Panera uses shared prep areas.
- Skip items that cannot be customized or are known to be reformulated to include allergens, such as certain baked goods or specific soups.
- If a clear answer is not available from staff or ingredient lists, choose a safer alternative or bring a known-safe meal.
Safety checklist before you order
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greek Yogurt with Mixed Berries | Creamy yogurt layered with berries and granola on side | 320 | $4.99 |
| Turkey Avocado BLT | Smoked turkey, bacon, avocado on ciabatta | 610 | $8.79 |
| Ten Vegetable Soup | Hearty broth with seasonal vegetables | 120 | $5.29 |
| Power Mediterranean Bowl | Greens, quinoa, hummus, feta on side | 540 | $9.49 |
| Steel-Cut Oatmeal | Hot oats with choice of toppings | 220 | $3.99 |
| Chipotle Chicken Panini | Grilled chicken, peppers, cheddar on focaccia | 650 | $9.19 |
| Tomato Basil Soup | Cream-based classic with basil | 250 | $4.99 |
| Avocado Smash | Avocado, lemon, seeds on artisan bread | 430 | $7.29 |
| Caesar Salad with Chicken | Romaine, grilled chicken, Caesar dressing | 520 | $10.49 |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | Classic bakery cookie | 210 | $1.99 |
Dietary & allergen quick reference
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greek Yogurt with Mixed Berries | No | No | No | Dairy, Gluten (granola) |
| Turkey Avocado BLT | No | No | No | Egg (may contain), Wheat, Soy |
| Ten Vegetable Soup | Yes | No | No | Possible Soy |
| Power Mediterranean Bowl | No (feta) | Partial (watch grains) | No | Dairy, Tree Nuts (toppings) |
| Steel-Cut Oatmeal | Yes (if water) | No | No | May contain Milk, Tree Nuts (toppings) |
| Chipotle Chicken Panini | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat, Soy |
| Tomato Basil Soup | No (cream) | No | No | Dairy |
| Avocado Smash | Yes (order without cheese) | No | No | Wheat, Sesame (seeds) |
| Caesar Salad with Chicken | No | No | No | Egg, Dairy, Fish (anchovy in dressing) |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy, Egg |
Use this guide alongside the official panera bread allergen guide. Keep your notes concise when ordering. If uncertainty remains, call the store for confirmation.
FAQ
- Can staff make a dish without dairy? — Ask if they can substitute plant milk and change prep tools; confirm with a manager for severe allergies.
- Does the app record special prep requests? — The app records modifiers but may not capture prep steps; follow up by phone for critical allergies.
- Are desserts safe for nut allergies? — Many bakery items share equipment; assume cross-contact risk unless staff provide specific assurances.
- Is the soup line safe for gluten-free orders? — Soups often share ladles and pots; ask about cross-contact before ordering.
- Should you bring an EpiPen? — Carry emergency medication if you have life-threatening reactions and avoid high-risk items.
- Can loyalty rewards be used on customized orders? — Yes, rewards apply, though local program terms may vary.
- Who is best to ask about reformulated ingredients? — Request a manager and verify ingredient lists for recent reformulations.
Conclusion
Panera has a clear menu and guide online for allergens. They offer many dairy-free and vegan options. But, ingredients can change due to 2024 reforms and local variations.
There’s always a risk of cross-contact in Panera kitchens. If you have a severe allergy, talk to the manager. Check the app or website for allergen info. Avoid baked goods and shared fryers if possible.
Ordering through the app or website helps you stay updated. If you’re unsure, call the café. With these steps, you can safely enjoy Panera’s menu while staying informed.
FAQ
Where can I find Panera Bread’s official allergen and ingredient information?
You can find the latest on Panera’s website, panerabread.com, and the Panera app. In-store, staff and ingredient binders also have this info. For Canada, check Panera.ca. Remember, menus and ingredients can change, so always check locally.
Does Panera guarantee menu items are free from cross-contact with allergens?
No, Panera doesn’t promise allergen-free food. They handle many allergens in their kitchens. But, they do list allergens in their ingredients. If you have a severe allergy, talk to a manager about extra safety steps. It’s best to avoid items with high risk of cross-contact.
Which Panera items commonly contain dairy?
Many items have dairy. This includes pastries like croissants and Classic White Miche. Also, creamy soups, some dressings, and baked goods like the pumpkin muffin. Always check the ingredients before you order.
Are there reliable dairy-free and vegan choices at Panera?
Yes, there are good options. You can make many breakfast sandwiches dairy-free by skipping the cheese. Fruit cups, oatmeal, kettle chips, and some salads are also dairy-free. Panera offers plant milk without extra charge. Many breads and salads can be made vegan with a few changes. Just make sure to ask about what’s available at your location.
Can people with celiac disease safely eat at Panera?
Panera doesn’t have gluten-free kitchens, so there’s a risk of gluten cross-contact. Some items like fruit cups and certain soups and salads are gluten-free. But, if you have celiac disease, be careful and ask about how food is prepared. It’s safer to choose other places to eat.
Which salads and toppings often contain nuts, and can I remove them?
Some salads, like Fuji Apple and Strawberry Poppyseed, have nuts. You can ask for them without nuts. But, make sure to check if the dressing or toppings have nuts. If you have a severe nut allergy, talk to the manager about how they handle nuts.
Are Panera dressings and spreads safe for dairy-free orders?
Some dressings, like Asian Sesame Vinaigrette and Balsamic Vinaigrette, are dairy-free. But, others like Ranch and Green Goddess have dairy. Caesar dressing is dairy-free at Panera, but check with your local store for severe allergies.
Do Panera’s beverages offer dairy-free milk options and are there charges?
Yes, Panera offers plant-based milks for coffee and smoothies without extra charge. But, chocolate syrup has milk, so ask about dairy-free options for drinks.
What should I ask staff when I have a serious food allergy?
Be clear about your allergy and what you need. Ask for no cheese, almond milk, and if they can use clean utensils. Talk to a manager about their procedures and ingredients. This helps ensure your safety.
