Panera Bread’s menu has many tempting choices, but not all of its items are as wholesome as they might seem. Nutritionists and insiders have warned that some of Panera’s favorites hide surprising pitfalls, like sky-high sodium, hidden sugars, and freshness issues.
Which beloved orders should you skip, no matter what? The answers may surprise even longtime fans. Let’s take a look at 19 items to avoid ordering at Panera no matter what.
1. Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Sodium Shock
Did you know that one of Panera’s classics, the Broccoli Cheddar Soup, is loaded with sodium and calories?
Some nutritionists have warned that a single serving of this soup can push you close to your daily sodium limit, raising concerns for heart health. Even if it tastes comforting, this soup’s nutritional profile makes it a risky order to have on the regular.
2. Mac & Cheese: Calorie Bomb
Panera’s Mac & Cheese is a crowd favorite, but experts have warned that it is one of the highest-calorie items on the entire menu.
Just one bowl can exceed 900 calories, with sodium levels that rival fast food. It’s creamy and satisfying, but the nutritional cost is steep, especially if you add bread or other sides.
3. Flatbread Pizza: Not So Fresh
Flatbread Pizza might sound like a fresher, lighter option, but insiders say it’s often reheated rather than made to order.
This means that you might get a less-than-crisp crust and uneven toppings. If you’re looking for quality and freshness, this menu pick can be pretty disappointing.
4. Bagels: Stale by Afternoon
Panera’s bagels are a breakfast staple, but former employees say they’re often stale by the time the afternoon rolls around.
While they’re popular in the morning, their freshness drops significantly as the day progresses. If you want a soft, just-baked bagel, timing is everything, or you might be left with a chewy letdown.
5. Tuna Salad Sandwich: Hidden Sodium
The Tuna Salad Sandwich might seem like a lighter choice, but it’s full of sodium and isn’t always freshly prepared.
Nutritionists point out that processed ingredients and high salt content can undermine its healthy reputation. For people watching their sodium, this sandwich should be avoided.
6. Chicken Caesar Salad: Not as Healthy
Chicken Caesar Salad might sound like a safe bet, but experts say this dish is surprisingly high in sodium and calories.
The creamy dressing and processed chicken add up, making it less healthy than it appears. If you’re aiming for a nutritious meal, this salad may not be the best option.
7. Cream Cheese Spread: Additive Alert
Panera’s Cream Cheese Spread is a popular bagel companion, but it contains additives that concern some nutritionists.
While it is creamy and flavorful, these extra ingredients might not align with clean-eating goals. If you prefer simple, whole foods, consider skipping this spread.
8. Soufflés: Fat and Calorie Heavy
Panera’s breakfast soufflés are rich and delicious, but they’re also high in fat and calories.
Nutritionists have warned that these pastries can rival desserts in their nutritional impact. If you’re watching your intake, this breakfast might be best reserved for special occasions.
9. Frozen Lemonade: Sugar Overload
Frozen Lemonade might be a refreshing treat, but it’s mostly sugar and contains very little fruit.
Experts note that the high sugar content can spike your daily intake quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier beverage, this sweet drink might not be your best bet.
10. Brownies: Dessert Danger
Panera’s brownies are tempting, but each one packs a massive dose of sugar and calories.
With over 500 calories and more than 50 grams of sugar, this dessert is a nutritional splurge. If you’re craving something sweet, consider sharing one or choosing a smaller treat.
11. Scones: Dry and Disappointing
Scones at Panera might look inviting, but customers and insiders report they’re often dry and not as fresh as expected.
If you’re hoping for a moist, bakery-quality scone, the texture and flavor might disappoint you.
12. Baguette: Tough Choice
The iconic Panera baguette can be tough and not as fresh as you’d want it to be, especially later in the day.
While it’s a signature side, some diners find it chewy or stale. If you value soft, fresh bread, you might want to skip this classic.
13. Turkey Sandwich: Processed Pitfall
Panera’s Turkey Sandwich contains processed meat and high sodium levels, raising concerns for people who want a wholesome lunch.
Nutritionists suggest that the combination of additives and salt makes this sandwich less healthy than it appears.
14. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Sneaky Sugars
Greek Yogurt Parfait sounds healthy, but it contains added sugars that can quickly add up.
Nutritionists warn that even seemingly nutritious options can contain sweeteners, making this parfait less ideal for sugar-conscious diners.
15. Cinnamon Roll: Sugar and Calorie Giant
Panera’s Cinnamon Roll is a bakery favorite, but it’s extremely high in sugar and calories.
With numbers that rival a full meal, this treat is best enjoyed sparingly. Nutritionists caution that it’s more of a dessert than it is a breakfast.
16. The Bread Bowl Trap
Ordering soup in a bread bowl might seem like a fun upgrade, but it dramatically increases the amount of calories and carbs you are ingesting.
Nutritionists point out that pairing already-rich soups with a bread bowl can turn a light meal into a dietary splurge.
17. Bacon Mac & Cheese: Double Trouble
Bacon Mac & Cheese combines two indulgent favorites, resulting in a dish with over 1,000 calories and excessive sodium.
Experts say this menu item is one of the least healthy choices, especially in larger portions.
18. Signature Hot Chocolate: Seasonal Sugar Spike
Panera’s Signature Hot Chocolate is a winter favorite, but it’s loaded with sugar and saturated fat.
With 50 grams of sugar per serving, this drink can quickly derail healthy intentions. Nutritionists recommend lighter alternatives for a warm treat.
Informed Choices
Knowing which Panera items to avoid empowers you to make healthier, more satisfying choices.
As menus expand, transparency and awareness become essential for diners seeking both taste and nutrition. Next time you order, you’ll know exactly what to skip, and why.