If you’re looking for a gluten free dining experience, you may wonder if Panera Bread has options that fit your dietary needs. The good news is that Panera Gluten Free Menu offers a variety of delicious choices, including soups, salads, and beverages, to help those with gluten sensitivities enjoy a great meal.
According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide suffer from celiac disease, while many others experience gluten sensitivity. As awareness grows, more restaurants are incorporating gluten-free options into their menus, and Panera is no exception.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into Panera’s gluten free menu, including prices, nutritional information, and practical tips for ordering safely. Whether you’re gluten intolerant, have celiac disease, or simply prefer a gluten-free diet, this article has you covered.
Understanding Panera’s Approach to Gluten Free Options
✅ Does Panera Bread Have a Gluten Free Menu?
While Panera Bread does not have a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, they do offer gluten-conscious items that do not contain gluten ingredients. However, cross-contamination is possible, so those with severe gluten allergies should proceed with caution.
🔍 How to Order Gluten-Free at Panera
- Ask for ingredient details: Always check with the staff regarding food preparation and possible cross-contact.
- Avoid bread-based items: Panera specializes in bakery products, but there are many gluten-free salads, soups, and smoothies.
- Customize your meal: Request modifications to remove croutons or switch out ingredients.
Panera Gluten Free Menu with Prices
Here’s a breakdown of gluten-free options available at Panera Bread:
1. Gluten-Free Soups
Panera offers several soups that do not contain gluten ingredients.
| Soup | Price (Regular Bowl) | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Squash Soup | $6.99 | 340 |
| Baked Potato Soup | $6.99 | 330 |
| Creamy Tomato Soup | $6.99 | 350 |
| Turkey Chili | $7.49 | 260 |
2. Gluten-Free Salads
Panera’s salads can be modified to be gluten-free by removing croutons and checking the dressing ingredients.
| Salad | Price (Full Size) | Calories |
| Green Goddess Cobb Salad | $10.99 | 530 |
| Caesar Salad (No Croutons) | $8.99 | 310 |
| Fuji Apple Chicken Salad | $11.49 | 570 |
| Greek Salad | $9.99 | 400 |
3. Gluten-Free Sides & Snacks
| Item | Price | Calories |
| Apple | $1.29 | 80 |
| Banana | $1.29 | 90 |
| Plain Chips | $1.99 | 150 |
| Pickle Spear | Free | 5 |
4. Gluten-Free Beverages
Panera has a variety of gluten-free drinks, including coffee, tea, and smoothies.
| Beverage | Price (Regular Size) | Calories |
| Green Passion Smoothie | $5.49 | 250 |
| Mango Smoothie | $5.49 | 290 |
| Cold Brew Coffee | $3.99 | 5 |
| Madagascar Vanilla Latte | $4.99 | 240 |
How to Safely Enjoy Panera Gluten Free Meals
🥗 Choose Naturally Gluten-Free Items
Opt for whole foods like salads, soups, and fruit, which are less likely to contain hidden gluten.
❌ Avoid Certain Items
- Breads, bagels, and pastries
- Mac & cheese and pasta dishes
- Sandwiches (even without the bread, due to cross-contact)
🏠 Consider Takeout Instead of Dine-In
Ordering takeout minimizes the risk of cross-contamination in the restaurant kitchen.
FAQs About Panera Gluten Free Menu
1. Does Panera have a gluten-free bread option?
No, Panera does not currently offer gluten-free bread.
2. Are Panera’s smoothies gluten-free?
Yes! Most Panera smoothies, like the Mango Smoothie and Green Passion Smoothie, are gluten-free.
3. Can I order a gluten-free sandwich at Panera?
Unfortunately, Panera does not offer gluten-free sandwich bread, making most sandwiches unsuitable for gluten-free diets.
4. How can I confirm if an item is gluten-free?
Always check Panera’s official website or ask a staff member for up-to-date ingredient information.
5. Is Panera safe for people with celiac disease?
Panera does not have a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, so cross-contact is possible. Those with celiac disease should exercise caution.
Conclusion
The Panera Gluten Free Menu offers a variety of soups, salads, sides, and beverages for those looking to avoid gluten. While Panera does not have a completely gluten-free environment, they provide plenty of options that can be customized for a gluten-sensitive diet.
To make the most of your experience, remember to ask for modifications, choose naturally gluten-free foods, and confirm ingredients with staff. With the right approach, you can enjoy a delicious, gluten-free meal at Panera Bread!
Have you tried Panera’s gluten-free options? Let us know your experience in the comments below!