Panera Gluten Free Options: What You Can Eat & What to Avoid

ByPanera Menus

Eating gluten-free at Panera can feel confusing at first. While Panera does not operate a fully gluten-free kitchen, it does offer select menu items and modifications that may work for guests avoiding gluten. Whether you’re searching for Panera gluten free options, want to know what’s safe to order, or need clarity on cross-contact risks, this guide breaks everything down clearly and honestly.

We’ll cover what Panera gluten free considers, which menu items may fit a gluten-free lifestyle, what to avoid, and important things to know before ordering.

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Is Panera Gluten Free?

Panera Bread is not a gluten free restaurant, and it does not operate a dedicated gluten-free kitchen. Most menu items are prepared in shared spaces, which means cross-contact with gluten is possible.

However, Panera does provide nutrition and allergen information to help guests identify items made without gluten-containing ingredients. These options may work for people avoiding gluten by choice, but they may not be suitable for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

Panera is transparent about this limitation and encourages guests with allergies or dietary restrictions to review ingredient details and speak with staff before ordering.

Panera Gluten Free Menu Options

While Panera does not guarantee a fully gluten-free environment, there are several menu items made without gluten-containing ingredients that may work for guests avoiding gluten. Always review allergen information and inform staff when ordering.

Gluten Free Salad Options (with modifications)

  • Green Goddess Cobb Salad (no croutons)
  • Greek Salad (no croutons)
  • Seasonal Greens Salad (no croutons)

These salads can be customized by removing croutons and choosing gluten-free dressings listed by Panera.

Gluten Free Soups

Panera soup selection changes regularly, and most soups contain gluten. Availability varies by location, so it’s best to check the current allergen guide before ordering.

Proteins & Sides

  • Grilled chicken
  • Hard-boiled egg
  • Apple or fruit cup
  • Yogurt

These items are typically made without gluten ingredients but may still be exposed to cross-contact.

Gluten Free Beverages

Most beverages at Panera are naturally gluten free, including:

  • Coffee and tea
  • Iced tea
  • Lemonade
  • Fountain drinks

Important Note

Even items made without gluten ingredients may come into contact with gluten during preparation.

Items to Avoid at Panera

If you’re eating gluten free, certain Panera menu items are best avoided entirely due to their ingredients or high risk of cross-contact.

Bakery & Bread Items

All Panera breads and baked goods contain gluten, including:

  • Bagels and cream cheese bagels
  • Artisan breads and baguettes
  • Pastries, muffins, cookies, and brownies

Sandwiches & Wraps

Most sandwiches and wraps are served on bread or flatbreads that contain gluten. Even removing the bread does not eliminate cross-contact risk.

Most Soups

Many Panera soups contain gluten due to:

  • Flour-based thickeners
  • Pasta or bread ingredients

Soup recipes can change seasonally, so always verify with the allergen guide.

Mac & Cheese and Grain-Based Bowls

  • Classic Mac & Cheese
  • Grain bowls and items containing wheat, barley, or farro

These items are not gluten free and should be avoided.

Cross-Contact & Allergy Disclaimer

Panera Bread prepares food in shared kitchens, which means there is a risk of cross-contact with gluten. Even menu items made without gluten containing ingredients may come into contact with gluten during preparation, storage, or serving.

Because of this, Panera does not recommend its food for guests with celiac disease or severe gluten allergies. Those with gluten sensitivity or who are avoiding gluten by choice should carefully review Panera allergen and ingredient information before ordering.

For the most accurate and up-to-date details, Panera advises speaking directly with staff and checking official nutrition guides at the time of purchase.

FAQs

Panera does not have a dedicated gluten-free menu, but it lists items made without gluten-containing ingredients in its allergen guide.

No. Because Panera uses shared kitchens, there is a risk of cross-contact, making it unsuitable for people with celiac disease.

Some salads (without croutons), select proteins, fruit sides, yogurt, and most beverages are made without gluten ingredients.

Most Panera soups contain gluten. Soup ingredients vary by location and season, so always check the allergen information before ordering.

Yes, most Panera beverages like coffee, tea, lemonade, and fountain drinks are naturally gluten-free.

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