Panera's Commitment to Clean Ingredients
In 2014, Panera Bread announced a comprehensive food policy with the goal of removing artificial additives, including added MSG, from its US menu. By 2017, the company successfully eliminated all artificial flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, and colors from artificial sources. This initiative was a response to growing consumer demand for more transparent and healthier food options. The company's 'No No List' was a public declaration of the ingredients it vowed to eliminate, with monosodium glutamate explicitly named as one of them.
The 'No No List': What Was Removed?
The 'No No List' was a cornerstone of Panera's clean food initiative. It included a wide range of ingredients and additives that the company believed didn't need to be in its food.
- Artificial Colors (Certified FD&C): Synthetic dyes used to color food.
- Artificial Flavors: Flavoring compounds created in a lab.
- Artificial Sweeteners: Substances like Acesulfame K and Aspartame.
- Monosodium Glutamate: The synthetic flavor enhancer.
- Artificial Trans Fats: Often found in partially hydrogenated oils.
- Certain Preservatives: Such as BHA, BHT, and Parabens.
- High Fructose Corn Syrup: A common sweetener in processed foods.
This commitment has meant that Panera has had to reformulate many of its products and establish new partnerships with food vendors to create menu items that align with its strict ingredient standards. The public release of this list and its adherence to it has been a significant move for a major fast-casual chain.
Natural vs. Added MSG
While Panera does not add MSG directly to its food, it is important to understand the difference between added MSG and naturally occurring glutamates. Glutamates, including those in MSG, are the salts of the amino acid glutamic acid, which is found naturally in many foods.
Examples of Naturally Occurring Glutamates in Food:
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes and especially dried tomatoes contain high levels of free glutamate.
- Cheeses: Parmesan and Roquefort are particularly high in naturally occurring glutamate.
- Mushrooms: Dried shiitake mushrooms are a rich source of free glutamate.
- Meat: Many protein-rich foods, including chicken, contain bound glutamates.
- Yeast Extracts: Products like yeast extract, which are also on Panera's No No list, are naturally high in glutamate.
The Takeaway for Panera Diners
Because Panera uses fresh ingredients like tomatoes and cheese in many of its dishes, it is possible that some menu items contain naturally occurring glutamates. However, these are not added in the form of monosodium glutamate (MSG). For most people, naturally occurring glutamates are not a cause for concern, but for those with extreme sensitivities, it's wise to consider the ingredients in their chosen menu item.
Comparative Table: Panera's Clean Label vs. Other Restaurants
To better illustrate Panera's position, here is a comparison of its ingredient policy to typical fast-food chains.
| Feature | Panera Bread | Typical Fast-Food Chain |
|---|---|---|
| Added MSG | No (Prohibited on 'No No List') | Common (Often used as a flavor enhancer) |
| Artificial Flavors | No | Common (Used for consistent flavor) |
| Artificial Preservatives | No | Common (Used to extend shelf life) |
| High Fructose Corn Syrup | No | Common (Used as a sweetener in drinks and sauces) |
| Natural Glutamates | Yes (Naturally present in certain ingredients like cheese and tomatoes) | Yes (Also naturally present in ingredients like cheese and tomatoes) |
| Overall Policy | Commitment to 'clean' ingredients | Varies widely, often focuses on cost and flavor consistency |
Reading Ingredient Labels at Panera
Panera makes a strong effort to be transparent about its ingredients, which allows customers to verify for themselves. Customers can often find ingredient information online or by asking staff. While the company does not add MSG, it is always a good practice to be aware of the natural sources of glutamate if you are sensitive.
How to Check Ingredients
- Visit the Panera Website: The company's official site often has detailed nutritional and ingredient information for all its menu items.
- Ask a Manager: In-store staff, particularly managers, can often provide specific ingredient information or point you to resources.
- Review Allergen Information: Panera provides allergen information that can indicate the presence of certain ingredients.
Conclusion: Panera's MSG-Free Stance
In conclusion, Panera Bread has explicitly and publicly eliminated added monosodium glutamate (MSG) from its menu as part of its clean food initiative. The company's multi-year effort to remove artificial additives has positioned it as a leader in the fast-casual space for ingredient transparency. However, consumers should be aware that naturally occurring glutamates are present in many whole-food ingredients used by Panera, such as cheese and tomatoes. For those sensitive to MSG, this distinction is crucial for making an informed dining choice. The restaurant's dedication to its 'No No List' and transparent ingredient policies reinforces its commitment to providing cleaner food options for its customers.
