Panera's Commitment to 'Clean Food'
Panera Bread has cultivated a reputation for its "clean food" philosophy, and its decision to eliminate certain additives was a major part of this initiative. The company publicly released a "No No List" that itemized ingredients, including added monosodium glutamate (MSG), that would be removed from its menu items. The completion of this reformulation in early 2017 applied to all food items served at its cafes, including the popular soup lineup.
This move was a direct response to customer preferences for more transparent and natural ingredient lists. Panera's leadership felt that focusing on what wasn't in the food was just as important as what was, a marketing strategy often referred to as "free-from" advertising. By partnering with over 300 food suppliers, the company systematically removed 122 additives from 450 menu items, fundamentally changing its supply chain.
What Exactly is MSG?
Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is a flavor enhancer derived from glutamic acid, an amino acid found naturally in many foods. It is often added to processed foods, seasonings, and stocks to intensify savory, or "umami," flavors. MSG is produced commercially through fermentation, a process similar to how vinegar or yogurt are made, and is recognized as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
While Panera does not use added MSG, it's important to understand the difference between added MSG and naturally occurring glutamate. Many high-quality, whole ingredients naturally contain glutamate, which contributes to their savory taste. Examples of these ingredients often found in Panera's dishes include:
- Tomatoes: Concentrated tomato paste or fresh tomatoes are naturally rich in glutamate.
- Cheeses: Hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan are packed with natural glutamate.
- Mushrooms: This is another significant source of natural umami flavor.
- Yeast Extract: This is a common flavor enhancer derived from yeast that contains high levels of naturally occurring glutamate.
Panera's use of these ingredients means their food can still have a rich, savory taste without needing to add MSG. This distinction is key for consumers who avoid added MSG but not naturally occurring glutamates.
Comparison: Panera Soups vs. Other Restaurant Soups
To put Panera's clean ingredient policy into context, it's helpful to compare it to the practices of other restaurants, where added MSG can be common. The following table highlights some key differences in ingredient philosophy and potential for added MSG.
| Feature | Panera Soups | Other Fast Casual/Chain Restaurant Soups |
|---|---|---|
| Added MSG | Explicitly banned and not used. | May or may not contain added MSG, often relying on it for flavor enhancement. |
| Artificial Flavors/Sweeteners | Not used as per the company's 'No No List'. | Can contain a range of artificial additives to boost flavor. |
| Sourcing | Committed to selective sourcing and responsibly raised proteins. | Varies widely, with less emphasis on 'clean' and transparent sourcing. |
| Umami Source | Achieved through natural glutamate-rich ingredients like cheese and tomatoes. | Often relies on added MSG and other flavor enhancers for savory depth. |
| Consumer Messaging | Transparent with a public 'No No List' and communication about ingredient values. | Often less transparent, with information needing to be specifically requested or found on packaging. |
Reading the Labels: What to Look For
Even though Panera has addressed the issue of added MSG, understanding ingredients remains important for consumers who eat out or buy packaged foods. For soups sold in grocery stores, even those with a "no added MSG" label, it's crucial to check for ingredients that naturally contain high levels of glutamate.
For example, ingredients such as "yeast extract," "hydrolyzed vegetable protein," or "protein isolate" are all sources of naturally occurring glutamate and can enhance flavor in a similar way to added MSG. Panera's ingredient transparency is a major selling point, but for consumers navigating other brands, being label-savvy is essential.
The Verdict: Panera's Soup is MSG-Free
For those who specifically seek to avoid added monosodium glutamate, Panera Bread provides a clear assurance regarding its soups. By taking a proactive stance and reforming its entire menu to exclude a list of artificial additives, the company has made it easy for customers to trust their commitment to transparency. The savory, satisfying flavor in a Panera soup comes from natural ingredients rather than lab-made additives, aligning with a growing consumer trend towards simpler, cleaner food.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are concerned about whether Panera uses MSG in their soups, the answer is no. Panera Bread has definitively removed added monosodium glutamate and a host of other artificial ingredients from its entire menu, including all soups, as part of a company-wide initiative completed in 2017. While their recipes may contain ingredients naturally rich in glutamate (like tomatoes and cheese), the synthetic additive is not used. This commitment to a "clean food" policy offers consumers peace of mind and aligns with a preference for transparent, high-quality ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Soups
Are all Panera soups free of artificial ingredients?
Yes, as of early 2017, Panera announced that its entire U.S. menu, including all soups, is free of artificial preservatives, sweeteners, flavors, and colors from artificial sources.
Is yeast extract the same as MSG?
Yeast extract is not the same as added MSG, but it is a source of naturally occurring glutamates that can provide a savory flavor. Panera may use yeast extract as an ingredient, and since it is not artificial MSG, it aligns with their clean policy.
How does Panera's soup still taste so good without MSG?
The rich, savory flavor in Panera's soups comes from using high-quality, whole ingredients that are naturally high in glutamate, such as tomatoes, aged cheeses, and mushrooms.
Can I find a list of all the ingredients Panera avoids?
Yes, Panera has a public "No No List" available on its website that details the specific ingredients and additive classes they have removed from their menu.
Are the refrigerated Panera soups in grocery stores also MSG-free?
Yes, Panera extended its clean ingredient commitment to its retail line of packaged, refrigerated soups. These products are also free of artificial preservatives, flavors, sweeteners, and colors.
Did Panera ever use MSG in their soups?
Panera's menu items, including soups, previously contained some artificial additives. However, the company made a concerted effort to remove them entirely, completing the process in 2017.
Why did Panera stop using artificial additives?
The decision was driven by consumer demand and a shifting market preference towards cleaner, more transparent food sourcing.
Where can I find nutritional information for Panera's soups?
Panera provides detailed ingredient and nutritional information for its menu items on its official website and mobile app.
Is Panera's Broccoli Cheddar soup MSG-free?
Yes, as part of the company's menu-wide initiative, the popular Broccoli Cheddar soup, along with all other soups, is free of added MSG.
What are some natural sources of glutamate Panera might use?
Ingredients that naturally contain high levels of glutamate and could be used to create savory flavors include tomatoes, aged cheeses (like Parmesan), mushrooms, and yeast extract.
