How many calories are in a slice of sourdough bread from Panera?: A Detailed Nutritional Breakdown

October 25, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Panera's own nutritional information, a single slice (44g) of their retail-packaged Panera Sourdough Sliced Bread contains 120 calories. However, the calorie count can vary depending on which type of sourdough you get from Panera, so it's essential to check the specific product.

Quick Summary

This article explores the caloric content and nutritional profile of different sourdough options from Panera Bread, including the at-home sliced version and bakery loaves. It provides a comprehensive overview of macros and offers advice for incorporating sourdough into a balanced dietary plan.

Key Points

Retail Sliced Sourdough Calories: One slice (44g) of Panera's retail sliced sourdough bread contains 120 calories.
Bakery Loaf Calories: Calorie counts for fresh bakery sourdough loaves differ from the retail product, often being higher per serving weight.
Check the Product Type: The specific Panera sourdough product (e.g., retail sliced, Country Rustic, Classic Loaf) determines its exact nutritional profile.
Nutritional Profile: The 120-calorie slice provides 21g of carbohydrates, 4g of protein, and 2g of fiber.
Sourdough Health Benefits: Due to fermentation, sourdough can have a lower glycemic index and higher mineral bioavailability compared to standard bread.
Dietary Integration: Incorporate sourdough into a healthy diet by watching toppings, controlling portions, and pairing with lean proteins and vegetables.

Panera's At-Home Sliced Sourdough

For many, the most accessible version of Panera's sourdough is the one found in the grocery store aisles. This product, often labeled as "Panera Sourdough Sliced Bread," comes with a clear nutritional label that simplifies calorie tracking. One slice, weighing approximately 44 grams, contains 120 calories.

Beyond just calories, this particular bread offers a balanced set of macronutrients. Each slice provides 21 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of dietary fiber, and 4 grams of protein, with minimal fat. For individuals watching their daily intake, this makes for a relatively straightforward addition to a meal plan, such as a sandwich or a side for soup.

Other Nutritional Highlights of the 120-Calorie Sourdough Slice

Total Fat: 2g
Sodium: 180mg
Total Sugars: 3g (including 2g of added sugar)

Caloric Variations in Panera's Bakery Sourdough

Not all Panera sourdough is created equal when it comes to nutrition. The bread baked in-café can have a different serving size and caloric profile, making it crucial to be aware of the specific product. This is particularly relevant when ordering a sandwich or a side portion with your meal, as the exact slice size can vary. For example, some tracking apps and websites list different calorie counts for Panera's various bakery sourdough products.

Comparing Different Sourdough Options from Panera

Panera Sourdough Sliced Bread (Retail): As mentioned, this is the grocery store version with a standardized 120 calories per 44g slice.
Panera Country Rustic Sourdough (Bakery): A 2 oz serving of this bread contains approximately 130 calories.
Panera Classic Sourdough Loaf (Bakery): A 2 oz serving of the classic loaf contains around 150 calories.
Sourdough Bread Bowl (Bakery): The popular bread bowl, used for soups, is much larger and contains significantly more calories than a single slice. Its nutritional information should be checked separately when dining in-café.

The Health Profile of Sourdough

Sourdough is often considered a healthier bread option, and for good reason. Its unique fermentation process, which uses wild yeast and lactobacilli, offers several potential health benefits. The fermentation can pre-digest some of the starches, which may lower the bread's glycemic index compared to regular white bread. This means it can lead to a more gradual rise in blood sugar, preventing the sharp spikes and crashes associated with highly processed white bread. Additionally, the fermentation can increase the bioavailability of some minerals, making the bread more nutritious overall.

Incorporating Sourdough into a Balanced Diet

Understanding how many calories are in a slice of sourdough bread from Panera is just one part of a balanced diet. Here are some tips for enjoying sourdough healthily:

Mind Your Toppings: A plain slice is a healthy starting point. High-calorie toppings like butter, cheese, or sugary jams can quickly increase the overall calorie count. Opt for healthier alternatives like avocado or a low-sugar fruit spread.
Portion Control: Pay attention to serving sizes, especially with the fresh bakery loaves where slices might not be uniform. Sticking to a single slice can help manage calorie intake.
Pair with Lean Protein and Vegetables: Turn your sourdough into a balanced meal by pairing it with lean protein sources, such as grilled chicken or turkey, and plenty of vegetables. A half sandwich with a side salad is a great option.
Listen to Your Body: Sourdough's filling nature can help with satiety. Pay attention to your body's hunger cues and enjoy your portion mindfully.

Comparison Table: Panera Sourdough Varieties


Feature	Panera Sourdough Sliced Bread	Panera Country Rustic Sourdough	Panera Classic Sourdough Loaf
Availability	Grocery Stores	Bakery/Café	Bakery/Café
Serving Size	1 slice (44g)	2 oz	2 oz
Calories	120	130	150
Carbohydrates	21g	28g	31g
Protein	4g	5g	6g

Conclusion

The caloric content of a slice of Panera sourdough bread is not a single, fixed number. For the retail-packaged sliced version, the answer to how many calories are in a slice of sourdough bread from Panera is a straightforward 120 calories. However, if you are enjoying a bakery-fresh option, the calorie count per serving can be higher, with a 2 oz portion of the Classic Sourdough Loaf having 150 calories. By paying attention to the specific product and practicing portion control, you can easily incorporate Panera's delicious sourdough into a mindful and healthy diet. Remember to consider the toppings and other components of your meal to get a full picture of your nutritional intake.

For more detailed nutritional facts, you can always check Panera's official menu or the product packaging for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the calorie count varies depending on the specific sourdough product. The retail-packaged sliced sourdough has 120 calories per slice, while bakery loaves like the Classic Sourdough Loaf contain 150 calories per 2 oz serving.

Sourdough is often considered a healthier option due to its fermentation process, which can result in a lower glycemic index and increased mineral absorption, leading to fewer blood sugar spikes compared to some white breads.

Toppings can significantly increase the total calorie count. While a plain slice is 120 calories, adding a pat of butter, a slice of cheese, or other spreads will add more calories. Consider healthier toppings like avocado or a light spread to manage your intake.

The retail sourdough is typically sold pre-sliced and packaged in grocery stores with a standardized calorie count (120 per slice). The bakery sourdough is baked fresh in-café and often comes in larger loaves, with different nutritional information per ounce or serving.

Yes, you can enjoy Panera sourdough while on a diet, as it's a source of carbohydrates and protein. The key is to practice portion control, be mindful of any additional toppings, and balance it with other nutrient-dense foods.

A single slice (44g) of the retail-packaged Panera Sourdough Sliced Bread contains 180mg of sodium.

For the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information, you should check the product packaging or Panera's official website. This is especially important for in-café items, as their calorie and serving size information may differ from retail products.