How much sodium is in a Panda Express soy sauce packet?

December 12, 2025 •

3 min read

A single Panda Express soy sauce packet contains about 375 to 380 milligrams of sodium, accounting for approximately 16-17% of the average recommended daily value. This condiment can notably affect the overall sodium intake of a meal.

Quick Summary

Each Panda Express soy sauce packet contains approximately 375-380mg of sodium, roughly 17% of daily recommended intake. This adds significant salt to meals, so mindful consumption is essential for health-conscious diners.

Key Points

High Sodium Count: A single Panda Express soy sauce packet has about 375-380mg of sodium, or about 17% of the recommended daily intake.
Cumulative Effect: Using many packets or pairing soy sauce with other high-sodium foods increases total salt intake.
Hidden Salt Source: Condiments like soy sauce are a major hidden sodium source in fast food meals.
Control Your Portion: Reduce sodium by asking for sauce on the side and using it sparingly, or using fewer packets.
Choose Healthier Sides: Pick low-sodium sides like white steamed rice (0mg sodium) or Super Greens to lower your total sodium consumption.
Broader Context: Fast food in general is high in sodium; being aware of ingredients like MSG and various sauces is important for long-term health.
Reduced-Sodium Alternative: Bringing your own reduced-sodium soy sauce helps to maintain flavor while cutting down on salt.

Sodium's Presence in a Small Packet

Many consumers might not consider the sodium levels in Panda Express soy sauce packets. However, the amount of sodium in these packets can quickly accumulate. A single packet, which usually weighs around 6 grams or 0.21 ounces, contains a significant amount of sodium, which is important to consider when managing daily salt intake. With the average recommended daily sodium intake around 2,300 milligrams, one packet provides a notable portion of that total. For people on restricted diets, or those trying to be health-conscious, understanding these numbers is the first step toward making informed choices.

Nutritional Data of a Soy Sauce Packet

Besides sodium, a Panda Express soy sauce packet offers other nutritional details. While primarily known for its salt content, the packet has a minor caloric impact and contains almost no fat or protein, making it solely a flavor and sodium source.

Calories: 5 calories
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Total Carbohydrates: 0g to 1g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 375mg to 380mg

These figures are per single packet. A person using two or three packets could be adding over 700 milligrams of sodium to their meal, which is a significant portion of their recommended daily limit.

Comparing Soy Sauce Variations

To put the sodium content of Panda Express soy sauce into perspective, comparing it with other soy sauce types is helpful. The table shows approximate sodium levels for a similar serving size.


Type of Soy Sauce	Approx. Sodium per Serving (0.2-0.25 oz)	% Daily Value (DV)	Notes
Panda Express Packet	~375-380mg	~16-17%	The standard condiment at the restaurant.
Standard Soy Sauce	~300-500mg	~13-22%	Varies widely by brand and exact serving size.
Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce	~150-250mg	~6-11%	A lower-salt alternative available at grocery stores.

The comparison shows that Panda Express's soy sauce is within the standard range for soy sauce. Reduced-sodium versions offer a healthier choice for those monitoring their intake. This highlights the importance of requesting or bringing low-sodium alternatives when dining out.

Controlling Sodium Intake at Panda Express

Because a single soy sauce packet is just one part of a meal that is often high in sodium, controlling overall intake requires a more comprehensive strategy. Many of Panda Express's entrees and sides have substantial sodium levels, so adding multiple packets increases the issue. Here are strategies to control salt intake:

Request sauces on the side. This lets you control the amount of sauce added to food. Dip food into the sauce instead of pouring it over the entire dish.
Choose a zero or low-sodium side. White Steamed Rice is a good option, with 0mg of sodium per serving. This contrasts with the high sodium levels in fried rice or chow mein.
Select a lower-sodium entree. The Super Greens side, a mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage, is a smart choice. Its overall sodium is lower than other dishes, even though it is cooked in a garlic sauce. Mushroom Chicken is also a good choice, as it has less sodium than items like Orange Chicken.
Bring low-sodium soy sauce. If using soy sauce regularly, carrying your own low-sodium packets lets you enjoy the flavor without the sodium. Low-sodium versions are available at most grocery stores.

The Broader Context of Fast Food Sodium

The high sodium in condiments and dishes is not unique to Panda Express. Fast food is generally known for its high sodium content, which contributes to cardiovascular risks. The American Heart Association (AHA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer guidance on reducing sodium consumption.

Be aware of high-sodium culprits like processed meats, canned soups, and certain restaurant menu items that are fried, smoked, or marinated in salty sauces. Identifying and controlling these sodium sources is essential for long-term health.

Conclusion

A Panda Express soy sauce packet contains a notable amount of sodium, approximately 375mg to 380mg, making it a significant part of a person's daily intake. While a single packet seems small, its cumulative effect, especially when paired with other salty menu items, should not be overlooked. By being mindful of the number of packets used, choosing low-sodium sides, and being aware of overall fast food sodium levels, diners can make healthier choices without affecting their dining experience. Consult resources like the American Heart Association for more information on managing sodium.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, 380mg is a considerable amount for a single condiment packet, as it makes up about 17% of the recommended daily sodium intake of 2,300mg.

To reduce sodium, request sauces on the side, use less of the soy sauce packet, choose low-sodium sides like white steamed rice or Super Greens, and select entrees with less reliance on salty sauces.

Panda Express usually doesn't offer a low-sodium soy sauce, although some customers bring their own low-sodium soy sauce from home to manage their salt intake.

Panda Express soy sauce is comparable to many standard soy sauce products but is high in sodium relative to other fast-food condiments. It's wise to check the nutrition facts for specific brands.

Yes, many of Panda Express's entrees and sides are high in sodium due to the use of soy sauce, marinades, and flavor enhancers. Combining these with extra soy sauce can result in a high-sodium meal.

Excessive sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Limiting salt is a key part of a heart-healthy diet.

For dishes made to order, you can request no extra salt or MSG. You can also request sauces on the side to control the amount yourself. Be aware that many ingredients come pre-seasoned.

The nutritional content is generally similar, but there can be variations between brands. Panda Express's packets have a similar sodium concentration to many regular, bottled soy sauces.