Panera's Bread Offerings: A Tale of Two Menus
When searching for the lowest-calorie bread at Panera, it's crucial to distinguish between the breads served in the cafe and the pre-packaged 'Panera at Home' sliced breads sold in grocery stores. The nutritional data for these products can differ significantly, in part due to varying serving sizes and recipes. For most people building a sandwich or enjoying toast, the grocery store sliced breads offer a clearer metric, as they provide nutrition information per single slice.
The Absolute Lowest Calorie Breads (Panera at Home)
For those specifically looking for the lowest calorie count per slice, the clear winners are the retail products available at most major supermarkets. These are excellent choices for making sandwiches at home with Panera's quality and are especially useful for daily calorie tracking.
Country White Sliced Bread
Panera's Country White Sliced Bread from the grocery aisle is one of the top contenders. A single slice contains a very low calorie count, making it a reliable option for low-calorie sandwiches or toast. The mild flavor also makes it a versatile choice that won't overpower your other ingredients.
Whole Grain Multigrain Sliced Bread
Also available as a grocery item, the Whole Grain Multigrain Sliced Bread offers the same low 80-calorie count per slice, but with the added benefits of whole grains. This bread is a better source of fiber and generally provides more nutritional density than the Country White option for the same number of calories, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing both calories and nutrients.
Low Calorie In-Cafe Bakery Breads
If you are eating directly at a Panera cafe, the selection and serving sizes are different. Most bakery breads are measured in a standard 2 oz serving, which is typically a larger portion than a single slice from the grocery store. However, some artisan options still represent a good low-calorie choice.
- Country Rustic Sourdough: An iconic Panera favorite, the Country Rustic Sourdough bread has 130 calories per 2 oz serving. It has a robust, tangy flavor and is an excellent base for any sandwich or to accompany a bowl of soup.
- White Whole Grain Loaf: A 2 oz serving of the in-cafe White Whole Grain Loaf also sits at 130 calories. This offers a whole-grain alternative to the sourdough without sacrificing a low-calorie profile.
- Tomato Basil Bread: This flavorful bread also contains 130 calories per 2 oz serving and can add a savory dimension to any menu item.
- French Baguette Loaf: A smaller side portion of the French Baguette adds 180 calories, while a larger 2 oz serving is around 150 calories, making it a slightly higher-calorie option compared to the sourdough or whole grain loaves.
- Sprouted Grain Bagel Flat: For a bagel-like experience with fewer calories than a traditional bagel, the Sprouted Grain Bagel Flat is a solid choice at 180 calories per flat.
Comparing Panera's Bread Calories
The following table compares several popular Panera bread options based on their typical serving sizes and nutritional information, combining data from both in-cafe and at-home sources to provide a complete picture.
| Bread Type | Source | Serving Size | Calories | Protein (g) | Fiber (g) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country White Sliced | At Home (Grocery) | 1 Slice | 80 | 3 | 1 | Versatile, classic taste |
| Whole Grain Multigrain Sliced | At Home (Grocery) | 1 Slice | 80 | 5 | 3 | High fiber, full grain flavor |
| Sourdough Sliced | At Home (Grocery) | 1 Slice | 120 | 4 | 2 | Distinct tangy flavor |
| Country Rustic Sourdough | In-Cafe Bakery | 2 oz | 130 | 5 | 1 | Classic Panera sandwich bread |
| White Whole Grain Loaf | In-Cafe Bakery | 2 oz | 130 | 6 | 3 | Whole grain in-cafe choice |
| Sprouted Grain Bagel Flat | In-Cafe Bakery | 1 Bagel Flat | 180 | 7 | 4 | Lower calorie bagel option |
| Classic White Miche | In-Cafe Bakery | 2 oz | 160 | 6 | 1 | Higher calorie rustic bread |
| Brioche Roll | In-Cafe Bakery | 1 Roll | 210 | 7 | 1 | Buttery, rich, higher in calories |
Which Bread is Best for You?
Choosing the "best" bread depends on more than just the calorie count. Your decision should factor in your nutritional goals, taste preferences, and whether you are eating in the cafe or at home. For the absolute lowest calories per piece, the at-home sliced breads are the most straightforward choice. However, when building a sandwich in the cafe, the Country Rustic Sourdough and White Whole Grain loaves provide an excellent balance of flavor and relatively low calories per serving.
Consider what you will be pairing with your bread. A low-calorie bread paired with a high-calorie topping or a rich soup will not make for a particularly healthy meal. Conversely, a flavorful, slightly higher-calorie bread may be worth the investment if you enjoy it more and it helps you feel more satisfied. Always check the full nutritional information for your chosen item, as Panera provides it online and in-cafe, so you can confirm portion sizes and calories. For further reading, Verywell Fit offers a breakdown of diet-friendly options at Panera: Diet-Friendly Panera Bread Choices.
Conclusion: Making the Right Low-Calorie Choice
While Panera offers many delicious bread options, the at-home sliced varieties are the clear winners if your sole focus is finding the lowest calories per slice. With both the Country White Sliced Bread and Whole Grain Multigrain Sliced Bread containing just 80 calories per slice, they provide a simple and effective way to manage your intake. For those dining in, the Country Rustic Sourdough and White Whole Grain Loaf are your best bets, offering relatively low-calorie options per serving without sacrificing the artisan quality Panera is known for. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your needs, but armed with this knowledge, you can make a smarter, more informed decision for your next meal.
