Panera's food quality is often debated, with some criticizing the use of processed ingredients, while others point to the convenience and variety of options. Some sources highlight the presence of emulsifiers, refined vegetable oils, and potential pesticide residues like glyphosate (Roundup). Others focus on the "clean food" marketing, which lacks a clear definition and has led to lawsuits and scrutiny. Here's a more detailed look: Potential Issues: Processed Ingredients: Panera's menu includes items made with processed ingredients, such as pasteurized processed cheddar cheese in the broccoli cheddar soup. Glyphosate Concerns: A 2019 survey found high levels of glyphosate in Panera's food, raising concerns about potential health risks. "Clean" Labeling: Panera's "clean food" marketing has been challenged, with accusations of misleading consumers about the extent of processing and ingredients. Sodium Content: Some menu items, like the baked potato soup, are high in sodium. Refined Grains: Refined grains, like those used in breads, are high glycemic and can lead to rapid blood sugar spikes. Frozen Ingredients: Some items, including bread, may be frozen, which can impact freshness and quality. Positive Aspects: Customization: Panera allows for customization of orders, such as adjusting syrup levels in drinks or adding extra vegetables. Nutritious Options: Panera offers a variety of salads and other meals with fresh ingredients and vegetables. Convenience: Panera provides a quick and convenient option for meals and snacks. Salad Options: Panera offers a wide selection of salads, with dressings available on the side. Overall: Panera's food quality is a mixed bag. While it offers some fresh and customizable options, it also includes items with processed ingredients and potential health concerns. Consumers should be aware of these aspects when choosing what to order. If you're looking for healthy options, it's important to prioritize salads, vegetables, and whole or minimally...
Read moreI've used the drive-thru at this location many times and typically I've been pleased. But unfortunately, today, I tried ordering an anniversary breakfast for 29 of my staff and paid to have it delivered. Today is the second time I've encountered an issue- and I've only tried catering from this Panera twice. My chosen window for delivery was 7:45-8am, and due to the nature of our business, my staff needs to be out the door at 8:30. At 8:10, we received a call that the driver would leave the shop in 10 minutes to start the 1.25-mile drive. At 8:30, still, no food for our celebration and no follow-up call. I own a service company and understand things happen. However, I called Panera to follow up, found myself placed on hold for five minutes, and when someone finally came back on the line at 8:35, the apology was, "Sorry 'bout that!" The associate offered a full refund to me, which I accepted. The driver was supposedly on the way, so I told Panera several hopeful and hungry employees were still waiting for breakfast. But when the food never arrived, it was clear the refund was canceling our order and not a gesture of customer service aiming to make things right. My staff left hungry for the day at 8:40. Sadly, I'm sure the restaurant discarded the breakfast I ordered. Since I've enjoyed the drive-thru for soup and sandwiches, I'll be generous and give them two stars. I will never use or recommend the catering or delivery again. We will try again on Monday with a different and more...
Read moreWent through the drive through today and ordered some items for my husband and me. As we were leaving, I checked the bag they gave us to make sure we received everything. To my horror and disgust I found one of our sandwiches to be partially eaten. We turned back around and my husband went inside to get a refund... because we obviously weren’t going to eat anything now. The manager said that what happened was that instead of receiving the cheddar and steak panini we ordered, we received someone else’s sandwich because it was no longer breakfast and it was a sandwich that could not be served. That made no sense because the cheddar and steak panini isn’t even a breakfast sandwich.My husband proceeds to tell the manager that, and gets a refund for the sandwich. After that I decide to go in and get a refund for our whole order because I was not going to pay for the rest of our stuff. The manager tells me he’s not sure what happened and refunds me. This situation makes me not want to eat out ever again. Does this kind of stuff happen all the time? How careless do people have to be to serve someone an obviously partially eaten sandwich? Was this intentional, or someone just blindly shoving food out the window? Either way, people should be eating in a designated break area, and not eating around food service! Clear examples of poor management, lack of training, and complete...
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