Introduction: The Dynamic Nature of Restaurant Menus
In the fast-paced world of the restaurant industry, menus are never static. Chains like Panera Bread regularly evaluate their offerings to adapt to consumer preferences, reduce complexity, and maintain profitability. One common strategy is streamlining the menu—removing underperforming or seasonal items to focus on popular favorites and innovative new products.
With rumors constantly circulating online, many loyal customers are asking: What food is Panera getting rid of? This article dives deep into confirmed and rumored menu changes, exploring the reasons behind them, their impact on customers, and how Panera’s evolving food philosophy is shaping its future.
Why Panera Removes Menu Items
Understanding why Panera modifies its menu helps clarify the rationale behind certain changes. It’s not just about removing food—it’s about enhancing the overall dining experience.
1. Customer Feedback and Sales Trends
One of the most significant drivers behind menu changes is consumer behavior. Panera analyzes sales data and customer reviews to identify which items are popular and which are not. If an item doesn’t sell well or receives consistent negative feedback, it’s a candidate for removal.
For example, in recent years, items with complex ingredients or longer preparation times may have been phased out to improve order efficiency.
2. Operational Efficiency and Kitchen Simplification
Simplifying the kitchen workflow is key to reducing wait times and minimizing errors. Panera has emphasized its “Radical Transparency” mission, focusing on fresh, clean ingredients. However, offering too many unique items can compromise consistency and freshness.
Streamlining the menu allows kitchen staff to dedicate more attention to core dishes, ensuring quality and speed during peak hours.
3. Shifting Consumer Preferences
Dietary trends evolve rapidly. With growing interest in plant-based eating, low-carb diets, and high-protein meals, Panera adjusts its offerings accordingly. When customers move away from certain ingredients—like refined carbs or saturated fats—Panera responds by introducing modern alternatives.
Older menu items that no longer align with health trends, such as certain creamy soups or sugary pastries, may be retired.
4. Sustainability and Supply Chain Constraints
Panera prioritizes sourcing ingredients responsibly. However, supply chain volatility, ingredient availability, and sustainability concerns can make it difficult to maintain certain dishes.
If a key ingredient becomes too expensive, inconsistently available, or environmentally taxing to source, the dish may be re-evaluated or removed.
Confirmed Menu Items Panera Has Removed (2020–2024)
While Panera doesn’t always publicize every discontinued item, several key changes have been documented through company statements, press releases, and franchisee communications.
1. Creamy Tomato Soup (Original Recipe)
In 2021, Panera made headlines when it overhauled its Creamy Tomato Soup. While the dish wasn’t entirely removed, the original recipe—which contained milk and heavy cream—was replaced with a dairy-free, plant-based version made with cashews.
However, many long-time customers noticed the removal of the “old” formula and felt the new version lacked the rich, creamy texture they loved. While technically not removed, it was essentially discontinued in favor of a reformulated, allergen-conscious variant.
2. Fuji Apple Salad with Chicken
This once-iconic salad was popular in the early 2000s for its blend of sweet apples, chicken, cranberries, and a poppyseed dressing. It was officially discontinued in 2017 but sporadically returned for limited-time offers.
In 2023, despite customer clamoring on social media for its return, Panera confirmed that the Fuji Apple Salad is no longer part of the core menu and unlikely to return permanently. The company cited declining sales and challenges in ingredient sourcing as key reasons.
3. Mac & Cheese Variants
Panera briefly experimented with a variety of mac and cheese options, including a broccoli cheddar and a smoked gouda version. However, by 2022, most locations had removed these items from the standard menu.
While available through catering or seasonal promotions, these comfort-food entrees are no longer listed online or in most cafes. The decision is thought to stem from operational challenges—mac and cheese requires precise cooking and doesn’t hold well during busy hours.
4. Sourdough BLT Sandwich
The Sourdough BLT was briefly featured as a seasonal sandwich but was quietly removed from the menu in early 2023. While some locations may still offer it upon request, it is no longer included in the official digital or paper menus.
Reasons for its removal are speculative but likely include low sales and the fact that Panera already offers multiple bacon-containing sandwiches, creating menu redundancy.
Rumored or Potential Discontinuations (2024–2025)
Panera is known for testing new concepts and adjusting quickly based on results. Based on industry trends and supply chain shifts, several current menu items may face discontinuation soon.
1. Sugar-Filled Pastries and Sweets
Panera has committed to reducing added sugars across its menu. As part of this initiative, there are increasing speculations that high-sugar baked goods—such as:
- Double Chocolate Brownie
- Cream Cheese Danish
- Grégoire Chocolate Croissant
—may be reformulated or fully removed in the near future. The company has already replaced granulated sugar in many recipes with monk fruit and other natural sweeteners, but some items may not survive the transition.
2. Legacy Sandwiches with Lower Sales
While Panera has several signature sandwiches—like the Roasted Turkey & Avocado and the Charged Chicken Citrus—others may not meet sales targets. Items that require multiple fresh components or have long prep times are vulnerable to cutbacks.
Current candidates under watch include:
- The Turkey & Avocado BLT (seen as redundant with other turkey sandwiches)
- The Mediterranean Veggie (due to lower protein content and niche appeal)
- The Steak & Swiss (higher ingredient cost and beef footprint)
These may not be removed entirely but could become regional or digital-only offerings, reducing physical menu space.
3. Seasonal Drinks and Coffee Creations
Panera frequently rotates beverages for seasonal appeal. Some coffee drinks, like the Vanilla Creme Frappé or Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream, may only be available during winter months.
With a growing focus on healthier beverage alternatives—such as cold-pressed juices and unsweetened teas—high-sugar, cream-based drinks are likely to see reduced availability or total elimination from year-round offerings.
Menu Updates That Are Not Removals—But Transformations
It’s critical to distinguish between complete removals and menu evolution. Panera often revamps items rather than eliminating them outright to keep options fresh and appealing.
1. Ancient Grain Flatbreads
One of Panera’s popular flatbread selections might be undergoing a rebrand. Originally introduced as a health-conscious alternative, some fans have noted that the recipe has changed—possibly in texture or grain content.
While not officially discontinued, the shift could be part of a broader effort to improve shelf life or comply with clean-label standards.
2. Reimagined Breakfast Menu
Panera’s breakfast offerings are undergoing significant changes. The Sausage & Egg Breakfast Sandwich remains a staple, but fried egg options may move toward egg white blends or plant-based egg alternatives.
This isn’t a removal, but a health upgrade that aligns with Panera’s “Food as it Should Be” philosophy.
Customer Reactions to Menu Changes
For many loyal customers, menu changes can be emotional. Online communities, particularly on Reddit and Facebook, frequently express disappointment when favorites disappear.
1. Emotional Attachment to Signature Items
The Fuji Apple Salad remains a symbol of this connection. Even years after its discontinuation, fans continue to petition for its return, calling it “a taste of the 2000s” and “irreplaceable.” The salad had a loyal fanbase that appreciated its balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures.
Panera’s social media team occasionally responds to these pleas, stating that they listen to feedback but emphasize the need for innovation and culinary evolution.
2> Community-Driven Revivals
On occasion, customer demand leads to limited-time comebacks. Panera has reintroduced discontinued soups and salads for holidays or promotional events.
For instance, in late 2023, the Spinach Basil Panini—once removed due to low sales—was briefly brought back as an “Under the Radar Fan Favorite” item in select Midwest locations.
This highlights Panera’s willingness to experiment with revivals, especially when a passionate community advocates for them.
How to Stay Updated on Panera Menu Changes
Because Panera updates its menu regionally and digitally, staying informed requires using multiple resources.
1. Official Panera Website and App
The Panera app provides real-time access to the current menu, including location-specific offerings. Signing up for app notifications can alert you to upcoming changes or limited-time menu launches.
2> Subscription to Panera Emails
Email subscribers receive exclusive access to new product announcements, promotions, and discontinued item alerts. These emails often provide a “first look” at upcoming changes.
3. Social Media and Local Locations
Following your local Panera on Instagram or Facebook can reveal temporary additions and removals. Some franchisees share behind-the-scenes menu testing photos or ask for customer feedback on Instagram polls.
Walking into a cafe and speaking to a manager can also yield insider information not yet published online.
What Panera is Adding: The Future of the Menu
For every menu item removed, Panera is actively introducing new options that reflect modern food trends.
1. Plant-Based and Vegetarian Expansion
Panera announced in 2024 a partnership with plant-based protein developers to enhance its vegetarian lineup. New items include:
- Avocado, Egg & Everything Bagel Sandwich (plant-based egg option)
- Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Roasted Veggies
- Spicy Lentil & Vegetable Stew (test markets)
These additions align with the rising demand for meatless, sustainable proteins and cater to flexitarian diets.
2. High-Protein, Low-Carb Options
Recognizing the popularity of keto and low-carb diets, Panera has introduced high-protein wraps with fewer carbs. The latest example is the Grilled Chicken Power Bowl with Greens, which packs over 30 grams of protein and under 15 grams of net carbs.
Expect more of these nutrient-dense, diet-friendly meals to dominate future menu designs.
3> Seasonally Rotated Items with Local Influence
Panera is embracing regional flavors more than ever. In places like New England or the Pacific Northwest, limited-time dishes might feature local seafood, regional produce, or cultural specialties.
This approach allows Panera to test new concepts without committing to national rollouts, increasing flexibility while honoring community tastes.
Is Panera Removing Food Due to Cost Cutting?
While cost is a factor, it is not the primary driver. Panera consistently states that its goal is to offer high-quality, fresh food. Removals are framed as strategic decisions rooted in:
- Customer demand
- Nutritional improvement
- Culinary innovation
However, ingredient inflation—especially for beef, dairy, and specialty produce—undoubtedly influences which items remain viable. Panera uses data-driven decision making, balancing popularity with profitability.
Can Fans Bring Back Discontinued Items?
Yes—customer advocacy can influence change. While Panera won’t bring back every item, there is precedent for revivals, especially during nostalgia-driven campaigns.
Steps to Advocate for a Return
- Use the Panera feedback form on their website to formally request the return of an item.
- Tag Panera in social media posts with positive memories of the dish.
- Sign or create online petitions (especially effective with niche appeal items).
- Participate in in-app polls or loyalty surveys when they appear.
Collective action, especially backed by sales data or testimonials, can reignite interest for a dish’s comeback.
Frequently Revisited Menu Items: The Hits That Keep Coming Back
Some fan favorites are too iconic to die. Panera knows this and often rotates them back into the spotlight.
1. Baja Bowl with Black Beans and Quinoa
This dish disappeared from menus in 2020 but returned in 2023 as a limited-time wellness bowl. Its mix of protein, fiber, and zesty dressing resonated with health-focused customers, making it a prime candidate for periodic revival.
2. Strawberry Poppyseed Salad with Chicken
Previously overshadowed by the Fuji Apple Salad, this sweet-tangy option has seen a recent resurgence. In 2024, Panera reintroduced a clean-label version with less dressing and more greens.
Now available during spring and summer months, it may be on its way to becoming a seasonal staple again.
Conclusion: Embracing Change with Your Panera Favorites
So, to answer the question directly: What food is Panera getting rid of? Based on current trends, the chain is phasing out older, lower-performing, or nutritionally outdated items such as the original Creamy Tomato Soup (as served pre-2021), Fuji Apple Salad, specialty mac and cheese options, and select sugary pastries.
However, removals don’t always mean permanent goodbyes. As Panera continues to innovate, it maintains a dialogue with its customers and often brings back beloved dishes in refreshed forms.
The key takeaway? Panera’s menu evolution reflects a broader shift in the food industry—from indulgence to wellness, from static offerings to agile responses. By staying informed and engaged, fans can help shape the future of their favorite café.
Whether you’re mourning the loss of a classic salad or excited for new plant-based creations, one thing remains certain: Panera is always changing, always improving, and always focused on food that nourishes.
Stay connected, keep giving feedback, and never underestimate the power of a well-loved sandwich—or a fan-driven movement.
What food items is Panera Bread discontinuing in 2024?
Panera Bread has announced the removal of several menu items as part of a strategic overhaul aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. Among the items being phased out are the Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich, the Turkey Bacon Guacamole Sandwich, and the Asian Sesame Chicken Salad. These decisions were influenced by lower sales performance and customer feedback indicating shifting preferences toward simpler, core offerings. The company is focusing on enhancing popular staples and introducing more customizable meal options.
Additionally, certain limited-time offerings that did not transition into permanent menu status are being discontinued, including the Spicy Beef Tortilla Soup and Smoked Turkey Grain Bowl. Panera has emphasized that removing underperforming items enables the brand to dedicate resources to quality, consistency, and innovation. Customers can expect more room for new, seasonally inspired dishes and plant-based alternatives in the future. Regular updates about discontinued items are available through the Panera app and official website.
Why is Panera removing items from its menu?
Panera Bread is removing items to refine its menu in response to evolving customer tastes and operational demands. By analyzing sales data and customer feedback, the company identified that a significant number of menu items had low order volumes, which made efficient kitchen operations more challenging. Simplifying the menu allows Panera to reduce food waste, improve speed of service, and maintain higher quality standards across remaining offerings.
This strategic decision is also part of Panera’s broader focus on becoming a more agile and innovative fast-casual brand. Streamlining the menu frees up space and resources for introducing new items, particularly those aligned with current dietary trends such as plant-based eats, clean ingredients, and protein-forward bowls. Panera believes this evolution will lead to a better customer experience by making ordering simpler and food preparation more consistent across all locations.
Will Panera be replacing the discontinued items with new ones?
Yes, Panera Bread plans to replace discontinued items with new offerings designed to meet changing consumer preferences. The company is investing in menu innovation, particularly in categories like grain bowls, plant-based proteins, and seasonal soups. Limited-time seasonal items will continue to rotate throughout the year, offering variety while testing customer reception before making long-term decisions.
Future additions may include enhanced salad options with more protein variety, improved sandwich builds with fresher ingredients, and new breakfast innovations. Panera has also hinted at expanding its wellness-focused offerings, such as low-sodium soups and keto-friendly meals. These new items will be developed using customer feedback and data analytics to ensure they align with demand. Customers are encouraged to check the app or website for announcements on new launches.
How will these menu changes affect Panera’s breakfast options?
Panera’s breakfast menu is undergoing a refresh, but core favorites like the Steel-Cut Oatmeal, breakfast sandwiches, and Bakery Classics will remain. Items with lower demand, such as the Turkey Sausage & Egg Breakfast Sandwich and certain breakfast soups, are being removed to allow for a more focused and efficient morning service. The shift is intended to help streamline early operations and ensure faster service during peak hours.
To balance the removals, Panera is enhancing its breakfast lineup with improved ingredients and expanded availability of seasonal items. The brand is also exploring plant-based breakfast options and protein boosters to cater to health-conscious customers. Breakfast customization options, like adding avocado or egg whites, will remain available. These changes aim to make the morning menu more sustainable and responsive to what customers want at the start of their day.
Are any vegetarian or plant-based items being removed?
While Panera is maintaining its commitment to plant-based and vegetarian options, the Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich has been discontinued due to lower sales and overlapping offerings. However, this does not represent a reduction in plant-focused meals; instead, Panera is concentrating on higher-performing and more versatile vegetarian choices like the Vegetarian Black Bean Soup and Modern Greek Chicken Bowl (without chicken).
The company plans to expand its plant-based portfolio with new grain bowls, soups, and sandwiches featuring ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, and vegetables. Panera’s approach is to offer more flexible plant-forward meals that align with clean eating and sustainability goals. The brand continues to work with health and nutrition experts to ensure these options are both delicious and nutritious, reflecting its mission to serve food that feels good to eat.
When will the menu changes take effect across all locations?
The menu changes are being rolled out gradually across Panera locations throughout 2024, with most discontinued items being phased out by the end of the third quarter. The timeline varies by region to allow franchisees and company-owned cafes time to adjust inventory and train staff. Customers may notice changes in different locations at different times, depending on local supply chains and operational readiness.
To stay informed, customers are encouraged to use the Panera app or visit Panera.com, where real-time menu updates and location-specific offerings are listed. Limited-time items may remain available in certain areas slightly longer if inventory remains. Panera has committed to transparent communication throughout the transition, ensuring minimal disruption to the customer experience during the menu evolution.
How can customers give feedback about the menu changes?
Panera Bread values customer input and offers multiple platforms for feedback on menu changes. Customers can share their thoughts directly through the Panera app, the official website’s feedback form, or by scanning a QR code on in-cafe receipts. The brand actively reviews this feedback to guide future menu decisions, including potential relaunches of discontinued items in updated forms.
Additionally, Panera conducts periodic surveys and taste tests with select customer groups to gather in-depth insights on new and existing menu offerings. Social media channels, such as Twitter and Instagram, are also monitored for public sentiment. The company emphasizes that customer opinions have historically influenced menu revisions—for example, the return of the Fuji Apple Chicken Salad after a temporary removal—making feedback an essential part of Panera’s menu development process.