Panera Bread

Rated at 1 out of 5 green leaves, the Panera Bread Iced Cinnamon Crunch Latte falls at the lowest end of the spectrum on our clean food scale. This rating reflects the product’s extensive use of non-organic ingredients, inclusion of GMOs, and a range of additives and sugars that our criteria deem detrimental to health.

The beverage is not organic, resulting in an immediate deduction from its overall score. It also fails to use non-GMO ingredients, further impacting its rating negatively. The latte contains added sugars, such as cane sugar and citric acid, which are common contributors to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues when consumed in large quantities. More concerning is the presence of dextrose and additional cane sugar, which are considered more harmful types of added sugars.

Beyond sugars, the Iced Cinnamon Crunch Latte includes ingredients that raise red flags, such as natural flavors and modified corn starch. These are often viewed with skepticism due to their ambiguous nature and potential links to adverse health effects. Furthermore, the presence of carrageenan is particularly troubling, as this additive is known for its controversial health implications.

Soybean oil, found in the cinnamon sugar topping, is another ingredient that warrants caution. Along with palm oil, these oils are not only environmentally contentious, but they also contribute to the negative health profile of the product. The use of soybean oil, in particular, is often criticized for its widespread production from genetically modified crops and its potential impact on inflammation when consumed in excess.

This product’s low rating is a clear indicator that it does not align with our standards for cleaner and healthier food options. Consumers seeking beverages that fit a more wholesome and clean diet might want to consider alternative choices that prioritize organic, non-GMO, and additive-free ingredients.