ST. LOUIS, MO (May 14, 2026) – Panera Bread today announced the publication of its updated Animal Welfare Beliefs Statement, which includes redefined seafood sourcing standards. The updated statement outlines the company’s perspective on humane animal care, responsible sourcing practices and supplier expectations as Panera continues to evolve its menu and advance its broader business transformation goals.

“We know our guests care deeply about where their food comes from, and we share that commitment," said Brooke Buchanan, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Panera Bread. “As Panera enters its next chapter, we are taking a thoughtful, practical approach to our sourcing polices­­—one that reflects evolving science, broader industry efforts and supply chain realities while maintaining our focus on animal welfare."

Panera’s updated Beliefs Statement focuses on:

·        Working with reputable suppliers that support humane animal care

·        Supporting industry efforts to reduce close confinement of animals

·        Encouraging judicious antibiotic use, limited to animal health needs

·        Aligning with widely recognized animal welfare principles, such as the UK Farm Animal Welfare Committee’s Five Freedoms

The company emphasized that animal welfare remains an ongoing area of focus, shaped by engagement with farmers, suppliers, advocacy groups, and scientific experts.

Strengthening Seafood Sourcing Standards

As part of this update, Panera is also updating its approach to seafood sourcing. The company seeks to source seafood from suppliers and fisheries that:

·        Participate in credible animal welfare and sustainability certification programs, or demonstrate equivalent practices

·        Engage in recognized fishery improvement programs

·        Support responsible practices across both farmed and wild seafood systems

·        This approach reflects growing consumer interest in sustainably sourced seafood and Panera's commitment to supporting progress in this space.

Panera regularly reviews its sourcing practices and supplier expectations to reflect evolving science, industry standards, and guest expectations. The company will continue to publicly share information through annual reporting.

In addition to animal-based offerings, Panera continues to innovate its plant-forward menu options, providing guests with more choices and flexibility.

For more information about our animal welfare beliefs, requirements, standards and reporting, please visit: www.panerabread.com.

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About Panera Bread

Our first bakery-cafe opened in 1987, founded with a secret sourdough starter and the belief that the best part of bread is sharing it. That vision led to the invention of the Fast Casual category with Panera at the forefront, serving as America's kitchen table centered around our delicious menu of chef-curated recipes that are crafted with care by our team members. We make food that we are proud to serve our own families, from crave-worthy soups, salads and sandwiches to mac & cheese and sweets. Each recipe is filled with ingredients we feel good about and none of those we don't because we are committed to serving our guests food that feels good in the moment and long after. While our company is now about 2,200 bakery-cafes strong, our values and belief in the lasting power of a great meal remain as strong as ever. We spend each day filling bellies, building empowered teams and inspiring communities. Nothing beats breaking bread together.

As of April 28, 2026, there were 2,251 bakery-cafes, company and franchise, in 48 states and Washington D.C., and in Ontario, Canada, operating under the Panera Bread® or Saint Louis Bread Co.® names. Panera Bread is part of Panera Brands, one of the largest fast casual restaurant companies in the U.S., comprised of Panera Bread®, Caribou Coffee® and Einstein Bros.® Bagels. For more information, visit panerabread.com or find us on X (@panerabread), Facebook (facebook.com/panerabread) Instagram (@panerabread) or TikTok (@panerabread)