Panera Bread is launching new items for the fall season that mark its entry into the grain bowl category. The new warm Grain Bowls feature a medley of whole grains, crisp greens, vibrant vegetables, and lean protein infused with internationally-inspired flavors and sauces.

The introduction of grain bowls is the next step in Panera’s mission to offer more grains, plants, and proteins on its menu, in the hopes of delivering food options that are filling and fulfilling. The bowls are designed to fit into a flexitarian diet—guests can enjoy the bowls as a plant-forward option or add chicken for a protein-rich meal.

“With the launch of our Baja and Mediterranean warm Grain Bowls, Panera is at the forefront of bringing on-trend bowls to consumers across America, at scale,” says Dan Wegiel, EVP Chief Growth and Strategy Officer at Panera. “Interest in bowls that feature an abundance of nutrient-dense, fresh, layered ingredients, lean protein, veggies, grains, and flavorful sauces -- is on the rise.  We believe this product is the best example of what we stand for when we say ‘good and good for you.’  Panera’s warm Grain Bowls deliver on consumer demand for options that are both hearty and nutritious, that they can feel good about, without compromise.”

The Baja Grain Bowl features cilantro-lime long grain brown rice, a mix of red and golden quinoa, grilled citrus pepper chicken raised without antibiotics, black bean and corn salsa, house-made salsa verde, red grape tomatoes, fresh avocado, feta crumbles, and whole milk Greek yogurt.

The Mediterranean Grain Bowl features cilantro-lime long grain brown rice, a mix of red and golden quinoa on a bed of fresh arugula, layered with grilled citrus pepper chicken raised without antibiotics, red grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, diced cucumbers, hummus, lemon tahini dressing, feta crumbles, and whole milk Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lemon.

“Our new grain bowls come to life with globally-inspired flavors that are both bold and complex--crafted with layers of fresh, authentic ingredients sourced from our extensive pantry of more than 400 clean ingredients," says Sara Burnett, Panera Vice President of Wellness and Food Policy. “When we create a new menu item, the most important consideration for Panera is taste.  It has to be delicious and crave-worthy, but we never lose sight of the good-for-you element.  Panera’s warm Grain Bowls marry nutrient-dense grains, vegetables, and proteins designed to nourish and fulfill, while making your taste buds hum.”