Panera is a favorite among pregnant women when it comes to fast and easy dining.
It is my favorite place to have lunch and get some work done at the same time.
Our local Panera has a fireplace that is especially cozy during the fall and winter months.
I’m addicted to their turkey bravo sandwich with a cup of tomato soup.
Panera offers a variety of healthy food options, and their bacon turkey bravo is one of the most popular items on the menu.
But … can I eat Panera bacon turkey bravo while pregnant?
Are there any safety concerns pregnant women need to know about eating a turkey sandwich at Panera?
In this article, we will answer this question so you can make safe choices when eating out during your pregnancy.
Table of Contents
Can I Eat Panera Bacon Turkey Bravo While Pregnant?
Yes! You can eat Panera bacon turkey bravo while you are pregnant.
During pregnancy, if you are going to eat a turkey sandwich at Panera or anywhere, for that matter, there are a few things you should know before you place your order.
The first is that you need to make sure the turkey and bacon are fully cooked and that the sandwich is served HOT.
It is easy to ask Panera to heat the turkey bravo sandwich.
That is the safest way to eat it while you are pregnant.
Pregnant women must avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, as it can lead to foodborne illness.
The second is to avoid any ingredients that could potentially be harmful to you or your babies, such as unpasteurized cheese or raw eggs, or unpasteurized mayo.
If you are unsure about an ingredient in the turkey sandwich, it is best to ask your server or check with the restaurant before ordering.
When it comes to a bacon turkey bravo from Panera, the good news is that their turkey and bacon are fully cooked, the sandwich is heated, and their ingredients are safe for pregnant women to eat.
However, there are still a few things to keep in mind about the Panera bacon turkey bravo sandwich:
First, since the turkey sandwich has a signature sauce on it and that sauce is made with mayonnaise (raw eggs), you want to be sure it is pasteurized mayonnaise.
This is not likely to be a concern at Panera since it is a large commercial restaurant.
Panera mayonnaise is pasteurized.
What would be a concern is if the mayonnaise is not properly refrigerated or your sandwich is not made to order.
Again, Panera makes their sandwiches after ordering so not likely a concern.
But if you are concerned about food safety, you may want to order your Panera bacon turkey sandwich without the signature sauce, or ask for it on the side so you can add it yourself.
Second, the Panera turkey bravo sandwich is made with gouda cheese.
Gouda cheese is considered a safe cheese to eat during pregnancy and the cheese is melted on the sandwich, which helps to reduce the risk of food-borne pathogens being on the cheese.
If you are concerned about eating Gouda cheese, another safe option is cheddar.
Pregnant women are at an increased risk for foodborne illnesses, such as Salmonella, Ecoli, and Listeria.
These pathogens can cause serious illness and even death in pregnant women and their unborn babies.
While there may be no reported cases of Salmonella or Listeria infection from Panera bacon turkey bravo, it is important to be aware of the potential risks.
Pregnant women should avoid eating turkey that has been sitting out at room temperature for more than two hours.
If the turkey sandwich is refrigerated, it should be consumed within three days of opening.
(Source: CDC Information About Listeria During Pregnancy)
The safest option for pregnant women is to eat freshly cooked turkey and bacon.
While the risk of foodborne illnesses from heated turkey or bacon is very low, it is still something to be aware of if you are pregnant.
Third and finally, the Panera Turkey bacon bravo sandwich comes with fresh greens and tomatoes.
They are safe to eat during pregnancy, but you do need to skip eating sprouts.
Unfortunately, beansprouts are not safe to consume while pregnant.
If you are craving Panera bacon turkey bravo, you may want to consider asking for your turkey and bacon to be heated extra hot to decrease the risk of any foodborne illness.
Follow these simple safety guidelines and you can enjoy your favorite Panera turkey sandwich while keeping yourself and your baby safe from foodborne illnesses.
What is the nutritional information for a Panera bacon turkey bravo?
If you’re looking for a delicious, protein-packed sandwich option, the Panera bacon turkey bravo is a fantastic choice.
Not only does it contain juicy slices of turkey and hardwood smoked bacon, but it also includes gouda cheese, tomato, and greens on freshly baked bread.
All in all, this sandwich packs a whopping 53 grams of protein – the perfect fuel to power through your afternoon.
However, it’s important to note that this tasty treat also contains 41 grams of fat and over 2560 milligrams of sodium.
To make this sandwich a bit lighter, consider swapping out the artisan bread for sourdough or trying it as a salad instead.
It makes a delicious salad if you choose to have it that way.
This would be a good choice if you have gestational diabetes and need to lower your carbohydrate consumption.
No matter how you enjoy it, the bacon turkey bravo is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Looking for an easy at-home copycat recipe?
This is my favorite copycat Panera bacon turkey bravo recipe that I rely on to satisfy my cravings when I can’t get out for lunch.
Making this recipe at home is also a great way to control the number of calories, grams of fat, and sodium that are in this sandwich.
Why am I Craving a bacon turkey bravo sandwich during pregnancy?
There are a few reasons why you might be a Panera bacon turkey bravo during pregnancy:
- Pregnancy can cause changes in your sense of smell, which can lead to increased cravings for certain foods.
- Your body needs the extra protein in the turkey and bacon to help you meet your increased protein needs during pregnancy.
- You may be craving the vitamins and minerals which help to keep you healthy during pregnancy.
Pregnancy cravings are normal and generally nothing to be concerned about.
If you find yourself craving non-food items like soap, dirt, matches, or gas, you should let your help care provider know.
I ate a bacon turkey bravo sandwich while pregnant, is that ok?
Yes. The risk of foodborne illness is low.
The turkey is fully-cooked and it is kept at the proper temperature before being used in your sandwich.
Ideally, the fewer additives the better with mayonnaise being the most important one to be careful about.
Panera mayo is pasteurized so it is safe to eat during pregnancy.
Can you eat Panera bread while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat Panera bread during pregnancy!
When I was pregnant that news made me very happy!
I love Panera sourdough bread and craved it like crazy while pregnant.
You can save on calories by choosing sandwiches on sourdough bread vs their artisan bread.
Can I eat turkey while pregnant?
Absolutely, as long as the turkey is cooked thoroughly and served hot.
In fact, a plain piece of turkey cooked adequately carries little if any risk during or after pregnancy.
As long as it is not deli meat turkey being eaten cold.
It is so important to avoid consuming any cold deli meats during pregnancy.
But don’t panic if you
The important detail to remember is that cooking the turkey is necessary to kill any pathogens, especially Salmonella.
If that is done, turkey is an excellent source of protein and overall nutrition during pregnancy.
It is safe to eat Rotisserie turkey while pregnant as long as you eat it hot and it has not been sitting out at room temperature.
Can you eat bacon while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat bacon while pregnant as long as it is thoroughly cooked.
You may want to skip bacon during pregnancy because bacon does have nitrates and is loaded with sodium.
But the occasional slice of bacon on a turkey sandwich isn’t going to be harmful to you or your baby.
Go for having your bacon cooked extra crispy while you are pregnant.
What are the symptoms of illness after eating undercooked meat while pregnant?
The most common symptoms of a foodborne severe illness from eating undercooked meat are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
Symptoms of Listeria infection:
- flu-like symptoms
- fever
- diarrhea
- headache
- stiff neck
- vomiting
- muscle pain
- convulsions
- loss of balance
If you are pregnant and have any of these symptoms you should notify your doctor or midwife immediately.
List of foods not to eat when pregnant:
- Foods that are not pasteurized- certain types of cheese like soft cheeses, Brie, Blue Cheese, etc.
- Certain types of fish- shark, swordfish, anything high in mercury, undercooked shellfish, raw oysters.
- Raw eggs including homemade mayo, hollandaise sauce, and eggnog.
- Undercooked meats – lunch meats.
- Hot foods that are not “hot”, avoid hot foods that have been sitting out without a warming source. Same for foods that should be eaten cold. If there is no ice or refrigeration source keeping the food cool, take a pass.
- Caffeine- soda, chocolate, and energy drinks. (Limit your caffeine to less than 200 mg a day)
- Herbal Teas (There are so many ingredients in herbal teas so it is best to simply avoid them. Green tea is OK.)
What should a pregnant woman eat daily?
A pregnant woman needs to consume a variety of nutrients every day to support both her own health and the development of her baby.
Protein is essential for building new tissue and can be found in meat, poultry, fish, legumes, and eggs.
Enjoying a bacon turkey bravo sandwich from Panera is an excellent way to make sure you are getting the protein you need during your pregnancy
Calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth and is especially important during the third trimester when the baby’s skeleton is rapidly developing.
Pregnant women should aim to get 1000 mg of calcium per day from low-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Iron is also important for the formation of new blood cells, and pregnant women need about 27 mg of iron per day.
Good sources of iron include lean red meat, dark leafy greens, and fortified cereals.
Tips for eating out in restaurants while pregnant:
- Avoid buffets – you don’t know how fresh the food is or how well it’s been cooked. Plus it is easy super easy to overeat at a buffet!
- Stick to restaurants that you know and trust – this way you can be sure that the food is fresh and of good quality.
- When in doubt, ask your waiter or waitress for recommendations on safe dishes to eat while pregnant.
- Order simple dishes that are easy to digest.
- Avoid anything with raw eggs or undercooked meat.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol
- Beware of hidden sources of sodium in restaurant food
- Avoid foods made with unpasteurized dairy products.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for a modification to your meal!
Tips for eating healthy during pregnancy:
Eating healthily during pregnancy is important for both the mother and the baby.
Here are some tips to help make sure you are getting the nutrients you need:
- Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. This will help ensure you get the vitamins, minerals, and fiber you need.
- Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of caffeine. These can all lead to unhealthy weight gain and other problems during pregnancy.
- Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is important for both your health and the baby’s health.
- Don’t skip meals. Eating small, frequent meals will help to keep your energy up and prevent you from overeating later on.
Eating out during pregnancy can be a fun and convenient way to get the nutrition you need during pregnancy.
Now that you know the safest options at Panera, go ahead and enjoy your meal without worry.
Hope this has helped answer the question and we hope you enjoy your bacon turkey bravo Panera sandwich!
- Doug Penta MD OB/GYN
- Sue Winters RN
FAQs
Can you eat Panera turkey while pregnant? ›
Yes! You can eat Panera bacon turkey bravo while you are pregnant. During pregnancy, if you are going to eat a turkey sandwich at Panera or anywhere, for that matter, there are a few things you should know before you place your order.
Can I eat Panera sandwiches while pregnant? ›Panera Bread Sandwiches During Pregnancy
What is this? The dressings, mayo, and cheeses on Panera's menu are all pasteurized for safety. Panera chops and preps their veggie toppings on-site, making these safe as well.
The Bacon turkey bravo sandwich is served as a cold sandwich at Panera Bread. It is one of their signature sandwiches. This popular deli sandwich features oven-roasted turkey and applewood smoked bacon on tomato basil bread, with smoked gouda, fresh emerald greens, and tomato.
What happens if I eat deli turkey while pregnant? ›Listeria is killed by pasteurization and cooking. Cold cuts are now sprayed with a food additive that helps prevent Listeria before packaging. You don't need to panic if you are pregnant and have been eating deli meats. The probabilities are in your favor that nothing has happened.
Can I have a turkey sandwich while pregnant? ›The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advises that pregnant women "avoid eating hot dogs, lunch meats, cold cuts, other deli meats (such as bologna), or fermented or dry sausages unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot just before serving."
Can I eat a bacon sandwich when pregnant? ›You can enjoy bacon safely during pregnancy. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, until it's steaming hot. Avoid ordering bacon at a restaurant because you don't know how well it's cooked. If you want to avoid all risks completely, there are meat-free bacon alternatives available, like soy or mushroom bacon.
Can I eat a bacon and egg sandwich when pregnant? ›Study Finds Eating Bacon And Eggs During Pregnancy Can Up Your Baby's Intelligence. Bacon and eggs: the hearty breakfast combo that's more often synonymous with hangovers, than it is good health.
What is on a Bravo from Panera? ›About This. Oven-roasted turkey breast raised without antibiotics, Applewood-smoked bacon, smoked Gouda, emerald greens, vine-ripened tomatoes, signature sauce , salt and pepper on Tomato Basil Bread.
What kind of bacon does Panera use? ›Panera's clean bacon is made with six simple ingredients: pork, water, sea salt, sugar, celery powder and thyme extract. The clean bacon: Is cured without artificial additives.
Is turkey bacon ready eating? ›Product Details. Butterball fully cooked turkey bacon is ready to eat within seconds in the microwave. With 60% less fat than USDA data for cooked pork bacon, Butterball turkey bacon is a delicious, gluten-free choice for breakfast, a stacked BLT or a yummy salad.
What is the best deli meat to eat while pregnant? ›
In the USA, the American Pregnancy Association state that pregnant women should avoid all types of deli meat, including those that are pre-packaged. You can still heat the deli meat to make it safe for consumption, though.
Can I eat deli meat 8 weeks pregnant? ›It's best not to eat deli or lunch meats while you're pregnant, unless the food has been heated until steaming (165 degrees F) right before serving. These meats can harbor bacteria, which can continue to grow even when refrigerated.
What deli meats can I eat while pregnant? ›Non-dried deli meats such as bologna, roast beef and turkey breast. Dried and salted deli meats such as salami and pepperoni. Non-dried deli meats heated throughout to steaming hot.
What kind of sandwich can a pregnant woman eat? ›All sandwich bread is safe for pregnant women to eat, but you can make wiser choices when choosing bread. For example: Opt for brown or wholegrain bread over white. Choose wraps or flatbreads rather than bulky subs or bagels.
Is turkey bacon better for pregnancy? ›Due to its lower fat content, Turkey bacon is considered a healthier alternative to pork bacon. All the varieties of turkey bacon, including the ones with and without nitrites, cured, and ready-to-heat, can be safe to eat during pregnancy provided they've been cooked thoroughly and served hot.
What are the odds of getting listeria while pregnant? ›Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely to get listeriosis than other healthy adults. An estimated 1/6 of all Listeria cases occur in pregnant women.
Can I eat cold turkey bacon while pregnant? ›Is Bacon Safe in Pregnancy? Bacon is safe for pregnant women to eat if it's fully cooked or heated until hot. Pregnant women should avoid cold bacon. This is the case whether bacon is uncured, smoked or made from other ingredients (like turkey).
Can you eat chicken and bacon sandwiches when pregnant? ›Processed meats to avoid during pregnancy (unless they are heated to the proper temperature) include deli meat (turkey, ham, bologna, chicken, roast beef, prosciutto, and pepperoni), hot dogs, bacon, and sausages.
Why can't you eat deli meat while pregnant? ›“The CDC recommends that pregnant women not consume deli meat because it can carry the listeria bacteria which can cause food poisoning, vomiting, and sickness,” says Jana Mowrer, a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and certified diabetes care and education specialist.
Is Subway OK to eat when pregnant? ›Can Pregnant Women Eat At Subway? Subway sandwiches are safe for pregnant women to eat if they're heated until hot, rather than just warm. This means either microwaved for a few seconds or having the sandwich toasted – sometimes a little more than normal.
Can I eat bacon and egg McMuffin pregnant? ›
McDonalds Breakfast Items – Eating McMuffins, Griddles, Biscuits or Bagels in Pregnancy. Ensure that the egg is cooked through, including the yolk. The eggs are served cooked through as standard, but always have a quick look inside the bagel or McMuffin to check. The same applies if you order the breakfast burrito.
Can a pregnant lady eat mayonnaise? ›Note: Commercial mayonnaise, dressing, and sauces contain pasteurized eggs that are safe to eat.
Can I eat a heated turkey sandwich while pregnant? ›The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advises that pregnant women "avoid eating hot dogs, lunch meats, cold cuts, other deli meats (such as bologna), or fermented or dry sausages unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot just before serving."
Is Panera turkey processed? ›This product is highly processed. If you'll take a look at its ingredient list, you'll discover new words to add to your vocabulary. Many of these ingredients are required to increase the shelf life of the product and improve the flavor that disappears when food is not fresh.
Can I eat cured turkey while pregnant? ›This also applies to cured meats: any cured meat that is cooked as part of the production process, like cooked ham, mortadella and cooked chicken and turkey, can be eaten without worry!
Can I eat a roasted turkey sandwich while pregnant? ›"A healthier and safer option from the deli counter would be in-house freshly roasted turkey, chicken, or roast beef," she says. It's a much safer way to get the protein you and your baby need.
Is Turkey Bacon considered processed meat? ›Turkey bacon is a highly processed meat product and should be eaten in moderation. Many studies have found that regularly eating processed meats may increase your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes by 18% and 27%, respectively ( 9 , 10 ).
Is all turkey bacon processed? ›The Takeaway on Turkey Bacon
If you can't give up meat-based bacon, turkey bacon is likely healthier for you than conventional bacon because it is not red meat. However, it's still processed meat.
Panera's clean bacon is made with six simple ingredients: pork, water, sea salt, sugar, celery powder and thyme extract. The clean bacon: Is cured without artificial additives.
Is turkey bacon healthy during pregnancy? ›Good news! Bacon is safe to eat when you're pregnant, as long as you make sure it's well cooked first. Whether it's regular bacon, smoked bacon, Canadian bacon or turkey bacon, the NHS says you should make sure all meat is thoroughly cooked when you're pregnant – that means no trace of pink or blood.
Is cured turkey bacon already cooked? ›
SAFE HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS:
This product is precooked and needs only to be heated. Uncured Turkey Bacon strips are easily overcooked, please watch them closely.
Subway sandwiches are safe for pregnant women to eat if they're heated until hot, rather than just warm. This means either microwaved for a few seconds or having the sandwich toasted – sometimes a little more than normal.
Why can't pregnant ladies eat sandwich meat? ›Why can't pregnant women eat deli meat? It's best not to eat deli or lunch meats while you're pregnant, unless the food has been heated until steaming (165 degrees F) right before serving. These meats can harbor bacteria, which can continue to grow even when refrigerated.