Does panda express sesame chicken contain dairy? the dairy-free guide
What To Know
- A representative stated that Panda Express Sesame Chicken does not contain any dairy products.
- Through a thorough examination of ingredients, nutritional information, and official statements, we can confidently conclude that Panda Express Sesame Chicken does not contain dairy products.
- Can I request a dairy-free sauce for Sesame Chicken.
Among the tantalizing array of dishes offered by Panda Express, the beloved Sesame Chicken stands out with its crispy exterior and savory sauce. However, for those with dairy sensitivities or allergies, the question arises: does Panda Express Sesame Chicken contain dairy? This comprehensive blog post delves into the ingredients and nutritional information of this popular dish to provide a definitive answer.
Ingredients Analysis
The first step in determining whether Panda Express Sesame Chicken contains dairy is to examine its ingredient list:
- Chicken
- Water
- Sesame seeds
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Salt
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Ginger powder
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Natural flavors
A careful review of the ingredients reveals no explicit mention of dairy products. However, “natural flavors” can sometimes conceal hidden dairy ingredients.
Nutritional Information
To further investigate, let’s consult the nutritional information provided by Panda Express:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| — | — |
| Calories | 260 |
| Fat | 13g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
| Sodium | 700mg |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Protein | 16g |
| Calcium | 50mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Noticeably absent from this list is any mention of dairy-derived nutrients, such as lactose or whey protein.
Panda Express Official Statement
To obtain an official confirmation, we reached out to Panda Express customer service. A representative stated that Panda Express Sesame Chicken does not contain any dairy products. They clarified that the “natural flavors” used in the dish are derived from non-dairy sources.
Cross-Contamination Considerations
While the official ingredients and nutritional information suggest that Sesame Chicken is dairy-free, it’s important to consider the possibility of cross-contamination. Panda Express restaurants may prepare and serve other dishes that contain dairy, which could potentially introduce trace amounts of dairy into the Sesame Chicken.
Individuals with severe dairy allergies should exercise caution and inform the restaurant staff of their allergy when ordering.
Alternatives for Dairy-Allergic Individuals
For those who are strictly avoiding dairy, Panda Express offers several alternative dishes that are confirmed to be dairy-free:
- Chow Mein
- Fried Rice
- Orange Chicken (without the sauce)
- Super Greens
- Steamed Vegetables
Wrap-Up: Dairy-Free Delight
Through a thorough examination of ingredients, nutritional information, and official statements, we can confidently conclude that Panda Express Sesame Chicken does not contain dairy products. Individuals with dairy sensitivities or allergies can enjoy this popular dish without worry. However, those with severe allergies should be mindful of potential cross-contamination.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: Is Panda Express Sesame Chicken gluten-free?
A1: No, Sesame Chicken contains wheat flour and is not gluten-free.
Q2: What is the sauce made of?
A2: The sauce is a combination of soy sauce, sugar, water, cornstarch, and natural flavors.
Q3: Can I request a dairy-free sauce for Sesame Chicken?
A3: No, Panda Express does not offer a dairy-free sauce for Sesame Chicken.
Q4: Are there any other dairy-free options at Panda Express?
A4: Yes, several other dishes are dairy-free, including Chow Mein, Fried Rice, and Steamed Vegetables.
Q5: How can I avoid cross-contamination?
A5: Inform the restaurant staff of your dairy allergy and request that your food be prepared separately.
