Breaking down the ingredients: is panda express sesame chicken dairy-free?
What To Know
- Consider ordering sesame chicken from a dedicated gluten-free or allergen-free Panda Express location.
- Based on the official ingredient list, nutritional information, and customer experiences, the answer to the question “does panda express sesame chicken have dairy”.
- How can I reduce the sodium content in Panda Express sesame chicken.
Panda Express’s tantalizing sesame chicken has captivated taste buds worldwide. However, for those with dairy allergies or sensitivities, the question arises: does panda express sesame chicken have dairy? This blog post delves into the ingredients, nutritional information, and customer experiences to shed light on this common culinary conundrum.
Ingredients Analysis
Scrutinizing the official Panda Express website reveals the following sesame chicken ingredients:
- Chicken
- Water
- Sesame oil
- Sugar
- Soy sauce (contains wheat)
- Vinegar
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Green onions
- Red peppers
- Sesame seeds
Notably absent from this list is any dairy-derived ingredient.
Nutritional Information
The Panda Express sesame chicken nutritional information panel confirms the absence of dairy:
- Serving Size: 1 cup (227g)
- Calories: 470
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 980mg
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 24g
Dairy ingredients, such as milk, cheese, or butter, are not listed.
Customer Experiences
Numerous customer reviews and online forums suggest that sesame chicken from Panda Express is generally dairy-free. Individuals with dairy allergies have reported consuming the dish without adverse reactions.
Potential Allergens
While the official ingredients and nutritional information indicate the absence of dairy, it’s important to note that cross-contamination can occur in restaurant settings. Shared cooking equipment or surfaces may inadvertently introduce dairy into the sesame chicken.
Recommendations for Individuals with Dairy Allergies
If you have a severe dairy allergy, it’s advisable to exercise caution. Here are some recommendations:
- Inform the Panda Express staff about your allergy and inquire about potential cross-contamination risks.
- Consider ordering sesame chicken from a dedicated gluten-free or allergen-free Panda Express location.
- If you experience any allergic symptoms after consuming sesame chicken, seek medical attention immediately.
Other Panda Express Dishes with Dairy
While sesame chicken is generally dairy-free, other Panda Express dishes may contain dairy ingredients. These include:
- Orange Chicken
- Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Kung Pao Chicken
- Beijing Beef
Summary
Based on the official ingredient list, nutritional information, and customer experiences, the answer to the question “does panda express sesame chicken have dairy” is generally no. However, individuals with severe dairy allergies should exercise caution and consider potential cross-contamination risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Panda Express sesame chicken safe for vegans?
A: No, sesame chicken contains chicken and is not suitable for vegans.
Q: Can I order sesame chicken without soy sauce?
A: Yes, you can request to omit soy sauce when ordering sesame chicken.
Q: How can I reduce the sodium content in Panda Express sesame chicken?
A: Requesting light sauce or no sauce when ordering can help reduce sodium intake.
Q: Is the sesame chicken gluten-free?
A: No, sesame chicken contains soy sauce, which contains wheat.
Q: Does Panda Express use real sesame seeds in sesame chicken?
A: Yes, Panda Express uses real sesame seeds in its sesame chicken.