TikTok Has People Grossed Out Over Panera Mac and Cheese Preparation | Eater

"This national fast‑casual chain’s macaroni and cheese is prepared by dunking vacuum‑sealed, prepackaged portions of pasta and sauce into a hot water bath — a sous‑vide–style reheating of frozen bags — a process revealed in a viral TikTok. Many customers were upset because the brand has been rebranding itself around “whole” foods, sustainable sourcing, and recipes that seem homemade, so the sight of packaged bags clashes with that image. The company defended the method as a way to avoid certain preservatives, ensure consistency and efficiency, and maintain sanitation compared with open vats, but the employee who posted the video was reportedly fired. Commenters compared the ingredients to boxed varieties like Annie’s and noted this approach is common in fast food; others pointed out the finished dish is still preferable to instant microwave options like Easy Mac." - Jaya Saxena