Panera’s New Lip Balms Taste Like a Mac & Cheese Bread Bowl—We’re Equal Parts Baffled and Obsessed

As a beauty editor with nearly 20 years of experience, I’ve seen just about everything—so it takes a lot for a new product to truly surprise me. But I’ll admit: this comfort food-inspired lip balm made me do a double-take. If a mac and cheese-flavored lip balm wasn’t on your 2025 bingo card, you’re not alone. But believe it or not, it’s an unexpectedly delightful twist. The beloved bakery-café chain Panera has teamed up with beauty brand Holler & Glow to whip up two limited-edition lip balms: S’Mac My Day and Get That Bread. And before you write them off, trust me—this form of cosmetic carb-loading is surprisingly satisfying for both your comfort food cravings and your dry lips.

Everything You Need to Know About Panera’s First Beauty Product

To celebrate National Mac & Cheese Day (yes, it’s real!), Panera has officially entered the beauty space with its first-ever lip balm set—complete with an adorable mini spatula applicator. (Honestly, the cuteness factor is off the charts.) The launch follows Panera’s past fashion-forward hits, including the sold-out Croissant Clutch and BAGuette Bag. The new lip balm duo is available as a set for just $8 on amazon.com, making it both an affordable indulgence and a standout gift. With its kitschy packaging and clever food theme, we’re already calling it: this will be an office white elephant favorite.

What the Lip Balms Actually Smell Like

Of course, the big question is—how do they smell? To find out, I enlisted my five-year-old son for a first impression. His review? “Amazing!” His enthusiasm, combined with my curiosity (I do love cheese and bread, after all), had me reaching for a swipe next. While the tiny spoon is undeniably charming, I went straight in with the chubby, bowl-shaped tube. First up: Get That Bread smells warm and toasty, just like freshly baked bread. It’s not your typical vanilla or mint, but it’s genuinely lovely and leaves behind a sheer, nude-brown tint. Then came S’Mac My Day, inspired by Panera’s iconic mac & cheese. With a rich, creamy scent, it leans savory—but in a way that’s much more “yum” than “huh?”

How Well They Hydrate

These balms are perfect for tossing in your bag and applying on the go. They’re sheer, hydrating (thanks to vitamin E), and deliver just the right amount of flavor and moisture without any stickiness or goop. So next time you’re craving a snack, try a swipe instead. They’re fun, nostalgic, and guaranteed to spark a conversation (trust me, I busted one out on the subway).

With Rhode x Krispy Kreme, Glossier x Magnolia Bakery, and Burt’s Bees x Mike’s Hot Honey already on the shelves, food-meets-beauty collabs are having a moment. The only question left is: which delicious brand should pop up in the beauty aisle next?