Is Burrito Size Cassava Tortilla Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, the first thing I look for on a label is the absence of the "big three" gluten sources: wheat, barley, and rye. The Burrito Size Cassava Tortilla formula successfully avoids all of them. Instead, it utilizes a specific starch and flour matrix to mimic the elasticity of gluten without using the protein itself.

The primary structure comes from cassava flour and tapioca flour. Both are derived from the cassava root (also known as yuca). Tapioca is essentially the starch extracted from the root, while cassava flour is the whole root dried and ground. Because they are root-based, they are naturally gluten-free. However, it is worth noting that cassava is a high-FODMAP food, so those with IBS might need to monitor their tolerance to it.

To balance the texture, the formula includes coconut flour and arrowroot flour. Coconut flour adds fiber and structure but absorbs a lot of moisture, which is likely why water and avocado oil are present to ensure the tortilla remains pliable rather than brittle. The inclusion of apple cider vinegar and yeast is interesting; while yeast is typically associated with bread, here it likely acts as a leavening agent to create air pockets, and the acidity from the vinegar helps tenderize the dough.

Finally, the sweetness comes from coconut sugar. Unlike refined white sugar, this adds a minor amount of minerals and has a lower glycemic index, but it does not introduce any gluten risks. The ingredient list is surprisingly clean for a frozen dessert product, with no hidden starches or fillers that usually carry cross-contamination risks.

Nutritional Value

While being gluten-free makes this product accessible, the nutritional profile is equally important to consider. Because this tortilla relies on root starches (cassava and tapioca), it is relatively high in carbohydrates compared to almond or coconut-heavy alternatives. These are mostly starches, which convert to sugar in the body quickly.

The fat content is moderate, derived primarily from avocado oil. This is a positive attribute, as avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and has a high smoke point, making it a stable cooking fat. You won't find hydrogenated oils or cheap vegetable oils here.

Regarding sugar, the coconut sugar content is present but likely not in massive quantities given its position on the ingredient list. However, if you are strictly monitoring your sugar intake (for example, on a Keto diet), you should be aware that cassava flour is higher in carbs than nut flours. This tortilla fits well into a standard gluten-free or paleo-style diet, but strict Keto adherents might find the carb count too high for their daily limits.