Is Mission flour tortillas restaurant style medium Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

To understand why these tortillas are not safe for a gluten-free diet, we need to look at the very first ingredient listed: Enriched Bleached Flour. In the United States, unless specified otherwise, 'flour' refers to wheat flour. This specific flour has been milled to remove the bran and germ, and it contains the gluten proteins that give the tortilla its structure and chewiness. For anyone with a gluten-related disorder, this ingredient is an immediate disqualifier.

The rest of the ingredient list is standard for a commercial flour tortilla. You have Water for hydration and Vegetable Shortening (made from soybean oils) for fat content and tenderness. The leavening agents, Baking Soda and Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, react to help the tortilla puff slightly when heated, creating that classic 'restaurant style' texture.

There are also several preservatives listed, such as Calcium Propionate and Sorbic Acid. These are added to prevent mold and extend shelf life, which is common in packaged baked goods. While the ingredient list is free from obvious dairy allergens like milk or cheese, the presence of wheat flour makes the product strictly off-limits for gluten-free diets.

Nutritional Value

When evaluating the nutritional profile of the Mission flour tortillas restaurant style medium, the main considerations are calorie density and carbohydrate content. A single medium tortilla typically contains around 140 calories and roughly 24 grams of carbohydrates. This makes it a significant source of energy, but it also means portion control is important if you are watching your intake.

Fat content comes primarily from the Vegetable Shortening. While the amount is moderate (usually around 3-4 grams per tortilla), it contributes to the soft texture. There is a small amount of added Sugar and Salt, which enhances flavor but adds to the sodium count. For those on a low-sodium diet, consuming multiple tortillas could add up quickly. Overall, these are standard refined carbohydrates and should be balanced with high-fiber fillings like vegetables or lean proteins to make a more complete meal.