Flour Tortillas — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 5, 2024
Flour tortillas nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 325 kcal
| Nutrition per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 52 g | 18.91% |
| Fiber | 3 g | 10.71% |
| Sugars | 3 g | 6% |
| Glycemic Index | 68 | - |
| Protein | 9 g | 18% |
| Sodium | 581 mg | 25.26% |
| Total Fat | 8 g | 10.26% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
3 g
🍏 Low Sugar Content
Flour tortillas facts & tips
Health benefits
- Provides sustained energy from carbohydrates, making them a good source of fuel for the body and brain.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and B vitamins (if enriched), supporting overall health and well-being.
- Versatile and easy to prepare, serving as a base for a variety of healthy fillings like vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Low in fat (depending on preparation), making them a healthier option for weight management.
- Can be a source of fiber if made from whole wheat, promoting digestive health and regular bowel movements.
Health risks
- High carbohydrate content particularly in tortillas made from refined white flour, which can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, particularly concerning for diabetics.
- High sodium content in some commercial flour tortillas, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
- Low nutrient density as flour tortillas made from refined flour offer limited vitamins or minerals compared to whole grain options.
- Potential for gluten content making them unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, potentially causing digestive discomfort and other health issues.
- Potential for overconsumption due to their versatile use in meals, leading to excessive calorie intake if not mindful of portion sizes and fillings.
How to choose flour tortillas
When selecting flour tortillas, they should be soft and flexible, allowing them to be rolled or folded without cracking. The edges should be smooth without any drying or hardening, which contributes to their versatility in various dishes.
Flour tortillas that are stiff or show signs of mold should be avoided, as they likely have been stored improperly or are past their prime. Tortillas with an unusual smell or those that are brittle should also be avoided, as they will not perform well when heated or filled.
How to store flour tortillas
Flour tortillas should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or their original packaging. Proper storage keeps them soft and pliable for up to a week. Refrigeration can extend their shelf life.
Air exposure can cause tortillas to dry out. Avoid leaving them uncovered, and always reseal the packaging tightly. Reheating briefly before serving can help restore their softness.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Flour tortillas can last for 1-2 weeks at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, flour tortillas can be frozen for up to 6-8 months. Proper storage helps maintain their flexibility and freshness, making them ready for wraps and tacos.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover flour tortillas can be used in a variety of savory and creative dishes. Use them to make tacos, quesadillas, or wraps, or cut them into triangles and bake until crispy for homemade tortilla chips. Flour tortillas are also great when used as a base for a pizza, topped with sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Use flour tortillas as a base for a breakfast burrito with eggs, cheese, and bacon, or mix them into a tortilla soup with chicken, vegetables, and spices. If you have a lot of flour tortillas, consider making a batch of enchiladas by rolling them with a filling of meat, beans, and cheese, then baking with sauce until bubbly. Flour tortillas can also be used as a base for fajitas or wraps, filled with grilled meats, vegetables, and salsa. For a quick snack, enjoy flour tortillas with guacamole, salsa, or a dip like hummus or queso.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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