Corn, Flour, or Whole Wheat Tortillas: Which is Healthier?

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Food Guide

Soft tortillas are a staple in many dishes, but their nutritional value varies significantly. Here's how corn, flour, and whole-wheat tortillas stack up:


1. Corn Tortillas

  • Nutrition Pros:
  • Made from whole grain corn.
  • Lower in fat and sodium compared to flour tortillas.
  • Simpler ingredients, often without additives.
  • Texture: Firm and chewy.
  • Example:
  • Mission Yellow Corn Tortilla (1 oz)
  • Lower in calories and sodium than flour alternatives.

2. Flour Tortillas

  • Nutrition Cons:
  • Made with refined white flour.
  • Higher in sodium and may contain additives.
  • Often higher in calories and fat.
  • Texture: Soft and pillowy.
  • Example:
  • Tia Rosa Flour Fajita Tortilla (1 oz)
  • Least healthy option due to processed ingredients and high sodium content.

3. Whole-Wheat Tortillas

  • Nutrition Pros:
  • Higher in fiber than white flour tortillas.
  • Similar texture to flour tortillas with added nutritional benefits.
  • Nutrition Cons:
  • Comparable sodium and processed ingredients to regular flour tortillas.
  • Tip: Opt for smaller sizes to control sodium and calorie intake.
  • Example:
  • La Banderita 100% Whole Wheat Fajita Tortilla (1 oz)

Healthier Tortilla Choice: Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are generally the most nutritious option, offering whole-grain benefits with fewer calories and additives.


Chicken and Guacamole Tacos Recipe

Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil.
- 1 tsp chili powder.
- 1 cup jarred salsa.
- 1/4 cup water.
- 1 rotisserie chicken (meat removed, approx. 4 cups).
- 12 6-inch corn tortillas, warmed.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage.
- 1 chopped tomato.
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves.

Instructions:

Make Guacamole: Mash avocados with lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Cook Chicken: Heat oil and chili powder in a skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds. Add salsa, water, and chicken, and cook until warmed (about 10 minutes).

Assemble Tacos: Spread guacamole on warm tortillas and top with chicken, cabbage, tomato, and cilantro.

Servings: 6 (2 tacos per serving)
Nutritional Info (per 2 tacos):
450 calories, 19 g fat, 3.5 g saturated fat, 42 g carbs, 8 g fiber, 29 g protein, 475 mg sodium.


Quick Tip: Opt for corn tortillas in this recipe for a healthier taco base!


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