A 12-inch flour tortilla from Salad and Go is a common base for many of the restaurant's popular wraps and burritos. While the rest of the meal is often packed with fresh veggies and protein, the tortilla itself contributes a significant number of calories that can impact your total meal's nutritional profile. Understanding the specific calorie content of each tortilla type is the first step toward making informed dietary choices.
Calorie Breakdown for Salad and Go Tortillas
Salad and Go primarily offers a few different options for their wraps and adds-ins. The calorie count varies depending on the type you choose. Here's a detailed look at the reported numbers, pulling from reputable nutrition databases.
White Flour Tortilla (12-inch)
For the standard 12-inch white flour tortilla used in their wraps, different nutrition trackers report slightly varied figures, which is common due to recipe changes or different measurement methods.
- Nutritionix: Lists the 12-inch flour tortilla with a calorie count of 270.
- CalorieKing: Reports the 12-inch white tortilla with a slightly higher calorie count of 300. This difference highlights the importance of checking multiple sources or the most recent nutritional guide from the company directly.
Honey Wheat Tortilla (12-inch)
For those who prefer a honey wheat option, Salad and Go provides a 12-inch honey wheat tortilla. This version is often perceived as a 'healthier' alternative by some, and its calorie count reflects that.
- Ketogenic.com: Documents the 12-inch honey wheat tortilla at 220 calories, making it a lower-calorie choice compared to the white flour variety.
Tortilla Strips
Beyond full wraps, Salad and Go also offers tortilla strips as a topping for their salads, which have their own distinct calorie contribution.
- Eat This Much: A standard serving of tortilla strips contains 110 calories. However, the portion size is crucial here, as larger or different servings will change the total.
The Complete Wrap Picture: Beyond Just the Tortilla
While the tortilla's calories are important, they are only one part of the total wrap calculation. The final calorie count of a Salad and Go wrap can vary dramatically based on the other ingredients you choose. The company's nutritional PDF provides insights into how these components stack up.
Key factors influencing total wrap calories:
- Protein Choice: Adding chicken, steak, or tofu increases the calorie and protein content. For example, Steak adds 50 calories to the wrap total.
- Dressings: A significant contributor, with a single packet of dressing containing multiple servings. For instance, a packet of Balsamic Vinaigrette contains 2.5 servings, totaling 310 calories. Opting for a low-calorie dressing or using a smaller amount can drastically reduce the overall count.
- Fillings and Toppings: Ingredients like cheese, bacon, and avocado add substantial calories. For example, the Southwest Harvest Wrap has 800 calories in total, largely due to a combination of high-calorie fillings and the tortilla.
Comparison of Salad and Go Tortilla Options
| Tortilla Type | Approx. Calorie Count | Key Difference | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12" White Flour | 270-300 kcal | Classic flavor and texture | Standard wraps and burritos |
| 12" Honey Wheat | 220 kcal | Slightly lower calorie count | Calorie-conscious wrap option |
| Tortilla Strips | 110 kcal per serving | Crunch and texture for salads | Adding a crunchy topping to salads |
Making Healthier Choices at Salad and Go
To manage your overall calorie intake, consider these strategic choices when ordering a wrap or salad:
- Choose Wisely: The honey wheat tortilla offers a noticeable calorie reduction compared to the white flour version, saving 50 to 80 calories per wrap.
- Go Easy on the Dressing: Dressings are often a hidden source of high calories. Ask for the dressing on the side and use it sparingly, or opt for a lower-calorie vinaigrette.
- Focus on Lean Protein: Lean chicken or tofu provides a good source of protein without excessive calories compared to bacon or steak.
- Load Up on Veggies: You can increase the volume and nutritional density of your meal without adding significant calories by requesting extra fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
Determining how many calories are in a tortilla from Salad and Go is a straightforward process once you know the specific type. The 12-inch white flour tortilla ranges from 270 to 300 calories, while the honey wheat version is a lighter 220 calories. However, the tortilla is just one component. The total calorie impact is greatly influenced by dressings, protein, and other toppings. By paying attention to these details, you can easily customize your meal to fit your dietary goals while still enjoying a fresh and convenient meal from Salad and Go. For the most up-to-date and complete nutrition information, it is always recommended to check the official company resources.
