How many calories are in a zero carb tortilla?

November 30, 2025 •

4 min read

Many popular zero carb tortillas contain between 15 and 80 calories per serving, depending on the brand and size. It is a common misconception that a zero net carb tortilla has no calories, which is inaccurate because calories are derived from protein, fat, and fiber, not just carbohydrates.

Quick Summary

Zero net carb tortillas do contain calories, typically ranging from 15 to 80, based on brand and size. This is because calories come from protein, fat, and indigestible fiber, not just carbohydrates.

Key Points

Calorie Content: Zero net carb tortillas contain calories, typically ranging from 15 to 80 per serving, depending on the brand and size.
Source of Calories: The calories come from the protein, fat, and indigestible fiber used to make the tortillas.
Net Carb Calculation: Net carbs are calculated by subtracting fiber and sugar alcohols from total carbohydrates, which is why they can be zero.
Ingredient Composition: These tortillas rely on high-fiber ingredients like resistant wheat starch and cellulose to replace traditional flour.
Dietary Tool: They are a useful tool for managing carbohydrate intake for keto and low-carb diets but require mindful calorie consideration.

The Science Behind 'Zero Net Carbs'

For many following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, the concept of a "zero net carb" tortilla seems like a dream come true. However, the term can be misleading if not properly understood. A zero net carb product is not the same as a zero total carb product. The net carb calculation is crucial to understanding why these items, including tortillas, still contain calories.

The formula for net carbs is generally calculated as: Total Carbohydrates - Dietary Fiber - Sugar Alcohols = Net Carbs.

Manufacturers create these tortillas by replacing traditional flour with high-fiber ingredients that the human body cannot fully digest or absorb. These indigestible fibers, such as modified wheat starch, cellulose fiber, and oat fiber, are carbohydrates by definition but do not significantly raise blood sugar levels. Because this large amount of fiber is subtracted from the total carbs, the resulting net carb count is zero. The remaining macronutrients—protein and fat—are what contribute to the final calorie count.

How Many Calories Are in a Zero Carb Tortilla?

Because they contain fat, protein, and fiber, zero net carb tortillas are not calorie-free. The exact calorie count varies significantly depending on the brand, size, and formulation. For instance, a smaller, street taco-sized zero net carb tortilla will have fewer calories than a larger, soft taco-sized one. It is always essential to check the specific nutrition facts on the product packaging for an accurate calorie count.

Comparing Popular Zero Net Carb Tortilla Brands

To illustrate the calorie differences, here is a comparison table of several popular brands based on available nutrition information:


Brand	Size	Calories	Dietary Fiber	Protein	Total Fat
Mission Zero Net Carbs	Street Taco (4.5 inch)	25 kcal	7g	2g	1.5g
Mission Zero Net Carbs	Soft Taco (8 inch)	80 kcal	14g	5g	4g
La Tortilla Factory Carb Cutting	Soft Taco	60 kcal	14g	7g	3g
Ole Mexican Foods Zero Net Carb	Soft Taco	60 kcal	~	~	~
Guerrero Zero Net Carbs Keto	Original (4.5 inch)	25 kcal	7g	2g	1.5g

Note: Nutritional information can vary slightly by product version and market. Always refer to the package for the most accurate data.

Are Zero Carb Tortillas a Good Choice for Your Diet?

Choosing zero net carb tortillas offers several benefits, especially for those managing carbohydrate intake, but there are also considerations to keep in mind.

Benefits

Supports Low-Carb and Keto Diets: With a net carb count of zero, these tortillas allow individuals on carb-restrictive diets to enjoy staples like tacos and wraps without compromising their macro goals.
High in Fiber: The high fiber content in these tortillas is a significant benefit. Increased fiber intake can aid in digestive health, promote a feeling of fullness, and support blood sugar management.
Lower Calories than Regular Tortillas: Compared to traditional tortillas, which can contain well over 150 calories and higher total carbs, zero net carb versions are a lower-calorie alternative.

Considerations

Highly Processed Ingredients: Many zero net carb tortillas rely on heavily processed ingredients like modified wheat starch, vital wheat gluten, and cellulose fiber to achieve their texture and nutritional profile.
Potential Digestive Issues: While the fiber content is beneficial for many, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas, if they are not used to a high-fiber diet.
Not Calorie-Free: The lingering caloric content, however small, still matters for those on a calorie-restrictive diet. It is important to factor these calories into your daily intake.

Creative Ways to Use Zero Carb Tortillas

These tortillas are incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous recipes, making a low-carb diet more exciting. Some ideas include:

Taco Night: Use as a soft shell for ground beef, chicken, or fish tacos, loaded with low-carb veggies and salsa.
Quick Quesadillas: Fill with cheese, chicken, and some bell peppers, then toast until golden brown.
Breakfast Burritos: A great vessel for scrambled eggs, sausage, and avocado to start your day.
Pizza Base: Top with a low-carb sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings for a personal pizza.
Snack Chips: Cut into wedges, brush with olive oil and spices, then bake until crispy.
Lunch Wraps: Fill with deli meat, lettuce, tomato, and a low-carb dressing.

Conclusion

Zero net carb tortillas are not free of calories, but their minimal caloric impact makes them a valuable tool for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb eating plan. The key lies in their high fiber content, which allows for a net carb calculation of zero, even though the total carb count is higher. By understanding the nutritional label and checking the ingredients, consumers can make an informed choice that aligns with their dietary needs. Always check the specific nutrition information for your brand of choice, as calorie and fiber content can vary.

For more information on product specifics, you can check manufacturer websites like Mission Foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Zero net carb tortillas have calories because the body can absorb energy from the protein, fat, and indigestible fiber they contain. The "zero net carb" label refers to the carbohydrates that do not affect blood sugar, not the total energy content.

The calorie count for Mission zero net carb tortillas varies by size. The 4.5-inch street taco size has about 25 calories, while the 8-inch soft taco size contains around 80 calories.

A La Tortilla Factory Carb Cutting Zero Net Carb Soft Taco Tortilla contains 60 calories per serving.

Yes, zero net carb tortillas are generally considered keto-friendly because their zero net carb count aligns with the principles of a ketogenic diet.

Total carbs are all the carbohydrates in a food product. Net carbs are the total carbs minus any dietary fiber and sugar alcohols. Fiber is subtracted because it is not fully digested by the body.

Zero net carb tortillas are a lower-carb and lower-calorie alternative to regular tortillas, making them a suitable option for those on a keto or low-carb diet. However, they are often highly processed compared to homemade or traditional whole grain options.

They are typically made with ingredients that are high in fiber and low in digestible carbohydrates, such as modified wheat starch, vital wheat gluten, cellulose fiber, and oat fiber.

When incorporated into a balanced, calorie-controlled diet, zero net carb tortillas can be an effective tool for weight loss due to their lower calorie count and high fiber content, which promotes satiety.