Mission Carb Balance Fiber Content by Product
The fiber content in Mission Carb Balance tortillas varies significantly based on the product line, size, and whether it's a flour or whole wheat variety. It is important to check the specific nutrition facts on the packaging, as formulations can change. Below is a detailed look at the fiber content for some of the most popular Mission Carb Balance options.
Soft Taco Flour Tortillas
These are a popular choice for those making smaller wraps and tacos. According to Mission Foods' official website, a single Soft Taco Flour Tortilla contains 17 grams of dietary fiber. This high fiber count helps to lower the net carb value, making them a staple for low-carb diets. With 19 grams of total carbohydrates, the net carb calculation is 19g total carbs - 17g fiber = just 2g net carbs per tortilla.
Soft Taco Whole Wheat Tortillas
For those seeking the added benefits of whole grains, the Soft Taco Whole Wheat Tortillas are an excellent option. Nutritionix reports that these have a slightly higher fiber count of 18 grams of dietary fiber per serving. With 20 grams of total carbohydrates, this results in an impressive 2g of net carbs per tortilla.
Burrito Flour Tortillas
For larger meals and wraps, the Burrito Flour Tortillas offer a greater serving size and an even higher fiber content. Mission Foods states that these large tortillas contain a remarkable 28 grams of dietary fiber per serving. Subtracting this from the 32 grams of total carbohydrates yields only 4 grams of net carbs.
Burrito Whole Wheat Tortillas
The largest and most fiber-rich option is the Burrito Whole Wheat Tortilla. These are designed to be filling and satisfying. Information from the Mission Foods website indicates these provide up to 30 grams of dietary fiber per tortilla. With 31 grams of total carbs, this product boasts one of the lowest net carb counts in the entire line at just 1 gram per tortilla.
Understanding Net Carbs and Dietary Fiber
The difference between total carbohydrates and net carbohydrates is the key to understanding why Mission Carb Balance tortillas are so popular for low-carb diets. Total carbohydrates represent the total amount of carbohydrates in a food, including sugars, starches, and dietary fiber. However, since dietary fiber is not digestible by the body and does not impact blood sugar in the same way, it is subtracted to determine the net carb count.
The Calculation Explained
Net Carbs = Total Carbs - Dietary Fiber - Sugar Alcohols
For Mission Carb Balance tortillas, which contain zero sugar, the calculation is simplified to just subtracting fiber from total carbs. This fortification with fiber is what allows the tortillas to have a high total carb number but a very low net carb value that fits into low-carb or keto meal plans.
How Mission Foods Achieves High Fiber
To create a product with such a high fiber count, manufacturers like Mission Foods add various types of isolated and synthetic fibers. Common ingredients used include modified wheat starch, cellulose, and wheat gluten. These added fibers serve multiple purposes:
- Bulking and Texture: They help provide the soft, pliable texture expected of a fresh tortilla, replacing some of the conventional flour.
- Lowering Net Carbs: By adding large quantities of fiber, the overall net carb count is drastically reduced, making the product marketable to low-carb consumers.
- Digestive Support: High fiber intake is linked to better digestive health, although some debate exists whether isolated fibers offer the same benefits as natural fibers found in whole foods.
Comparison Table: Mission Carb Balance Tortilla Fiber
| Product Variety | Total Carbs | Dietary Fiber | Net Carbs | Calories | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Taco Flour | 19g | 17g | 2g | 70 | |
| Soft Taco Whole Wheat | 20g | 18g | 2g | 60 | |
| Burrito Flour | 32g | 28g | 4g | 110 | |
| Burrito Whole Wheat | 31g | 30g | 1g | 110 |
Tips for Incorporating Mission Carb Balance into Your Diet
Here are a few tips to make the most of your high-fiber tortillas:
- Meal Prep with Confidence: Use the tortillas for low-carb meal prep, such as keto-friendly wraps with grilled chicken, avocado, and cheese.
- Check the Label: Always double-check the nutrition label for the specific product you are buying, as dietary fiber counts and formulations can differ by size and version.
- Balance Your Intake: While the net carbs are low, remember that the total carb count is still present. For those with medical conditions like diabetes, it's wise to monitor total carbohydrate intake or consult a doctor.
- Stay Hydrated: With increased fiber intake, it is important to drink plenty of water to help with digestion and prevent constipation.
Conclusion
In summary, the fiber content in Mission Carb Balance tortillas is notably high, with specific amounts dependent on the size and type of the product. This significant amount of dietary fiber is the primary reason for their very low net carb count, making them an excellent tool for those adhering to a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle. While they are a great substitute for traditional tortillas, it's always recommended to review the nutritional information of the specific product you choose to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs. For additional low-carb food guidance, the official Mission Foods website offers recipes and information on their products.