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How much protein is in a 10 inch flour tortilla?

3 min read

While the exact amount can vary by brand and recipe, a standard 10 inch flour tortilla typically contains between 5 and 7 grams of protein. The protein content is influenced by the specific flour type, ingredients, and overall formulation, offering a moderate source of this macronutrient for your meal.

Quick Summary

The protein in a 10-inch flour tortilla ranges from approximately 5 to 7 grams, depending on the manufacturer and recipe. This article covers specific brand examples, explains the factors influencing protein levels, and provides tips for incorporating more protein into your tortilla-based meals.

Key Points

  • Moderate Protein Source: A typical 10 inch flour tortilla contains a moderate amount of protein, usually falling between 5 and 7 grams.

  • Brand Variations: The protein content can differ between brands due to variations in flour, manufacturing processes, and potential fortification.

  • Enhanced Flour: Tortillas made with enriched or specialty protein-fortified flours will have a higher protein count.

  • Size and Type Matter: Larger tortillas have more protein than smaller ones, and whole wheat varieties typically contain more protein than standard white flour options.

  • Fillings are Key: The most effective way to create a high-protein tortilla meal is by adding protein-rich fillings like meat, beans, cheese, or Greek yogurt.

  • Whole Wheat vs. White Flour: Whole wheat tortillas often have more fiber and a slightly higher protein count compared to their white flour counterparts, in addition to other nutrients.

  • Customizable Nutrition: For those on a high-protein diet, choosing fortified versions or making homemade tortillas with protein-rich ingredients like Greek yogurt or soy flour is an option.

In This Article

Standard 10-Inch Flour Tortilla Nutrition

For most commercially available 10-inch flour tortillas, you can expect a protein count in the range of 5 to 7 grams per serving. This is a moderate amount that, while not a primary protein source, contributes to the total macronutrient profile of a meal. Key factors like brand-specific recipes, fortification, and flour type all play a role in determining the final nutritional value.

Examples of Protein Content by Brand

Different manufacturers use varying ingredients and processes, leading to slight nutritional differences. For example, some brands may use enriched flour, while others might add fortifying agents.

  • Market Pantry 10-Inch Burrito Flour Tortillas: These contain approximately 6 grams of protein.
  • Uberrito 10-inch Flour Tortilla: This specific tortilla lists a protein content of 5 grams.
  • La Banderita 10-inch Flour Tortilla: These offer around 6 grams of protein per tortilla.
  • Silver Mine Subs 10" White Flour Tortilla Wrap: This option provides about 6 grams of protein.
  • 313 Urban 10 Inch Flour Tortillas: This brand reports approximately 7 grams of protein.

Comparing Different Tortilla Sizes and Types

When considering protein, size and type are significant variables. A larger, 12-inch tortilla will generally have more protein than a 6-inch taco-sized one simply due to its larger mass. Furthermore, the type of grain or flour used can drastically change the protein content.

Here is a comparison table illustrating the protein differences:

Tortilla Type Approx. Size Approximate Protein Content Notes
10-Inch Flour Tortilla 10 inches 5–7 grams Standard burrito size; protein varies by brand.
8-Inch Flour Tortilla 8 inches ~4 grams A smaller, taco-sized option with less overall protein.
Whole Wheat Tortilla Varies 5–8+ grams Often contains more fiber and slightly more protein than white flour varieties.
Corn Tortilla Varies ~1–2 grams Much lower in protein than flour tortillas due to different grain composition.
High-Protein Tortilla Varies 10–14+ grams Specially formulated options often using ingredients like whey or soy protein.

Factors Influencing Protein Levels

The protein content in a flour tortilla is not a fixed number and can be influenced by several factors:

  • Flour Enrichment: Many commercial tortillas are made with enriched wheat flour, which contains a certain baseline protein level. The specific protein content of the wheat itself can also vary depending on the variety and growing conditions.
  • Fortification: Some brands add extra ingredients like soybean or other protein concentrates to boost nutritional value. As noted in research, the addition of soybean flour can significantly increase a tortilla's protein content.
  • Recipe: Homemade tortillas can be made with a variety of flours and other ingredients. Some recipes suggest using Greek yogurt or skyr for a significant protein boost.
  • Weight: The actual weight of a single 10-inch tortilla can differ slightly between manufacturers. A heavier tortilla will naturally contain more of every macronutrient, including protein. For example, a 61g tortilla may have 5g of protein, while a 71g one has 6g.

How to Increase the Protein in Your Tortilla Meal

Because the protein from the tortilla itself is relatively low, the best way to make a high-protein meal is with your fillings. Here are some ideas for boosting your protein intake:

  • Lean Meat: Grilled chicken breast, lean ground beef, or shredded pork are classic, high-protein additions to burritos and wraps.
  • Beans and Legumes: Black beans, pinto beans, and lentils are excellent plant-based protein sources that are staples in many Mexican-inspired dishes.
  • Cheese: Adding a sprinkle of shredded cheese, like cheddar or cotija, will increase the overall protein and flavor.
  • Greek Yogurt: Use plain Greek yogurt as a sour cream substitute. It provides a creamy texture with a significant protein boost.
  • Eggs: For a high-protein breakfast burrito, scramble some eggs and add them as the primary filling.
  • Soy-Based Ingredients: Tofu or textured vegetable protein (TVP) can be seasoned and cooked to create a high-protein, vegetarian filling.

Conclusion

A standard 10 inch flour tortilla provides a modest 5 to 7 grams of protein, a small but helpful contribution to your daily intake. Its exact nutritional value is dependent on the brand and recipe. To build a truly protein-rich meal, focus on the fillings, incorporating lean meats, dairy, or plant-based protein sources like beans and legumes. By combining the right ingredients, your tortilla can be the foundation for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard 10 inch flour tortilla typically contains between 5 and 7 grams of protein, though the exact amount can vary by brand.

Yes, protein content can vary by brand depending on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of flour and whether additional protein sources like soybean flour have been added.

Yes, whole wheat tortillas generally contain slightly more protein and significantly more dietary fiber than those made from white, refined flour.

The most effective way to boost your meal's protein is through the fillings. Consider adding lean meats, beans, cheese, or using Greek yogurt as a topping or filling.

Larger tortillas, like a 10-inch burrito size, will contain more protein than smaller options, such as 6 or 8-inch taco-sized tortillas, because they contain more overall ingredients.

Yes, you can make high-protein tortillas at home by incorporating ingredients like Greek yogurt or protein-fortified flours into your recipe.

No, a flour tortilla is not a complete protein source on its own. While it contains protein, it lacks some essential amino acids. However, you can create a complete protein meal by pairing it with other foods, such as beans or cheese.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.