Nutrition Diet: How many calories are in a no carb tortilla?

November 11, 2025 •

2 min read

Many popular brands of "zero net carb" tortillas actually contain 25 to 60 calories per serving, contrary to what the name might suggest. Understanding how many calories are in a no carb tortilla requires looking beyond the "net carb" claim and examining the total nutrition facts.

Quick Summary

Zero net carb tortillas are not calorie-free, with most containing 25 to 60 calories per serving, derived from protein, fat, and indigestible fiber. Their low carb count is achieved by subtracting fiber and certain non-digestible starches.

Key Points

Calories Exist: 'No carb' tortillas still contain calories, typically 25-60 per serving, from fat, protein, and indigestible fiber.
Net Carbs Defined: 'Zero net carbs' means digestible carbohydrates are close to zero after subtracting dietary fiber and certain sugar alcohols.
Label Reading is Key: It is crucial to read the full nutrition label, not just the front-of-package claims, to know the total calorie and macronutrient content.
Special Ingredients: These tortillas use ingredients like resistant wheat starch, cellulose fiber, and vital wheat gluten to replace traditional flour.
Individual Response Varies: Some individuals might experience a blood sugar response or digestive issues, so monitoring your body's reaction is important.
Homemade Alternative: You can make homemade tortillas with almond or coconut flour to control ingredients and potentially avoid processed starches.

What are 'Zero Net Carb' Tortillas?

The term 'zero net carb' refers to the carbohydrates that are digested and used for energy, calculated by subtracting dietary fiber and some sugar alcohols from total carbs. To achieve this, manufacturers use high-fiber, indigestible ingredients like resistant wheat starch and cellulose fiber in place of traditional flour. While fiber doesn't impact blood sugar and is subtracted from the carb count, these tortillas still contain calories from protein and fat. Therefore, checking the total calorie count is crucial.

Popular 'No Carb' Tortillas and Their Calorie Counts

Calorie counts for 'zero net carb' tortillas vary by brand and size. For instance, Mission Zero Net Carbs tortillas (Original) have 25 calories for a street taco size and up to 110 for a larger one. Other brands like Ole Mexican Foods Xtreme Wellness, La Tortilla Factory Carb Cutting, and Mama Lupe's Zero Carb tortillas typically contain around 60 calories per serving. Guerrero also offers a zero net carb option with calories from non-carb sources. It is important to note that 'no carb' does not mean zero calories, and reviewing the nutrition facts is essential.

How Ingredients Impact Calorie Content

The calorie content of 'zero net carb' tortillas comes from their specific ingredients. Indigestible fibers like resistant wheat starch and cellulose fiber contribute some calories. Added proteins, such as wheat gluten and pea protein, provide 4 calories per gram. Fats, like vegetable shortening or oil, contribute significantly with 9 calories per gram.

Comparison of Different Tortilla Types

Here's a comparison to illustrate the calorie and carbohydrate differences:


Tortilla Type	Calories (per standard serving)	Total Carbs (g)	Net Carbs (g)	Fiber (g)	Protein (g)
Traditional Flour	~200-250	~35-45	~35-45	1-2	4-5
Traditional Corn	~100-150	~20-30	~18-28	2-3	2-3
Zero Net Carb	~25-60	~7-14	0-2	~7-14	2-7
Low-Carb (higher net carbs)	~50-90	~10-15	3-6	~5-10	4-8

The Role of Low-Carb Tortillas in a Diet

Low-carb tortillas can be useful for those following a keto or low-carb diet to enjoy foods like tacos and wraps while managing carb intake. However, calorie consumption still matters for weight management. Some individuals may experience digestive issues or blood sugar spikes due to sensitivity to the ingredients. Testing your personal tolerance is advised.

Homemade vs. Store-bought Tortillas

Store-bought offers convenience, consistent texture, and wider availability, with brands like Mission and La Tortilla Factory being popular choices. Homemade tortillas, often made with almond or coconut flour, allow for ingredient control, avoiding preservatives and modified starches, although they may differ in texture and cost.

For more information on choosing low-carb tortillas, a helpful overview can be found on Food Network. Food Network Low-Carb Tortillas

Conclusion: How many calories are in a no carb tortilla?

In conclusion, 'no carb' tortillas are not calorie-free. They typically contain 25 to 60 calories per serving, derived from fat, protein, and indigestible fiber. Understanding that 'net carbs' and total calories are distinct metrics and carefully reading the nutrition label are crucial for making informed dietary choices that support weight management and health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

'Zero net carbs' is a calculation that subtracts indigestible carbohydrates, primarily dietary fiber and certain sugar alcohols, from the total carbohydrate count.

No, they do not. While the digestible carbs are near zero, calories are still present from the fat and protein content, typically ranging from 25 to 60 calories per tortilla.

Common ingredients include water, modified wheat starch, vital wheat gluten, pea protein, cellulose fiber, and vegetable shortening or oils.

Some individuals, especially those with high sensitivity, may still experience a blood sugar spike from the non-digestible starches in low-carb tortillas. It is best to test your personal reaction.

Not necessarily. Many brands use vital wheat gluten for structure and elasticity, meaning they contain gluten and are not suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Homemade versions, often using almond or coconut flour, offer greater control over ingredients and can be less processed, but they can be more labor-intensive and may have a different texture than commercial products.

Yes. Some brands and homemade recipes use alternative flours like almond or coconut, or use cheese wraps, which can be naturally gluten-free.