What Are the Ingredients in Goya Corn Tortillas?
Goya's Corn Tortillas are primarily made from ground corn treated with lime and water. They also contain cellulose gum, guar gum, enzymes, and preservatives like propionic acid, benzoic acid, and phosphoric acid to maintain freshness and texture. Some versions may also list sodium hydroxide and parabens as preservatives. The lime treatment, or nixtamalization, is a traditional process that enhances the corn's nutritional value and makes it easier to use. Goya corn tortillas are a gluten-free option.
What Are the Ingredients in Goya Flour Tortillas?
Unlike the corn variety, Goya's flour tortillas are made with enriched wheat flour and additional ingredients for a soft, flexible texture. The specific ingredients can vary slightly depending on the product type, such as Fajita, Soft Taco, or Burrito tortillas. Common ingredients include water, palm oil or a vegetable shortening blend, salt, mono- and diglycerides, leavening agents like sodium bicarbonate, and preservatives such as calcium propionate and potassium sorbate. Other additives like sodium aluminum phosphate, sodium aluminum sulfate, corn starch, fumaric acid, calcium sulfate, soybean oil, monocalcium phosphate, enzymes, and sodium metabisulfite may also be present to improve dough handling and texture.
The Role of Additives in Goya Tortillas
Additives in Goya tortillas serve to improve texture, flavor, and extend shelf life. Preservatives like propionic acid, benzoic acid, calcium propionate, and potassium sorbate are used to prevent spoilage. Dough conditioners, such as fumaric acid and enzymes, enhance the pliability of flour tortillas. Leavening agents contribute to a lighter texture in flour tortillas, while stabilizers like cellulose and guar gum improve the structure of corn tortillas.
Goya Tortillas Ingredient Comparison
| Feature | Goya Corn Tortillas | Goya Flour Tortillas |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Grain | Ground corn (treated with lime) | Enriched wheat flour, including folic acid, niacin, and iron |
| Gluten Status | Gluten-free | Contains gluten |
| Fat Source | Very little fat, no added oil | Palm oil or vegetable shortening blend |
| Texture | Firmer, more distinct corn flavor | Softer, more pliable, and neutral in flavor |
| Common Preservatives | Propionic acid, benzoic acid, phosphoric acid | Calcium propionate, potassium sorbate |
| Other Additives | Cellulose gum, guar gum, enzymes | Leavening agents, mono- & diglycerides, dough conditioners |
Conclusion
The ingredients in Goya tortillas differ significantly depending on whether they are corn, flour, or whole wheat varieties. Corn tortillas offer a gluten-free option with a simple base of ground corn, while flour tortillas are made with enriched wheat flour and a longer list of additives to achieve a soft, pliable texture. Both types include preservatives to extend shelf life. Consumers should always check the product packaging for the most accurate and specific ingredient information. For a complete overview of Goya's product line, it is always best to consult the product's official page on their website Goya Foods product page.
