Mission Foods provides a range of gluten-free tortillas for those with dietary needs. While specific ingredients can differ between varieties like Original, Spinach Herb, or Chickpea, a core set of alternative flours, starches, and stabilizers are used.
Core Ingredients in Original Gluten-Free Tortillas
The Mission Original Gluten-Free Soft Taco Wraps use a specific mix to create a soft and flexible product, including flours, starches, fats, proteins, and functional additives.
Flours, Starches, and Water
Key components include water, modified food starch for structure, rice flour as a base, tapioca starch and flour for flexibility, resistant corn starch for fiber, millet flour for texture, and potato extract and starch for binding and pliability.
Fats and Proteins
Vegetable shortening, typically a blend of soybean oils, contributes to a soft texture. Pea protein and soybean flour are also included for protein content and structural support.
Stabilizers, Preservatives, and Other Additives
Mission includes various additives to ensure a long shelf life and consistent texture, which is particularly important for gluten-free products that can become stiff.
Ingredients like cellulose gum, guar gum, and xanthan gum act as thickening and stabilizing agents, crucial for mimicking gluten's elasticity. Leavening agents like baking soda and sodium acid pyrophosphate contribute to a lighter texture. Calcium propionate and sorbic acid serve as preservatives to maintain freshness. Fumaric acid aids in leavening and preservation, while sugar, sucralose, and dextrose add sweetness and improve flavor and browning. Inulin is often added to increase dietary fiber.
Comparison: Mission Original GF vs. Mission Corn Tortillas
| Feature | Mission Original Gluten-Free Tortillas | Mission Corn Tortillas (e.g., White Corn) | 
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | Rice Flour, Modified Food Starch | Corn Flour | 
| Naturally Gluten-Free | Formulated to be gluten-free, certified by a third party | Naturally gluten-free, made from corn masa flour | 
| Key Texture Aid | A blend of gums (xanthan, guar, cellulose) and starches | Pliability from the corn masa and hydration | 
| Common Allergens | Contains Soy | Generally free of major allergens, often made on dedicated lines | 
| Flavor Profile | Neutral, adaptable, and flour-like | Authentic corn flavor | 
| Fiber Content | High in fiber due to added ingredients like inulin | Typically lower in fiber than the original GF wraps | 
Conclusion: A Blend of Science and Taste
Mission's gluten-free tortillas utilize a blend of alternative flours, starches, gums, and preservatives. This specific formulation ensures a soft, pliable, and consistent texture, effectively replacing the function of gluten. Each ingredient serves a purpose, from providing structure and flavor to extending shelf life. For the most accurate information, consumers should always consult the packaging of the specific Mission gluten-free product they purchase.