What are the ingredients in Old El Paso tortillas?

November 28, 2025 •

3 min read

According to General Mills, the brand's parent company, the specific ingredients in Old El Paso tortillas vary significantly depending on the product, such as standard flour, corn, or specialty gluten-free options. This variation means that the list of components for a classic flour tortilla will be different from that of a modern gluten-free wrap, affecting texture, dietary suitability, and flavor.

Quick Summary

The ingredient list for Old El Paso tortillas differs by product type. While classic flour versions feature wheat flour, water, and palm oil, corn tortillas use corn masa flour and water. Specialty options, like gluten-free wraps, use alternative flours and starches. Key additives and preservatives vary across these different products.

Key Points

Flour Tortilla Ingredients: Old El Paso's classic flour tortillas typically contain enriched wheat flour, water, palm oil, glycerin, baking powder, and preservatives like potassium sorbate and calcium propionate.
Corn Tortilla Composition: The gluten-free white corn tortillas are made with white corn masa flour, water, stabilizers like glycerin and xanthan gum, and salt.
Gluten-Free Variety: For those with gluten sensitivity, specialty gluten-free tortillas utilize ingredients such as tapioca starch, white corn masa flour, quinoa, and amaranth flour.
Vegan Status Varies by Region: While some international Old El Paso products are explicitly vegan, certain US-based flour tortillas may contain animal-based emulsifiers, so label-checking is vital.
Additives and Preservatives: Stabilizers like glycerol and emulsifiers such as mono- and diglycerides are commonly used across different tortilla types to maintain texture and freshness.
Regional Ingredient Differences: The specific formulation can change based on the country, with some regions (like the UK) using different oils (e.g., sunflower oil) or fewer preservatives.

Old El Paso offers a wide variety of tortilla products, each with a distinct ingredient profile tailored to its specific type and purpose. The core components typically revolve around the base flour, such as wheat or corn, alongside water and a number of additives to ensure a long shelf life, soft texture, and consistent flavor. Knowing the specific ingredients is essential for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.

Flour Tortillas: The Classic Base

Old El Paso's soft flour tortillas typically contain enriched wheat flour, water, and palm oil for structure and texture. They also use glycerin for moisture, baking powder for leavening, mono- and diglycerides as emulsifiers, and salt for flavor. Preservatives like potassium sorbate and calcium propionate, along with fumaric acid, are included to extend shelf life. Some versions may contain hydrogenated vegetable oil and a dough conditioner.

Specialty and Regional Variations

Ingredient lists can vary based on region and product line. For example, Old El Paso's UK soft flour tortillas are listed with sunflower oil instead of palm oil and may contain fewer preservatives. Always check the specific packaging for the most accurate list, as formulations can differ.

Corn Tortillas: A Distinctive Profile

Old El Paso also produces corn tortillas, which have a much simpler, gluten-free ingredient list. The primary ingredients are white corn masa flour and water. Stabilizers like glycerin and xanthan gum are used to maintain texture and flexibility, along with salt for flavor and mono- and diglycerides as an emulsifier.

Comparing Old El Paso Tortilla Ingredients


Feature	Classic Flour Tortillas	Corn Tortillas	Gluten-Free Tortillas
Primary Grain	Enriched Wheat Flour	White Corn Masa Flour	Tapioca Starch, Corn Masa Flour, Quinoa, Amaranth
Typical Fat Source	Palm Oil Shortening, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil	Sunflower Oil (can vary)	Vegetable Oil (unspecified)
Texture Additives	Glycerin, Mono and Diglycerides, Dough Conditioner	Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Mono and Diglycerides	Glycerol, Xanthan Gum, Mono- and Diglycerides
Preservatives	Potassium Sorbate, Calcium Propionate	Varies by region, some versions are preservative-free	May contain preservatives depending on the market
Allergen Info	Contains wheat ingredients	Gluten-free	Gluten-free
Dietary Suitability	Generally vegetarian (check local sourcing for emulsifiers)	Often suitable for vegetarians and vegans	Suitable for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets

Dietary Considerations

For those with specific dietary needs, it's crucial to examine the label. While some products are explicitly labeled as vegan or gluten-free, others are not. For example, some US-based Old El Paso flour tortillas use mono- and diglycerides that may be animal-based. Many international versions, however, are clearly marked as vegan-friendly. Always double-check the packaging and contact the manufacturer if unsure.

Conclusion

Understanding what are the ingredients in Old El Paso tortillas requires looking beyond a single list and considering the specific product. From the refined flour and emulsifiers in classic versions to the simpler, gluten-free blends in corn tortillas, the composition changes significantly. Paying close attention to the packaging is essential for ensuring the product meets dietary requirements and preferences. This detailed knowledge allows consumers to make informed choices for their Mexican-inspired meals, whether seeking a classic soft taco or a specialty gluten-free wrap.

Visit the official Old El Paso website for ingredient details and product information.

Frequently Asked Questions

The vegan status of Old El Paso tortillas depends on the specific product and region. While some international products, like those sold in the UK and Australia, are marked as suitable for vegans, certain US flour tortillas may contain animal-derived emulsifiers. Always check the ingredients list on the packaging.

Not all Old El Paso tortillas are gluten-free. The company offers specific products, such as their white corn tortillas and specialty gluten-free wraps, which are made without wheat. Standard flour tortillas contain wheat and are not gluten-free.

Yes, many of Old El Paso's standard flour tortilla recipes, particularly those in the US market, list palm oil shortening as an ingredient. Some international versions may use different vegetable oils, such as sunflower oil.

Glycerin (also known as glycerol) is used as a humectant and stabilizer. It helps to keep the tortillas soft, moist, and flexible, preventing them from drying out or becoming brittle.

The ingredient lists differ to accommodate different dietary needs, textures, and flavor profiles. Flour tortillas require wheat flour for their soft, pliable consistency, while corn tortillas use corn masa for a specific taste and to be gluten-free.

Yes, to ensure a long shelf life and prevent mold, many Old El Paso tortillas contain preservatives. Common examples include potassium sorbate and calcium propionate, particularly in flour-based varieties.

While the Stand 'N' Stuff tortillas are also made from wheat flour, their ingredient list can have slight variations in oil and raising agents. The main difference is their shape, designed for easier filling, but the basic components are similar to regular soft flour tortillas.