What are zero carb tortillas made of? An ingredient deep-dive

November 22, 2025 •

3 min read

According to manufacturers like Mission Foods, a single zero net carb tortilla contains a high amount of dietary fiber, sometimes over 12 grams, which is subtracted from the total carbohydrates. This unique nutritional profile is achieved by understanding what are zero carb tortillas made of, as their ingredients are a major departure from traditional flour.

Quick Summary

Zero net carb tortillas use modified starches, vital wheat gluten, and fibers like cellulose to replace high-carb flour. These ingredients enable a high fiber content, resulting in zero net carbs, while various additives provide pliability and shelf stability.

Key Points

Modified Starches: Resistant starches are the primary ingredient in commercial zero carb tortillas, allowing for a high total fiber count and zero net carbs.
Vital Wheat Gluten: This protein is crucial for providing the elasticity and chewy texture that makes commercial tortillas pliable.
High-Fiber Ingredients: Cellulose and oat fiber are added to increase the overall fiber content and aid in the low net carb calculation.
Processed Additives: Commercial versions include various preservatives, stabilizers, and emulsifiers to ensure a long shelf life and consistent texture.
Homemade Alternatives: Recipes for low-carb tortillas made at home often use ingredients like almond flour, psyllium husk, and eggs, resulting in a different taste and texture.
Net Carbs vs. Total Carbs: The 'zero net carb' claim is based on subtracting non-digestible fiber from total carbohydrates, not the complete absence of carbs.

The Core Components: Fiber and Protein

The most critical aspect of creating a zero-net-carb tortilla is replacing the high-carbohydrate flour found in traditional versions. Manufacturers achieve this by using a combination of high-fiber ingredients and wheat protein to mimic the texture and structure of a standard tortilla without the carb count.

At the heart of most commercial recipes are modified and resistant starches. These are starches that have been processed to resist digestion in the small intestine, acting more like dietary fiber than a digestible carbohydrate. This is what allows them to be subtracted from the total carb count, resulting in the 'zero net carb' claim.

Vital wheat gluten is another foundational ingredient. As a concentrated form of wheat protein, it provides the necessary elasticity and pliability that gluten gives to regular flour tortillas. This prevents the tortillas from being brittle or cracking when folded, a common problem with early low-carb substitutes.

The Ingredient Breakdown: What's Inside?

Commercial zero carb tortillas are a complex food product, with an ingredient list that differs significantly from a simple flour, water, and fat mixture. Common ingredients include modified wheat starch, vital wheat gluten, and cellulose fiber to provide structure and a high fiber count. Vegetable shortening or oil adds moisture, while leavening agents and various additives and preservatives ensure texture, freshness, and shelf stability. Some brands may also include sweeteners.

Example Zero Carb Ingredient List (Mission Brand)

A typical Mission Zero Net Carbs Tortilla lists water, modified food starch, vegetable shortening, wheat gluten isolate, vital wheat gluten, powdered cellulose, and pea protein among its ingredients, along with various other components like salt, leavening agents, and preservatives.

Comparison: Brand-Specific Formulas

While using fiber and protein is standard, brands vary their formulas. La Banderita, for instance, uses extra virgin olive oil and a mix of resistant wheat and potato starches, while others might use soybean oils. Formulas can change, so checking current packaging is recommended.

Home vs. Store-Bought Formulations

Homemade low-carb tortillas typically avoid processed starches, using ingredients like almond flour, psyllium husk, or coconut flour for different textures and flavors.

Ingredient Comparison Table


Feature	Commercial Zero Carb Tortillas	Homemade Low-Carb Tortillas
Core Ingredients	Modified/Resistant Starches, Vital Wheat Gluten, Cellulose Fiber	Almond Flour, Coconut Flour, Psyllium Husk, Eggs
Net Carbs	Typically 0g net carbs per serving (based on fiber)	Varies by recipe, typically low (e.g., 1-2g net carbs)
Flavor	Neutral, similar to traditional flour tortillas	Can have a noticeable flavor from the main ingredient (e.g., almond, coconut)
Texture	Pliable and durable, similar to commercial flour tortillas	Varies widely by recipe; can be more fragile or dense
Convenience	Ready-made and long-lasting due to preservatives	Requires preparation time and has a shorter shelf life

The Health Implications of Zero Carb Tortillas

The high fiber content of these tortillas can benefit digestive health and blood sugar, but their highly processed nature and ingredients like resistant starches might cause digestive issues for some. It's important to view them as a processed food substitute rather than a vegetable, and consider their ingredient list in the context of your overall diet.

Conclusion: Are Zero Carb Tortillas Right for You?

Zero net carb tortillas, made primarily from resistant starches and wheat gluten, offer a convenient way to enjoy low-carb wraps and tacos. However, they are processed and differ significantly from traditional or homemade alternatives using ingredients like almond flour or psyllium husk. Your choice depends on your dietary goals, health needs, and preference for convenience versus less processed ingredients.

For more insights into low-carb tortilla options, including a brand comparison, Hip2Keto offers a detailed review.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 'zero net carb' label is calculated by subtracting the grams of dietary fiber and certain sugar alcohols from the total carbohydrates. Because these tortillas are high in indigestible fibers and modified starches, their high total carbohydrate count is reduced to zero net carbs.

No, most commercial zero carb tortillas contain vital wheat gluten and other wheat-based ingredients, so they are not suitable for people with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. Gluten-free alternatives exist that use ingredients like almond or coconut flour instead.

Vital wheat gluten is a protein extracted from wheat that provides elasticity and structure. It is added to zero carb tortillas to create a pliable, chewy texture that mimics traditional flour tortillas and prevents them from cracking.

Commercial zero carb tortillas are formulated to have a very neutral, mild flavor that is similar to a traditional flour tortilla. This allows them to be used with a wide variety of fillings without imparting a strong taste.

This depends on your definition of 'healthier.' Homemade versions typically contain fewer processed ingredients and preservatives. However, commercial tortillas offer higher fiber content and more consistent texture. For those prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods, homemade is often the better choice.

For most people, zero net carb tortillas have minimal impact on blood sugar due to their high fiber and resistant starch content. However, individual responses can vary, and it's always wise to monitor your own reaction, especially if you have insulin resistance or diabetes.

Homemade low-carb tortillas typically use alternative flours and binding agents. Common ingredients include almond flour, coconut flour, psyllium husk powder, xanthan gum, and eggs.