Corn tortillas

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Common questions

Is Corn tortillas healthy?

Corn tortillas scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. These corn tortillas contain a moderate level of processing, with the inclusion of preservatives like propionic acid and gums such as guar and cellulose gum.

How processed is Corn tortillas?

Corn tortillas is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Corn tortillas' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Propionic Acid is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Corn tortillas

Bioengineered
65 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Tortillas and Wraps
Summary

These corn tortillas contain a moderate level of processing, with the inclusion of preservatives like propionic acid and gums such as guar and cellulose gum. While the base ingredients like stone ground corn and corn flour are relatively simple, the presence of synthetic additives indicates a higher processing level, which impacts the overall healthiness of the product.

Key ingredients 6

Stone Ground Corn
Neutral

Stone ground corn is a whole grain ingredient that provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It is minimally processed, retaining more nutrients compared to refined corn products. However, it lacks significant health benefits beyond basic nutrition.

Benefits

Provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients such as B vitamins and minerals.

Corn Flour Treated With Lime
Neutral

Corn flour treated with lime, also known as masa harina, is a traditional ingredient in tortillas. The lime treatment enhances the bioavailability of niacin and improves the texture of the flour. It is a staple in many diets but does not offer significant health benefits beyond basic nutrition.

Benefits

Enhances the bioavailability of niacin and provides a good source of carbohydrates.

Water
Neutral

Water is a basic ingredient used to hydrate and bind the dough. It is essential for the texture and consistency of the tortillas. Water itself does not provide nutritional benefits or risks.

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Guar Gum
Neutral

Guar gum is a thickening agent derived from guar beans, used to improve texture and stability. It is a natural additive and generally considered safe in small amounts. However, excessive consumption may lead to digestive issues.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to digestive issues such as bloating or gas.

Benefits

Helps improve texture and stability of food products.

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Cellulose Gum
Neutral

Cellulose gum is a thickening and stabilizing agent derived from plant fibers. It is widely used in food products to improve texture and consistency. While it is generally safe, it provides no nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Improves texture and consistency of food products.

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Propionic Acid
Bad

Propionic acid is a preservative used to extend the shelf life of food products by inhibiting mold growth. It is a synthetic additive and may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. While generally recognized as safe, its presence indicates a higher level of processing.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals and indicates higher processing levels.

See more about Propionic Acid →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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