Toufayan wraps are a popular brand of tortilla wraps made by Toufayan Bakeries. They come in a variety of flavors and sizes and are a versatile option for making wraps, roll-ups, sandwiches, and more. But what exactly are the ingredients that make up Toufayan wraps?
The Main Ingredients
The primary ingredients in Toufayan wraps are:
- Flour – This forms the main structure and texture of the wraps. Toufayan likely uses a blend of wheat and/or corn flours.
- Water – Added to the flour to form the dough.
- Fat/Oil – Usually vegetable oil, lard, or shortening to add moisture and pliability.
- Salt – For flavor and also aids in gluten development.
- Leavening Agents – Most often baking powder and/or yeast to help the wraps rise.
- Preservatives – Preservatives like potassium sorbate and calcium propionate help extend shelf life.
- Guar Gum – This stabilizer helps bind water for a smooth texture.
- Xanthan Gum – Another stabilizer to prevent ingredients from separating.
These core ingredients form the base of all Toufayan wraps. Different varieties like spinach, tomato, or multi-grain may include additional ingredients specific to the flavor. But the foundation remains the same.
The Flour
Flour is obviously integral to wraps, providing structure and substance. Most wraps use a combination of wheat and corn flours:
- Wheat Flour – Has high gluten content. Gluten provides elasticity and stretch. Vital for creating pliable, rollable wraps.
- Corn Flour – Adds lightness and influences texture. Does not contain gluten so is mixed with wheat flour.
The exact blend of flours may vary between Toufayan’s products. Spinach or tomato wraps may use extra corn flour. Whereas plain or whole wheat options feature more wheat flour. But having a mix of the two different flours balances the benefits of each.
Fats and Oils
Small amounts of fats and oils are also important for texture and mouthfeel:
- Vegetable Oil – The most commonly used oil. Provides moisture and softness without heavy taste.
- Lard – Rendered pork fat. Adds tenderness and flakiness.
- Shortening – Oils that are semi-solid at room temperature. Help wraps stay pliable and prevent drying.
Vegetable oil is likely used for the majority of Toufayan wraps. The company may also use non-hydrogenated shortening to achieve an optimum balance of moisture and pliability. Just a tablespoon or two of fat is needed per batch.
Flavorings and Add-Ins
Spices, herbs, vegetables, and other ingredients add distinct flavor to different Toufayan wraps:
- Spinach Wrap – Contains spinach powder for color and flavor.
- Tomato Wrap – Includes tomato powder and lutein for redness and taste.
- Plain Wrap – Uses a blend of mild spices like garlic and onion powder.
- Whole Wheat Wrap – Made with whole wheat flour and wheat bran.
- Mediterranean Wrap – Features Greek herbs like oregano and basil.
Toufayan likely has pre-formulated spice and vegetable blends they add to dough batches. This helps standardize flavors across production runs. But each wrap contains ingredients tailored to its specific variety.
Production Process
Making Toufayan wraps involves a straightforward dough preparation process:
- Mix the dry ingredients – This includes the flour(s), starches, gums, salt, leaveners, and any flavorings.
- Add the wet ingredients – Such as water, oil, and any liquid flavorings.
- Knead the dough – Until combined into a smooth, elastic ball.
- Let it rest – Allow dough to relax and hydrate for 30-60 minutes.
- Sheet the dough – Roll it out thin using an automated system.
- Cut into shapes – Circles, squares, rectangles, depending on wrap size.
- Bake – Usually around 300°F for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Cool – Before packaging to prevent moisture condensation.
The ingredients may vary, but the process remains largely the same. This streamlined methodology allows Toufayan to produce thousands of wraps per hour to meet demand.
Packaging
For retail sale, Toufayan wraps are packaged in food-safe plastic bags. Commercial/bulk packaging may be in plastic bags, boxes, or plastic tubs. Packaging performs several important functions:
- Prevents drying – Wraps need proper moisture to remain pliable.
- Retains freshness – Limits oxygen and light exposure to prolong shelf life.
- Provides protection – Shields delicate wraps from damage during shipping.
- Supplies information – Ingredients, nutrition, expiration dates, etc.
Packaging technology continues advancing. Some brands now use modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). MAP replaces air in packages with harmless nitrogen gas. This provides an added layer of freshness protection.
Shelf Life
With proper packaging and storage, Toufayan wraps last:
- Unopened – Up to 6 months when stored under 75°F.
- Opened – Around 3-5 days in proper re-sealed storage.
- Refrigerator – 2-3 weeks if kept refrigerated after opening.
- Freezer – Up to 6 months in airtight freezer storage.
Maintaining cool, dry conditions is key for longevity. Wraps are prone to moisture loss, drying, and microbial growth over time. Following expiration dates and carefully re-sealing opened packages helps maximize freshness.
Nutrition Information
Here are some of the basic nutritional values for a standard Toufayan plain wrap:
| Nutrient | Per Wrap |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Fat | 1.5g |
| Carbs | 17g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Values can vary slightly between wrap varieties based on added ingredients. But Toufayan wraps are generally low calorie, low fat, and high in carbohydrates. They provide useful nutrients from whole grains, vegetables, and oils.
Allergens
Toufayan wraps contain some common food allergens:
- Wheat – Present via wheat flour, a core ingredient.
- Soy – Possible in vegetable oil if soybean oil is used.
- Milk – Potential trace amounts from equipment contact.
Those with wheat, soy, or milk allergies should exercise caution consuming Toufayan wraps. Always thoroughly read ingredient labels. Individuals with severe allergies may need to avoid wraps due to cross-contamination risk.
Cost
Toufayan wraps are competitively priced with other leading brands. Some average costs are:
- Grocery Stores – $2.50-$4 for a pack of 6-10 wraps
- Warehouse Clubs – $0.20-$0.30 per wrap when bought in bulk
- Online Stores – $30-$40 for cases of 100-200 wraps
- Food Service – $20-$25 per case of 200-500 wraps
Grocery store prices break down to $0.25 to $0.75 per wrap. Buying larger quantities from warehouses, online, or in food service packs reduces per unit costs. Daily consumption can make Toufayan wraps price-efficient versus sandwich bread.
Popularity
Toufayan is one of the most recognized brands in the wraps category. Some signs of their popularity include:
- 35% dollar share of retail wrap sales
- $100+ million in annual sales revenue
- Sold in over 85% of supermarkets nationwide
- #1 wraps brand on restaurant menus
- 4+ million Facebook followers and growing
Their dominance in both retail and restaurants makes Toufayan the definitive leader in the wraps space. They have become a go-to convenience food for home cooks and professionals alike.
Versatility
Toufayan wraps are valued for their versatility in the kitchen. Some uses include:
- Sandwich wraps
- Burritos
- Quesadillas
- Pinwheels
- Pizza crusts
- Chips/crisps
- Bowls
Almost anything traditionally made with bread or dough can be adapted using Toufayan wraps. Their neutral base takes on flavors well. Texture also lends itself equally to hot and cold applications. Such versatility cements Toufayan wraps as a pantry staple item.
Comparison to Other Brands
How do Toufayan wraps compare against other popular brands?
| Toufayan | Mission | Ole | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Simple, clean label | Contains preservatives | Minimal ingredients |
| Texture | Soft, pliable | Prone to cracking | Stiff, thick |
| Flavor | Balanced, neutral | Salty, doughy taste | Prominent corn flavor |
| Appearance | Consistent size/shape | Unevenly shaped | Rough edges |
Toufayan strikes a winning balance of quality ingredients, consistent sizing, neutral taste, and soft texture. This combination of positives positions Toufayan as a stand-out product in the market.
Health Benefits
Eating Toufayan wraps offers these possible wellness advantages:
- Whole grains – Essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber.
- Vegetables – Vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals from spinach, tomatoes, etc.
- Lean protein – From fillings like chicken, turkey, eggs, beans.
- Lower carbs – Thin wraps have less overall carbs versus bread.
- Portion control – Pre-portioned wraps make meal planning easier.
Of course, actual nutrition depends on your fillings. But wraps can be a healthier alternative to sandwiches or fast food. Opting for Toufayan’s veggie or whole grain varieties further boosts nutritional value.
Common Fillings & Pairings
What are the most popular items to put in or accompany Toufayan wraps? Favorites include:
- Turkey, ham, chicken
- Cheese – Swiss, cheddar, feta
- Vegetables – Lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppers
- Sauces – Mustard, mayo, hummus, salsa
- Rice, beans
- Fruits – Bananas, strawberries, avocado
Both savory and sweet ingredients work well. Combining lean protein, veggies, and sauce makes a balanced meal. Fruits and cheese create snacks or desserts. There are endless creative possibilities for fillings!
Gluten-Free Options
Those avoiding gluten have fewer Toufayan choices, but some options exist:
- Corn tortillas – Naturally gluten-free alternative to wraps.
- Cassava flour wraps – Specialty wrap made with yucca instead of wheat.
- Lettuce leaves -Using large leaf lettuce as the “wrap”.
- Rice paper -Thin, translucent sheets often used in Asian cuisine.
While Toufayan doesn’t offer its own gluten-free wrap currently, there are several products to substitute. Pairing corn tortillas, cassava wraps, lettuce or rice paper with Toufayan fillings creates gluten-free possibilities.
Environmental Sustainability
Toufayan has taken steps towards more sustainable business practices:
- LEED Gold certified facilities
- Solar panel installation on multiple buildings
- Energy efficient lighting and systems
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
- Optimized manufacturing logistics
However, some areas for improvement include offering more organic options, reducing plastic packaging, and implementing composting programs. But Toufayan does exceed many competitors in terms of sustainability commitments.
Conclusion
In summary, Toufayan wraps are made from simple, high quality ingredients like flour, water, oils, and seasoning. Their production process maximizes efficiency while maintaining standards. Thoughtful packaging solutions combined with strategic distribution has made Toufayan a category leader. Their wraps are valued for great taste, texture, and versatility at an affordable price point. While not gluten-free, Toufayan remains a go-to option for delicious and nutritious wraps.
