The consumption of tortilla in the United States has been on the rise in recent years due to the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine. According to the Tortilla Industry Association, tortilla consumption in the United States has exceeded that of bread and has become a staple food in many households. In fact, the association reports that Americans consumed over 12 billion pounds of tortillas in 2020, which is a significant increase from the 3.5 billion pounds consumed in 1982 (Tortilla Industry Association, 2021).
The growth in tortilla consumption can also be attributed to the increased demand for healthier food options. Tortillas are often viewed as a healthier alternative to bread because they are typically made with whole grains and do not contain as much sugar or fat as traditional bread. Additionally, tortillas are often used in dishes that are high in protein and fiber, such as tacos and burritos, making them a popular choice for health-conscious consumers (Vinson, 2020).
The rise in tortilla consumption has also led to an increase in the production of tortillas in the United States. There are now numerous companies that specialize in the production of tortillas, including both large corporations and smaller, family-owned businesses. Some of the largest producers of tortillas in the United States include Mission Foods, Guerrero, and La Tortilla Factory (Statista, 2021).
Overall, the increasing popularity of Mexican cuisine and the demand for healthier food options have contributed to the growth of tortilla consumption in the United States. As a result, the production of tortillas has become an important industry, providing both economic benefits and employment opportunities for many individuals and businesses across the country.
References:
- Tortilla Industry Association. (2021). The Tortilla Industry in the United States. Retrieved from https://www.tortilla-info.com/industry-facts
- Vinson, J. (2020). Why Tortillas Are the Healthier Bread Alternative. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tortillas-vs-bread
- Statista. (2021). Leading Tortilla Brands in the United States in 2020, by Sales (in Million U.S. Dollars). Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/1120716/leading-tortilla-brands-in-the-us-by-sales/
