# El Monterey Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos 18ct

> Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop.

## Snapshot

- **Brand:** El Monterey
- **Retailer listed:** Foodtown
- **Category:** Frozen Foods
- **Size:** 20.70 oz
- **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/el-monterey-extra-crunchy-southwest-chicken-taquitos-18ct-2070-oz
- **Slug:** `el-monterey-extra-crunchy-southwest-chicken-taquitos-18ct-2070-oz`

## NOVA classification

**NOVA 4** - Ultra-processed foods

Contains multiple industrial ingredients and formulations (processed cheese blends, modified starches, emulsifiers, leavening agents, dough conditioners, flavorings) and is a ready-to-heat frozen product, matching the criteria for ultra-processed foods.

## Review

El Monterey Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos are a frozen appetizer/snack you’ll find in the supermarket’s frozen foods aisle, shelved with other frozen Mexican entrees, taquitos, burritos and party appetizers. Packaged in a brightly colored cardboard box with a sealed plastic bag inside, the product appeals to shoppers looking for quick, heat-and-serve options — often placed near value-oriented frozen brands and family-size snacks. These taquitos position themselves as bold-flavored, convenient freezer staples for busy households: marketed toward parents, kids and snackers who want an easy “Mexican-style” treat without cooking from scratch. The branding leans on indulgence (“extra crunchy,” “southwest”) rather than health; label copy highlights flavor and convenience and may mention being “protein-packed,” but there are no organic or natural-certification claims. The ingredient list includes multiple industrial ingredients and processed cheese blends, so in plain language this is a highly processed frozen convenience food made from pre-cooked, battered and seasoned components. Sensory notes: the shell is meant to be crisp and flaky when reheated (microwave for speed, air fryer for crunch), giving way to a warm, cheesy, savory filling of seasoned chicken, beans and peppers with a hint of jalapeño heat and smoky notes. Typical rituals include heating a few for a family snack, serving on a party platter with salsa, guacamole or ranch, or packing a leftover for a quick lunch. The product fits into American freezer-cupboard culture as a quick, crowd-pleasing convenience item rather than a fresh-cooked meal.

## Diet flags

- Vegetarian

## Nutrition

- **Serving size:** 3
- **Servings per container:** 6
- **Calories:** 240
- **Total fat:** 11g (14% DV)
- **Saturated fat:** 3g (15% DV)
- **Cholesterol:** 15mg (5% DV)
- **Sodium:** 380mg (17% DV)
- **Total carbs:** 26g (9% DV)
- **Dietary fiber:** 1g (4% DV)
- **Protein:** 8g

## Ingredients

Water, Enriched Wheat Flour: Enriched Wheat Flour (Enriched with Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Vegetable Oil (Soybean, Canola and/or Corn Oil), Batter Seasoning (Yellow Corn Flour, Enriched Wheat Flour [Enriched with Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid], Spices, Salt, Jalapeno Pepper, Leavening [Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Bicarbonate], Guar Gum, Oleoresin Paprika and Turmeric, Flavors), Pasteurized Process Monterey Jack and American Cheese Blend with Peppers: Pasteurized Process Monterey Jack and American Cheese Blend with Peppers (Jack and American Cheese [Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzymes], Water, Skim Milk, Palm Oil, Sodium Phosphates, Modified Food Starch, Peppers [Red, Green and Jalapeno Peppers], Salt, Lactic Acid), Low Moisture Mozzarella Cheese: Low Moisture Mozzarella Cheese (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Enzymes), Cooked Chicken: Cooked Chicken (Chicken, Water, Modified Food Starch, Salt, Sodium Phosphate), Cooked Black Beans (Water, Black Beans), Pasteurized Process Cheddar Cheese: Pasteurized Process Cheddar Cheese (Cheddar Cheese [Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzymes], Water, Contains 2% or Less Sodium Phosphate, Milkfat, Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Salt, Vegetable Color [Annatto and Paprika Oleoresin]), Spinach, Red Bell Pepper, Corn, Contains 2% or Less Modified Corn Starch, Jalapeno Pepper (with Salt, Acetic Acid, Calcium Chloride), Cilantro, Salt, Spices, Garlic (with Citric Acid), Chili Pepper, Smoke Powder (Maltodextrin, Natural Hickory Smoke Flavor), Dough Conditioners (Yeast, Wheat Gluten, Sugar, Guar Gum, Modified Food Starch).

## Flagged ingredients

- **Soybean Oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids
- **Canola Oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids
- **Sodium Phosphates** (emulsifier): Processed emulsifier
- **Sodium Phosphate** (preservative): Synthetic preservative
- **Annatto** (additive): Artificial coloring
- **Paprika Oleoresin** (additive): Artificial coloring

## Context tags

- **Occasions:** game-day-prep, movie-night, back-to-school
- **Vibes:** convenient, indulgent, nostalgic, comforting

## FAQ

### Is the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos healthy?

Healthy is a bit of a gray area, right? These taquitos pack a decent protein punch with 8 grams per serving, but they're also a bit heavy on sodium at 380 mg. If you’re looking for a quick meal option, they can definitely fit into a balanced diet, especially if you pair them with a side of veggies or a salad.

### Are the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos vegan?

Nope, these taquitos are not vegan. They contain a melty blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar, along with chicken. So, if you’re avoiding animal products, you might want to look for a different snack.

### Are the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos gluten-free?

Sadly, these taquitos are not gluten-free. They’re made with enriched wheat flour, which gives them that crispy crunch but also means they contain gluten. If you’re avoiding gluten, you’ll need to find an alternative.

### Do the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos contain seed oils?

Yep, they do contain seed oils, specifically soybean, canola, and/or corn oil. While some people steer clear of seed oils due to health concerns, they’re commonly used in processed foods for frying and texture. Just keep your overall dietary context in mind!

### Do the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos contain artificial sweeteners?

Nope, you won’t find any artificial sweeteners here. These taquitos focus more on savory flavors from spices and cheese rather than sweetness, which is a bonus if you’re looking to avoid those sneaky sweeteners.

### Are the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos high in sugar?

Not at all! They’re low in sugar, which is great if you’re trying to keep your sugar intake down. With no added sugars listed, these are more about savory goodness than sweet treats.

### What are some healthier alternatives to the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos?

If you’re looking for healthier options, consider making homemade taquitos using whole grain tortillas, lean proteins, and plenty of veggies. You could also try baked veggie or bean taquitos, which can be lower in fat and packed with nutrients.

### Can kids eat the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos?

Absolutely! Kids often love the crunchy exterior and cheesy filling. Just keep an eye on portion sizes and pair them with some fresh fruit or veggies to round out the meal.

### Are the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos good for weight loss?

While they’re not a weight-loss miracle, they can fit into a weight-loss plan if enjoyed in moderation. With 240 calories per serving, they can be a satisfying meal or snack when balanced with other nutritious foods throughout the day.

### Are the Extra Crunchy Southwest Chicken Taquitos ultra-processed?

They do fall into the ultra-processed category, given the long list of ingredients and the use of preservatives and processed cheeses. While they’re not the epitome of whole food, they can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a varied diet.

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