A burrito is not considered a sandwich because it does not meet the specific criteria set by the USDA for what constitutes a sandwich. According to the USDA, a sandwich must contain at least 35 percent cooked meat and no more than 50 percent bread. While a burrito may contain cooked meat, it does not typically meet the bread requirement.
The USDA defines a burrito as a “Mexican style sandwich-like product consisting of a flour tortilla.” The key phrase here is “sandwich-like,” indicating that a burrito resembles a sandwich but is not classified as one. This is due to the differences in the composition and preparation of a burrito compared to a traditional sandwich.
One of the main distinctions between a burrito and a sandwich is the use of a tortilla instead of bread. While bread is a key component of a sandwich, a tortilla is the foundation of a burrito. Tortillas are made from flour or corn and are typically larger and more flexible than bread slices. The use of a tortilla allows for the filling of a burrito to be wrapped and enclosed, creating a handheld, portable meal.
Additionally, the fillings and ingredients used in a burrito are often different from those found in a sandwich. While sandwiches commonly include a variety of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments, burritos often feature Mexican-inspired flavors and ingredients such as rice, beans, salsa, guacamole, and various spices. The combination of these ingredients, along with the method of preparation, gives burritos their distinct taste and texture.
In terms of cultural context, burritos have a long-standing association with Mexican cuisine. They are a staple in Mexican American cuisine and are considered a traditional dish in many regions. This cultural significance further sets burritos apart from sandwiches, which do not have the same cultural connotations.
From a culinary perspective, the differences between a burrito and a sandwich extend beyond the ingredients and preparation. The way we eat and experience a burrito is distinct from how we consume a sandwich. Burritos are often eaten by hand, holding the wrapped tortilla and taking bites as we go. Sandwiches, on the other hand, are typically eaten with utensils or by hand, but the bread serves as a convenient vessel for holding the ingredients together.
A burrito is not considered a sandwich because it does not meet the specific criteria set by the USDA for what constitutes a sandwich. The use of a tortilla instead of bread, the distinct fillings and ingredients, the cultural associations, and the different eating experience all contribute to the classification of a burrito as a separate food item.