While many people think that wraps may be a healthier lunch option, a new report has revealed that some contain more calories than a Big Mac and large fries from McDonalds.

The report by Safefood, What's in your Favourite Wraps?, was based on a survey of almost 240 takeaway wraps purchased in 80 retail outlets nationwide, including shops, sandwich outlets and coffee shops. It found that some wraps contained 977 calories. A Big Mac and large fries from McDonalds contains around 950 calories.

The report also found that the amount of fat and salt varied greatly, with some wraps containing over 50g of fat.

When portion sizes were analysed, the biggest wraps were found to be almost two-and-a-half times bigger than the smallest ones.

The three most popular fillings were found to be chicken and salad, chicken caesar salad and chicken tikka and salad. Of the chicken tikka and salad wraps analysed, the number of calories ranged from 267 to 977, and the total fat ranged from 6g to a massive 59g.

Speaking about the report, Dr Marian Faughnan of Safefood, noted that research has shown that one in three people believe wraps are a healthier lunchtime choice than a sandwich.

"In reality, the average tortilla wrap on its own contains149 calories, almost the same as two slices of bread which contain 158 calories. With people busy and looking for a healthier lunch option, choosing a pre-prepared wrap is understandable.

"However, our report shows that eating a large chicken tikka wrap with soft drink and a bag of crisps could mean almost 1,400 calories are eaten just at lunchtime alone. Wraps and sandwiches are a healthy option but we need to choose smaller portion sizes and fillings such as lean meat or fish and plenty of salad and vegetables," she commented.

Meanwhile, the report also revealed that on average, the three most popular wrap varieties contained high levels of salt. In fact, the chicken caesar salad wrap contained 4.3g of salt, which is 72% of an adult's guideline daily amount (GDA).

"Our research highlights the wide range of portion sizes, calorie, fat and salt content that people could be eating at lunchtime. The advice for consumers is the same whether they're ordering a wrap or sandwich - if you want a healthier option, choose a smaller portion size and go for grilled chicken instead of coated/deep-fried varieties.

"Cutting back on salty meats and sauces can also help, as can choosing wholegrain varieties to boost your fibre and adding more salad and vegetables," Dr Faughnan added.