Back when we first wrote about the "Taco Tender", a piece of plastic designed to hold hard-shell tacos, in October of 2006, it was the only such product on the market we could find. Our comments section was soon filled with people debating the need, efficacy, and legitimacy of such a device.
A Google search today, however reveals that there are now at least 5 competing versions of the same idea: Taco Standup, TacoProper, Tito Chihuahua Taco Holder, Taco Trap, and of course the original one we covered, the Taco Tender.
Taco connisueurs may scoff at these devices, but they are yet another sign that the Taco Lifestyle is worming its way into every nook and cranny of the modern world. Today's gringo taco eater is tomorrow's buche and tripas aficionado, and we should encourage all new taqueros on their taco journeys, even if they begin with the purchase of a taco holder.