Ortega Taco Shells are made the authentic way using whole kernel corn. That's what gives them their distinctive flavor, aroma and texture. Only Ortega Taco Shells are carefully placed in a proprietary freshness pack to cushion and protect them from breaking. Each freshness pack is then vacuum sealed to keep the shells fresh and crisp. Taste the difference! It all started with chile peppers! The Ortega Chile Packaging Company was born in late 1800's when Emilio, the son of Maria Conception Jacinta Dominguez Ortega, moved to California and founded the first commercial food operation to preserve and package chile peppers, seeds for which he brought with him from New Mexico. Just like Mama Ortega, Emilio took great pride in the food he prepared and focused on providing the highest quality peppers to create the very best salsas and chiles.