Why do some people consider Taco Bell not to be Mexican food?

Because nothing in it is close to authentic. It might be best called “Mexican inspired” food. Authentic Mexican food is more than one thing. There are 31 States in Mexico and the capital and each of them have their own cuisine and within them there are flavors specific to their microclime. read more

The ground meat Taco Bell uses is very different than anything you'd find in Mexico, and Taco Bell uses a lot of sour cream, which wouldn't be typically used in a taco or any dish that Taco Bell sells (and, the Mexican crema also tastes different and has a different texture). read more

Still, Taco Bell should not be viewed as a hostile invader. It is a neighbor, grudgingly invited, but invited nonetheless. Mexican tradition and culture already have seeped into the U.S. mainstream—consider this a lob back across the Rio Grande. read more