Cultured Mexican Crema
Traditional Mexican cultured cream with approximately 35% butterfat, fermented to tangy perfection for drizzling over enchiladas and soups. HTS 0403.90.02.00 covers this fluid sour cream under General Note 15 for qualifying Mexican dairy imports. Distinct from higher-fat creme fraiche by butterfat limitation.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If unfermented fresh cream
Non-acidified cream remains in fresh cream Chapter 0401; fermentation required for sour cream classification.
If packaged in consumer retail containers
Same sour cream in retail packaging >1kg containers falls under consumer-packed subheading.
If butterfat approaches 45% with dairy spread characteristics
Near-limit butterfat products may qualify as dairy spreads under Chapter 0405 if emulsion structure matches definition.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Maintain cold chain documentation (2-4°C) proving fluid state at import to prevent reclassification as concentrated product
• Include production process certification showing lactic acid fermentation (pH ≤4.6) typical for sour cream classification
• Avoid common pitfall of declaring as 'whipping cream' which shifts to 0401 fresh cream headings
Related Products under HTS 0403.90.02.00
Mexican-Style Sour Cream
A thick, rich sour cream with 30-40% butterfat content, produced through fermentation of pasteurized cream, commonly used in Mexican cuisine for tacos and guacamole. Classified under HTS 0403.90.02.00 as sour cream containing not over 45% butterfat, entered pursuant to General Note 15 provisions for USMCA originating goods from Mexico. Meets buttermilk/sour cream fluid category specifications.
Grade A Mexican Sour Cream
Premium pasteurized sour cream from Mexican dairies with 36% butterfat, certified Grade A for foodservice use in restaurants. Enters under HTS 0403.90.02.00 pursuant to General Note 15 USMCA provisions for fluid sour cream not over 45% butterfat. Bulk packaged for commercial distribution.
Foodservice Mexican Crema Agria
'Crema Agria' branded sour cream at 32% butterfat for institutional kitchens, fermented from Mexican Grade A cream. HTS 0403.90.02.00 specifically for GN15 fluid sour cream imports. Provides authentic flavor for Tex-Mex restaurant applications.
Organic Mexican Sour Cream
Certified organic sour cream from Mexican pasture-raised cows, 28% butterfat, fermented traditionally without additives. Qualifies under HTS 0403.90.02.00 General Note 15 for USMCA organic dairy fluid sour cream ≤45% butterfat. Popular for health-conscious consumers.