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.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If entered outside General Note 15 provisions
Same sour cream product but without USMCA origin qualification falls under general sour cream subheading with TRQ limits.
If cultured with specific yogurt bacterial strains
Products meeting yogurt definition (Streptococcus thermophilus & Lactobacillus bulgaricus) classified in yogurt heading regardless of fat content.
If contains added fruit, nuts, or flavorings exceeding minor levels
Fermented milk products with significant added ingredients classified as food preparations rather than base dairy products.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify USMCA Certificate of Origin to qualify under General Note 15 for duty-free entry; non-originating goods revert to higher TRQ rates
• Provide lab analysis confirming butterfat ≤45% and sour cream fermentation process to avoid misclassification as yogurt (0403.10)
• Check dairy import license requirements even under GN15; declare fluid state and refrigeration needs on commercial invoice
Related Products under HTS 0403.90.02.00
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.
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.