Ingredient

Sour Cream

Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add sour cream to products for its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and to …

What is Sour Cream?

Sour cream is a dairy product created by fermenting regular cream with lactic acid bacteria. This fermentation process thickens the cream and gives it a characteristic tangy flavor. It typically contains at least 18% milkfat.

Is Sour Cream vegan?

No. Sour Cream is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.

Is Sour Cream a major allergen?

Sour cream is derived from milk, which is one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA.

What is Sour Cream used for?

Manufacturers add sour cream to products for its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and to add moisture.

Is Sour Cream safe?

Sour cream is a common food ingredient and not regulated by the FDA as an additive.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add sour cream to products for its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and to add moisture. It is commonly found in snack foods like chips, baked goods such as cakes and pastries, and various dips and sauces. Its richness can also improve the mouthfeel of many processed foods.

Health notes

Sour cream is a common food ingredient and not regulated by the FDA as an additive. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) as a traditional food. As a dairy product, it contributes fat and calories to the diet. There are no specific health controversies associated with sour cream itself, beyond general dietary considerations for fat intake.

Allergen info

Sour cream is derived from milk, which is one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA.

Foods that contain Sour Cream

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.