Is Real Clotted Cream Illegal In The US? (2024)

Find yourself at a traditional afternoon tea in England, and you'll have trays full of scones, bite-sized sandwiches, and small cakes served with jams and clotted cream. The clotted cream might be the one component that sounds unfamiliar to many in the United States because it's not easy to find an authentic version of the British condiment here. The thick white topping is mildly sweet and is made from milk that's been heated for several hours and then cooled until it thickens. Across the pond, unpasteurized milk is traditionally used, which is the reason why it's hard to find in the U.S.

As far as the legalities of buying real clotted cream in the U.S. go, it depends on what state you live in. Following a 1987 ruling from the Food and Drug Administration,the interstate sale of raw milk was banned in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,raw milk can contain harmful bacteria and germs, whichcan be especially risky for certain individualslike those who are pregnant or elderly. However, because some claim the pasteurization process eliminates nutrients, others have taken a pro-raw milk stance.

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The Sale Of Raw Milk In The US

Is Real Clotted Cream Illegal In The US? (1)

Despite health risks, raw milk is becoming increasingly popular and has beenlegalized in several states.Iowa is one of the most recent states to legalize the sale of unpasteurized milk from small producers, having done so inJuly 2023. In California, Pennsylvania, Washington, and other states, unpasteurized milk is legal to sell at retail stores, but regulations vary by state. For example, California allows for the sale of raw butter and cream so you might find authentic clotted cream to try with ourclassic English scone recipe. In states like New York, Texas, and others, you can only buy raw milk directly from farms.

That doesn't mean that you're totally out of luck when it comes to clotted cream here in the U.S. It might not be authentic, but versions of the cream are for sale on Amazon and at stores like Whole Foods. The difference is that these products are made with pasteurized milk, including the varieties that are made in England and sold here.

You can also make homemade clotted cream to use on your pastries. One technique is to pour cream into a baking dish,place it in the oven at a low temperature for up to 12 hours, chill, then separate the cream from the liquid. You can serve the clotted cream on fresh berries, muffins, scones, or other pastries.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.

Is Real Clotted Cream Illegal In The US? (2024)

FAQs

Is Real Clotted Cream Illegal In The US? ›

Its exclusivity extends beyond England, however, as clotted cream is technically illegal in America. Why? True clotted cream is made with unpasteurized milk, and the FDA officially banned the distribution of any milk or milk products that haven't been pasteurized in America in 1987.

Is clotted cream illegal in the US? ›

In California, Pennsylvania, Washington, and other states, unpasteurized milk is legal to sell at retail stores, but regulations vary by state. For example, California allows for the sale of raw butter and cream so you might find authentic clotted cream to try with our classic English scone recipe.

Can I take clotted cream to the USA? ›

It is absolutely permissable to bring clotted cream into the US from the UK. I've done it multiple times, but not in carry-on, it must go in checked baggage. Wrap it tightly in cling film to prevent leaks, pack in a soft cooler with a freezer block, declare on customs form et voila, clotted cream in the US!

What is clotted cream called in the United States? ›

Also known as Devonshire cream, clotted cream is a thick cream that originated in the Southwest of England.

How do Brits eat clotted cream? ›

In the U.K., it's common to serve a dollop of clotted cream with fresh strawberries or other summer berries. You can use clotted cream in place of butter to accompany baked goods such as muffins and quick breads. Additionally, In the U.K., it's used to make confections such as fudge, ice cream and truffles.

What is the point of clotted cream? ›

Clotted cream can be used as an accompaniment to hot or cold desserts. Clotted cream, especially clotted cream from Devon, where it is less yellow due to lower carotene levels in the grass, is regularly used in baking. It is used throughout southwest England in the production of ice cream and fudge.

Does clotted cream need to be refrigerated? ›

Yes and No - what is unique about this product is that it is shelf stable and does not require refrigeration until it has been opened. As you may remember the Clotted and Double Cream we carried previously had to be refrigerated at all times.

Why don t they sell clotted cream in the US? ›

While states are able to make some of their own rules regarding raw and unpasteurized dairy, the distribution of such products is banned by the FDA, so you'll have a hard time finding clotted cream in any U.S. grocery store.

Is clotted cream healthy? ›

Clotted cream offers potential health benefits like improving cholesterol profile and providing essential vitamins and minerals. Clotted cream can be used in a variety of dishes, from coffee creamer to savory soups, adding a touch of indulgence to your keto meals.

Does clotted cream count as liquid on a plane? ›

The rules are the rules. While you might argue that a one-person portion of chicken and mushroom bears less threat to the safety of your fellow passengers than a lighter, liquid is liquid. Well, 101ml or more of liquid. The same goes for mascara, clotted cream and of course, water.

What is the closest thing to clotted cream? ›

So if you're unable to find clotted cream, don't feel like making your own, or want to try something different, whipped cream, mascarpone cheese, and coconut cream are all fine substitutes. Each of these options provides a creamy texture and can be enjoyed with scones and desserts.

Can I whip clotted cream? ›

No. If done right, the consistency will already be thick and creamy with no extra whipping required. How do you loosen clotted cream? If you feel like the consistency is too thick, simply stir in a small amount of the thin leftover liquid.

What do you eat clotted cream with? ›

It's often served on scones with jam, but would be just as delicious spread onto crumpets or quick breads. When berries are in season, it's also popular to serve a bowl of fresh fruit with a dollop of clotted cream. Once opened, a jar of the cream will keep refrigerated for about three days.

Can you use clotted cream in coffee? ›

Can you put clotted cream in coffee? Clotted cream is too heavy for coffee, but single and double cream can be used. To float double cream on top add some sugar to the coffee and lightly whip the cream first.

What is the difference between Cornish and Devon clotted cream? ›

Differences Between Cornish and Devonshire Clotted Cream

Both Devonshire and Cornish clotted cream is produced using the same or similar methods, the main difference comes from the cows pastures (the better the cows diet the better the clotted cream).

Can you eat clotted cream on toast? ›

Clotted cream is most often served on scones with jam. You can also dollop it onto crumpets and toast or pair it with fresh berries.

Is clotted cream banned in Canada? ›

"The Canadian Government" has not allowed companies the quota to import Clotted Cream from England. If/when independent retail locations import Clotted Cream they would be (and are) subject to a tax and tarrif around 70% of the retail price of the cream.

Is clotted cream just whipped cream? ›

Clotted cream and whipped cream are both made with heavy cream, but while whipped cream is whipped into airy peaks, clotted cream is heated and separated, for a far denser texture. With its ultra-thick consistency, clotted cream can even be mistaken for butter.

Can clotted cream be posted? ›

Devonshire clotted cream is not just for Christmas, this is a must have all year round. If you are looking for a gift for yourself, your family or friends then please place your order here for a 200g Langage Farm clotted cream by post. We despatch every Tuesday and Thursday.

Why is unpasteurized milk illegal? ›

Raw milk can carry dangerous germs such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, Campylobacter, and others that cause foodborne illness, often called “food poisoning.” These germs can seriously injure the health of anyone who drinks raw milk or eats products made from raw milk.

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