If you want to take portions of thick crème fraîche with you after Candlemas, check the texture before choosing a multipack. Carrefour and Auchan’s catalogues feature multipacks of 3 × 20 cl of semi-thick or single cream, which are not automatically a substitute for thick crème fraîche. A single 20 cl tub lets you open a small amount. For several recipes, a larger tub or pouch could be more suitable, as long as you plan how to store any leftovers and keep it chilled during transport.
If you only want to open a small amount of thick crème fraîche, it’s worth comparing a single 20 cl tub with larger formats. If you’re taking it in a lunchbox, also make sure it stays chilled as recommended by Anses.
If you’re making several toppings or sauces, a larger format can save you from opening several small tubs. Auchan offers thick crème fraîche in a 50 cl tub, while Carrefour lists a 33 cl pouch from Elle & Vire. Neither format comes in pre-portioned servings.
When choosing between light and full-fat thick crème fraîche, check the exact product rather than just the fat percentage. Auchan’s 20 cl, 15% fat product and its 50 cl, 30% fat product also have different ingredient lists.
For Candlemas, first make sure the product description matches the texture your recipe calls for. Then decide how much you want to open and compare the labels of the products you’re considering.
| What to consider | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Format and portions | The words “thick crème fraîche”, the number of units and the size of each tub or pouch. | If I’m taking a small portion with me, I’d rather open only the amount I need than buy a multipack of semi-thick crème fraîche when I need thick crème fraîche; around 42% of consumers would put format and portions first. |
| Texture for your recipe | The texture stated on the packaging and whether the product is recommended for hot or cold dishes. | If I’m making several Candlemas toppings or sauces, I want to choose a crème fraîche with the right texture for my recipe first; around 33% of consumers would prioritise the creaminess they’re looking for. |
| Fat content and ingredients | The fat percentage, ingredient list and milk information for the product you’re buying. | Before choosing between light and full-fat crème fraîche, I need to compare their ingredients, especially if I have to avoid milk; around 25% of consumers would prioritise this information. |
Carrefour’s catalogue includes multipacks in this size containing semi-thick crème fraîche. If your recipe calls for thick crème fraîche, the number of units alone doesn’t tell you whether the product is suitable.
Check the product description and texture of each item before comparing pack sizes.
Auchan’s product details state that its 20 cl light thick crème fraîche, with 15% fat, contains ingredients including modified maize starch and guar gum. Its 50 cl full-fat thick crème fraîche, with 30% fat, lists pasteurised cream and lactic cultures.
Compare the ingredient list and milk information on the exact product you plan to buy.
Even a separate portion must be stored according to the instructions on the packaging. Anses recommends limiting the time chilled products are in transit and using an insulated bag. The Ministry of the Economy also highlights the risks of breaking the cold chain.
Keep chilled crème fraîche cold during transport and follow the storage instructions, especially after opening.
You may need an insulated bag or another suitable way to keep it chilled during transport.
Organic thick crème fraîche in pouches, including a 33 cl light option with 12% fat listed by Carrefour.
Auchan’s product range includes 20 cl light thick crème fraîche with 15% fat and 50 cl full-fat thick crème fraîche with 30% fat.
A brand to consider when browsing the crème fraîche formats in Carrefour’s catalogue. Check the product description for each item.
E.Leclerc lists a 20 cl tub of Delisse thick crème fraîche with 30% fat.
Yes, as long as the chilled crème fraîche is stored according to the instructions on the packaging, including after opening. For transport, Anses recommends using an insulated bag and keeping time out of the fridge to a minimum. Don’t eat a product if the cold chain has been broken.
No. Carrefour’s catalogue includes 3 × 20 cl multipacks of semi-thick crème fraîche. If you need thick crème fraîche for a recipe, check the product description for each multipack.
Compare the fat content and ingredients of the exact products you’re considering. At Auchan, the 20 cl light thick crème fraîche contains 15% fat, while the 50 cl full-fat thick crème fraîche contains 30%. Their ingredient lists also differ.
No. The crème fraîche products mentioned here are made from milk. Always check the allergen information on the label of the product you’re buying, as the ingredients may vary.
Check the instructions on the specific tub rather than assuming they’re all the same. Auchan’s 45 cl tub of Président thick crème fraîche carries the instruction “Do not freeze”. Also follow the storage instructions after opening.