Ingredient

Hellmann's Mayonnaise

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Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use mayonnaise as a base for dressings, dips, and spreads due to its …

What it is

Mayonnaise is a thick, creamy sauce made primarily from oil, egg yolk, and an acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice. The oil and egg yolk are blended together to create an emulsion, which gives mayonnaise its smooth texture. It is a popular condiment and ingredient in many dishes.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use mayonnaise as a base for dressings, dips, and spreads due to its rich flavor and creamy texture. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping to bind oil and water-based ingredients together in foods like potato salad and tuna salad. It is commonly found in deli salads, sandwiches, and as a condiment.

Health notes

Mayonnaise is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. It is primarily composed of fat and calories, so moderation is advised as part of a balanced diet. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated ingredients commonly found in mayonnaise, such as oils and eggs, but do not set specific health guidelines for mayonnaise itself. Concerns about saturated fat content exist, but mayonnaise is not typically a primary source of saturated fat in the diet.

Allergen info

Mayonnaise contains egg, which is one of the 9 FDA major allergens. It may also contain soy or other allergens depending on the specific ingredients used.

Products containing Hellmann's Mayonnaise

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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.