Yes, vegan mayo is dairy-free. It’s designed to be a plant-based alternative to traditional mayonnaise, which typically contains eggs. Vegan mayo instead uses ingredients like soy milk, pea protein, or other plant-based substances to create a creamy texture similar to traditional mayonnaise. However, it’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list if you have specific dietary restrictions, as formulations can vary between different brands.
Best Vegan & Dairy-Free Mayonnaise Brands
Hellmann’s Vegan Mayonnaise
Hellmann’s Vegan Mayo is a wonderful alternative to their traditional product. It has a creamy texture and rich flavor that mirrors their egg-based mayo. Whether used in sandwiches or salads, its neutral taste blends well with other ingredients.
Best Foods Vegan Mayonnaise
Best Foods Vegan Mayo offers a delightful tanginess characteristic of traditional mayo. Its smooth texture and versatility make it a great choice for various dishes. It’s a go-to for those seeking a plant-based alternative without compromising taste.
Sir Kensington’s Vegan Mayo Classic
Sir Kensington’s Vegan Mayo offers a slightly gourmet twist to vegan mayo. Its unique flavor profile with a subtle hint of lemon sets it apart. It has a slightly thicker texture, which works great for spreads and dips.
O’dang Foods Vegan Mayonnaise
O’dang Foods Vegan Mayo brings a distinctive, robust flavor to the table. It is slightly less creamy than its competitors, but its unique taste makes it a good choice for those experimenting with flavors.
Follow Your Heart Vegan Mayonnaise
Follow Your Heart Vegan Mayo is known for its creamy texture and mild flavor. It’s an excellent substitute for traditional mayo in most recipes, and it’s particularly popular among those following a vegan lifestyle.
Chosen Foods Classic Vegan Mayo
Chosen Foods Vegan Mayo is crafted with avocado oil, giving it a slightly different taste profile. Its creamy texture and light flavor make it versatile for various dishes.
Primal Kitchen Vegan Mayo Spread & Dip
Primal Kitchen’s Vegan Mayo is made with avocado oil and organic vinegar, giving it a unique, tangy taste. Its thicker consistency makes it a great spread or dip.
Sir Kensington’s Vegan Mayo Classic
This vegan mayo stands out with its slightly gourmet and unique flavor profile. It has a touch of brightness from lemon extracts that cuts through the creaminess, adding a delightful tang.
Tips for Buying Vegan & Dairy-Free Mayonnaise
Check the Ingredients: Always read the ingredient list to ensure the product is vegan. Look out for animal-derived ingredients like eggs or honey, which are common in some types of mayonnaise.
Consider Allergens: Check for potential allergens if you have any food allergies. Some vegan mayos might contain soy, nuts, or other allergens.
Look for Non-GMO and Organic Labels: If you prefer to avoid genetically modified ingredients or want a product made with organic ingredients, look for labels that certify this.
Taste Preference: Some brands have a tangier taste, while others are milder. If you can, try a few different brands to find one that suits your preference.
Consider the Oil Used: The type of oil used can affect the flavor and nutritional profile of the mayo. For example, avocado oil might have a slightly different flavor than canola or sunflower oil.
Sustainability and Ethics: Some brands emphasize sustainable practices and ethical sourcing of ingredients. If this is important to you, look for brands that align with these values.
Ingredients to Avoid when Buying Dairy-Free & Vegan Mayo
- Casein
- Whey
- Lactose
- Eggs
- Egg whites
- Egg yolks
- Albumin
- Lecithin (if derived from eggs)
- Honey
- Gelatin
- Some natural flavors (as they may be derived from dairy or other animal sources)
- Propolis (a byproduct of bees)
- Beeswax
- Certain food colorings (like carmine, which is derived from insects)
Vegan & Dairy-Free Mayonnaise Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup of unsweetened soy milk
- 5-2 cups of neutral oil like canola, sunflower, or avocado oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard (optional for flavor)
Instructions
- Combine the soy milk, vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and mustard in a blender or food processor. Blend until these ingredients are well combined.
- While the blender or food processor is running, slowly add the oil in a thin stream. Start with less; you can always add more later if needed. It’s important to add the oil slowly to emulsify the soy milk, giving the mayo its creamy texture.
- Continue blending until the mixture thickens to the consistency of mayonnaise. This can take a few minutes, so be patient. If it’s not thickening, you can add a bit more oil and continue to blend.
- Taste your mayo and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you want it a bit tangier, add a little more vinegar or lemon juice. You can thin it with a bit of water if it’s too thick.
- Once you’re happy with the flavor and consistency, transfer the mayo to a jar or container and refrigerate it. The mayo will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Remember, homemade mayo doesn’t have the preservatives that store-bought versions do, so it won’t last as long. It should stay good in the fridge for about a week.
Enjoy your homemade vegan, dairy-free mayo!
Vegan & Dairy-Free Foods to Make with Vegan Mayo
- Vegan Coleslaw
- Vegan Potato Salad
- Vegan Chickpea “Tuna” Salad
- Vegan Caesar Salad
- Vegan Mayo Aioli for Dipping Fries
- Vegan Eggless Salad Sandwich
- Vegan Mayo Pasta Salad
- Vegan “Chicken” Salad Wraps
- Vegan Mayo-based Dressing for Buddha Bowls
- Vegan Mayonnaise Chocolate Cake
Benefits of Eating Vegan Mayo
Plant-Based and Cruelty-Free
Vegan mayo does not use animal products or by-products, making it a cruelty-free option. This aligns with ethical considerations related to animal welfare.
Lowers Cholesterol
Unlike traditional mayo that uses eggs, vegan mayo does not contain dietary cholesterol. This could be beneficial for individuals managing their cholesterol levels.
Allergen-Friendly
Vegan mayo is typically free from common allergens like eggs and dairy, making it a suitable choice for those with certain food allergies or intolerances.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Depending on the type of oil used, vegan mayo can be a source of healthy fats. For example, if made with avocado or olive oil, it can provide monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Versatility in Diet
Vegan mayo can easily replace regular mayo in most recipes, allowing those following a vegan or dairy-free diet to enjoy familiar dishes without compromising taste or texture.
Sustainable Option
Generally, plant-based products are more sustainable than animal-derived counterparts, as they use fewer resources (water, land, etc.) to produce. Therefore, choosing vegan mayo can be a more environmentally friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dairy-free mayo always vegan?
No, dairy-free mayo isn’t always vegan. While it doesn’t contain dairy products, it might still include other animal-derived ingredients such as eggs or honey.
Is vegan mayo always dairy-free?
Yes, vegan mayo is always dairy-free, as it contains no animal-derived ingredients, including dairy.
Is traditional mayonnaise vegetarian?
Yes, traditional mayonnaise, which usually contains eggs, oil, and vinegar, is typically vegetarian. However, it’s not vegan due to the use of eggs.
Is Mayo gluten-free?
Most mayonnaise types, including traditional, vegan, and dairy-free, are typically gluten-free. However, always check the label for any potential gluten-containing additives.
Is dairy-free and vegan mayonnaise healthier than traditional mayo?
It depends on your dietary needs. Vegan mayo can be healthier for those managing their cholesterol levels since it doesn’t contain eggs. However, all mayos can be high in fat and calories, so they should be consumed in moderation.
How long does dairy-free mayo last?
Most store-bought dairy-free mayos last for about 2-3 months unopened. Once opened, they should be used within a month and kept in the refrigerator. Homemade versions have a shorter shelf life. Don’t forget to check the manufacturing and best-before date before buying.
Is KFC mayo dairy-free?
Checking with the specific KFC location is best, as ingredients can vary. However, many traditional mayos, potentially including KFC’s, contain eggs but not dairy.
Is McDonald’s mayo dairy-free?
McDonald’s mayo is typically dairy-free but is not vegan, as it contains eggs. Always check with the specific location for up-to-date ingredient information.
Is Miracle Whip dairy-free?
Miracle Whip is typically dairy-free, but it isn’t vegan as it contains eggs. As always, checking the label for the most accurate ingredient information is best.
