Ingredients and products
Is mayonnaise vegan?
Short answer
Traditional mayonnaise is not vegan, because its key ingredient is hen egg yolks emulsified with oil and mustard. There are, however, plenty of plant-based mayonnaise alternatives that match the original in texture and flavour.
What is vegan mayonnaise made from?
Instead of egg yolk, plant emulsifiers are used to combine oil with the other ingredients:
Aquafaba: The liquid from a can of chickpeas — it works well in place of yolk in mayonnaise.
Soy drink: Unsweetened soy drink contains natural lecithin, which acts as an emulsifier.
Pea or sunflower protein: Often used in ready-made shop products.
Availability in shops:
You will find vegan mayonnaise without trouble in most supermarkets and discounters. Both well-known brands (for example Winiary, Kielecki, Roleski) and own-label ranges (for example Go Vege or Vemondo) have their own plant-based versions.
Brand ranges change, so always check the ingredients.