Store-Bought Full Fat Mayo vs. Carnivore Principles
At its core, the carnivore diet is founded on the principle of consuming only animal products. This means eliminating all plant-based foods, including vegetable oils and most common seasonings. When you examine the ingredients list of a standard jar of full-fat mayonnaise, you'll quickly see why it's not compatible with this way of eating. The primary issue lies in the oil used to make it. Most commercial brands rely on cheap, industrial seed oils like soybean, canola, or sunflower oil. These oils are derived from plants and are highly processed, making them non-compliant with carnivore guidelines. Beyond the oil, store-bought mayonnaise often contains other non-compliant ingredients such as sugar, lemon juice, or mustard. For a strict carnivore, these are all off-limits, which means the jar from the supermarket is a definitive "no."
The Problem with Seed Oils
For many carnivore enthusiasts, avoiding seed oils is a crucial part of the diet's philosophy. These processed oils are believed by some to contribute to inflammation and other health issues. By eliminating them, proponents of the carnivore diet aim to reduce inflammatory markers and improve overall health. The fats in traditional mayonnaise—polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) from seeds—are a major point of contention. The carnivore approach favors saturated and monounsaturated fats from animal sources, which are believed to be more stable and less inflammatory. This is why simply opting for "full-fat" mayo from the store isn't enough; the source of that fat is the deciding factor.
The Carnivore-Compliant Mayonnaise Solution: Homemade
The good news is that mayonnaise itself isn't inherently non-carnivore. The concept of an emulsified egg and fat condiment is completely permissible, as long as the ingredients are sourced correctly. The solution is to make your own at home, where you have complete control over what goes into it. This allows you to use only approved animal-based ingredients to create a creamy, rich, and delicious sauce that aligns perfectly with your dietary rules.
How to make carnivore mayonnaise
The process for making carnivore mayo is straightforward and typically involves an immersion blender, a tall jar, and a few simple ingredients. Many recipes exist, but a basic, pure carnivore version would look like this:
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Ingredients:
- 2-3 egg yolks (pasture-raised if possible)
- 1/2 cup to 1 cup of softened animal fat (beef tallow, bacon grease, or duck fat work well)
- A pinch of sea salt to taste
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Instructions:
- Place the egg yolks and salt in a tall, narrow container or jar that barely fits the head of an immersion blender.
- Slowly start blending while very gradually drizzling in the softened animal fat. This is the most critical step to ensure proper emulsification. If you add the fat too quickly, the mayo will not thicken properly.
- Continue blending until the mixture becomes thick and creamy, similar to store-bought mayo.
- Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. It will thicken further as it chills.
Customizing Your Carnivore Mayo
For those who are less strict and allow for minimal plant-based ingredients, variations can add a bit more flavor. Some recipes include small amounts of vinegar, lemon juice, or mustard powder. These are often debated within the carnivore community, with purists opting for a simpler version. You can experiment to find a balance that works for your personal dietary boundaries.
Comparison: Homemade Carnivore Mayo vs. Store-Bought Mayo
| Feature | Homemade Carnivore Mayo | Store-Bought Full Fat Mayo |
|---|---|---|
| Fat Source | 100% Animal-Based (tallow, duck fat, bacon grease) | Industrial Seed Oils (canola, soy, sunflower) |
| Ingredients | Eggs, animal fat, salt, optional animal-based seasonings | Eggs, seed oils, sugar, lemon, vinegar, preservatives |
| Dietary Compliance | Fully Carnivore-approved | Not Carnivore-approved |
| Inflammation | Made with less inflammatory animal fats | Contains highly processed seed oils linked to inflammation |
| Control | Full control over all ingredients and sourcing | No control; reliant on brand formulation |
| Freshness | Made fresh, no preservatives | Long shelf life due to additives and preservatives |
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
To have full fat mayo on a carnivore diet, you must avoid store-bought versions and make a compliant, animal-based recipe at home. Commercial mayonnaise, even the full-fat variety, is universally non-compliant due to its reliance on plant-based seed oils, sugar, and other additives. By crafting your own mayonnaise with animal fats like beef tallow or bacon grease and egg yolks, you can enjoy a rich and creamy condiment without compromising the strict principles of your diet. This simple switch allows for a flavorful addition to your meat-centric meals, proving that condiments don't have to be off the menu entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key takeaways:
- Store-bought mayo is out: Commercial full-fat mayonnaise contains inflammatory seed oils and non-carnivore additives.
- Homemade mayo is in: A compliant version can be made at home using only animal-based ingredients.
- Animal fats are key: Use beef tallow, bacon grease, or duck fat as the oil source for homemade mayo.
- Simple ingredients: A basic carnivore mayo requires just egg yolks, animal fat, and salt.
- Adds variety: Homemade carnivore mayo can be a satisfying, rich condiment for meat and egg dishes.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
To have full fat mayo on a carnivore diet, you must avoid store-bought versions and make a compliant, animal-based recipe at home. Commercial mayonnaise, even the full-fat variety, is universally non-compliant due to its reliance on plant-based seed oils, sugar, and other additives. By crafting your own mayonnaise with animal fats like beef tallow or bacon grease and egg yolks, you can enjoy a rich and creamy condiment without compromising the strict principles of your diet. This simple switch allows for a flavorful addition to your meat-centric meals, proving that condiments don't have to be off the menu entirely.
