Does Eggless Mayonnaise Exist? The Ultimate Guide

According to a 2024 Consumer Reports survey, over a quarter of U.S. households reported purchasing a plant-based food item in the past year, reflecting a growing demand for egg-free alternatives. So, does eggless mayonnaise exist? Yes, and it's a popular staple for vegans, those with egg allergies, or anyone seeking a plant-based alternative.

Quick Summary

This guide explains how eggless mayonnaise is made using plant-based emulsifiers like aquafaba or soy milk, detailing its preparation, flavor profile, and various commercial options for those avoiding eggs.

Key Points

• Eggless mayo is real: Yes, eggless mayonnaise exists and is widely available, with both homemade and commercial options easily found.

• Emulsifiers replace eggs: Instead of egg yolks, eggless mayonnaise uses plant-based emulsifiers like aquafaba (chickpea brine) or soy lecithin to bind oil and water together.

• Taste is comparable: The flavor and texture of high-quality eggless mayonnaise can be nearly identical to traditional mayo, without sacrificing creaminess.

• Suitable for many diets: It is a perfect alternative for vegans, individuals with egg allergies, or those looking to reduce cholesterol intake.

• Easy to make at home: Recipes often involve simple ingredients like soy milk, oil, and an acid, and can be whipped up quickly using an immersion blender.

Yes, Eggless Mayonnaise Absolutely Exists

For decades, culinary innovators have perfected the art of creating creamy, flavorful mayonnaise without a single egg. What was once a niche product is now widely available, with numerous brands and homemade recipes to choose from. The secret lies in using a plant-based ingredient to create an emulsion—the process of combining oil and a water-based liquid that typically don't mix—in place of the traditional egg yolk.

The Science Behind the Creaminess: Emulsifiers Explained

An emulsion is a stable mixture of two immiscible liquids, like oil and water. In traditional mayonnaise, the lecithin found in egg yolks acts as the powerful emulsifier that binds the ingredients together. Without the egg, a new ingredient must step in to perform this function. Fortunately, several plant-based substances possess similar emulsifying properties, allowing for the creation of a stable, creamy sauce.

Key emulsifying ingredients include:

• Aquafaba: The thick, viscous liquid found in a can of chickpeas is a remarkable egg substitute. When whipped, its proteins create a fluffy, stable base that can emulsify with oil to form a mayonnaise.
• Soy Lecithin: Derived from soybeans, this is a common commercial emulsifier used in many vegan mayonnaise products to achieve a texture nearly identical to the original.
• Plant-Based Milk: Unsweetened soy milk contains natural lecithin that helps it emulsify with oil when blended. Other non-dairy milks like almond or cashew can also be used, though soy milk typically yields the most stable result.
• Silken Tofu: The high protein and water content of silken tofu makes it an excellent creamy, neutral base for a homemade eggless mayonnaise. Blending it with oil and an acid creates a thick, smooth spread.

Making Eggless Mayonnaise at Home

Creating your own egg-free mayonnaise is straightforward, especially with an immersion blender. The process relies on slowly drizzling oil into a container of the emulsifying agent while continuously blending to form a thick, creamy mixture. Flavors can be adjusted to your liking with mustard, salt, and acids like lemon juice or vinegar.

The Rise of Commercial Eggless Mayonnaise

The increase in vegan and allergy-conscious diets has led to a boom in the market for commercial eggless mayonnaise products. Brands like Follow Your Heart's Vegenaise, Sir Kensington's Vegan Mayos, and Hellmann's Plant-Based Mayo have all entered the market, offering delicious and convenient alternatives that taste remarkably similar to their traditional counterparts.

Comparison: Eggless vs. Traditional Mayonnaise

Feature	Eggless Mayonnaise	Traditional Mayonnaise
Emulsifier	Plant-based ingredients like aquafaba, soy protein, or soy milk	Egg yolks, which contain lecithin
Dietary Suitability	Vegan, egg-free, often cholesterol-free and dairy-free	Contains egg, not suitable for vegan diets or those with egg allergies
Nutritional Profile	Varies by recipe and brand, but can have lower cholesterol and saturated fat	Contains cholesterol and fat from the egg yolk
Flavor Profile	Can be identical to traditional mayo, or have a subtle undertone from the plant-based ingredients	Classic, rich, and slightly tangy flavor
Shelf Life	Can sometimes have a longer shelf life due to pasteurization and lack of raw egg	Shorter shelf life if made fresh; store-bought is stable

Flavor and Usage

Contrary to some beliefs, eggless mayonnaise does not have to be a compromise in taste or texture. Many tasters find that high-quality plant-based mayos are nearly indistinguishable from regular versions. The final flavor is influenced by the type of oil and acid used, and the condiment can be used in all the same applications as traditional mayo, including sandwiches, salads, and creamy dressings. You can also experiment with additional flavorings like garlic, herbs, or spices to create unique spreads.

Conclusion

Does eggless mayonnaise exist? Absolutely. With the rise of plant-based eating and awareness of food allergies, eggless and vegan mayonnaise options are more accessible and delicious than ever. Whether you make it at home with aquafaba or pick up a store-bought version, this versatile condiment provides a creamy, satisfying alternative for a variety of dietary needs and culinary uses. Its development showcases how culinary science has enabled us to enjoy classic foods without animal products, opening up new possibilities for everyone. For those with a taste for the traditional, there is no need to sacrifice, while those seeking a plant-based option can find a perfect match. The availability and quality of eggless mayo make it a permanent and welcome fixture in modern cuisine.

Sources

• Plant Based Folk. (2021). Homemade Eggless Mayonnaise. https://plantbasedfolk.com/eggless-mayonnaise/
• WebMD. (2025). What to Know About Mayonnaise and Is It Dairy-Free?. https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-to-know-about-mayonnaise-and-is-it-dairy-free
• bedda world. Vegan mayonnaise without egg & lactose. https://bedda-world.com/uk/bedda-living/vegan-mayonnaise-without-egg-lactose/
• Plant Based Folk. (2021). Homemade Eggless Mayonnaise - Plant Based Folk. https://plantbasedfolk.com/eggless-mayonnaise/
• Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI). (2024). Is mayo healthy? You might be surprised. https://www.cspi.org/article/mayo-healthy-you-might-be-surprised
• Plant Based Folk. (2021). Homemade Eggless Mayonnaise - Plant Based Folk. https://plantbasedfolk.com/eggless-mayonnaise/
• Jessica in the Kitchen. (2020). Vegan Mayo (Thick and Creamy). https://jessicainthekitchen.com/vegan-mayonnaise/
• The Blender Girl. Vegan Herb Mayonnaise. https://theblendergirl.com/recipe/vegan-herb-mayonnaise/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is eggless mayonnaise made of?

Eggless mayonnaise is made by using plant-based emulsifiers, such as aquafaba (chickpea water), soy milk, or silken tofu, to bind oil and an acid like vinegar or lemon juice into a creamy emulsion.

Is eggless mayonnaise suitable for vegans?

Yes, true eggless mayonnaise is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Many commercial brands explicitly label their products as "vegan mayo".

Does vegan mayonnaise taste the same as regular mayo?

While the taste can vary by brand and ingredients, many high-quality vegan mayonnaises achieve a flavor and texture that is remarkably similar to traditional egg-based mayo.

Can people with egg allergies eat eggless mayonnaise?

Yes, eggless mayonnaise is a safe and delicious option for individuals with egg allergies, provided they check the specific ingredients for other potential allergens.

How do you make homemade eggless mayonnaise?

Making eggless mayonnaise at home is easy and often involves using an immersion blender to slowly incorporate a neutral oil into a mixture of a plant-based liquid (like aquafaba or soy milk), mustard, and an acid until it thickens.

What are the common alternatives to eggs in mayonnaise?

Common egg substitutes used as emulsifiers in eggless mayonnaise include aquafaba, soy protein, soy milk, and silken tofu.

Does eggless mayonnaise have less fat or calories?

Not necessarily. While some vegan mayos may be lower in saturated fat or cholesterol, the fat content is still determined by the oil used. Nutritional values vary widely across different brands and recipes.