How many carbs are in a spoonful of mayonnaise?

November 26, 2025 •

3 min read

Most traditional mayonnaise contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per tablespoon, making it a surprisingly low-carb condiment. This emulsified sauce, made primarily from oil, egg yolks, and vinegar, is a staple in many kitchens, but its nutritional profile can vary significantly depending on the brand and whether it is a full-fat, light, or homemade version.

Quick Summary

A spoonful of traditional mayonnaise has very few carbohydrates, often less than one gram. The exact amount can differ based on the brand, ingredients, and whether added sugars or stabilizers are used. This makes it a suitable option for low-carb and ketogenic diets, provided you check the label for hidden carbs.

Key Points

Low Carb Count: A standard tablespoon of traditional mayonnaise contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
Ingredient Impact: The carb content can increase in store-bought mayonnaise due to added sugars, starches, and other fillers, especially in 'light' or flavored versions.
Check the Label: Always read the nutrition facts label carefully, as 'light' versions may have more carbs than full-fat ones and hidden sugars are common.
Homemade is Best: Making your own mayonnaise allows for complete control over ingredients, ensuring it is sugar-free and made with high-quality oils like avocado or olive oil.
Moderation is Key: While low in carbs, mayonnaise is high in fat and calories, so portion control is important, especially for those managing blood sugar or weight.

Decoding the Carb Count: Traditional vs. Low-Carb Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise, at its core, is a simple emulsion of oil and egg yolk, which are both naturally very low in carbohydrates. The standard serving size for mayonnaise is typically one tablespoon (about 14-15 grams). For a traditional, full-fat version, the carb count is typically so low that it often registers as 0 or under 1 gram on a nutritional label. This is because the primary ingredients—oil and egg—provide virtually no carbohydrates.

The Impact of Ingredients on Carb Content

While traditional mayonnaise is carb-friendly, not all mayonnaise products are created equal. The variation in carb content across different types of mayonnaise comes down to the other ingredients added during processing. Many mass-produced brands include small amounts of added sugar or starches to stabilize the emulsion and enhance flavor, which can increase the carbohydrate count slightly.

Added Sugars: Some commercial brands add small amounts of sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. While often minimal in a single serving, these can add up if you use mayonnaise frequently.
Flavorings and Thickeners: Some varieties, especially those labeled as flavored mayonnaise or salad dressing, might contain additional ingredients that contribute to a higher carb count. Examples include certain spices or thickeners that are not naturally carb-free.
Diet and Light Versions: Interestingly, some 'light' or 'reduced-fat' mayonnaise options can have a higher carb content than their full-fat counterparts. This is because fat is often replaced with stabilizers and fillers that can sometimes contain more carbohydrates to maintain a similar texture and taste profile. Always check the nutrition facts label, as reduced-fat doesn't automatically mean fewer carbs.

Comparison Table: Mayonnaise Varieties and Their Carb Content

To illustrate the differences, here is a comparison of the approximate carb content per tablespoon for various types of mayonnaise, based on typical nutritional data:


Mayonnaise Type	Approx. Carbohydrates (per 1 tbsp)	Key Difference	Keto-Friendly?
Traditional Full-Fat	< 1 gram	Standard recipe, low carbs	Yes
Light / Reduced-Fat	1-2 grams	Fat replaced with starches or fillers	Check Label
Homemade Mayo (Keto)	0.1 gram	Made with specific oils and no sugar	Yes
Vegan Mayo	1-2+ grams	Egg-free, may use added starches or sugar	Check Label
Flavored Mayo	Variable	Can contain added sugars or spices	Check Label

The DIY Advantage: Making Your Own Low-Carb Mayonnaise

For those who follow strict low-carb or ketogenic diets, making your own mayonnaise is an excellent way to have complete control over the ingredients. This ensures it is sugar-free and made with high-quality, keto-friendly oils like avocado or olive oil.

Recipe for Homemade Keto Mayonnaise:
1. Combine 1 egg yolk (room temperature), 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
2. Slowly drizzle in 3/4 cup of avocado or light olive oil while continuously whisking or using an immersion blender until the mixture emulsifies and thickens.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This simple process creates a delicious, creamy condiment with virtually no carbs, and you can be certain of every ingredient. You can also experiment with different flavor additions like garlic, herbs, or smoked paprika to make your own signature aioli.

Conclusion

In summary, a spoonful of traditional mayonnaise is very low in carbohydrates, typically containing less than one gram. This makes it a great condiment for those watching their carb intake, including individuals on a keto diet. However, the key is to be mindful of store-bought variations, especially 'light' or flavored versions, which may contain added sugars or starches. The best way to guarantee a truly low-carb mayonnaise is to make your own, giving you full control over the ingredients and nutritional profile. For those with diabetes, consuming mayonnaise in moderation is key due to its high-fat content, but its low carb count makes it a safe choice in controlled portions. For further reading on low-carb eating, explore resources like the Diet Doctor's guide to keto fats and sauces.

Making Smart Choices for Healthier Condiments

Understanding the nuanced differences between mayo products can empower you to make informed decisions for your health and dietary goals. Always read the label and consider making your own to avoid hidden additives. It’s a simple change that can have a positive impact on your overall nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the carb content can vary. While traditional full-fat mayonnaise has very few carbs, some mass-produced brands add sugar or starches, which increases the carbohydrate count, especially in 'light' or flavored varieties.

Yes, traditional, full-fat mayonnaise is typically keto-friendly due to its high fat and very low carbohydrate content. However, it's important to check the label for added sugars or high-fructose corn syrup that would make it less suitable for a strict keto diet.

Sometimes, yes. To compensate for the reduced fat, manufacturers often add sugar and fillers, which can increase the carbohydrate content in 'light' versions compared to the full-fat product. Checking the label is essential.

To find a low-carb mayonnaise, look for brands that specify 'keto' or 'sugar-free' and check the nutrition label to ensure the total carbohydrates and sugar are as low as possible. Brands made with healthier oils like avocado oil are often a good bet.

Homemade mayonnaise can be lower in carbs because you have full control over the ingredients and can avoid any added sugars or starches found in some commercial products. It is made simply from oil, egg yolks, and an acid like vinegar or lemon juice.

No, the oil itself does not contain carbohydrates, so changing the type of oil (e.g., from soybean to avocado) does not alter the carb count. It does, however, affect the fat profile and flavor.

Yes, people with diabetes can eat mayonnaise. Since it contains very few carbohydrates, it will not significantly impact blood sugar levels. However, because it is high in fat and calories, it should be consumed in moderation.