How Many Carbs Are in Mayonnaise Sauce?

November 14, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the USDA, a standard tablespoon of full-fat, regular mayonnaise contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates, making it a very low-carb condiment. The exact carbohydrate count in mayonnaise sauce, however, can vary significantly depending on the brand and type, especially for light or flavored versions.

Quick Summary

The carb count for mayonnaise is typically very low, often less than 1 gram per tablespoon for regular versions. Variations depend on the type, with light or flavored products potentially having added sugars that increase the total carbohydrate content. Homemade mayonnaise is generally zero-carb.

Key Points

Regular Mayonnaise is Low-Carb: A standard tablespoon of regular, full-fat mayonnaise contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates and is suitable for most low-carb diets.
Check Labels for Added Sugars: Avoid light, fat-free, or flavored mayonnaise varieties, as they often contain added sugars or starches that increase their carbohydrate content.
Choose Healthier Oils: For optimal health, select brands that use avocado or olive oil rather than cheaper, more inflammatory vegetable oils like soybean or canola.
Homemade is Zero-Carb: Making your own mayonnaise ensures it is completely free of added sugars and preservatives, giving you full control over the ingredients.
Versatile for Low-Carb Meals: Use low-carb mayonnaise as a base for dressings, a dip, or in egg and chicken salads to add healthy fats without the carbs.

Understanding the Carbohydrate Content of Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is a popular, creamy condiment that is a staple in many kitchens. Its simple base ingredients—oil, egg yolk, and an acidic element like vinegar or lemon juice—mean that it is naturally very low in carbohydrates. For those following low-carb, keto, or ketogenic diets, this makes mayonnaise an excellent choice for adding flavor and healthy fats to meals. However, not all mayonnaise is created equal, and it is crucial to read nutrition labels carefully to avoid products with hidden sugars.

The Basics: Full-Fat Mayonnaise and Carbs

A standard tablespoon (approximately 14 grams) of real, full-fat mayonnaise typically contains less than 1 gram of total carbohydrates, with zero dietary fiber. The majority of its calories come from fat, which is the primary macronutrient in this condiment. Because the carb count is so minimal, regular mayonnaise is often considered a zero-carb food by those on ketogenic diets, assuming moderate serving sizes. The key is to select a brand that uses simple, high-quality ingredients without any unnecessary additives.

Why Different Mayonnaises Have Different Carb Counts

So, if the base ingredients for mayonnaise are so low in carbs, why do some products have a higher count? The difference lies in the formulation of commercial products. Manufacturers often add ingredients to change the flavor profile, extend shelf life, or reduce fat content.

Light or Reduced-Fat Versions: When fat is removed from a food product, it is often replaced with sugar or starches to maintain a desirable texture and flavor. This is a primary reason why light mayonnaise can have a significantly higher carbohydrate count than its full-fat counterpart. For instance, a tablespoon of light mayonnaise might contain around 1.3 to 1.4 grams of carbohydrates, compared to the near-zero carbs in a full-fat version.
Flavored Mayonnaises: Many specialty mayonnaises, like those with chipotle, honey, or other sweet flavors, have added sugars. These added ingredients can dramatically increase the carb content. Always check the label on these products, as they can quickly add unwanted carbohydrates to your meal.
Imitation Mayonnaise and Salad Dressings: Products labeled as "mayonnaise-type dressing" or "salad dressing" (like Miracle Whip) are not true mayonnaise. They typically contain a lot more sugar and are not suitable for strict low-carb or keto diets.

The DIY Option: Homemade Mayonnaise

For those who want absolute control over their ingredients and carb count, making mayonnaise at home is a simple and rewarding process. A homemade version, made with egg yolk, a neutral-flavored oil (such as avocado or light olive oil), vinegar or lemon juice, and seasonings, will be virtually zero-carb.

Recipe for Zero-Carb Homemade Mayonnaise

Combine 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a bowl.
Whisk the ingredients together vigorously.
Slowly drizzle in 3/4 cup of avocado or olive oil while continuously whisking until the mixture emulsifies and thickens.
Season with salt to taste. The finished product is a creamy, fresh, and carb-free sauce.

Reading Nutrition Labels: What to Look For

When purchasing store-bought mayonnaise, follow these tips to make an informed choice:

Total vs. Net Carbs: For low-carb diets, net carbs are the most important metric. Net carbs are total carbohydrates minus dietary fiber. Since traditional mayonnaise has no fiber, the net carb count is the same as the total carb count.
Added Sugars: Check the ingredients list for added sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, or other sweeteners, especially in light or flavored varieties.
Serving Size: Always note the serving size on the label. The carb count is given per serving, and if you use more than one, the total can add up.

Comparison of Mayonnaise Types

The following table illustrates the typical difference in carb content per tablespoon for various mayonnaise types. Note: Values can vary by brand.


Mayonnaise Type	Total Carbs (per tbsp)	Added Sugars?	Notes
Full-Fat / Real	<1g	No	Naturally low in carbs, ideal for keto.
Light / Reduced-Fat	~1.3–1.4g	Yes	Sugar or starch often added for texture.
Avocado Oil Mayo	0g	No	High-quality, keto-friendly option.
Homemade	~0g	No	Complete control over ingredients.
Mayonnaise-Type Dressing	High	Yes	Often contains significant added sugar.

Conclusion: Your Mayonnaise, Your Choice

In conclusion, classic, full-fat mayonnaise is a condiment with a very low carbohydrate count, making it a safe choice for most low-carb and ketogenic diets. The carb issue arises with modified or flavored versions, where sugars and other fillers are added to compensate for reduced fat or to alter the taste. For the lowest and most predictable carb content, checking nutrition labels for added sugars or opting for a homemade version is the most reliable strategy. By being a vigilant consumer, you can continue to enjoy mayonnaise as a versatile, low-carb addition to your meals.

A Deeper Look into Mayonnaise and Diet

The Importance of Ingredients

The oil used in mayonnaise plays a significant role not just in flavor but in health profile. While traditional recipes often use vegetable oils, which can be inflammatory, many health-conscious consumers prefer alternatives. Brands like Primal Kitchen and Chosen Foods use healthier fats like avocado oil, which provides a neutral taste and beneficial monounsaturated fats. For those on a keto diet, prioritizing these healthier oil sources can align better with overall dietary goals.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Making mayonnaise at home not only guarantees a carb-free product but also allows you to avoid preservatives and unhealthy additives like soybean and canola oil. The process is quick and simple, requiring only a few fresh ingredients and an immersion blender. The result is a fresher, cleaner-tasting mayo that you can be confident fits your dietary needs.

Culinary Uses for Low-Carb Mayo

Low-carb mayonnaise is incredibly versatile. It can be used as a base for creamy salad dressings (like keto ranch), a binding agent for egg or tuna salad, and a spread for burgers or sandwiches made with low-carb bread. It is a vital ingredient for many low-carb and keto recipes, providing richness and flavor without derailing your carb goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, classic, full-fat mayonnaise is very keto-friendly because it is high in fat and contains virtually no carbohydrates. However, you must check the label to ensure it doesn't contain added sugars or starches, which are common in light or flavored versions.

Yes, light or reduced-fat mayonnaise typically has a higher carbohydrate count than regular mayonnaise. Manufacturers often add sugar or starches to compensate for the reduction in fat, which affects both texture and flavor.

A typical serving, which is one tablespoon, of regular mayonnaise contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates, with most brands reporting 0g carbs per serving on their labels.

Homemade mayonnaise, made with simple ingredients like oil and egg yolk, contains virtually zero carbohydrates. Store-bought versions can sometimes have trace amounts of carbs or added sugars, so homemade is the most reliable zero-carb option.

It is important to check the ingredients list because many commercial brands, especially light or flavored varieties, add sugars, preservatives, or starches that increase the carbohydrate content and can negate the benefits of a low-carb diet.

Yes, on a strict no-carb or ketogenic diet, you should opt for homemade mayonnaise or purchase a store-bought brand specifically marketed as zero-carb and without added sugars, typically found in high-end or health food stores.

Some vegan mayonnaise products are low-carb, but it's essential to read the label carefully. Many vegan mayos use aquafaba or pea protein for emulsification and might contain added sweeteners or thickeners that increase the carb count.