Kewpie mayonnaise has gained a cult following around the world for its distinct, savory-sweet flavor and exceptionally creamy texture. Unlike its Western counterparts that typically use the whole egg, Kewpie is made exclusively with egg yolks and a unique blend of vinegars, giving it its signature rich taste. While its iconic squeeze bottle with the star-tipped cap is recognizable, figuring out the exact volume can be tricky due to different measurements and market offerings. Understanding the various package sizes can help you decide whether a small bottle for occasional use or a large one for regular cooking is the right choice for your kitchen.
Common Kewpie Mayo Sizes in North America
For most consumers in the United States and Canada, Kewpie mayo is sold in several distinct volumes. The most common varieties are typically packaged in soft, squeezable bottles with the recognizable Kewpie doll logo.
The 12 oz (355 ml) Squeeze Bottle
The 12 oz bottle is arguably the most common and widely available size in many grocery stores and online retailers. This is the ideal starting point for anyone new to Kewpie mayo, offering a good amount for testing out its unique flavor in various dishes without committing to a large quantity. Its convenient size makes it perfect for keeping on hand for dressings, dips, and sandwich spreads.
The 17.64 oz (500g) Squeeze Tube/Bottle
For those who have already fallen in love with the rich taste, the 17.64 oz size provides a more generous portion. This volume, which translates from the 500-gram size common in Japan, is often stocked in Asian markets and specialty grocers. Some packaging for this size might use metric units, but the conversion brings it to just under 18 ounces.
The 64 oz Bulk Bottle
Serious enthusiasts and foodservice professionals often turn to the 64 oz (half-gallon) bulk bottle. This large format is designed for high-volume use, making it cost-effective for restaurants or for home cooks who use Kewpie in everything from marinades to pizzas. These large bottles are most frequently found at wholesale suppliers and specialized online retailers.
International Sizing Variations
Kewpie is a global brand, and its product sizes can differ significantly depending on the country. It's not uncommon to see products labeled in metric measurements like milliliters (ml) and grams (g). This explains why a product might have a different volume when purchased from an Asian grocery store compared to a mainstream American supermarket. Always check the label for both metric and imperial measurements to be certain of the quantity.
Kewpie Mayo vs. American Mayonnaise: A Comparison Table
While both are mayonnaise, Kewpie's unique formula sets it apart in key ways. Here is a quick comparison of the standard Kewpie mayo (Japanese formula) and a typical American mayonnaise brand.
| Feature | Kewpie Mayo (Japanese Formula) | American Mayo |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Vegetable oil, egg yolks, vinegar, salt, MSG (in Japan) | Soybean oil, whole eggs, vinegar, water, salt, sugar |
| Egg Content | Only egg yolks are used, typically 4 yolks per 500g bottle | Whole eggs (yolks and whites) |
| Vinegar | A unique blend of rice, apple, and malt vinegars for a mild, tangy sweetness | Typically distilled white vinegar for a sharper, more acidic taste |
| Umami Source | MSG in Japanese versions, yeast extract in US versions | No distinct umami enhancer added |
| Texture | Richer, thicker, and creamier with a distinctly fatty mouthfeel | Lighter, paler, and less viscous |
| Flavor | Savory, tangy-sweet, and eggy with a powerful umami kick | Tangy, slightly sweet, and creamy with a less complex flavor |
How to Get the Most Out of Your Kewpie Mayo
Once you have your preferred size, the possibilities for using Kewpie mayo are endless. Its unique profile enhances countless dishes, both Japanese and Western.
- Perfect for Sushi and Poke Bowls: Drizzle a zigzag of Kewpie over sushi rolls or mix it into a spicy sauce for poke bowls.
- Essential for Japanese Favorites: It is a mandatory topping for okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls).
- Elevate Your Sandwiches and Salads: Use it as a rich, creamy base for egg salad, potato salad, or on sandwiches for an umami upgrade.
- Mix Creative Dips and Sauces: Combine it with Sriracha, wasabi, or soy sauce to make a custom dip for fries, dumplings, or vegetables.
- Try It in Baking: For moist and flavorful baked goods, some recipes call for Kewpie to create incredibly tender results.
Where to Buy Kewpie Mayo
Thanks to its soaring popularity, Kewpie mayo is more accessible than ever. It can be found in most large supermarket chains, particularly in the international foods aisle. For the most authentic Japanese version containing MSG, look for products imported from Japan at Asian specialty grocery stores. Online retailers also offer a wide selection of sizes and formulations, including the bulk 64 oz version.
Conclusion
While many people ask about the standard size, there is no single answer for how many ounces are in Kewpie mayo. Standard consumer sizes in the North American market are typically 12 oz or 17.64 oz, but larger 64 oz bottles and various international volumes also exist. The real takeaway is that no matter the size, Kewpie mayo's distinctive flavor, derived from a rich egg yolk base and unique vinegar blend, offers a culinary experience a step above standard mayonnaise. For more insights into what makes this condiment a favorite, check out this guide from Bon Appétit: What Is Kewpie Mayonnaise? | Bon Appétit.
Correctly Storing Your Kewpie Mayo
Once you open a bottle of Kewpie, it should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The brand's signature squeeze bottle is designed to minimize oxygen exposure, but refrigeration is key to prolonging its shelf life. Avoid freezing mayonnaise, as this will cause the ingredients to separate and alter the texture.
Choosing the Right Size
To decide on the right size for you, consider your cooking habits. If you are experimenting with Japanese cuisine or only use mayonnaise occasionally, the 12 oz bottle is a safe bet. If Kewpie is a daily staple, the 17.64 oz or even the 64 oz bulk size will be more cost-effective and convenient in the long run.
