What is Chosen Foods Avocado Mayo?
Chosen Foods avocado mayo is a popular condiment marketed as a cleaner and healthier alternative to traditional mayonnaise. The main differentiating factor is its base oil. While most conventional mayonnaises use industrial seed oils like soybean or canola oil, Chosen Foods mayo is made with 100% pure avocado oil. It is also certified non-GMO, kosher, and free of soy and canola oils. For those following specific dietary plans, the product is also marketed as paleo-friendly and keto-friendly. The vegan version of the product uses aquafaba (chickpea broth) instead of eggs.
How Chosen Foods Compares to Traditional Mayo
Ingredient Differences
This is where Chosen Foods truly stands apart from many commercial mayonnaises. By focusing on a short list of simple ingredients, the company avoids many of the additives and highly processed components found in cheaper brands. Here’s a breakdown:
- Chosen Foods: Avocado oil, cage-free eggs, filtered water, organic vinegar, and spices. Some varieties add organic honey.
- Traditional Mayo: Often begins with cheaper oils like soybean or canola, which can be highly processed and inflammatory due to their omega-6 content. Many also contain added sugars and artificial preservatives like calcium disodium EDTA.
Nutritional Profile
While the source of fat is significantly different, the overall macronutrient profile per serving is surprisingly similar to traditional mayo.
| Feature | Chosen Foods Classic Avocado Oil Mayo | Conventional Mayonnaise (e.g., based on soybean oil) | Chosen Foods Vegan Avocado Oil Mayo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Oil | 100% Pure Avocado Oil | Soybean or Canola Oil | 100% Pure Avocado Oil |
| Calories (per 1 tbsp) | ~100 kcal | ~90-100 kcal | ~90 kcal |
| Total Fat (per 1 tbsp) | 11g (8g Monounsaturated) | ~10-11g (varies) | 10g (Monounsaturated) |
| Carbohydrates (per 1 tbsp) | 0g | ~0g (varies) | 0g |
| Protein (per 1 tbsp) | 0g | ~0g (varies) | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g added sugar | Often contains small amounts of sugar | Often contains small amounts of sugar |
| Eggs | Cage-free eggs | Can vary, often not cage-free | Replaced with aquafaba/chickpea broth |
Key Health Benefits of Avocado Oil
By swapping industrial seed oils for 100% pure avocado oil, Chosen Foods mayo offers several distinct health advantages.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Avocado oil is rich in oleic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid that is also the primary component of olive oil. These fats are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Avocado oil contains a variety of potent antioxidants. These include vitamin E and lutein, which help combat free radicals and protect against oxidative stress. Lutein, in particular, is beneficial for eye health.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues. The antioxidants and beneficial fatty acids in avocado oil can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This is a key benefit over seed oils that can be pro-inflammatory.
- Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and carotenoids require fat for optimal absorption. Including a healthy fat source like avocado oil in a meal can significantly increase your body’s ability to absorb these nutrients from other foods.
Considerations for a Balanced Diet
While Chosen Foods avocado mayo is a healthier option than many alternatives, it's not a health food in itself. It is still a very calorie-dense condiment and should be consumed in moderation, especially if weight management is a goal. It provides nearly 100% of its calories from fat. The key benefit is swapping out poorer-quality fats for heart-healthy ones, but the total fat and calorie intake remains largely the same as regular mayo. Therefore, focusing on portion control is critical, regardless of which brand you choose.
Conclusion
When asking, “Is Chosen Foods avocado mayo healthy?” the answer is a qualified yes. It is a healthier choice than many conventional mayonnaises, primarily due to its use of 100% pure, heart-healthy avocado oil instead of processed seed oils. It also contains fewer, cleaner ingredients, appeals to specific dietary lifestyles like keto and paleo, and offers antioxidant benefits from the avocado oil. However, it is important to remember that it is still a high-calorie, high-fat product that should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The main takeaway is that for those who enjoy mayonnaise, opting for Chosen Foods provides a cleaner, nutritionally superior version without sacrificing flavor.
For further information on healthy oils, consult resources such as the Cleveland Clinic.
