The Simple Answer: Yes, But Read the Label
Standard mayonnaise is naturally dairy-free as it's typically made from oil, eggs, and an acid. However, some variations may contain dairy, making ingredient checks important. Both Chosen Foods classic and vegan mayo are certified dairy-free. The main difference lies in the presence of eggs, which is crucial for vegans and those with egg allergies.
Understanding Chosen Foods Mayo Varieties
Chosen Foods offers different mayonnaise options to suit various dietary needs. It's helpful to know the distinction between them.
Chosen Foods Classic Avocado Oil Mayo
This traditional mayo is made with 100% pure avocado oil. It is dairy-free but contains eggs. Its ingredients include avocado oil, filtered water, egg yolks and whole eggs, organic distilled white vinegar, organic mustard, salt, and organic rosemary extract. This classic version is marketed as paleo and keto-friendly.
Chosen Foods Vegan Avocado Oil Mayo
Designed for vegan diets, this mayo is completely egg-free. It uses a chickpea protein blend as an emulsifier instead of eggs. Key ingredients are avocado oil, filtered water, vinegar, sugar, chickpea protein blend, salt, organic mustard, xanthan gum, rosemary extract, and mustard oil. This makes it suitable for plant-based diets or those with egg allergies.
Why the Dairy-Free Confusion? Eggs vs. Dairy
The confusion between eggs and dairy is common. This may be due to how they are displayed in grocery stores, both being animal products, or general dietary misinformation. Dairy products come from mammal milk, while eggs are laid by birds. Eggs are safe for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, but should be avoided by those with egg allergies or following a vegan diet.
Nutritional Benefits of Avocado Oil Mayo
Chosen Foods utilizes 100% pure avocado oil, which offers a nutritional advantage over mayos made with other oils. Avocado oil contains beneficial monounsaturated fats that support heart health. The products are also known for avoiding artificial additives, fitting into a 'clean-label' approach to eating.
Comparison Table: Classic vs. Vegan Chosen Foods Mayo
| Feature | Classic Avocado Oil Mayo | Vegan Avocado Oil Mayo |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Egg-Free | No (Contains Cage-Free Eggs) | Yes (Uses Chickpea Protein) |
| Vegan | No | Yes |
| Keto-Friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Paleo-Friendly | Yes | Yes (Vegan version is paleo-friendly due to no eggs/dairy) |
| Emulsifier | Egg Yolks | Chickpea Protein Blend |
Navigating Labels for Your Dietary Needs
Carefully reading product labels is essential for meeting specific dietary needs. Beyond a 'dairy-free' claim, consider these points:
- For Vegans: Look for 'vegan' or 'egg-free' labels to confirm no animal products are used.
- For Egg Allergies: Check the ingredient list for 'egg' or 'egg yolk'. The vegan version is the safe choice.
- For Dairy Allergies: Verify a 'dairy-free' claim and check ingredients for milk products. Chosen Foods products should be clearly labeled as dairy-free.
- Certifications: Certifications like 'Certified Gluten-Free' or 'Certified Vegan' provide additional assurance.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Both classic and vegan Chosen Foods mayonnaise are dairy-free. Your choice depends on whether you consume eggs. The classic mayo is suitable for those who eat eggs and follow paleo or keto diets. The vegan version is an egg-free, plant-based option for vegans or those with egg allergies. By understanding the ingredient differences, you can confidently choose the right Chosen Foods mayo for your dietary needs.
For further details on the distinction between eggs and dairy, reliable resources like Healthline can be consulted.
